The most prominent American monument that reflects the influence of Roman sculpture and or architecture is actually The White House which represents many features that we get from Roman architectury, especially such traits as columns that are still popular nowadays.Romans were the first who employed democratic style of government and they were role model that lead us to creation of a government like that one we have today.
The person narrating has committed a murder and shoved the corpse under his floorboards. As some time passes the heart beat is a glimpse into his insanity, and how he is delusional over hearing non existent sounds. He believes he hears the heart of the person he murdered under the floorboards, which is a delusion, most likely made out of paranoia. When the police come to ask about the victim, the man almost fools them until he breaks down and confesses. He expressed annoyance at the victim earlier, saying that he could not get away from their eye, I believe. He tried to solve this by killing them, but his mind would not let him do so by making up false realities.
Writers and speakers use counter claims so that they can counter something if it shows up. If there is an opinion that someone says, that could be counted a claim as long as they use evidence. Then if you disagree, you can use a counterclaim to tell them that you have a different opinion that is backed up by an opinion.