"For all that, I mean to win your five dollars if I can."
"My money is safe enough. I don't concern myself about that."
"He has a tolerably comfortable opinion of himself," thought Ben; "I begin to want to beat him for something else than the money."
The signal was given, and the boys started.
As in the first race, John Miles soon took the lead. He was nearly three inches taller than Ben. Naturally, his legs were longer, and this was an advantage. Again he put forth all his strength at once; Ben, on the other hand, reserved his strength for the close of the contest. When the race was half over, John Miles was probably twenty feet in advance.
"Boston, will win this time," said Arthur Clark. "See how much Miles leads."
"I am not so sure of that," said George Herman. "I know Ben Bradford. He is very strong, and can hold out well. Miles is using himself up. Do you see how he is panting?"
This was true. In spite of all his training, John Miles had never been able to overcome a shortness of breath which was constitutional with him. It was telling upon him now.
Foot by foot Ben gained upon him. It was the first race over again. Toward the finish he overtook him, and a final spurt won the race—with John Miles full ten feet behind.
"Have I won fairly?" asked our her, turning to John.