There had been recent events on Sodor that left a mark on several engines in varying ways. About ten days had passed since Diesel finally came out the other side of his ill-minded mannerisms with Duck and mended his ill ties with the Great Western Engine at long last. In due course, all the engines took note of Diesel's newfound motivation to be really useful and a fair acquaintance at minimum to others. True to his word, Diesel continued to maintain a lax yet neutral to fair stance with most of the engines, and they in turn acknowledged Diesel was making the effort. Given the circumstances and the outcome of what had happened, it seemed that Diesel was on a good upward trajectory.
But with Diesel's threshold now crossed with a new chapter in his life, there was another certain experience someone else would soon have on account of what Ruth had been up to for quite some time now. Over the past several months, Ruth had been keeping very busy with something in her workshop, working on her latest invention since the Walking Bridge to get Toby over Hackenbeck Valley. She had kept all the details for this particular invention under wraps since the start, and now, the new creation had finally been completed. As the sun went down over the hills one warm evening, Ruth stood in her workshop, beaming happily with the new invention and acquaintance standing before her. A small red car that looked quite a bit like a steam engine, and who bore a most precious adorable little face full of curiosity and vigor for everything around her in the world outside.
"H…H…Hello…R…Ruth…" the car peeped most meekly and shyly.
"Oh, hello there, my dear little car," Ruth smiled most dearly. "You're the sweetest little thing I've ever brought into being. I'll name you…Cleo."
The tiny car looked up and slowly articulated the name.
"C…C…Cle…o. Cleo."
"Very good. Very good, Cleo," Ruth smiled.
Cleo smiled from wheel to wheel and chirped again. "C…Cleo. Cleo!"
"Oh, my sweet Cleo," Ruth chimed. "There's so much for you to see and learn about. Oh, I'd love to introduce you to Thomas!"
"Thomas? What's a…a…Thomas?" asked Cleo.
"Well, Cleo…just listen closely, and I'll tell you all about him…"
So Ruth sat down in her workshop and told her new Cleo many things, about Thomas, the railway, the roads and a few other things too. Soon, Cleo knew a fair handful of things which she was most curious to see for herself. Ruth then said goodnight and went to bed while Cleo soon nodded off to sleep, all-too eager to start her first day and have things start happening with her. In just a short period of time, once she was unveiled, Cleo's firsthand experiences would lead to some interactions with Thomas and a few others as well…including an unexpecting acquaintance who had been thinking a few things himself of late…
The next morning at Arlesburgh, Beatrice was sitting in the kitchen with a beaming smile. She had just made breakfast for her and David and was gazing at a most lovely feature right on the table. There sat the very bouquet of flowers Diesel had left for her a few nights past. Amongst the flowers were daisies, petunias, lilies and roses, which Beatrice had kept in the bouquet and watered duly whenever she needed to, making sure they would stay blooming and beautiful. Beatrice could still remember the warm delight she felt her heart when she found them on the front porch the morning after Diesel delivered them, as well as the note that came with it.
"You're most welcome, Diesel. To everything I was able to do for you," she thought warmly.
At that moment, Beatrice heard footsteps and saw David coming down for breakfast, fully dressed for another day, and feeling quite content. Having done more harbour work than usual over the past few days, he had managed to work in two days off to spend on his own.
"Good morning, Mum," he smiled.
"Good morning, Davey. Breakfast is ready," said Beatrice.
David sat down and saw it all plated up. Ham, eggs, melted cheese on toast, a pot of coffee and a bottle of ginger beer all set. In that moment, he and Beatrice tucked into their food. For a fair few minutes, both of them ate heartily, but there was something else to all of this, and Beatrice could tell. As she gave little glances to David, she could tell he had been thinking about something or other for a while now, and she was curious as to what it could be. Once breakfast was done and the kitchen was cleaned up, Beatrice cleared her throat.
"Say, David?"
"Yes, Mum?" he replied.
"I couldn't help but notice, you've been a little quiet for the past few days. Something tells me you've been thinking. Am I right to assume you have something on your mind? Perhaps something about you…or something concerning you?"
David looked at his mother, saying nothing at first. As it so happened, he had been thinking about something over the past few days, and in that moment, he felt perhaps this would be a good time to bring it forward.
