Though the boys were not thanked by Muchmore, for their good work at
the blaze in the Stockton mansion, the lads knew that they had done
efficient service. Herbert, however, was not satisfied with his
department.

"There are lots of things we'll have to do better," he told Vincent
and Cole, the next day. "We get in each other's way, and we're not
quick enough. Why, it took ten minutes for all of us to assemble last
night."

"I don't see any other way of working it than the way we have been
doing," replied Cole, "All the boys run when they hear the bell."

"Yes, I know, but the trouble is some of them have to run too far."

"How else can we do it?" asked Vincent.

"I've been thinking of a plan," replied the young captain.

"What is it?"

"Well, we might divide the company into three divisions. One division,
say of about ten boys, could sleep in Cole's barn for two nights, or
maybe three. Then, if an alarm came in they would be right there to
rush the engine out. The other boys would stay in their homes, and, as
soon as they heard the bell, they'd run to the fire. In that way
they'd get to the blaze about the same time the engine would, and
there'd be no delay."