Sir James Proud was the last man he had expected to see that morning. Or so Skinner told himself at first. But when he thoughtfl about it later, he realised that he had not been in the least surprised when his door burst open to reveal the Chief Constable's ample frame. Proud Jimmy, as he was known throughout his force, looked as imposing as ever in full uniform.
Chief What the hell are you doing here?'
You know bloody fine,' said Sir James Proud. 'I couldn't settle for a moment out there, knowing all this nonsense was going on back home. Eventually it all got too much for her ladyship.
Yesterday morning she said to me, "Jimmy. That's it. I'm packing and we're going to the airport. Get your Gold CardjI ready." So here I am.';
Skinner smiled at him. He realised at that moment just how much he had missed the solid support and advice of Sir James Proud.
Well, I'm sorry it had to happen that way, but by God I'm glad you're back.'
'So what's been happening?'
Quickly Skinner updated him on the crisis. He showed him the MI6 file on Jesus Giminez, and the FBI sheet on Mary Little Horse.
'I am impressed,' said the Chief. 'You seem to draw these people. Bob, like a flame attracts moths. So now I'm back, what can I do? How can I help?'
'You can chair tomorrow morning's press conference for a start. I'll be busy, doing something else. I'll have a Member of Parliament to arrest!'