In 1987, author Bill Bryson recounts a striking incident experienced by journalist James Fallows while he was waiting at a bank in London. Fallows found himself face to face with a would-be robber named Douglas Bath, who was holding a handgun and demanding cash from the cashier. Instead of panicking, Fallows boldly confronted Bath, telling him to 'bugger off' and wait his turn, seemingly backed by the approval of others in line.

This unexpected act of defiance surprised Bath, who, feeling outmatched, left the bank without robbing it. He was apprehended by the police shortly after. Fallows' quick thinking not only thwarted the robbery but also highlighted the power of courage in a tense situation, demonstrating how ordinary people can respond to threats with unexpected bravery.