_The fireman, so called, in steam service of any description, should
and does on the average receive double the compensation of a man who
has only his labor to bargain for._
_In addition, he exercises his skillful vocation in sheltered places
and is almost the last of the employees of a plant to be “laid off” and
is certainly the first to be called on again after stoppage._
_Still further, the fireman has an almost equal opportunity, with
the best shop trained machinist, for advancement to the position of
engineer in charge of the most extensive steam plants._
_Now! this increased pay over ordinary labor and other numerous
advantages accruing from the position, demand a generous return, and
in ending this work, the author suggests these “points” for observance
to the aspiring student, whether engineer, fireman, or machinist,
namely—that sobriety should be held one of the first elements of strict
observance; an unresting tidiness of person and premises; dignity of
conduct, as being owed to the rising profession of steam engineering;
and lastly, an unswerving fidelity of trust, which may include honesty,
truthfulness and courage._