1 April 1955: George Crossply had no idea why. Just that he had to be at this address on the dot, at two-thirty. Unusual for George, he was early. 

222b was a second floor lawyer's office, tucked well away in an old fashioned Dickensian courtyard and over shadowed by the massive Daily Express Newspaper headquarters in Fleet Street, London EC4. To get there George had to pass its long double-fronted window dominated by a huge revolving screen. He lit a cigarette and started reading the rolling text. 'Churchill Resigns from Government. Dam Busters Film a Hit. Lockheed Airliner Crash. No survivors found after six month search. Case closed.' It was five minutes before two-thirty. George stubbed out his cigarette. 

Quentin Derry QC was the oldest attorney in chambers, way past retirement age, but still retaining a memory so sharp he could remember his first motoring case. It concerned the famous Dutch politician, Arnold Veerleft, who was caught speeding through Richmond Park driving a Daimler. Quentin not only won against the odds, on a technicality, but the ensuing publicity allowed him to make a substantial living, defending the rich and famous who shared a passion for what was colloquially known as 'racing on the public highway.'

Eighteen year old George sat waiting until, on the half hour chime, a pretty girl ushered him into Quentin's private room where tea had been laid out and Quentin was sitting, feet up, smoking a freshly lit cigar. 'Come in my boy, and take a seat. I have some exciting news that is going to change your life forever. But first, let's you and me enjoy a nice 'cuppa' and piece of cake.' 

End of Part One