This time,finally,the generals and courtiers may have cornered the Shinawatras Ms.Yingluck is in effect a hostage in negotiations with Mr Thaksin,whose position has weakened.He has lost the backing of Thailand's crown prince,while a purge in the police force has weakened a key bastion of his support. Mr Thaksin may now sacrifice his political ambitions to safeguard his family and fortune.Some Thais will cheer,longing for calm after years of political stand-offs street protests that often spilled into violence. But the junta's determination to abolish democratic politics spells trouble,probably the bloody kind,in the future.It should think again.