# The Last Laugh explained — The Black Mask

> Chapter companion for The Black Mask by E. W. Hornung.

## What happens

Raffles and Bunny are followed by Italian organ-grinders connected to the Camorra. Raffles reveals that Count Corbucci and a subordinate have been tracking him. After a tense night, Raffles and Bunny discover the two men dead in their flat, having been poisoned. Raffles orchestrates a cover-up, and the chapter ends with a grim resolution.

## Themes in this chapter

### Crime and Identity

Raffles' criminal past and his altered identity are central to the plot, as he is hunted by the Camorra.

### Loyalty and Friendship

Bunny's loyalty to Raffles is tested as he helps cover up the murders.

### Redemption and Morality

Raffles' moral ambiguity is highlighted as he deals with the deaths of his enemies.

## Character check-ins

### A. J. Raffles

Reveals he has been tracked by the Camorra; orchestrates the cover-up of the deaths.

### Bunny

Narrates the chapter; follows Raffles and discovers the bodies.

### Count Corbucci

Found dead in the flat, poisoned.

### Stefano

The Italian ally who warns Raffles and helps with the cover-up.

## Key lines

> Raffles was a genius, and he could not make it pay!

Raffles was brilliant, but his criminal life was not profitable.

_Reflects on the futility of Raffles' exploits._

> I have an eye at the back of each ear, Bunny.

I am always aware of what is happening behind me.

_Raffles' heightened awareness of being followed._

> They are in here, Bunny.

The men are in this room.

_Raffles reveals the presence of the dead bodies._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_black_mask_se/chapters/the-last-laugh
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_black_mask_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_black_mask_se/chapters