A/N This is based on Home At Last.

Hey, it's us, the narrow-gauge engines. This story happened to me, Peter Sam, along with Skarloey, Rusty and Duncan. Skarloey starts, then me, then Skarloey a bit and Duncan.

I had been to the Works to be mended. I felt much better. Rusty the Diesel was helping me off my rail-car. I hadn't met the little diesel before.

Rusty seems like a kindly sort of engine, I thought to myself.

"I help to mend the line and do odd jobs," explained Rusty. "I hear everyone is looking forward to seeing you again. Come on." Peter Sam takes over, until the Duncan part, when I tell how I meet him and he then takes over.

I was feeling depressed. I was still getting over my accident but I wanted to start work again. My controller wouldn't let me.

"Another day's rest will do you good," he said. "Besides, I've got a surprise for you."

"For me, sir, how nice sir, what is it, sir?, "

"Wait and see."

The surprise was Skarloey. I was so happy to see my friend again.

"Oh," I said. "I'm glad you've come home."

They lit Skarloey's fire and he sizzled happily.

"I feel all excited," he said. "Just like a young engine. Now tell me all the news."

"I see you've met Rusty," I said.

"Yes, I like that diesel."

"So do I," I replied. "It's a pity Duncan doesn't."

"Who is Duncan?"

"He came as a spare engine after my accident," I replied. Skarloey had been getting mended when Duncan arrived.

"Is he useful?"

"He keeps busy and I'm sure he means well. But he's bouncy and rude. He sings and sways and swivels around. His driver calls it rock and roll." I guess that's a kind of music. I give it back to Skarloey now.

"I understand," I said gravely.

Driver interrupted, "Duncan has done it again, he's stuck in the tunnel. Come on, old boy, we'll have to get him out. ". I saw a chance to meet Duncan.

I was pleased. I wanted to run and looked forward to meeting Duncan. We found a caboose and some workmen and hurried up the line.

How nice and smooth the rails are, I thought. They mended all the old bumps. The little diesel has helped do that. What a difference Rusty's made to the line.

Quite soon, we found Duncan. He was stuck at the far end of the tunnel and he was very cross. And so that was when I met Duncan. I give it to him.

"I'm a plain speaking, blunt engine. I speak as I find. Tunnels should be tunnels and not rabbit holes. This railway is no good at all.". It made me angry and upset to be stuck in that tunnel.

"Don't be silly!" snapped Driver. This tunnel is quite big enough for engines who don't Rock n' Roll.

It took a long time to clear away the rocks and set me free again. At last, Skarloey was able to us, me along with my coaches, to safety, though.

The caboose was left on the siding and the workmen stayed to make sure everything was safe. I grumbled all the way home, but Skarloey paid no attention. Later, my controller spoke severely to me.

"Listen to me. There is nothing wrong with that tunnel. You stuck in it because you tried to do Rock and Roll. Tunnels are not dance floors and you are not a pop star.

Then he gave his full attention to my funnel.

"If it happens again," he added ominously. "I shall cut down your cab and your funnel, too. In other words, your career is, uh... ahem, on the line. Need I say more?

I thought my controller had said quite enough and I remained completely silent and still, for at least the whole evening. I thought the construction of the tunnel was the problem but Driver and my controller said it was my Rock and Roll.

A/N I Respect my Thomasverse, even when I mish-mash book and TV.