The Trippertrot children, Mary, Tommy, and Johnny, are left at home by their mother, who instructs them to stay indoors while she visits Aunt Mary Jane. Despite their initial attempts to entertain themselves with toys and picture books, they quickly grow bored. Mary suggests building a fire in the open grate to watch the flames, which Suzette, their helper, obliges by creating a large blaze. Unexpectedly, a fireman arrives, alerting them that their chimney is on fire due to the excessive wood burning. He requests salt to extinguish the fire, which Mary fetches. Before the fireman puts out the blaze, the children ask to see the fire spouting from the chimney, which he allows. After witnessing the spectacle, they return inside, and the fireman departs, having completed his task. Realizing they forgot to thank the fireman, Tommy and Johnny decide to chase after him, with Mary reluctantly joining. They venture to the fire-house, guided by a passerby, to express their gratitude. Upon arrival, they learn from the fire captain that the fireman, George, is not yet back from his lunch break. The captain invites them to wait, and the children, fascinated by the firehouse, agree. While waiting, the firehouse bell rings, signaling an emergency. The firemen, along with the horses and engine, rush out, leaving the Trippertrot children alone. The story captures the children's adventurous spirit and their knack for finding themselves in extraordinary situations, despite their mother's instructions to stay put.
By Howard R. Garis · First published 1918 · Genre: Children's Literature, Adventure, Humor