At present he was convinced that Andrew Peak had done him a service.

In this there was an indication of moral cowardice, such as commonly connects itself with intense pride of individuality.

He desired to shirk the combat with Chilvers, and welcomed as an excuse for doing so the shame which another temper would have stubbornly defied.
Now he would abandon his B.A.

examination,--a clear saving of money.
Presently it might suit him to take the B.Sc.

instead; time enough to think of that.