At first they were fairly even, but after a dozen yards or so several shot ahead.
The irrepressible juniors lost all control in their excitement, and cheered on each as she appeared to be gaining.
"Audrey Redfern!" "No, no! Jess Gardner!" "Winona Woodward!" "Elsie Parton's passed her!" "No, no! Winona's making up!" "She'll never do it, though!" "It's a draw!" As a matter of fact Winona and Elsie Parton touched the winning tape at the very identical moment.

It was a great surprise for both of them.
Winona had expected Jess or Audrey to be first, and never thought of Elsie as a possible champion.

Elsie was in V.b.and had not been very long at the school.

No one had taken much notice of her up to now, and the girls were rather staggered at her success.

They did not even clap her as she climbed up from the bath.