He seemed to have the advantage in lightness of step, while Redwood's strength was more in length of stride.

The first of the four laps was run almost inch for inch.
Perhaps Tempest, thanks to his berth, had a foot to the good as they entered on the second.

Here our man forged ahead slowly, and gradually drew to a clear lead.

But we trembled as we saw it.

Would he stay?
Apparently he ran as lightly as before, but Redwood, as he lay on at his heels, seemed to be going even easier.