“We don’t have a FEMA,” Ferguson said coldly. “We don’t work that way. On the scale of the disasters Britain generally faces, it’s not necessary, or appropriate. We have a system of flexible response, where the most appropriate agency—”

“Jesus.” Henry took a couple of paces in a tight circle, trying to stay cool. “So nobody’s in control.”

Ferguson said, “This isn’t Hollywood, Dr Meacher.”

“It sure isn’t. Call in our FEMA.”

More laughter, shaking heads, the crazy Yank. Romano said, “Dr Meacher, I’m not sure if a parachute drop of Hershey bars is quite what we need right now.”

“It’s not even clear how we’d handle a major evacuation,” Ferguson was saying ruefully. “We were geared up for major disturbances — particularly nuclear strikes — during the Cold War. But that’s all gone now. We sold off most of the regional bunkers. The military hospitals have closed. The Army is a lot smaller, a hundred thousand professionals, and most of them are tied up in Ireland or the peacekeeping zones.” He looked at Henry, almost apologetically. “We just weren’t expecting this.”

“No,” said Henry, more restrained. Take it easy, Henry. These people are trying to do their jobs, as best they can, and they’re listening to you. “Nobody was expecting it.”

“And we have to think about litigation,” Ferguson was saying unhappily.

“What?”

Ferguson said, “It’s happened in America. We have powers to act during an emergency, such as an evacuation. But does that imply a duty of care? We’re in a cleft stick. We’ll be liable if we don’t attempt to evacuate, but also liable if we do and we cause unnecessary suffering.”

Henry shook his head. “Believe me. The lawyers are going to be the least of your worries.”

Romano said, “Well, I can’t make the decision alone. I have to consult. The senior fire officer, who I bet will back an evacuation. The local authorities, who probably won’t.” She eyed Henry. “You know not everybody agrees with you. The geologists assigned by the Department of Environment, for instance. They’re putting out briefings. They say this is liquefaction. Just an earthquake. Localized. A couple of days it will all be over.”

“Bullshit,” Henry said.

“Maybe.” She eyed him. “But if you want me to act on what you say, I need you to press your case.”

I’m winning, Henry thought. She’s going as far as she can.

He said, “I’ll talk to your superiors, whoever. But that’s not enough. There’s no reason to think this incident is going to confine itself to Edinburgh. Even Scotland. I need to speak to your central government. The US government also…”

Romano arched an eyebrow. “Because you’re the only person who knows the truth. The man who can save the world.”