I know that most of you, if not all, will be aware of the Reverend W. Awdry's account of my rescue from the cliff. So, I see no need to recount everything that happened in those dreadful moments I was facing impending doom. But, I will say that I have never been more grateful for his presence. If I hadn't had him double heading my train, I would have been killed; as would have my crew, the passengers and the coaches.

Once we return to the station, the passengers pour out of the coaches, telling Mr. French about the drama in the hills, gushing over his bravery, and recounting the thrilling adventure they had. "We never saw it coming!" they chittered.

Well, I never saw my gratitude towards him coming, either. "Hey, Duke- thanks for saving me." I say, sheepishly. "But why did you? I was horrible to you."

"Well, it would have been a shame if you'd spoiled your new coat of paint rolling down that valley." Duke answers wryly. I chuckle at that.

"Well, you're not wrong. Still, I do owe you for saving my life back there."

"Perhaps an ear would be nice," he grunts in response, and I blush in embarrassment, realizing there is something else I should apologize for. After all, he did stop me falling bunker over funnel into the valley.

"Also, I'm sorry for not listening to you, Duke. You tried to warn me about the line- both you and Mr. French, and I ignored your warnings, cos I thought I knew better. I thought you were just trying to scare me. Now I realise that that may have been a cause for concern."

Duke gives me a meaningful look. "Well, hopefully this scare will serve as a lesson to you, young Falcon." He warns. "I cannot double head every train you pull up on that line. If you fall again, it'll be to your death. Understand?"

I suddenly shudder; it dawned on me that I am only mortal, and if I get cocky again, I'll fulfill Duke's word. "Yes, Duke." Is all I can reply meekly, not wanting to think of accidentally killing myself.

"Good," the old engine tells me sternly, his gaze boring into my eyes. "Now, Falcon, if I tell you something in the future, will it be heeded?" He asks, slowly and quietly.

"Yes." I mumble. If I could nod, I would have.

…..

The journey back to the sheds was silent. My wheels quiver beneath me for I have no idea what Mr. French will say about the cause of the accident in the first place. I let him down, badly, and I'm afraid I may not get another chance to redeem myself; worse, I might get sent away in disgrace and be replaced by another engine.

"Look, I won't worry about the manager will say," Duke tells me.

"Gah! Get out of my funnel!" On seeing him give me another of his funny looks, I wince and apologize. "It seemed like you were reading my mind." I explain, sheepishly.

"Well, stop it," Sighs Duke. "I know you're not looking forward to explaining this, and believe me, I'm not, either. But trust me- I know that you want to make things right and stop endangering others needlessly. Well, I can help you, Falcon; but only if you are willing to listen to me and work with me."

"I promise," I reply solemnly, before a cheeky smirk crosses my face. "Granpuff."