The ruse practiced by Harriet had given her the lead in the race. Miss Elting, however, saw that the bulls were gaining on the plucky girl.
“Girls,” she said sharply, “remain where you are.” With that she climbed to the top of the fence and leaped over into the field. It was her idea that even though Harriet did succeed in reaching the fence, the girl might not have sufficient vitality left to enable her to climb over it.
Harriet, as she drew near, discovered the guardian on her side of the fence and divined the latter’s purpose. The girl motioned for Miss Elting to get back. The guardian shook her head and remained where she was.
“Go back! Go back! I’m all right,” cried Harriet breathlessly.
The bulls were gaining rapidly. They were now but a few rods behind Harriet Burrell. She put on more speed after one last look over her shoulder while Tommy and Hazel were shouting their encouragement.
“You will be caught. Quick!” gasped Harriet, as she drew rapidly near to the guardian. “Oh, please hurry back to the road!”
Miss Elting did not move. Harriet dashed up beside her and stopped short. Miss Elting grasped the girl’s arm. Harriet pulled herself free.
“Not an inch till you get over,” declared the girl.
The guardian glanced at her questioningly, then vaulted the fence. Harriet followed her. But ere Harriet had touched the ground on the other side, two sharp-horned heads crashed into the fence. Harriet sank down at the side of the road breathless and exhausted.
Miss Elting pulled the girl to her feet.