"In fact there is, Mum," he said. "Now that you ask, perhaps I should bring it forward. Ever since Diesel began a new chapter in his life, with everything having settled down again, it's given me time to think and ponder a few things regarding myself. As it so happens, there's one thing I've never heavily considered before, and I don't know why I didn't think on it years earlier."
"What's that, David?" Beatrice asked.
David looked down for a moment, then took a breath and answered.
"I've come to notice, Mum…that in the years I've lived here so far…I have never driven or owned a car of my own."
Beatrice suddenly looked up and realized this was quite true. In that moment, she began thinking a few things herself.
"Hmm. So you haven't," she said. "Well, well. What's gotten you thinking about that?"
"Well, I couldn't help but notice," said David. "Ever since I first arrived on this island, I've been getting around by road mostly on Bertie and sometimes Algy, as you've been doing just the same since I found you and brought you here."
"So we have," said Beatrice. "Quite interesting, this is."
"As much as I enjoy the service, as well as interacting with Bertie and Algy, I'm still riding them. Not actually driving."
"Indeed, you aren't," Beatrice pondered again. "Hmm…This may or may not be a silly question, David. But for a man your age…thirty-two years…"
"Indeed, I am," said David. "Though I still like to think I'm young in strength and heart."
"As do I, David," said Beatrice. "But for a man your age…have you ever driven before? I cannot recall you ever driving before you left to serve in the Navy, but…did you do anything of the sort in your regiment?"
"Well…come to think of it, I actually did," said David. "Over my six years in the Royal Navy, I did learn how to drive military vehicles, such as jeeps and vans meant to carry food rations and equipment to and from the HMS ships, particularly the HMS Defender I served on mostly."
"I see. So you do know the basic principles of driving," said Beatrice. "Yet you've never pursued the idea of driving here yourself, until only recently."
David nodded and thought back.
"Perhaps I've just been so caught up with all that goes on here on Sodor, I never raised the thought of having a car."
"Well, then. Now that you have raised the thought with me…perhaps you should go looking for one, David," said Beatrice. "There's bound to be a well-matched car out there for a valiant navy captain like yourself. Why not go have a look around, and see what comes to mind?"
"You know, Mum…perhaps I should," said David. "As fond as I am of riding with Emily along the rails, a car of my own would be a fine investment, I think. I'll take an outing along the road and see what I can see."
"That's the key, David," said Beatrice. "See what you can find, and let me know if anything comes up."
With that, David gave a nod of assurance, then set off for the Bus Terminal, just in time to board Bertie before he honked his horn and set off down the road. As he rode along, David didn't know what to expect or what sort of car would suit him yet. Whichever car he saw driving along, he would consider how he would look and feel if driving such car, then see if he could bring it all together.
After a fair stretch of riding, Bertie arrived at Tidmouth Town Hall. David stepped off, then started walking along the road up toward Thomas' Branch Line. For about half an hour, David's walk was quiet with no traffic to gaze upon. Then suddenly, David heard a vehicle coming up from behind. He turned around and saw a bright blue car with fine curves along its side. David then noticed who was driving it and recognized at once. It was Lola, Bernie's former fond friend during his ordeal, before everything went very wrong. Lola seemed in better spirits since all those months ago the summer before, and she gave a wave to David as she drove on by. David watched her car until it was out of sight, imagining himself behind the wheel. Then he shook his head a little mournfully.
"No. It would remind me too much of how it all turned out…and how much better it ought to have been."
With a heavy sigh, David pushed the past out of his mind and walked on down the road. Another few minutes later, David heard another vehicle coming up from behind. This time when he turned around, he saw a red Sodor Mail postal van drive on past and down the road. David suddenly looked again and pondered.
"Maybe that…No. No, no, no. I'm a captain, not a postman!"
With that, David resumed his pace and kept walking on, unaware of what would soon be transpiring along these roads and stretch of the railway.
The post van drove further along the road and soon passed by Thomas. He was working on his Branch Line pulling trucks from the quarry, when he passed Ruth's Workshop. Ruth had just come out of the shed and saw Thomas whistle and stop right there. After her little exchange with her new invention the night before, Ruth suddenly saw her first opportunity for Cleo. With Thomas having come along, perhaps this would be a good time for introductions.
"Morning, Ruth!" he whistled.
"Oh, Thomas. I'm glad you're here," said Ruth. "I have someone I'd like to introduce to you. Thomas…meet Cleo."
