When I was younger and in mixed company, ‘climax’ had a very clear and desirable meaning. There was a general expectation that the process from start to finish wouldn’t take no more than a few minutes.

As for Brexit, more likely we should expect a damp squib. Whatever the conclusion ‘yea or nay’ the result is bound to be unsatisfactory. Perhaps it’s like a typical mediated divorce settlement: a compromise where neither party has won a victory but will accept the result.

But here, we face the probability that both sides (1 v 27) will be dissatisfied. There cannot be a winner. Oh Dear, what a mess! Why did the UK ever get involved when foresight would have provided a convincing case that it would prove to be a terrible mistake.