The Children of Men

by P.D. James

Rolf said: “All right, let’s go.” Theo slipped in the clutch and drove carefully through the darkness. When they reached the outskirts of Asthall, he said: “We’ll borrow his car and leave mine in his garage. With any luck it will be a long time before they get on to him. And I think I can promise he won’t talk.” Julian leaned forward and said: “Wouldn’t that mean putting your friend in danger? We mustn’t do that.” Rolf was impatient. “He’ll have to take his chance.” Theo spoke to Julian: “If we’re caught, all they’ll have to connect him with us is the car. He can argue that it was taken in the night, that we stole it, or that we forced him to co-operate.” Rolf said: “Suppose he won’t co-operate? I’d better come in with you and see that he does.” “By force? Don’t be a fool. How long would he remain silent after that? He’ll co-operate, but not if you start threatening him. I’ll need one person with me. I’ll take Miriam.” “Why Miriam?” “She knows what she wants for the birth.” Rolf didn’t argue further. Theo wondered if he’d handled Rolf with enough tact, then felt resentment at the arrogance which made that tact necessary.