Murder by the Clock · Chapter
XIV: 2:01 a.m.—An Empty Sheath explained
Lieutenant Valcour visits Thomas Hollander's apartment to investigate, where he encounters Mr.
What happens
Lieutenant Valcour visits Thomas Hollander's apartment to investigate, where he encounters Mr. Smith. Valcour questions Smith about Hollander's relationship with Mrs. Endicott and discovers a leather sheath for a stiletto, which is missing. During the search, Smith attacks Valcour with a lead slug, knocking him out.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
Valcour’s admission of an “impalpable dread” marks the emotional peak, as the detective—hitherto anchored in l…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Appearance vs. Reality
Mr. Smith presents himself as a Southern gentleman, but Valcour knows his criminal past; the missing stiletto suggests hidden truths.
- Deception of the Senses
Valcour's search is interrupted by a sudden attack, and the sheath is empty, hinting at unseen dangers.
Characters to notice
- Lieutenant Valcour
Investigates Hollander's apartment, questions Smith, and is attacked.
- Mr. Smith
Hollander's friend, reveals details about Hollander and attacks Valcour.
- Thomas Hollander
Absent but central to the investigation; his relationship with Mrs. Endicott is discussed.
- Mrs. Endicott
Mentioned as having tea with Hollander and threatening to kill her husband or commit suicide.
Key passages
“I swear you have me wrong, Lieutenant. I had no more to do with that gilt-knuckles job than—a babe unborn.”
Mr. Smith denies any involvement in the assault, claiming complete innocence.
Smith's protestation contrasts with his known criminal record.
“That Mrs. Endicott told him she couldn’t stand it any longer: that she either was going to kill her husband or else commit suicide.”
Valcour reveals that Mrs. Endicott threatened to kill her husband or herself.
This statement adds tension and suggests possible motives.
