1. He probably took her hostage to gain time to flee the country.

2. 7 Dexter wondered if his vagueness was due to the shock of his wife's murder or an attempt to gain time.

3. Unable to gain entry through the defended gate, Gillespie climbed the wall with the aid of a rope and a sergeant's sash which was lowered to him; and, to gain time, led the 69th in a bayonet-charge along the ramparts.