The "Screecher" was a little ahead; gradually the "Burster" closes.

The silence of a death-struggle prevails.

The Screechers put on more wood, and place more weight on the safety-valve; she bounds ahead.

Slowly, but surely, the "Burster" draws nearer.

The captain of the "Screecher" looks wistfully at the fires, for the boilers are well-nigh worn out.