Thomas was suddenly curious and intrigued. Who and what was Cleo? He looked toward the shed of the workshop, then suddenly, out came a peculiar little car with red livery and brass linings. To Thomas, Cleo strangely enough looked more like a steam engine than a car. Her wheels, her arrow-dynamic shape and even the fenders and pipes along her side made her look very steam-engine like. She rolled up beside Ruth and cast her adorable little face to the blue tank engine.
"Hello, Thomas. I'm Cleo," she chirped cheerfully.
"Wow! You're Ruth's new car!" Thomas exclaimed. "At least I…think you're car. You look a bit like a steam engine."
"Cleo's a Road Engine," said Ruth. "So, she's kind of a bit of both."
"But Ruth, I thought you already had a flying car," Thomas replied, remembering her entrance with the World of Tomorrow.
"I did, Thomas. But I don't think the world is ready for flying cars yet. Anyway, we're just off to Knapford. I need to pick up some bits and pieces."
"I'm on my way to Knapford too. Maybe we could travel together," said Thomas.
"Great idea, Thomas," Ruth replied as she boarded Cleo. "Although, we'll have to stick to the roads."
"You've got it!" Thomas winked.
With a shovel of coal into Thomas' firebox, a toot on his whistle and a 'honk-honk' on Cleo's horn, they set off. For a fair while, Thomas and Cleo ran side by side on the line and on the road. It was then that Cleo noticed Thomas' number on his side and crew curious.
"Thomas? Why have you got a No. 1 on your side?" she asked.
"Well, it's because I come first in everything," Thomas said proudly and a little cheekily.
"So…does that mean you're gonna get to Knapford first?" asked Cleo.
"Maybe…" Thomas winked.
"Well, we'll see about that," Cleo giggled. "Last one there's got a leaky gasket!"
"You're on!" said Thomas.
"Now, you two," Ruth tried to speak. "We don't-"
"Go-go-GO!"
Cleo squealed and Ruth cried out as the Road Engine suddenly raced off down the road. Thomas dashed off himself, eager to take the race on like he did with Bertie whenever they raced together. But Ruth didn't like going this fast.
"Cleo! Maybe you should slow down a bit!" she called. "It's really hard to steer when you're going this fast!"
"But why? This is so much fun!" Cleo called.
Before long, Thomas and Cleo came along the very bridge Emily and Rocky had saved Gordon from when she became Sodor's No. 12 Safety Engine. Cleo raced right along over the bridge while Thomas closely passed beneath it.
"Come on, slowcoach!" Cleo squealed after him.
"I'll show you who's slow!" Thomas laughed as he ran around the bend.
Cleo raced onward for a few more moments, but Ruth still wasn't quite happy with all the rush and fuss.
"Stop!" she called as she applied Cleo's brakes and brought her to a stop.
"Oh! What'd you do that for?" Cleo asked as Ruth stepped out.
"Because, I need to post some letters."
As soon as Ruth headed for the mailbox, Cleo heard Thomas' whistle and saw him dash off past her.
"Oh, no! Thomas is winning now!" she complained as Ruth returned to her cab.
"Now. Onto…Whoa!" Ruth exclaimed as Cleo dashed off again. "Cleo! Slow down!"
Cleo was too excited and having too much fun to slow down now. Just up ahead, Bulgy was running along the road when Cleo suddenly turned sharply to the left and down another road, taking Bulgy quite by surprise.
"Free the- Oh!" he exclaimed. "What's a steam engine doing on the road?"
Further up the line, Thomas was hurrying well ahead and keen to win. But in the next moment, he looked ahead and saw the level crossing closing on him. Of course, he had to stop, and sure enough, Cleo ran right across, still laughing most excitedly.
"See you at the finish line, Thomas!" she called.
Thomas whistled and struggled to start up again. Cleo meanwhile rushed on ahead and on towards Farmer McColl's, who was expecting Ruth to come by to pick up a load of eggs she had ordered from him. As soon as they were down the hill, Ruth braked again and brought Cleo to a stop.
"Ohh! Not again!" said Cleo.
"You're in a rush," chuckled Farmer McColl.
"Well. One of us is," said Ruth.
"Well, it's a good job I've got your eggs ready then, Ruth," Farmer McColl replied as he placed the eggs in Cleo's trunk.
"Thanks, Farmer McCo-o-oll!"
