CHAPTER V
ON SPECIAL DUTY
Ralph entered the house glad of an opportunity to interview the farmer boy, who had been in his thoughts considerably during the day.
"Mr. Dallas, this is my son, Ralph," said Mrs. Fairbanks, as the young fireman came into the parlor.
The visitor arose from his chair in an awkward, embarrassed fashion. He flushed and stammered as he grasped Ralph's extended hand.
"Brought you a sack of potatoes and some apples," he said. "Neighbor gave me a lift in his wagon."
"Is that so?" returned Ralph with a friendly smile. "Well, Mr. Dallas, I am very glad to see you."
"Gladder than you were last time, I reckon," said Zeph. "Say, I—I want to say I am ashamed of myself, and I want to thank you for all you did for me. It's made me your friend for life, so I came to ask a favor of you."
