The Scotsman smiled. ‘Excuse me, Ambassador, but perhaps one hour from now will be too late. One man is already dead. But, er … perhaps you don’t know this, Prime Minister, but this week six SAS soldiers are visiting the British Embassy, and they’re waiting outside in my car now. These men know a lot about hijacks; much more than the US Marines or, probably, your own soldiers, Prime Minister. They know exactly what to do. So …’
‘Now just a moment!’ The American interrupted. ‘The US Marines are …’
‘Gentlemen!’ Helen’s clear, hard voice stopped them. ‘There’s no time to argue. Firstly, I didn’t know about the SAS soldiers in the British Embassy, and I am very surprised about it. Very surprised indeed, Ambassador. Secondly, I do not think it is a good idea to attack a plane with a hundred and seven passengers in it, and ‘take it apart’ as you say. I want these people to live, not die. So I thank you for your ideas, but remember that this small country is ours, not yours. We will manage this problem in our own way, with our own people, thank you very much. Now you must excuse me, I am busy.’
At the door, the Scotsman turned back. ‘Prime Minister, I know you want to save lives,’ he said. ‘I understand that. But these hijackers must not go free. My Government does not want that. No Government in the world wants that.’
‘I know that, Ambassador,’ Helen answered quietly. ‘I know that very well.’
