‘Thank you, Mr Vernon. You may stand down.’

As Vernon went back to his seat, Baxter rose again. ‘If I might insert a word at this time on my client’s behalf?’

The coroner nodded and Baxter continued, ‘Certain allegations do seem to have been made in connection with this unfortunate young woman’s death, allegations which would suggest that my client was in some way responsible. I would suggest his complete honesty in answering the question put to him, and his bearing on the stand, added to the statement of Miss Monica Grey, an independent witness, make nonsense of these allegations, which are completely without foundation. My client is Managing Director of a company which controls several important enterprises. I might also add, although he has attempted to dissuade me from so doing, that he was at one time a regular officer in the Brigade of Guards and in 1951 was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for gallantry and outstanding leadership during the Malayan Emergency.’

Vernon looked suitably embarrassed as Baxter sat down. ‘Thank you, Mr Baxter,’ the coroner said. ‘Call Colonel Craig, please.’

All eyes turned on Craig as he got to his feet and moved to the stand. He stood there, hands resting lightly on the rail, the eternal soldier in spite of his dark suit and tie.

‘You are Colonel Duncan Stuart Craig and you reside at Rosedene, Grange Avenue, St Martin’s Wood?’

‘That is correct.’

‘Did you see the body of a woman at the City Mortuary on Tuesday of this week?’

‘I did.’

‘Who was she?’

‘My daughter – Joanna Maria Craig.’

‘I will issue you with a burial order.’ There was a pause as the coroner made a note and he continued, ‘I know this must be most distressing for you, Colonel Craig, so I shan’t keep you long. Until four months ago or thereabouts, your daughter was a perfectly normal young woman for her age in every way?’

‘That is so. The change, when it came, was inexplicable to us. Temper tantrums, extremely emotional behaviour, that sort of thing. She became a completely different person. I realize now that her general deterioration was a direct consequence of her addiction to heroin.’

‘From the time your daughter left home until her death did she ever communicate with you?’

‘There were three letters, all postmarked Chelsea. They are before the court.’

The coroner nodded. ‘I have read them. They would seem to imply that she was residing in London and studying at a College of Art there. Presumably some acquaintance posted them for her.’ He hesitated and then went on, ‘Colonel Craig, you have heard the evidence before the court. Have you anything to add?’

Miller felt Brady stir beside him and held his breath, waiting for Craig’s answer. ‘I have nothing to add, sir. The evidence in this matter seems clear enough.’

‘And you can make of that what you like,’ Brady whispered to Miller.