“Yes, yes!” chimed in Jerry and Ned.
There was a moment of silence, while the parents were gravely considering the matter. During it the boys could almost hear the beating of their own hearts.
“Well,” began Mr. Baker, “I’m willing, if the rest of you are.”
“I suppose I may as well say yes,” spoke Mr. Slade.
“Then the only thing left for me to do is to agree with the majority,” said Mrs. Hopkins, with a laugh.
“Westward ho!” fairly shouted Bob, and he began to do an impromptu jig until his father stopped him.
“We’ll take Andy Rush along,” said Ned, “and we’ll start the first of the week!”
“Hark! What was that?” asked Mr. Baker, suddenly.
Out on the night air sounded an alarm.
“Fire! Fire! Fire!”