iffered. In "Not really
a Coward" Vincent Devereux had rescued the earl's daughter from a fire,
whereas in "Hilda's Hero" it was the peppery old father whom Tom
Slingsby saved. Singularly enough, from drowning. In other words, I, a
very mediocre scribbler, had effected seven times in a single month
what the Powers of the Universe could not manage once, even on the
smallest scale.

* * * * *

It was precisely three minutes to twelve--I had just consulted my
watch--that the great idea surged into my brain. At four minutes to
twelve I had been grumbling impotently at Providence. By two minutes to
twelve I had determined upon a manly and independent course of action.

Briefly it was this. Providence had failed to give satisfaction. I
would, therefore, cease any connection with it, and start a rival
business on my own account. After all, if you want a thing done well,
you must do it yourself.

In other words, since a dramatic accident and rescue would not happen
of its own accord, I would arrange one for myself. Hawk looked to me
the sort of man who would do anything in a friendly way for a few
shillings.

I had now to fight it out with Conscience. I quote the brief report
which subsequently appeared in the _Recording Angel_:--

* * * * *

_Three-Round Contest_: CONSCIENCE (Celestial B.C.) v. J. GARNET
(Unattached).

_Round One_.--Conscience came to the scratch smiling and confident. Led
off lightly with a statement that it would be bad for a man of the
professor's age to get wet. Garnet countered heavily, alluding to the
warmth of the weather and the fact that the professor habitually
enjoyed a bathe every day. Much sparring, Conscience not quite so
confident, and apparently afraid to come to close quarters with this
man. Time called, with little damage done.

_Round Two_.--Conscience, much freshened by the half minute's rest,
feinted with the charge of deceitfulness, and nearly got home heavily
with "What would Phyllis say if she knew?" Garnet, however,
side-stepped cleverly with "But she won't know," and followed up the
advantage with a damaging, "Besides, it's all for the best." The round
ended with a brisk rally on general principles, Garnet crowding in a
lot of work. Conscience down twice, and only saved by the call of time.

_Round Three (and last)_.--Conscience came up very weak, and with
Garnet as strong as ever it was plain that the round would be a brief
one. This proved to be the case. Early in th