Henry, with his instinctive skill in the forest, read their meaning.

The pursuers were sure of triumph.

But Henry shut his lips tightly, and resolved that he and Paul should yet elude them.
"The river is not more than a half mile ahead," he said.

"Come, Paul, faster! A little faster, if you can!" Paul obeyed, and the two, bending their heads lower, sped on with astonishing speed.

Trees and bushes slid behind them.