Chapter 83: Snow
Winter had come to the island of Sodor, and with it came snow. Snow can be troublesome on the railway, especially on the Skarloey Railway, where their engines are smaller than the ones on the North Western Railway, and can't push it aside as easily. Mr. Percival placed speed restrictions on the line, and warned his engine drivers to be extra careful on the track. Sir Handel thought it was unnecessary.
"It's only snow," he snorted, "It can't do anything to hurt us."
"Tell that to Henry," Peter Sam said, "If it wasn't for snow, he wouldn't have crashed, and his engine would still be running on Welsh Coal."
"Indeed," Skarloey said, "You'd best be careful out there, Sir Handel. Snow can be more dangerous than you think, especially if there's an avalanche. I remember my first time dealing with snow on the line, and it taught me just how dangerous it could be."
"Please tell us," said the others.
"If you insist," Skarloey chuckled. And this is the story that he told.
(Flashback, Skarloey narrating)
It was many years ago, long before you two were hired. Me and Rheneas were just starting out on the railway, taking over the job of driving these fine engines from our parents. I was very cocky back then, and thought I knew everything. But I soon learned otherwise.
Winter soon came, and snow wasn't too far behind. Mr. Percival was always telling us to be careful on the line, said that snow was not to be taken lightly. But I thought otherwise.
"It's just snow," I grumbled, "How much damage could it possibly do?"
"Be on your guard, Skarloey," Rheneas would warn me, "Snow may look harmless, but it will get the better of you if you don't be careful."
But I paid no mind. I thought I knew everything. Until one day…
Back then we took a different route to the slate quarry. It passed through a narrow gap in the mountains. Echo Gorge, we called it, because every little sound echoed all around you. It was on this day that I was taking some slate trucks to the quarry. I hated it.
"It's too cold out for any work to be done," I moaned, "Why can't I stay in the house?"
Now normally, we're supposed to shut off steam when we pass through the gorge, so that rocks don't fall loose. I knew this, of course, but I was so cross that I had forgotten to do so. In my frustration I blew the engine's whistle long and loud. Just then, I hear a loud rumbling, and before I knew it an avalanche of snow fell and prevented me for leaving. I was trapped!
(End Flashback)
"Oh my! How did you get out?" Peter Sam asked.
"Fortunately, Rheneas wasn't too far behind with some workmen," Skarloey said, "They dug so fast that I didn't even have time to get cold. After that, Mr. Percival realized how dangerous the route was and closed it, giving us the path we take today. But I hope that you now see how dangerous snow can be, Sir Handel, and why you must be cautious."
"I do now, Skarloey," Sir Handel said, "Don't worry. I will be careful."
And he truly meant it.