I like them because they are, to an extent, fully magnanimous while also being ruthlessly ethical. Wolfe doesn't behave out of a claim to empathy yet he demonstrates complete empathy. And he doesn't shirk from the consequences of his actions.
In one case, Nero Wolfe has figured out the identity of a murderer, but the only way to prove the identity is through a trap. Archie, who felt sorry for the victim, is willing to be the bait.
Yet Wolfe types the "I know you done it" letter to the villain himself.
Why?
Because it is Wolfe's plan based on Wolfe's deduction. He could tell Archie and leave Archie to carry out matters himself. But that would be inherently immoral. Wolfe would be pretending that his knowledge doesn't put Archie in peril.
He takes direct action in order to be directly responsible. If Archie is hurt, Wolfe will not be able to say, "Oh, I didn't know it would go that far." He looks over the entire matter and accepts his part in it.
Excellent chivalrous moment!
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