I saw at a glance, that by climbing it I would be out of reach of the fierce wildebeest.

Would I have time to get to it before he could overtake me?
"I ran like a frightened fox.

You, Hendrik, can beat me running upon ordinary occasions.

I don't think you could have got quicker to that ant-hill than I did.
"I was not a second too soon.

As I clutched at the little turrets, and drew myself up, I could hear the rattle of the wildebeest's hoofs behind me, and I fancied I felt his hot breath upon my heels.
"But I reached the top cone in safety; and then turned and looked down at my pursuer.