So saying the chief hurried out of the hotel, closely followed by the detective.  Turning a corner they saw, not a great distance off, the flames leaping from the windows and roof of a large frame structure, which was blazing and crackling like a huge pile of kindling prepared for the torch.  Already the department was upon the ground, and when the chief and the detective reached the scene, several streams of water, shimmering like ropes of silver, were pouring into the burning building.  With a noble self-sacrifice and a disregard for their own safety which was truly admirable, the brave fire laddies battled with the flames, and exerted themselves to the utmost to prevent the fire from reaching the adjoining buildings.  At last, yielding to the almost superhuman efforts of the firemen, the fire was extinguished, leaving only the bare and blackened walls standing as monuments of the destruction that had been wrought.  Foremost among the brave fellows who were performing their self-appointed and herculean duty was a man about thirty-five years of age, stout and muscular in form, and with a good-humored, honest face, that would attract your friendly regard at a glance.  He was the most active and energetic man upon the ground, and it could be seen at once, that his whole heart was in the work in which he was then so earnestly engaged.

“That’s your man,” said the chief, pointing toward him, “and now you can commence upon him as soon as you please.”

“All right,” answered Everman; “I will see what I can do.”

The firemen had by this time, gathered up their hose and were preparing to return to their various houses, and Thomas Nelson, after assisting in this labor until it was completed, left his companions, and proceeded along the sidewalk in the direction of the hotel.  Everman walked on slowly behind him, and seeing him enter the building, he followed closely after him.  Nelson proceeded to the bar-room and had just tossed off a cooling glass of beer, when the operative made his appearance.

“You seem to be thirsty after your hard work this morning,” said the detective, in a laughing tone.

“It was pretty hot work, and no mistake,” replied Nelson; “and we were mighty lucky in saving the adjoining houses.  I was afraid once they would certainly go.”

“Fill up your glass again,” said Everman; and Nelson graciously acquiesced.  “Yes,” continued the operative, “you boys did excellent work, and you deserve great credit for it.  I suppose your fire department here is composed entirely of volunteers?”

“Yes, sir,” answered Nelson, quite pleased with the encomiums which his pet hobby received; “and a better organized fire department is not to be found anywhere.”

“Well,” said the detective, as he raised his glass, “here’s to the health of your fire laddies; may you never miss a run, and always have as good luck as you did to-day.”

“Good,” said the delighted fireman; “I don’t know your name, but you’re a good fellow, and I am glad to hear you speak so favorably of us.”