uld be no more
than a pleasure.

"Had your breakfast?" Mr. Fernald asked gruffly.

"Yes, sir."

"How long since you turned out?"

"It wasn't quite light when I left the house, sir."

"Have you been here all that time?"

"Oh no, sir. You see, I go over to Ninety-four's quarters to shine the
company, an' it stands me in hand to be out of bed pretty early."

"What do you do to the company?" Mr. Fernald asked, as an expression of
bewilderment came over his face.

"I shine for all hands--black their boots, you know."

"Yes, I understand now. Isn't the work here enough to satisfy you, but
that you must needs look around for more?"

"But I belong to that company, sir, an' have to see my share of the
business is done right up to the mark," Seth replied proudly, and then
he explained to Mr. Fernald why he was eager to continue his connection
with those who had already done so much to assist him.

"You seem precious eager to be a fireman."

"So I am, sir, an' I'm hopin' to get along here so Ninety-four's men
won't think I'm a duffer for not pushin' ahead."

Fernald questioned him closely regarding his ambition to belong to the
Department, and without being really aware of the fact Seth had soon
told him all he knew concerning himself and his desires.

"I don't say as you've got it in you to be a fireman," the old man said,
thoughtfully; "but it strikes me you carry a good bit of sand, an' I've
a mind to do even more than I promised 'Lish Davis. See here, my lad,
supposing you could practise here two or three hours a day, would it
tire you out so that the regular duties might be slighted?"

"If you'll give me the chance, sir, I'll work enough later nights to
make up for it all," the boy replied eagerly.

"I guess Davis didn't lay it on any too thick when he told me about you.
Now see here, you'll begin the day with a regular course of training,
working until nine o'clock, after which time you'll get down to a boy's
business, see?"

"Yes, sir," Seth replied, trembling so violently with pleasure that
only by the greatest exertion could he prevent his voice from quavering.

"Had a bath this morning?"

"No, sir."

"Then get one, and remember to tumble into cold water the first thing
after coming here."

Seth was off like a flash, and when he returned, glowing with the
healthful exercise, Josh Fernald gave him the first lesson in physical
training.

Before it was concluded "Ninety-four's kid" came to unders