Driver Smith

“And here we see Driver Smith at the controls.”

“How did you manage to coax such a splendid performance out of this beast, Smith?”

“Well, sir, it’s a team effort.  We’d done eight miles steady up the incline, which is hard work for the fireman, here, with three hundred tons on.  But once we were on the level, we could catch up a bit – build the fire, top the boiler water up and listen to the engine.  Then you’re looking at another nine miles down the bank.  Pressure’s back up now, and I eased back on the cut-off, you see, as she’s running freely, then I looks across at the lad, who gives me the nod.  I knew we had a clear road ahead and the engine was in good shape so I opened the steam regulator and gave her all she had.”

“And she responded?”

“Oh yes, sir.  They’re a fine locomotive these.  A real pleasure.  And they’ll do most of what she’s done today every day of the week.  This one’s a little bit special, I suppose.  The engine and the run, I mean.”

“So you’ll remember this turn?”

“I’ll say, sir.  Me and the lad, here, we’ll remember this one for a long time.”

“Well thank you, Driver, and well done on a startling performance.”