Chapter 2 Summary

In this chapter, a crucial day in the life of Vernon Halliday is described. In an editorial meeting, we learn that it is the Judge's policy to criticize harshly the reputation of Julian Garmony. While at the same time, the Judge is to feature stories about Garmony on the front page. Amongst the many other stories that are discussed, is an investigative piece on a medical scandal in the Netherlands. Dutch doctors are allegedly exploiting the liberal euthanasia laws to commit murder. In the middle of an editorial meeting, Vernon receives an urgent phone call from George Lane, in which the latter promises information which would presumably support an interesting journal article. Vernon cannot meet with George immediately so the meeting is postponed.

Vernon is served with an injunction prohibiting him from publishing any photographs or likenesses of Garmony. This leads Vernon...