"Maybe they will get a hall somewhere," suggested Tom Clifton.
"Oh, look!" cried Bob, suddenly.
As he spoke, the half-burned timbers of the cupola collapsed and fell with a muffled roar. Then a huge puff of smoke rolled upward, accompanied by a fitful glare of red, while the voices of the crowd swelled into an excited murmur.
The firemen on the roof struggled forward, turned the stream down into the opening, and the last glimmer of light began to slowly fade.
There was much excitement in the crowd, as this seemed to be the critical moment. The Rockville engine fairly roared and shook.
"I'll bet it's under control," said Bob, at length.
"Yes, they've got it now, that's sure," exclaimed Dick Travers.
"Thanks to the Rockville fire company," added Sam.
"Hope you're not going home yet," said Hackett. "I wouldn't mind staying out all night."
"You wouldn't catch me doing it," declared Tommy Clifton decidedly.