How Le Carre used a web of loyal recruits to make him king of the espionage novel

Jessica says: “The Constant Gardener was the book that brought him closest to harm - he was right up against powerful companies that were really cross.

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“There is a lot of correspondence showing his concern about whether publication of [the book] might put any of his whistleblowers in danger.

“John was really conscious not only of the risks he took but of protecting the people helping him. And he continued to help them after the book was published.

“He was very generous, providing scholarships, loans or any help [they] needed, as well as huge donations to charities.

“All of this went undocumented. He didn't want anyone to know.”

Federico says: “We had the information he needed but it wasn't just about that.