Cleo had already tore off again in a cloud of dust, leaving Farmer McColl just standing there.
"Uh…bye."
Meanwhile, David was still striding along the road, still thinking as to what sort of car would suit him. Neither Lola's car nor the Sodor Mail van seemed to click with him, but he was determined to find something that would match. Just then, he heard a familiar horn from behind. He looked back and this time, he saw the Fat Controller driving by in his blue car. He saw David and waved to him, to which David waved back as the Fat Controller drove on past and down the road. David took a close look at that car too until it was out of sight.
"Hmm…perhaps a car like that?" David wondered for a moment. "No. That's Sir Topham's car. I'd fancy something different. Something more…rustic, streamlined, yet a little vintage…"
Then suddenly, in that very moment of chance, David heard another horn tooting from behind him, followed by two female voices, one familiar, and another David had never heard before.
"Cleo! Cleo! Slow do-o-own!" came Ruth's voice.
"Faster, faster, faste-e-e-er!" came the other, much younger voice.
David turned around fast and was just in time to see Cleo whiz right by him, spouting a cloud of dust behind her. David's hair blew hard from the rushing air, and he coughed a little against the dust before he looked ahead and saw Cleo disappear around the bend.
"Whoa! Jehoshaphat! What was THAT?!" he exclaimed, then suddenly began running further along the road. "Emily! Say, Emily! Where are you?!"
Further along the line, Emily was puffing along with a small goods train, humming happily to herself. It was another fine Spring day for her, and she had been enjoying herself throughout the morning, wondering how the rest of the day would go. Then suddenly, she too heard the rushing sound of a car on the road, then came the distant shouts.
"Please, Cleo! Slow down!" came Ruth's voice.
"Why? This is sooo much fu-u-un!" came the other voice.
Emily's heart jumped, then suddenly, with almost no time to look, she saw a small red vehicle she'd never seen before whiz around the bend and dart right past her down the road, still squealing away with utter excitement.
"My goodness!" Emily exclaimed. "Who…whoever was that?"
"I don't know, Emily," said her driver. "But I saw Ruth in the cab. It must be a new invention of hers."
"I'll say, Paul," said Emily. "And a very new invention too! That car's whizzing around like she's got a sugar rush!"
"Indeed she is, Emily," said her fireman Declan. "Quite sure Sir Topham Hatt will hear about this."
"He's bound to say something about a car driving around like that," said Emily. "I'd better report to him, as my duty as Safety Engine commands."
But before Emily could set off again, David came hurrying up along the line, panting hard as he slowed down and stopped beside his beloved engine.
"Oh. Hello, David. What are you doing out here?" Emily asked.
"Whew, Emily! There you are," David panted. "I just saw a most unexpected surprise. Did you see a tiny red car dash through here? I think Ruth was driving her."
"You know, David…yes, I have. Just now, in fact," said Emily. "I did see someone rush along the line. She looked quite tiny for a car…and most adamantly excited, almost like a sugar rush."
"Yes, that's the one," said David. "She went by so fast, I couldn't decide…"
"Decide what, David?" Emily asked.
"Oh, of course, I haven't told you," said David. "I couldn't decide if…she could be the car for me. That's why I'm out on the road, Emily. For the past few days, I've actually been thinking of a car of my own…since I've never owned one."
"Ohh. Really? So you're looking for a car to drive?" said Emily. "That's a very fine idea. Why didn't you think of that sooner?"
"I don't know, Emily. But the thought occurred to me just the same," said David.
"Well, I thought perhaps I should inform Sir Topham Hatt about this red car and her overly hyper driving," said Emily. "Then perhaps we should be on our way to Ruth's Workshop and see what this is all about."
"I quite agree, Emily," said David. "Then I might be able to see if she could work for me on the road."
"Well, hop onboard, David," said Emily. "We can go together."
David nodded and climbed into Emily's cab. Then she set off again down the line for Knapford to tell the Fat Controller the news, after which she and David would be on their way to Ruth's Workshop.
Cleo meanwhile had hurried the rest of the way down the road, and was now approaching Knapford Station, albeit a little more smoothly as Ruth had managed to get a better hold of the controls. As they pulled in toward the station entrance, Cleo was pleased at first, but then saw just who was at the platform. Cleo groaned disappointedly as Thomas looked at her teasingly.
