sum, according to their duties and
responsibilities. The men undergo a rigid physical examination, and are
required to present proofs of their good moral character before they are
admitted to the force. The object is to have none but men perfectly
sound and free from habits tending to impair their usefulness in the
force. They are generally fine specimens of manhood, are noticeably neat
in their dress and habits, and are just the opposite of the old-time
volunteer firemen. Furthermore, they may be relied upon in any
emergency.

There are thirty-seven steam-engines in the department. They are of the
second class or size, and perfect in all their appointments. They were
built by the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, of Manchester, New
Hampshire, and cost $4000 a-piece. There is also a powerful floating
engine located on a steamboat, and used for extinguishing fires on the
piers or on vessels in the harbor. It is kept near the Battery, so as to
be convenient to points in either river. There are four hand engines,
located in the upper part of the island, and twelve hook and ladder
companies in the department. Several engines are kept in reserve, and
are not counted in the active force.

The horses of the department are 156 in number. They are large and
powerful animals, and are kept with the greatest care. They are groomed
every day, and are fed punctually at six o'clock morning and evening. If
not used on duty, they are exercised every day by being led to and fro in
the streets adjoining the engine-house. They are thoroughly trained, and
will stand with perfect steadiness under the most exciting circumstances.
They know the sound of the alarm-bell as well as their driver, and the
moment it strikes they exhibit an impatience to be off which is
remarkable. They are kept harnessed constantly, and it takes but a few
seconds to attach them to the engines.

The men are not allowed to have any other employment. The department
claims their whole duty. A certain number are required to be always at
the engine-house. In case of an alarm being sounded during the absence
of a fireman from the engine-house he runs directly to the fire, where he
is sure to find his company. A watch is always kept in the engine-room
day and night. After ten at night the men are allowed to go to bed, but
must so arrange matters beforehand that they shall lose no time in
dressing. The horses stand harnessed in their stalls, the boiler i