The Clue of the New Pin · Chapter
The Night Attack explained
Tab and Carver are attacked in the flat by an unknown assailant who fires shots and leaves a knife.
What happens
Tab and Carver are attacked in the flat by an unknown assailant who fires shots and leaves a knife. Carver suspects the attack was meant for Rex Lander, who is staying at the Pitt Hotel. They warn Rex by phone, and Carver later interviews him. Carver warns Tab not to alarm Ursula Ardfern about the incident.
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 is the dramatic climax because it reveals Rex as the murderer, delivering the emotional peak of his psych…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Crime and Justice
The attempted murder and burglary highlight the ongoing criminal investigation and Carver's methods.
- Loyalty and Betrayal
Tab and Carver work together to protect Rex, while the attacker's identity remains hidden.
Characters to notice
- Tab Holland
Wakes to the attack, helps calm neighbors, and speaks with Rex by phone.
- Inspector Carver
Sustains a slight wound from the attack, examines the bullet holes and knife, and warns Tab and Rex.
- Rex Lander
Called by phone at the Pitt Hotel; interviewed by Carver the next morning.
- Ursula Ardfern
Carver asks Tab not to tell her about the attack.
Key passages
“I wonder if your friend has had a duplicate of this attack? Where is he staying?”
Carver speculates that Rex might also be targeted and asks for his location.
Shows Carver's concern for Rex's safety.
“I am one of those people who require at least twelve hours' heavy slumber.”
Rex complains about being woken up, emphasizing his need for sleep.
Reveals Rex's character and his irritation at the disturbance.