"Oh, you finally made it," he sniffed.
"But, I…I…you were-"
"Won't be long," Ruth said as she stepped out.
"I would have won if I didn't have to go the long way round and keep stopping!" Cleo replied.
"Oh, really. Race you to Wellsworth," said Thomas.
"You're on!" Cleo replied as Ruth came back. "And this time, I'll show you who's fastest!"
At that very moment, Emily and David came around the bend and were now heading toward the station, all set to tell the Fat Controller what they had seen, when they suddenly heard Thomas' voice, then the other voice.
"Ready…set…"
"GO!"
In the next instant, Thomas took off like a dart, as did Cleo. Emily gasped and switched to the other line as Thomas tore through the junction and past his green signal.
"Hi, Emily! Bye, Emily!"
Emily had no time to reply as Thomas raced out of the station while Cleo raced back along the road. David watched them both hurry out of sight and shook his head. Emily now knew something was indeed going on as she hurried to the platform and whistled to alert the Fat Controller. Sure enough, he came out of his office, seeming a little wary himself.
"Hello, sir," said Emily.
"What are you doing here, Emily?" he asked. "You're supposed to be delivering those goods."
"Well, I was. Until I saw something most peculiar happen along the road, as did David," said Emily. "As Safety Engine, I thought it prudent to report the matter to you."
"You did, did you?" said the Fat Controller. "Well, it so happens I've heard a few things myself. Rumours about some small 'Road Engine,' darting all over the roads with Ruth. As Safety Engine, Emily, do you have any input on this matter?"
Emily nodded and told the Fat Controller about Cleo and Ruth, after which David mentioned seeing the little road engine whiz by him on the road.
"Hmm. Well, she's certainly brand-new alright," said the Fat Controller. "And come to think of it, I think I heard Thomas and this Cleo challenging each other for a race just a few moments ago."
"You're right in line there, sir," said David. "Thomas and that road engine just whizzed out of the station while and Emily and I were coming in. I can't say for sure, but I think my ears heard they'd be racing to Wellsworth."
"Well, then. We'd better head there and see what this is all about," said the Fat Controller. "Leave those goods for now, Emily. We must all see this Cleo for ourselves."
"Yes, sir," said Emily.
With that, Emily headed for Tidmouth Sheds to turn around while the Fat Controller locked his office door and headed for his car. When Emily came back, the Fat Controller started up the car, then he, Emily and David set off down the line for Wellsworth.
Meanwhile, Thomas was racing up along the line again for Wellsworth, with Cleo tearing after him, whilst Ruth was trying desperately to keep her under control.
"What are you two doing?!" she called.
Thomas and Cleo were now approaching higher speeds and were quite evenly matched by now…until Thomas looked ahead and saw his chance.
"Your turn to stop, Cleo!" he smirked.
"Huh?"
Cleo looked ahead and saw the rail crossing was closing for her, allowing Thomas to speed through.
"See you at the finish line!" Thomas called as he dashed right on ahead.
"Enough games, Cleo! We've got to go home!" said Ruth.
But even as Ruth spoke, Cleo looked towards the line, and suddenly got an idea. In the blink of an eye, she suddenly turned off the road and started crossing over the railway lines! Sure enough, she was riding the rails like a steam engine.
"Cleo! What are you doing?!" Ruth exclaimed. "The Workshop's that way!"
"Thomas beat me last time because HE was on the rails!" said Cleo. "So this time, I've gone on the rails too! Whoo-hoo! Ha-ha-ha-ha!"
Thomas was still rushing along the line, quite gleefully. But then he heard Cleo's horn again, and when he looked beside him, he was most surprised to see a car running right along the line!
"Hey, that's cheating!" he exclaimed.
"No, it's not!" Cleo called and raced right on ahead…when just around the bend, very bad trouble lay ahead.
"Uhh, Cleo! I think we need to stop now!" Ruth exclaimed.
"But why? I'm going to win!" Cleo squealed.
"Because Gordon is heading straight for us!" Ruth called.
Of course, Cleo knew nothing about any of the other engines or even certain names for this matter.
"Gordon? What's a Gordon?!"
"That's a Gordon!"
Ruth pointed right down the line, and indeed, there he was, running full speed head-on towards them!
"Express Coming Through!" he called.
