Clinesmith says: “George, do you remember having drinks with a friendly Western diplomat at a bar in London?” I burst out laughing. It’s a ridiculous question. “I’ve had many drinks with many diplomats in many bars in London,” I say. “I don’t know who you’re talking about.” He doesn’t give any further information to help me narrow down the answer. Instead, he says, “Are you sure?” It may seem obvious to the reader that Clinesmith was referring to Alexander Downer. But remember: this is more than nine months after I had my drink with Downer. And honestly, I don’t recall blabbing about the
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