Ralph on the Engine: or, The Young Fireman of the Limited Mail

“Exactly. Special invitation for both of us,” went on Griscom, with a chuckle.

“Well, I hope everything pans out right,” said Ralph. “Our friends have worked hard enough, goodness knows.”

The day for the opening of the new railroad came, and Ralph and the old engineer took the early morning train for Wilmer. Not a few friends accompanied them.

“It’s a great day for Van and for Mr. Gibson,” said Ralph. “And a great day for Zeph and Earl too,” he added, with a smile. Earl’s uncles had been hailed into court, and a new guardian had been appointed for the boy.

A little after noon that day the formal opening of the Springfield & Dover Railroad was celebrated.

Two beautiful passenger coaches were filled with friends of the road and persons living near Wilmer. The locomotive and cars were gaily decorated with bunting. Limpy Joe was bustling around his restaurant stand at the depot, happy and chipper. Zeph Dallas was the proud conductor, and Earl Danvers the brakeman of the train. Mr. and Mrs. Gibson, Mrs. Fairbanks, Mr. Trevor and some of their friends formed a party by themselves. It was a regular gala occasion. The first trip was a grand success. People along the line greeted the train with glad cheers, and, returning to headquarters, a sumptuous repast was spread for the guests of the new road.

“Well, we are a happy family party,” said Farwell Gibson with enthusiasm, as, that evening, his employes sat around the supper table at headquarters.

“Yes,” nodded Trevor. “To-morrow actual work begins. We have splendid prospects, loyal employes, and the Springfield & Dover Short Line is a grand success.”

“I cannot too deeply announce my feelings towards you, Fairbanks,” said Mr. Gibson. “It is to your friendship and co-operation that I owe, in a measure, all my good fortune in completing the railroad.”

“A grand lad,” applauded old John Griscom heartily. “His pluck and perseverance have helped us all out of difficulties many a time.”

“Three cheers for the boy who helped to build a railroad!” cried Zeph Dallas.

They were given with enthusiasm, and Ralph had to respond with a speech.

“I believe this is the happiest moment of my life,” he declared. “I have been through some strenuous times, but all has ended well.”

And then what a cheer went up!

Ralph imagined that now, since his enemies had been disposed of, quiet times were ahead. But this was not to be. Adventures in plenty still awaited him, and what some of them were will be related in another story, to be called “Ralph on the Overland Express; or, The Trials and Triumphs of a Young Engineer.”

“It was certainly a great day, mother,” said the young fireman, when he got home from the celebration.

“Yes, Ralph,” answered Mrs. Fairbanks. “And to think that you helped to make that day possible. Oh, I am proud of you!” And she gave him a fond caress.

“And the best of it is, that we have all those thousands of dollars,” continued the young fireman. “We are not exactly rich, but we are comfortably situated, eh?”

“Yes, indeed, Ralph! But listen to me. Do you want to leave the railroad? You might go into business, or go to college, or–”

“No, no, mother! I was born to follow a railroad life – I feel it. Who knows, some day I may be the President of some road.”

“That is true. Well, have your wish, Ralph. They tell me now you are the best fireman in these parts. Soon you’ll have your engine then–”

“I’ll be very happy!” finished Ralph.

And his eyes brightened as he thought of splendid opportunities the future promised.

THE END