He did not even dare to look round, lest he should lose an inch of that distance on which his life depended.

He had run nearly half way across the plain when the sound of pursuit grew somewhat fainter, and he ventured to turn his head.

The main body of his pursuers were a considerable distance behind; several of the fastest runners were scattered in the advance; while a swift-footed warrior, armed with a spear, was not more than a hundred yards behind him.
Inspired with new hope, Colter redoubled his exertions, but strained himself to such a degree, that the blood gushed from his mouth and nostrils, and streamed down his breast.

He arrived within a mile of the river.

The sound of footsteps gathered upon him.