thomas the tank engine · train · winter setting · fish cargo · north western railway · night shift · speed · freight · henry · railway
[December 20th, 1935] The fierce winter gales had finally died away, leaving the North Western Railway clear and ready for the busy Christmas traffic. Tonight, the Flying Kipper—the swift fish train—awaited its engines. Henry had been given the lead, with faithful Percy helping behind; both felt a thrilling mixture of nerves and excitement at the responsibility. In the deep chill of a four AM harbour, Henry backed carefully into the train. Workers shouted and heaved, securing the last boxes of fish. A final door slammed shut. The train was loaded. *Come along now, keep up!* Henry puffed encouragingly to the vans. They rattled and groaned. *Trock-trick, trock-trick… very well, very well!* they replied. *That's more like it!* Henry said, satisfaction in his voice. The journey began sm…