This was enough to make some jurors wince. Muirhead knew that this could produce hostility in their minds. Some people can appreciate that in a rage or if severely provoked, one person is capable of inflicting the most awful violence on another. Some might not be unduly bothered by the notion that one bad man could shoot another in cold blood. Live by the sword and all that. None of this would necessarily prejudice their consideration of the evidence. But the Mad Dog’s killer or killers had been sadists, and sick ones at that. Even if they had some doubts at the end of the day, a jury might not be prepared to risk releasing such a monster back into their midst.

As he left court for the luncheon adjournment, Muirhead was approached by a man who introduced himself as Detective Superintendent McAllister.

‘I know who you are, Superintendent. We have met a number of times before, even if we have not been formally introduced.’

‘Could I have a private word?’

‘If it’s about the case you must speak to my solicitor. You ought to know that.’

‘It’s not about the Gallagher case. At least not directly. I have received a report that you were involved in an accident last night.’

‘And how does a Detective Superintendent come to know about a minor road traffic matter? I did not even call the police. A traffic car just happened to turn up. Or did it?’

‘I don’t know anything about that, but the officers put in a report. Because your name featured in it, you’re defending Gallagher and I’m the officer in charge, it was passed to me.’

‘Detective Superintendents do not normally receive reports about traffic accidents.’

‘Mr Muirhead, there is no need to be so defensive. I’ll speak plainly.’

‘I wish you would.’

‘Please. I am concerned that a wheel should come off your car on the first day of this trial. I do not believe in coincidences or in bizarre accidents. I think there is a possibility that the wheel nuts were loosened deliberately in order to cause the accident.’

‘That’s ridiculous. It was an accident, pure and simple. Even if it wasn’t, it doesn’t mean it has anything to do with this trial. Probably kids playing at silly buggers.’

‘Mr Muirhead, I don’t think that you believe that for a moment. Has anyone approached you about the Gallagher case? Tried to put pressure on you?’

‘I really don’t need to waste my time listening to this nonsense. I suggest you keep your insinuations to yourself and get on with your real work and let me get on with mine. You and I have nothing more to say to each other.’

McAllister was left staring at Muirhead’s back as he strode off.