was located on Green Lake, hence the name. There was also a small
river which emptied into the lake, and which ran around one edge of
the town. Altogether it was a very nice place, but, like many other
towns, the principal citizens lacked a progressive spirit.

The town was governed by ten men, called the Selectmen, who were
elected each year, and who formed a sort of council. Then there was a
mayor. At the time this story opens Mr. Appelby was mayor, and Moses
Sagger was chairman of the Selectmen. Mr. Sagger had an ambition to be
mayor the next year, and he was working to that end.

"Well, Herbert," said Mrs. Dare to her son at dinner the day following
the fire, "I hope you don't get up to go to any more midnight alarms."

"Why, mother?"

"Because I was worried to death about you. I knew you would get hurt,
and, sure enough, you did."

"Oh, this burn? That doesn't amount to much. I'm glad I went, for I
helped Mr. Stimson save something from the fire."

"Yes, I heard about it. All the neighbors are talking about you. You
certainly take after your father, and I am quite proud, though I can't
get over how frightened I felt."

"I'm sorry you feel that way, mother, for I was thinking of a plan
that might save the village from any more such fires, and I might have
to take part in it"