The Argo Goes West

16, All aboard the Argo

Cuba, Missouri.

"Hey, how long are you going to block? No train will come. Just let me cross."

In front of the railroad crossing that never opens, the milkman Sandy curses. Chris, the newspaper delivery man, and Bob, the postman, who were behind him, agreed. However, Spike, a railroad crossing guard, resolutely turned down their demands.

"I can't do that. It's the company's order. Don't cross the railroad crossing until the train has passed."

Everyone knew that Spike was the stiffest and most inflexible guy in town. However, they were tired of being kept waiting for more than half an hour. Sandy looked at Chris and the others, thinking about holding Spike down, but they didn't seem willing to do so. If that happens, Spike will be held accountable by the company. No one wanted that. Spike was loved by people all over town. The reason Sandy was in a hurry was that unlike newspapers and letters, milk spoils over time.

In fact, Spike felt sorry for them. However, the order had to be obeyed. If they tried to force the crossing, he was prepared to sprawl on the road and block it. Spike looked east. His boss didn't tell him, but Spike knew what kind of train was coming from a newspaper article. It's a battle train made with America's most advanced science and technology!　What does it look like? Spike imagined various forms from the article. However, all his images were poor. Oh, I want to see the real thing as soon as possible! He was thrilled Just like when he was a kid. The train would pass by in an instant, but he would remember it well and pass it on to his children who would eventually be born.

It was late anyway.

Spike pulled a watch out of his uniform pocket and checked the time. 8:40 am. Forty minutes behind schedule. Spike is getting worried. Will the train really come? Have we gone too far? Did I get the time wrong? No, it shouldn't be. If so, I can't continue my job as a railroad crossing guard.Wait. Keep on waiting. No matter what Sandy says, I'll wait for an hour or two.

A high-pitched horn came from the direction of St. Louis.

Spike saw a black bullet train rushing towards him. The locomotive, which was blowing white smoke vigorously, sounded a high-pitched horn twice.

"Here it comes!"

Spike yelled in excitement. "Everyone! Take a good look!"

The locomotive was streamlined, with sharp horns protruding from the front nose. Spike didn't know, but it was a 90mm whaling cannon barrel. There was space behind it for one person. From there the gunner would aim the handle and fire the harpoon. The locomotives were followed by a coal car, then armored coaches and wagons. The body of the car had a matte finish, and the black flanks were written in military typography:

ARGO

Argo! It was written in the newspaper that the name was derived from the Argonaut, which sailed in search of the Golden Fleece with the heroes of Greek mythology such as Jason and Hercules on board.

"Argo... Argo...!"

Spike whispered the name over and over again.

Behind the armored car was an open wagon with four 305 mm artillery. There were artillerymen on the wagon, and when Spike took off his cap and waved it, the artillerymen noticed it and waved back with a smile. Behind them are several armored vehicles. The last car also had a single 305 mm artillery, facing directly behind.

The Argo passed in front of the railroad crossing, leaving behind a mist of steam.Spike waved as the Argo left.

"Please, Argo! Save America!"