Then another medal was given to the Chief, who pinned it to the coat of the man standing next to the boy in line, the mayor meanwhile explaining why it had thus been bestowed, and Seth began to understand how greatly he was honored.
When each of the seven had been decorated, and while the throng were cheering themselves hoarse, the Chief said in a low tone to Seth:
"Mr. Fernald has the official notification of your appointment as substitute fireman, and you can get it on your return to headquarters. You are assigned to Company Ninety-four, and will report to their house for duty to-morrow morning."
Seth could not speak, and in fact the Chief moved away so quickly that there was no chance; but looking up toward where Ninety-four was stationed he saw every member of the company waving his helmet as if indulging in silent cheering.
Then he knew they were all in the secret—that it would be no news when he told them he was at last really their comrade.
PRESENTING THE MEDALS. Page 322.
As to what followed immediately after this, Seth had no very clear idea.