April 1882
(A dubious London boxing club)

'Failure is not in falling down, but in staying down.' John Watson had been taught this principle at an early age.

This attitude, coupled with innate stubbornness, and tempered by life's harsh trials, gave Watson an unexpected resilience, which in turn confounded his opponents, and troubled his closest friends.

'You've had enough, Doctor,' his boxing trainer said, 'Give it up for today.'

Why not, just this once? He wondered, dizzy with pain and exhaustion.

Because someday he would be unable to rally. Someday. But not today.

Wiping blood from his mouth he struggled to his feet for one more round.


Author's Notes: for the prompt 'falling'.