When three run in company, the pace is that of the slowest of the three.

From Peter's house to the edge of the forest Gerard ran Margaret's pace; but now he ran his own; for the mule was fleet, and could have left them all far behind.

Moreover, youth and chaste living began to tell.

Daylight grew imperceptibly between the hunted ones and the hunters.

Then Dierich made a desperate effort, and gained two yards; but in a few seconds Gerard had stolen them quietly back.