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‘No, no I was siratulate you both on the way you conducted your cases I think you could fairly describe the result as a score draw’

‘I don’t think my client sees it that way,’ said Booth Watson

‘Perhaps he should have accepted lass

‘Dare I ask?’ said the judge

‘The Croould have dropped the charge of theft if he’d pleaded guilty to receiving’

‘So the jury got it right,’ said Nourse, before taking another sip ‘The other half, Adrian?’

‘Thank you, judge’

‘And you, BW, are you sure I can’t tempt you?’

‘No thank you, Martin I have a consultation with my client in a few minutes’ time, so I’d better be on my way’

‘Yes of course, BW, see you on Tuesday ’

Booth Watson rose from his chair and turned to leave

‘And perhaps you could let me know if your client hands over the Rubens to the Fitzmolean, as he said he would under oath,’ he paused, ‘before Tuesday’

Booth Watson nodded, but didn’t comment

Palmer took another sip of whisky and waited for the door to close before asking, ‘Did I just witness a subtle bit of ar?’

‘Certainly not,’ said the judge, raising his glass ‘I have already decided Mr Faulkner’s fate, although I confess that should he show the slightest sign of re to consider But then, on the other hand, I ht not’