For the first time he bent his back like a man who exerts himself in earnest, and lifted Henry completely off the ground.
Throwing him on his back, he pressed him down with both arms so as to break from his grasp.

No human muscles could resist the force applied.
Slowly but surely the iron sinews of Henry's arms straightened out, and the two were soon at arms' length.
But even Gascoyne's strength could not unclasp the grip of the youth's hands, until he placed his knee upon his chest; then, indeed, they were torn away.
Of course, all this was not done without some violence; but it was still plain to the widow that Gascoyne was careful not to hurt his antagonist more than he could help.
"Now, Henry, my lad," said he, holding the youth down by the two arms, "I have given you a good deal of trouble this morning, and I mean to give you a little more.

It does not just suit me at present to be tried for a pirate, so I mean to give you a race.

You are reputed one of the best runners in the settlement.

Well, I'll give you a chance after me.
If you overtake me, boy, I'll give myself up to you without a struggle.
But I suspect you'll find me rather hard to catch!" As he uttered the last words he permitted Henry to rise.