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Loud chattering erupted in the well of the court, and several journalists rushed out to grab the nearest available phone and report the verdict to their news desks The judge waited until the court had settled before turning to the prisoner

‘Will the defendant please rise,’ said the clerk

A less confident figure rose slowly in the dock, stu to steady himself

‘Miles Faulkner,’ said the judge gravely ‘You have been found guilty of receiving stolen goods, namely a work of art of national importance Because of the seriousness of your cri what punish sentence until next Tuesdayat ten o’clock’

‘What’s he up to?’ said Hawksby as Booth Watson heaved himself to his feet

‘My Lord, may I request that my client’s bail be extended until that date?’

‘I will allow that,’ said Mr Justice Nourse, ‘on the condition that he hands in his passport to the court And I am sure, Mr Booth Watson, that you will spell out the consequences to your client should he fail to appear before ’

‘I will indeed, Your Honour’

‘Mr Booth Watson and Mr Palh to join me in my chambers’

‘What’s he up to?’ repeated the commander

THE CROWN V RAINSFORD

The courtroo before Lord Justice Arnott and his two colleagues

Lord Justice Arnott placed a red folder on the bench in front of him and bowed to the court He then took his place in the centre chair, rearranged his long red gown and adjusted his spectacles before opening the folder and turning to the first page

The courtroom had fallen so silent that he had to look up to make sure they were all in attendance He peered down at the expectant faces and then at the prisoner in the dock before delivering his final judgment He felt sorry for Rainsford

‘I have in an, ‘and in each one I have attempted to remain detached and emotionally uninvolved, so as to ensure that justice is not only done, but seen to be done