Steam of Britain

Chapter 13: North Western Railway

Steve was resting in a shed. He had to take a long train of coal trucks, he felt he needed a good clean. He saw that the wash down was occupied by a red engine. It was L&YR Class 28, but with front bogey wheels, a golden dome, and stripes on his boiler. The engine smiled as his paint shown in the sun. "I truly am a splendid engine," he said. It was then that Steve noticed the large number 5 on the tender. 

"You must be a North Western Engine," said Steve. "Indeed I am," said the engine, "My name is James." "Nice to meet you James," said Steve, "My name's Steve. What are you doing all the way down here at King's Cross?" "It's part of an extension of the Wild North Western," said James, "I'm taking it for Gordon, since he had an accident." "What happened?" asked Steve. "He was switched down the wrong line, and he ignored go slow signs. He then tumbled off the tracks!!" The two laughed. "Oh, is he Flying Scotsman's brother?" asked Steve. "Yes he is," said James. "Oh man," said Steve, "I've always wanted to meet Gordon. Scotsman always talks fondly of him." James then asked, "Say, are you part of a heritage line?" "Oh no," said Steve, "I'm part of the Steam of Britain fleet." "Oh," said James, "I must say, you are lucky." "And you're even luckier," said Steve, "You're controller is so kind, none of his steam engines have ever been with drawn from service." "Yes I am," said James, "And he still brings steam engines to work on Sodor." Steve was impressed, "I wish I could see it some time. I've only been through the mid-lands and southern coast." "I see," said James, "Well, if we're in need of any engines, I'll be sure to suggest you to him."

Just then, a horn was heard, and Norvin came by with a load of trucks. "Dirty diesels," said James. "Hey!" said Steve, "That's Norvin, my friend! He's nothing like the other diesels. If you work here, it's Mack you need to watch out for. He's really nothing but boastful, and a bully to steam." "Someone should teach him a lesson," said James. "He has been many times by City of Truro and Silvia, but he never learns." "My," said James, "He sound just like Diesel." "Is that really his name?" asked Steve, "That's original." The engines laughed, until Steve said, "You know, some engines have had a suspicion before WWII was even announced." "What's that?" asked James. "That they have been planning dieselization long before nationalization." James was shocked, "Why would they ever think of it?!" "Well, the diesels do have some advantages," said Steve, "Don't get me wrong, I still think steam is superior to diesel, but they really don't have much fuss when they start." James just rolled his eyes. "but the oil, that's not very clean." "I know," said James, "I got into an accident with some tar tankers." "Oh, I know what that's like. Only it wasn't tar, it was toffy and milk." The two engine then exchanged many stories, until James' driver said, "It's time to head home." "Goodbye Steve," said James, "It was nice meeting you." "Likewise," said Steve. James then headed off to collect his train. He backed up to them, and he set off.

(After video ends) Steve smiled, and saw his new friend heading back home. He knew that Sodor was a safe haven, just like King's Cross. He was very happy to have met James.