Now, he was greatly lessening the distance separating him from Whipple; who, in turn, seemed able to hold his own with Nick.
The latter began to show the first signs of distress when they were at the beginning of the last two miles.

He looked over his shoulder, and no runner ever is guilty of such an unwise proceeding unless his heart has commenced to be filled with grave doubts as to his being a winner.
Again did Hugh notice Nick doing this, and he took fresh courage from the circumstance.

Yes, and looking more closely he also saw that Nick was not running true to form any longer; he had begun to wobble more or less, as though unable to continue on in a straight line.
That was another bad sign, since it causes the runner to cover unnecessary ground; and also indicates a weakening heart.
Hugh let out another burst of speed.

He was closing the gap rapidly; and, apparently, Whipple also seemed to be gaining on the almost played-out Nick.
They were now within less than a mile of the finish; the last turn would soon be reached, with the gun booming out the fact of their arrival.

Hugh girded his loins for a Garrison finish, and gloried in the conviction that he was in trim to do himself credit..