I could scarcely believe.
Soon, however, I began to move a little faster.

Somehow or other I became conscious that there was a bicycle at some distance behind me.
I pushed on a little faster.

I did not wish to be overtaken by anybody.

Now I was sure there was a wheel behind me.

I could not hear it, but I knew it was there.
Presently I became certain that my instincts had not deceived me, for I heard the quick sound of a bicycle bell.