That chance has slipped from them.

But when we--I say 'we' you see, Margaret--meet them, it will be a desperate struggle, indeed." "We shall thrash them, Uncle," Dick broke in.

"You will see that we shall beat them thoroughly." The Rajah smiled at Dick's impetuosity.
"So you think English soldiers cannot be beaten, eh ?" "Well, Uncle, somehow they never do get beaten.

I don't know how it is.

I suppose that it is just obstinacy.