How proud the lads were in their gay uniforms! It was the first time
they had all been together, and the bright sunshine illuminating their
ranks, and reflecting from the polished surfaces of the engines, made
a picturesque scene.
Herbert Dare led his company in front, and behind him came fifteen
boys, dragging on the long rope. In the rear of the engine came five
other lads, armed with axes and long hooks, which were part of the new
equipment.
In the second division was Vincent and his company, while at the rear
brought up the smaller boys with the hand engine. Altogether it made a
fine showing for Lakeville.
After marching through the principal streets of the town, and being
admired by the throngs that gathered, the young firemen set off for
the picnic ground. Thither, also, went most of the inhabitants of
Lakeville, for it was a chance that might never come again, and
everyone who could, took advantage of it.
"Whew! But it's hot!" exclaimed Cole, who was marching along beside
Bert, no particular formation being maintained on the road to the
grounds.
"You'll be cooler pretty soon," consoled the young chief. "I wonder if
we can beat those fellows?" he added, referring to the members of the
other fire companies.
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