‘Martinez was sued for producing an unsafe design. He counter-sued, blaming the opera company, but he lost the court case. His drug addiction subsequently began to spiral out of control. Charles Foxley was his agent, and he had encouraged him to counter-sue. At the same time, the famous director Zeffirelli had approached Martinez to design a film set. Martinez borrowed a significant sum from Charles Foxley to help with his spiraling costs. But by now two further complaints had emerged and Zeffirelli’s offer was withdrawn. Martinez blamed Foxley for his financial ruin. Foxley attempted to help Martinez by purchasing his flat and apparently did everything in his power to keep the deal with Zeffirelli. Everyone has stated that Foxley bought the property for way below its asking price, but as he had already loaned a substantial amount to Martinez, he refuted the claim. There were heated arguments as Martinez began insinuating Foxley had ruined his career.’

Miller turned off the slide projector.

‘The reason I felt it was necessary for you to be aware of this is that Foxley, contrary to what has been claimed, did try to protect his client, and after Martinez committed suicide, Foxley was never reimbursed for the money he was still owed.’

He paused and gestured for some water. He took a few sips before continuing.

‘The point is, we have to be very careful dealing with people in this business. We’re dealing with actors and people who sometimes lie for a living. Sometimes they’ll tell very convincing stories, and we have to be on our guard against swallowing them hook, line and sinker. Which means, I’m afraid, that right now we still have no definite suspects.’

Across the room a red-haired officer leaned forward. ‘Unless, like Dracula, Martinez came out of the grave to do it!’

There were a few guffaws around the room, but from his expression, Miller did not seem to appreciate the joke.

‘Thank you for your attention,’ he said coolly.

Miller sat down as Jane moved her seat back in position next to Spencer. She now felt that all the hours the pair of them had spent interviewing, along with most of the other detectives gathered in the boardroom, had basically been a waste of time. Before anyone asked any questions, DCI Collins stood up.