We are here for Britain.
——Arthur Hastings, "Greater London Police Department Operational Manual" preface.
In the mist-laden morning, as dawn just broke, the streets of London were still immersed in an atmosphere of solemnity and reverence.
Situated in the heart of London near Trafalgar Square, St Martin's Church, with its ancient and towering Gothic spire, stood quietly in the early light, gradually emitting a faint glow, like a watchful guardian just awakening and silently surveying the surrounding emptiness.
The silent environment lingered for an unknown length, until the uniformed footsteps in the cobbled alleyways surrounding the church broke the tranquil balance. The sound of hard boots striking the cobblestones was like a solemn requiem.
The iconic deep blue tailcoats, epaulettes gleaming, tall black top hats, and even the newly replaced white gloves; police units organized from various districts of London were assembling in queues here.
