Note: This column will routinely include spoilers. Reader discretion is advised.

While headlines on the so-called tobacco wars focus on firebombings, extortion and gangland jealousies, skyrocketing government taxes on tobacco have long been fuelling the fire behind the scenes.

Quiet evenings in the front bar of the local pub forged for the author a companionship based on a love of sport and literature, and a tantalising connection with Samuel Beckett.