The Prism – the Hon. Douglas Drummond QC

What is your motto?

The Clan Drummond’s motto is “Gang Warily” – not canny Scots advice about the worth of prudential behaviour, but a reminder that it was the Drummonds who were responsible for the concealed pits in which the English cavalry destroyed themselves at Bannockburn.

I would like to think that those who had to do business with me when I was a judge do not believe this to be my personal motto.

What is your idea of earthly happiness?

Being upheld five-nil (the absent two gave special leave) in an ex tempore High Court judgment. I must now accept that I will never experience earthly happiness.

What could you not live without?

My illusions about what could have been, if only…

What is your greatest fear?

That any of these illusions might now, miraculously, become real.

What is your greatest indulgence?

Occasional displays of moderation (though I try to ensure these remain a private indulgence).

Which skill or talent would you most like to have?

Being able to play a musical instrument, especially the natural trumpet.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?

People who are unable to survive anywhere, anytime unless they have a bottle of water to suck on.
People who deck themselves out in big-brand logos – Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany etc, etc .
Advocates who say: “I hear what your honour is saying, but…”.
Women who  – I could go on for pages, but I really must stop.

What is the quality you most admire in a person?

The ability to avoid self-indulgence.

What is your most marked characteristic?

A slight inclination to procrastination.

On what occasion do you lie?

I could say: only after the fullest consideration has convinced me that a half-truth will not serve just as well. But that might be a lie.

What is your greatest regret?

Regrets?… I’ve had a few…But perhaps not having done what Giuseppe di Lampedusa did – not  much at all, except write just one splendid book, The Leopard, just before he died aged 60.

Which words or expressions do you most over-use?

Various profanities – now a highly dangerous lapse from my usual good taste if my six- and four-year old grand-children are around.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

To have only a very slight inclination to procrastination.

To what do you aspire?

To avoid as long as possible the twin vices of garrulity and being a bore.

How would you like to be remembered?

As having done some good and not too much harm.