Whipple was now rapidly closing the short gap existing between them.

At the same time it could be seen that the Allandale runner veered a trifle, as though to give Nick a fairly wide berth when passing.
Plenty of fellows noticed this fact, nor did they wonder at it.

The tricky character of Nick Lang was pretty well known, and they believed he would not hesitate about throwing himself sideways, so as to collide with Whipple when the other was in the act of passing him; although such a vindictive act could, of course, not better the position of the local runner a particle.
When Whipple actually took the lead a great roar arose from thousands of throats.

Doubtless many wild-eyed Allandale enthusiasts already counted the victory as won.

They could be seen commencing to throw their hats and caps into the air, boy-fashion.