[dude]

Here's the latest news from the barricades from our Highly-Placed Professional.
'Here in the streets close to The Bank of England (the 'Old Lady' is surely a 'Bag Lady' these days), we are shivering in anticipation. 'I predict a riot', says one of my colleagues, paraphrasing the Kaiser Chiefs. We hope so - it will give a great excuse not to do any work, and get us home early to boot (I did promise the dog I'd take him to the park if we got an early bath).

We were delighted when we noticed that our firm was one earmarked for 'attack' (several colleagues spent a lot of yesterday making up large signs which clearly point the way to our building). And how proud we are to have been earmarked for death, disaster and destruction. We came at the ready, too - shotguns, canned food and chemical warfare gear has been smuggled into the staff canteen, and we're prepared for a long siege (well, as least until 3.30pm.).

I bravely set out Tuesday, aiming to fight back the protesters' advance guard. Unfortunately, there was but one lone protester (who was predictably surrounded by reporters lapping up his every word). As it turned out, I was in more danger of attack from the pigeon which flew briefly overhead, and then thought better of it. I ventured forth nevertheless.

The protester held up a £20 note. 'Anyone know what's on the back ?', he cried. (He got us there - it's a long time since any of us City Boys saw a £20 note!). 'It says: 'I promise to pay the bearer £20'. So I went in there (pointing to The Bank of England) and demanded my dues'. The teller apparently offered him four fivers and told him to 'bog off'. This miracle of financial engineering was not lost on the reporters, however, who stood and applauded, cheering enthusiastically.