From Fitzroy’s Private Diary (Extract 182)

I have a very small puppy whiffling at my feet. I’ve called him Jack, and I’m considering what I’ve let myself in for. I’ve always loved dogs. In general, I can get on well with most creatures - apart from my fellow man, that is. There’s something good and honourable about a canine, if it’s treated right. They’re so loyal and devoted, they’re nearly always a reflection of their owner. Jack, I hope, will be a loyal ally, and a fierce friend, which is how I see myself, occupation allowing. I think it’s best if I keep him constantly at my side, unless I am going into active combat, of course. He’s a bull terrier, so he’ll be strong and resilient, but I don’t like to see any animal under fire. Although, I know they’re now using dogs out in No Man’s Land. Officially, the dogs are sent out to bring medicine or water to a soldier that their comrades cannot reach. Unofficially, they’re sent out to lay beside a dying man, so that he’s not totally alone. And they do that. Despite the hideous cacophony of the battlefield, a dog’s heart is such that they’ll give what comfort they can under the most awful of circumstances. It really is a great pity that more owners aren’t like their dogs.

My first wife was murdered while I was away on a mission. I’d made peace with my inability to save her. I knew nothing of the threat. I was green enough to think her family, and the department, would keep an eye on her. I came to understand there was nothing I could’ve done. I’ve been unable to trace her killer, and that remains an open wound. I still have matters to attend to there. However, it’s made me very careful about who I let into my life. Knowing me is dangerous.

No one takes much notice of the occasional affair, except the husbands. Alice, I decided, I could potentially work with, but only if she proved to be a competent partner. I have, it seems, trained her well – far beyond my early hopes. She’s saved me on more than one occasion. But a dog – this dog, Jack – will come to rely on me and trust me in a way that few people ever will, so it’s only right and proper that I keep him as close to me as I can. Morley will get used to him in time, and as for the ladies, I’m sure they’ll think that it reveals a gentler, more caring side of me. Little do they realise that I’ll fight to the bitter end to defend my new canine companion.