The Black Mask · Chapter
The Last Laugh explained
Raffles and Bunny are followed by Italian organ-grinders connected to the Camorra.
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.
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
This is the story's dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Raffles, despi…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes 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.
Characters to notice
- 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 passages
“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.
