It was, indeed, high time for them to run.

On every side the company of the Black Arrow was making for the hill.

Some, being better runners, or having open ground to run upon, had far outstripped the others, and were already close upon the goal; some, following valleys, had spread out to right and left, and outflanked the lads on either side.
Dick plunged into the nearest cover.

It was a tall grove of oaks, firm under foot and clear of underbrush, and as it lay down hill, they made good speed.

There followed next a piece of open, which Dick avoided, holding to his left.