Harwell hearts sank, for the crimson-clad runner appeared to waver, to be slowing down.

Suddenly, when only his own length separated him from his prey, the Yates full-back left the ground and, like a swimmer diving into the sea, dove for the hesitating runner.
There was but one thing that day more beautiful to see than that fearless attempt to tackle; and that one thing was the leap high into the air that the Harwell left half made just in the nick of time, clearing the tackler, barely avoiding a fall, and again running free with the ball still safe! The Yates player quickly recovered and took up the chase, and the momentary pause had served to bring the foremost of the other pursuers almost to Joel's heels.

And now began a contest that will ever live in the memories of those who witnessed it.
Panting, weary, his legs aching at every bound, his throat parching with the hot breath, Joel struggled on.

Joy had given place to fear and desperation.

Time and again he choked down the over-ready sobs.