"Naw, it's one of them Indian medicine shows," declared Moses Sagger,
who stood on the steps of his butcher shop.

"Why, it's a fire engine!" exclaimed several men. "However in the
world did the boys get it? They must have borrowed it to have some fun
with!"

"More likely took it without permission," said Mr. Sagger. "Somebody
ought to tell Constable Stickler."

Down the street marched the proud boys, singing at the tops of their
voices, the lamps showing off the engine to good advantage.

"Well, I must say those young chaps have a lot of gumption!" declared
Mr. Appelby. "I wonder if they're going to keep the engine?"

"I wish there was a fire--I mean a little one, that wouldn't do much
damage," said Cole. "I'd like to show 'em how she works."

"We might have arranged a bonfire in some lot and given an
exhibition," suggested Bert, "We'll do that, after we have our company
regularly organized."

But the boys were destined to give an exhibition before they
anticipated it.

From down toward the end of the village street there came a cry.

"Fire! Fire! Fire!"