Automatically Taylor did as he was bid. He looked in turn at each of the men opposite. If he hoped for a hint of understanding, sympathy or compassion, he was hoping in vain. The Disciplinary Branch officers showed no sign of any emotion. Detective Inspector David Craig shook his head and looked away. Taylor realised he was alone. Completely alone.

As David Taylor’s little world was collapsing about him, Grant McAllister and Tom McSherry were heading to Miller Hill, a private hospital on the outskirts of Glasgow. Before leaving his office, McAllister had made a phone call – largely a one-sided conversation for most of its short duration.

‘That’s all I can tell you, I’m afraid.’

‘I understand. You are sure – this time?’

‘Yes. I’m sorry.’

‘I believe you are. When are you going to see him?’

‘Within the hour.’

‘May I be present?’

‘If you really wish.’

‘I do.’

‘Then certainly.’

‘And the other matter?’

‘No verdict.’

‘I don’t envy you.’

‘I believe you don’t.’

On arrival, they made their way to room B12 where they had arranged to meet with the physician who was in charge of the subject of their visit. The doctor was chatting to a uniformed officer who was stationed outside the door of the private room.

McAllister took the doctor aside and explained what he intended to do.

‘Any problem with that?’

‘Medically, none at all. He is fit enough. I suppose you will want to take him into custody?’

‘As soon as possible.’

‘It will be some time till he is fit enough to be moved to...?’

‘Barlinnie.’

‘Barlinnie. Does it have a hospital unit?’

‘It does. It’s not as comfortable as this place, but it is adequate.’

‘Even at that, I would not wish him to be moved for a week yet, perhaps ten days. His leg injuries are very serious. He must be kept immobilised in order to give them the best chance to heal.’

‘I have no problem with that. I may have to increase the level of police presence.’

‘Superintendent, he’s not exactly going to run away.’

‘I appreciate that, but I am about to charge him with a serious offence. I have a duty to make sure that he is held in secure conditions and indeed I must have regard to his own safety. That is the responsibility of the police, not the hospital.’

‘Yes, I see that. Very well. I will insure that everyone here cooperates with your men if they respect the fact that he is my patient and is still entitled to our best medical care.’

‘I would not have it otherwise.’

‘Right, Superintendent, I’ll leave you to get on with your work. I take it you do not need me to be present?’

‘Thank you, no. That will not be necessary.’