He was then shown a black leather jacket. This had been found in the back of a wardrobe in a bedroom which he understood was occupied by Charlie Gallagher. When asked why he had taken this particular jacket he explained that it was one of a number of articles of dark clothing and that he had been instructed to search for and take possession of any such items. He agreed that in the time between the death of Boyle and the search of the Gallagher house there had been ample opportunity for someone to arrange for the cleaning of all the articles of clothing he had seized. Indeed, it would have been a simple matter to dispose of the jacket completely.

He had been specifically told to look for gloves and a woollen balaclava. He had found neither. Needless to say, no gun or ammunition was found.

The Advocate Depute rose to his feet.

‘At this juncture, in order to assist the Court and the ladies and gentlemen of the jury, I would advise that while I have further evidence to lead, I would anticipate that the Crown case will close tomorrow.’

‘Thank you, Mr Depute, that is most helpful. I am indebted to you. Well, ladies and gentlemen, you have heard what was said. The end of the Crown case is in sight. Tomorrow morning. Ten o’clock.’

‘Yes, my Lord. No, my Lord. If my Lord will part his cheeks, I will lick his arse, helpfully. Not at all, Advocate Depute, I will be indebted to you if you will graciously permit me to lick your arse. What a mutual admiration society!’

‘Don’t be so cynical, Donald. I’m sure the two of them will be very happy together.’

‘Oh indeed, they make a lovely couple.’

‘I do hope that you are not suggesting that his Lordship might be mildly favouring the nice prosecutor as opposed to the nasty defence lawyer?’

‘Dear me, no, old bean, perish the thought, perish the thought. I was simply noting that it seemed to me, on mature reflection, and having regard to all the relevant circumstances, and without giving undue weight to any particular factors, and, on a fair and balanced consideration of such matters as should be weighed in the scales, his Lordship was merely displaying his – customary level – of impartiality.’

‘Thank you, Sir Humphrey Appleby. I think we have your position.’

‘Well, James, it doesn’t matter how often I appear in front of him, he gets on my bloody nerves. Judges are paid to be impartial. He gets his money under false pretences!’

‘Enough of this, we have more important matters to think about. Jack, we will have to see the client tomorrow evening.’

‘Are you proposing to put him in the witness box?’