He went on talking in his self-effacing, deprecatory, but very earnest
fashion. The other men in the group, Keith felt, were watching with covert
amusement. Occasionally, he thought to catch half-concealed grins at his
predicament. In less than the five minutes the claims of the piano box were
utterly demolished. Followed a dissertation on methods of fighting fire;
and then a history of the Monumental Company--its members, its officers,
and its proud record. "And our bell--did you know that?--is the bell used
by the Vigilantes--" He broke off suddenly in confusion, his embarrassment
descending on him again. A moment later he sidled away.

"But I found him very interesting!" protested Keith, in answer to implied
apologies.

"Bert is invaluable here; but he's a lunatic on fire apparatus. We couldn't
get along without him, but it's sometimes mighty difficult to get on _with_
him," said some one.

Keith was making a good impression without consciously trying to do so. His
high spirits of youth and enthusiasm were in his favour; and as yet he had
no interests to come into conflict with those of any one present. More
drinks were ordered and fresh cigars lighted. From Sherwood they now
learned that Keith had but just landed, and intended to settle as a
permanent resident. As one man they uprose.

"And yo' wastin' of yo' time indoors!" mourned the dark Southerner. "And so
much to see!"

Enthusiastically they surrounded him and led him forth. Only a very old,
very small, very decadent village is devoid of what is modernly called the