Discuss what you would do in the situations described below. Remember that presence of mind comes out of a state of mental preparedness. If you have thought about possible problems or dangers, and about how to act in such situations, you have a better chance of dealing with such situations if they do arise.

About It. In this story, Ausable shows great ‘presence of mind’, or the ability to think quickly, and act calmly and wisely, in a situation of danger and surprise.

Looking back at the story, when do you think Ausable thought up his plan for getting rid of Max?

How does Ausable manage to make Max believe that there is a balcony attached to his room?

Think About It. “Ausable did not fit any description of a secret agent Fowler had ever read.” What do secret agents in books and films look like, in your opinion?

Who is Fowler and what is his authentic thrill of the day?