"I had a visit from one of your men the other day," went on the chief.

"Who?"

"Mr. Sagger. He wanted to know, in case they had a bad fire in
Lakeville, if we'd lend 'em our engine."

"What did you tell him?" asked Bert.

"I said we were always willing to help our neighbors, but that we
wouldn't lend our new engine. I asked him why they didn't have some
sort of a department, instead of a bucket brigade, but he said they
were poor, and couldn't afford it."

"Why, he's worth lots of money," declared Cole. "He could support a
department himself, and never miss the cash!"

"Did he say anything about our boys' department?" asked Bert.

"Yes, he mentioned it; but he laughed at it. Said it was only a lark
of you lads, and would never amount to anything."

"We'll show him!" exclaimed Cole. "Maybe he'll be glad of our service,
some day."

"I like the spirit you boys show," went on the chief. "If I can help
you, give you advice, or anything like that, why, don't hesitate to
call on me."

They thanked him, and promised that they would. Then they again began