‘I know what you’re going to say and I’m here to tell you it’s all in hand. Today, while we speak, more than one person is going to get a big shock. The main person being that slag Heidi! Imagine that little bitch turning out to be the fly in the ointment, eh? I can’t believe it. Well, she’s at a safe house in North London and she’s getting a little visit today that should make her change her statement quick smart. Also a few of our more illustrious customers are getting the bad news. Before I forget, Jonathan’s coming to see you tomorrow. He’s in a right state. Well, it can only look good for you. He’s still news because of his knighthood in the New Year’s honours. So don’t you worry, by hook or by crook you’ll be out of here soon.’

Briony laughed out loud.

‘I should have known you’d have it all in hand!’

Mariah grabbed her friend’s arm and said softly, ‘We go back a long way, Bri.’

Briony nodded sadly.

‘We’re the old breed, Mariah. In here, in just a week I’ve been offered more drugs than I’d know what to do with. I’m in with women me and you wouldn’t piss on if they burst into flames in front of us, and I’ve met young girls who make Ma Baker look like Little Red Riding Hood!’

‘But you’re holding your own, I take it?’ Mariah’s voice was low now, worried.

‘Oh, I’m holding me own all right, never fear about that, and I’ve you to thank for me reception commitee! Now how’s my Tommy? What’s the news? How’re the family?’

Mariah settled back in the uncomfortable chair and regaled Briony with all the news.

Both women were happier now, knowing that something was being done.

Peter Hockley was in a state of nervous prostration. Standing in front of him was a woman, a frightening woman, and in her hand he had photographs of him in full drag together with a young friend called Percy Parkinson.

Bernadette smiled as she spoke.

‘My sister is going to make a full statement about an event in the twenties when you and a Mr Rupert Charles were responsible for a young man losing his life during an orgy. These photographs of you and your current amour will more than lend credibility to the story. Mr Jonathan la Billière is also willing to say he was there when your father paid a vast sum of money to hush everything up. Briony says, if she goes down, everyone goes with her.’

Peter’s voice came out a low throaty croak.

‘But what can I do?’