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If the rapture was such an important doctrine (note your extreme exertions on this board to defend it), why pray tell did not our Lord speak of it?

The rapture is a word used to describe the event in 1 Thessalonians 4:17. It is not the same event as Matthew 24:40-41. Notice the difference. In Matthew 24:39, the unrighteous are taken by judgment after the tribulation. In 1 Thessalonians 4:17, the righteouses are taken to meet the Lord in the air. I cannot say for sure why out Lord did not speak if it but two verses come to mind.

Prov 25:2 It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings is to search out a matter.

1 Cor 2:7-8 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

Matt 24:29 says “gathers his elect”

In verses 42, 43 and 44 it says stay awake and be ready for the coming of the Lord

So no this is not about the unrighteous being taken in judgement as you claim. Matt 24 and 1 Thess 4 are talking the one only return of the Lord Jesus and the gathering of his elect as he comes to earth starting his millennial rule on earth.