WASPS have a great churchgoing tradition, belonging as they do, to Baptists, Methodist, Quakerist, or even Calvinist or Lutheran congregations, and there is nothing like a maiden trained in complete submission to the will of her master.

But if Mark recorded this prophecy post factum, he risked nothing and, as we have demonstrated above, he gained a great deal (Jesus is confirmed as a great prophet, God is understood as in control in the midst of crisis, encouragement is given to confused and frightened disciples, and the power of Rome is disarmed).

My cat is always cacking up hairballs.

'I know I spoke chuff, aye, but – she wouldn't listen. She'll never agree ...'