She whispered back, ‘I don’t get the impression the Colonel’s that impressed with my work – or even wants me on the team.’

‘Ignore him. The Colonel likes to think he’s God’s gift to the Flying Squad. He’s just jealous that you came back with some strong leads and got Murphy’s attention. He’ll never admit you did a good job, but he did read your report and I’ll guarantee he’ll do everything he can to try and identify M1.’

She shrugged. ‘Hope it goes well in the club tomorrow.’

‘I’m looking forward to it – what other job would pay you time and a half to play snooker? Mind you, I might have to take a milk crate for Dabs to stand on so he can reach the table.’

Jane laughed at the thought of Dabs standing on a milk crate. It wasn’t exactly how she’d imagined the Flying Squad going after bank robbers.

‘Right, I’m off home.’

‘One for the road?’ Stanley offered.

‘No, I’m bushed. It’s been a long day and it’ll be an even longer one tomorrow if things go according to plan.’

She went over to speak to the Colonel before leaving.

‘What time and where are you meeting your informant on Sunday?’ she asked.

‘Between 7.30 and eight in Brick Lane Market, so I’ll meet you at Rigg around seven.’

Jane knew the location. ‘It’s easier for me to go straight there as it’s on my route in.’

‘Fine, I’ll meet you at the junction with Bethnal Green Road at 7.30, then.’

He raised his pint glass.

‘You did a good job today. Safe journey home.’

Walking to her car, Jane allowed herself a pat on the back – and not just because of the leads she’d uncovered; the fact that the team were beginning to accept her and admit she was a good detective was an even greater achievement. She heard footsteps as she unlocked the car, then saw Kingston walking towards her.

‘If you’ve come to apologise about earlier again, there’s no need.’

‘No, I just wanted to thank you for not telling Murphy you spoke to me before him. Turned out he guessed anyway and wasn’t that bothered.’

‘Maybe I’m finally winning his confidence.’

‘Don’t be too sure about that, Jane,’ he cautioned. ‘He still doesn’t want a woman on the squad.’

She raised her eyebrows. ‘Well, he didn’t give me that impression. Why call an office meeting and praise my report in front of the team if he doesn’t want me there?’

Kingston sighed. ‘Look, Jane, Murphy told me you’d found out he was using Katie to spy on you, and about the fight you had with her. He knows you could drop him in the shit by making an official complaint and just wants to make sure you don’t.’