‘But there men are dangerous criminals – terrorists! They tried to put a bomb on a plane! They are in prison for …’
‘For thirty years, Colonel. I know. But they are only two men, and there are over a hundred innocent people on that plane. My job is to save their lives, and I need time to do it.’
The Inspector stood up very tall and straight in his fine uniform. ‘Prime Minister, I strongly advise you not to do this. You don’t understand …’
Helen interrupted him, her voice ice-cold and angry. ‘I understand very well indeed, Inspector. And I thank you for your advice. But I think I must make the decisions, and you must obey my orders. You now have only twenty-four minutes. Bring those prisoners here, please..’
‘Yes, madam.’ The Inspector and the Colonel left the room, looking very unhappy.
‘Prime Minister?’
‘Yes, Michael?’ She turned, and saw that Michael was smiling quietly.
‘The American and British Ambassadors are here. Do you want to see them?’
