"Prompt when duty calls."
Twelve Male Figures.
This tableau is a representation of an alarm of fire, which has
aroused the firemen from their repose. The scene represents a view of
the front of the engine house. The door is thrown open, and the
enginemen are about to draw out their machine. The piece contains
twelve figures, ten of which have hold of the engine rope. They are in
the position of persons running, and are led on by their captain, who
is giving out an order through his trumpet. His position is, facing
the men at the ropes; one hand is pointed towards the fire, the light
of which is seen in the distance. Near the door of the engine house
stands the lantern bearer with his lantern, which is attached to a
long pole, and is carried on the right shoulder. The front of the
engine house can be formed of wood, covered with cloth, and painted in
showy colors. This frame is to be placed at the right hand corner of
the background; the name and number of the machine painted over the
door. The front wheels and rope will be sufficient to represent the
engine. The remaining part is presumed to be within the house. By
placing the front of the house in the corner, more room will be had
for the line of firemen. All should appear animated, while a few are
pointing to the light in the distance. The alarm bells must be sounded
while the curtain is raised, and a red fire burned at the left side of
the stage, so as to throw a very little light on the extreme edge of
the background, which should extend farther in on the scene while the
tableau is exhibited.