Claire’s first impulse was to open the door and attempt to stop the aggressor. However, she did not. She also did not immediately phone the police, although the telephone was in working order. She felt utterly helpless to intervene in spite of the fact that she was not physically constrained in any way. She did not even call out for assistance to the live-in butler, although he was in the house. Explain her strange behavior.

Hints:
Claire knew the murderer. Claire was prevented from using the phone in her home.