The only comfort was thinking that Helen and Jonas would take care of him. God forbid the Currans should try to claim guardianship of Barny. As light stole into the dismal cell, she forced herself to be optimistic. Perhaps nothing would come of the charges and she would be home in a day or two. She was still unsure what evidence they had against her. They came for her later that day. Emmie was taken before three magistrates, one of whom she recognised from Peter’s tribunal. She was charged with tearing down recruitment posters. The police called their witness. Emmie was dumbstruck as Bill Osborne stepped forward. He recounted the incident of the posters with a sorrowful face. ‘I tried to stop her, but she was like a mad woman - real anger and hatred as she ripped them off the wall.’ Emmie stared, open-mouthed. Bill had goaded her on, knowing how upset she was about the failure to get Peter exempted. ‘Was this out of character?’ a magistrate asked. Bill shook his head. ‘Fraid not.
