The Amateur Cracksman · Chapter
Wilful Murder explained
Raffles and Bunny discuss the morality of their crimes, with Raffles revealing his intent to murder the moneylender Baird, who has been blackmailing him.
What happens
Raffles and Bunny discuss the morality of their crimes, with Raffles revealing his intent to murder the moneylender Baird, who has been blackmailing him. Despite Bunny's reluctance, they set out to Willesden to confront Baird, with Raffles determined to kill him.
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 Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it reveals the emotional and psychological peak of Bunny’s humi…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Crime and Morality
Raffles justifies murder as a more honest course than half-measures, challenging conventional morality.
- Wealth and Greed
Baird's greed and extortion drive the plot, highlighting the corrupting influence of money.
- Friendship and Loyalty
Bunny's loyalty to Raffles is tested as he reluctantly accompanies him on the murder mission.
Characters to notice
- A. J. Raffles
Reveals his plan to murder Baird, showing a cold and determined side.
- Bunny
Narrates the chapter, expressing fear and moral conflict over Raffles' plan.
- Old Baird
The moneylender who has been blackmailing Raffles and is the target of the planned murder.
- Jack Rutter
Mentioned as a poor devil ruined by Baird, contrasting with Raffles and Bunny.
Key passages
“Obviously ours is the more honest course. Yet I'm not sure, Bunny, but we're doing the thing by halves ourselves!”
Raffles argues that outright theft is more honest than borrowing or begging, but suggests they are still not going far enough.
Raffles rationalizes escalation to murder as a logical extension of their criminal philosophy.
“I know very well I'm going to commit one tonight!”
Raffles declares his intention to kill Baird that very night.
This marks a turning point where Raffles openly commits to murder.
