CHAPTER XIX.
ON THE FINAL MILE OF THE COURSE Meanwhile, in order to understand certain important events that came about, it is necessary that we follow the runners, and devote this chapter to what occurred up to the time that first fellow came lunging around the final bend, having covered the whole course up to the final lap.
For a mile or so along the road there were bunches of schoolboys and girls waiting to give some of the contestants a cheering word as they flashed past.

The enthusiasts, however, would not linger long, for they likely enough wished to see the comical part of the programme carried out.

Besides, once the runners had straggled past their posts the only interest remaining for them in the race was its conclusion.

So they would want to get back to the grounds, and secure positions along the line to the first bend, where they could greet each contestant as he appeared, and cheer him on; for he would probably need encouragement, being near the point of exhaustion.
Hugh had figured things out exactly, and knew what he could do.

He was not alarmed because several of the visiting runners led the way, and even "Just" Smith had quite a little lead over him.
Pegging along, Hugh covered mile after mile with a steadiness that he had reduced to machine-like motion.