Mayor Appelby was vainly rapping for order. At last Mr.
Sagger made his voice heard above the others.
"I say if that boy is made head of the fire department none of us men
will join!" he shouted. "We'll stick to the bucket brigade!"
"That's what!" declared several of his cronies.
"I wish you to remember one thing," replied Mr. Bergman. "I am paying
for this improvement, and I think I ought to have something to say
about it. Another thing, the town ought to be glad to get a good, up-
to-date department. If you don't accent my offer then I must consider
moving my lumber yard to a location where there is better fire
protection."
This was something of which no one had thought, A number of the men of
Lakeville found employment in the lumber yard, and if it went to some
other town it would mean quite a loss.
"Then there is one last point," went on Mr. Bergman. "These boys know
more about fighting fires than you men ever will. They have showed
that already, and I want to give them due credit. I think Herbert Dare
has proved that he knows how to handle a blaze, and how to use his
force of boys to the best advantage. I have learned that his father
was a regular city fireman.
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