"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."
"My name is Everman," answered the detective frankly. "I only arrived in
Woodford yesterday, and expected to meet a friend whose family resides
here; but I regret to say I have been disappointed."
"May I ask who you were waiting to meet?"
This was the very question the detective most desired to be asked, and
he answered at once.
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