Trump takes the stage: "It was odd, quiet, moving... Then the crowd started to find its voice" - By Emily Maitlis

Trump's appearance on the floor of the Republican Convention, for the first time since he survived an attack on his life - was another brilliant piece of television. It was weirdly somber. He looked older, greyer, the ear bandage comically large and lopsided had the effect of making him look like a wounded pet. It was of course to cover the hole - which we heard last night from his doctor- took a chunk of his ear off. He didn’t speak. He took his seat alongside his new running mate, JD Vance and shook hands - formally - with his elder sons - paraded in the seats behind him.

The camera closed in on a Trump mouthing ‘thank you’ to his supporters . And then to the tears in his son Don Junior’s eyes. This was portrayed as a moment of salvation. The man, after all, dodged a bullet.

For the first few moments the effect was odd, quiet, moving - even gracious. This was, after all, the Trump risen from the ashes to declare himself ‘the unity candidate’. The man America could trust with bringing the country together.

Then the crowd started to find its voice - shouting back the very last words they’d heard shouted at them. The growl, the beat, of one word started to ricochet around the hall.

'Fight fight fight' they chanted. A purr, then a more insistent chorus. Till it filled the space.

Why is it not ok for Biden to talk about a bullseye, but it’s fine for Trump to enable a ten thousand strong crowd to shout for a fight? These things, as ever, remain unresolved in Trumpland.

He’s the unity candidate. Don't forget. They unite behind whatever he decides.