Toby was chuffing down the line with Henrietta. Their brand new paint and polish shone in the summer sun. When they reached Knapford Station, they saw James and Percy talking.

But as Toby stopped and listened to the conversation, he realised that it was far from friendly.

"I'm simply the shiniest and smartest engine on the island. My brilliant red paint only compliments my good looks and likeable personality!" James boasted to his small green friend.

"Oh yeah, well you're not the best engine on the island." retorted Percy, "And besides what if you get it covered in tar again?"

James seethed. He didn't like being reminded of his incident with tar wagons. "At least I haven't ruined the Fat Controller's luggage!"

"Well I'm not the one that had to ask his passengers for a bootlace!" shouted Percy.

"Says the engine who crashed into a chocolate factory!" roared James.

"Cocky!"

"Clumsy!"

With that, the the two engines prepared to leave angry. However, Toby wasn't ready to see a foolish argument drive his friends apart. He quietly puffed towards James and Percy.

"You two need to stop arguing. It'l get you nowhere in the long run. Now James, you needn't be so rude to Percy, he's the youngest member of our team and he's still learning. There is also no need to be so boastful about yourself because looks aren't everything."

"I'm sorry Toby, I just am glad that I am a unique part of the railway." said James apologetically.

"And you should be. Everyone's unique, which is something you should remember. There are more things to talk about than physical qualities." Toby explained.

"But you Percy, were being cheeky by taunting James like that. I know you may be upset because he was gloating about himself, but you shouldn't respond to anything with rudeness. You both are great engines, great friends, and a great addition to the railway. Now I will not see any quarrel drive you apart, understood?"

"Yes Toby," chorused the two engines.

"I'm sorry if my boastfulness was bothering you Percy, " said James, "I hope that we'll still be friends."

"I'm sorry as well James," said Percy, "I shouldn't have made fun of your accident, " I hope that we're still friends too."

The two engines whistled together as Toby smiled proudly, glad to see that his wisdom had payed off in ending a good friendship.

THE END