Friday 13th - Oil touches US$77 a Barrel - Gold ends US$666 / oz

At mid day EST it appears that we were right that this was not Conrad Black's day. He has been found guilty by a 9 woman, 3 man jury, which deliberated 12 days, on 4 of 13 charges (but not the racketeering charges) - particularly those relating to cover up and obstruction of justice.

Conviction on three mail fraud charges carry maximum penalties of five years each and fines of up to $250,000. The far more serious charge of obstruction of justice carries a maximum sentence of 20 years and/or a fine of US$250,000.

Potentially, Black faces 35 years in prison and a US$1-million fine.

All the staff here send their condolences adn support to his beautiful, fragrant and charming wife, Lady Black whose wonderful columns under her professional name of Barbara Amiel contained such disdom, style and deep analysis of the many problems we face in this war torn and divided world.

As he will appeal he will no doubt be released on bail....into the arms of his glamorous young wife.... who will be shocked by the news that the Conservative Party in the House of Lords have removed the Whip from him.