"I prefer to avoid both hospitals and strong medication whenever possible." A tiny grunt as Harry pokes a particularly tender spot. "This is what I get for going a round with a Rhinoceros in a Portuguese gambling den last week."

Every word a true one. Never let it be said that Simon Templar passes up on a chance to brag in the most outlandish way possible.

He eases back into his shirt once Harry's done, studying the man with increasing curiosity, now that the obvious has been attended to and they're out of harm's way.

"Harry Goodsir. I don't suppose you're a famous cricketer or something like that?"