In that instant, as she saw the big blue engine thundering right towards her, Cleo squawked and squealed awfully as Ruth halted her road engine, then turned her gears to reverse.
"Cleo! Reverse, reverse, REVERSE!" Ruth yelled with alarm.
"I'm reversing, I'm reversing, I'M REVERSI-I-I-I-ING!"
And she was, but even with all of Cleo's might, Gordon was still getting closer and closer.
"Out of my way!" he whistled loudly.
At that moment, Thomas came huffing up the line and saw Cleo doubling back.
"Wrong way, Cleo! Those were dis-"
"Get off my track!" Gordon shouted as he thundered on past. Then Thomas suddenly noticed.
"Oh, no…what's going to happen now?"
"No time to find out now, Thomas," said his driver. "We've got a load of tankers to pick up and deliver."
"But what about Cleo?" Thomas asked.
"Leave that to Ruth, Thomas," said his fireman. "I'm sure she'll get Cleo back safely…though she'd best do it very quickly."
"Very, very quickly, I'd say," Thomas replied as he set off again down the line, hoping the little road engine would be alright.
Meanwhile, Cleo continued to reverse with terrific speed, squealing with fright all the way as Gordon continued to close in.
"MO-O-O-OVE!" he roared.
"I've gotta get off the tracks!" Cleo squealed.
"Hang on, Cleo!" called Ruth.
Then in that very moment, Ruth made a most peculiar move. She turned a switch on Cleo's dashboard, and then, much to Gordon's dumbfounded surprise, Cleo's frame suddenly elevated upwards, much to even her awe. Ruth turned another switch which turned Cleo's frame right around and lowered her back down. Gordon was indeed perplexed, and just as his buffers touched Cleo's back, Ruth pushed forward and drove on ahead across the tracks, then with a final skid, Cleo came to a stop along the road as Gordon thundered past.
"RAIL HOG!" he roared.
"Phew!"
Cleo was most relieved to be off the rails now, when in that same moment, Bulgy came along again, then suddenly stopped.
"Free the-whoa! Oh, it's you again."
"Sorry," said Cleo.
Ruth gathered herself together for a moment and took a deep breath before she gave a steady sigh. She then stepped out of Cleo and came right up to her front with her arms folded. Cleo could sense right away this was no light matter.
"Well, Cleo," Ruth said steadily and seriously. "I think that's enough racing about for more than one day. We're going home now, and I am taking the wheel the rest of the way back."
"Y…yes, Ruth," Cleo answered meekly, seeing now how risky her racing about really was.
With that, Ruth returned to Cleo's cab and set off again. This time, Cleo made no attempts to race about. She drove however Ruth managed her speeds and soon they would be back at the workshop for the day…or so they thought.
In the meantime, Emily, David and the Fat Controller arrived at Wellsworth Station. To their surprise and suspicion, they couldn't see Thomas or Cleo anywhere. The Fat Controller knocked on the office door, to which the stationmaster came out.
"Sir Topham. What brings you here?" he asked.
"Well, sir. Emily says she saw a little road engine racing around the roads with Ruth," said the Fat Controller. "Something like a little car. And right now, as far as the hearsay goes, have you seen Thomas or that road engine racing through here?"
"No, sir, I haven't," said the stationmaster. "Neither of them came along."
"Oh? But Emily and David recall hearing something about Thomas racing her here," said the Fat Controller. "They were at Knapford last we heard either of them."
"Neither of them came along here, sir," said the stationmaster. "However…the signalmen from up the line called me and reported some sort of red car racing right along Gordon's Line. Something about Ruth having to reverse with all haste and get off the line just in the nick of time."
"What?!" exclaimed the Fat Controller.
"A car right on the line?!" Emily gasped.
"On Gordon's Express Line?!" David exclaimed.
"Indeed, Sir Topham, Emily and Captain Rider," said the stationmaster. "Last I heard, Bulgy caught a glimpse of this supposed road engine, then Ruth took her on their way back to her workshop."
"Did she now? Then we'll just have to drop by for a little visit, won't we?" said the Fat Controller. "Emily! To Ruth's Workshop, and hurry!"
"Ruth's Workshop, it is!" Emily whistled as they all set off again, while David grew more curious about possibly hitting the road soon…
By this time, Cleo was driven back to Ruth's Workshop, now feeling more down to Earth and not in such a hyper rush as she was before. Just a moment later, Thomas came along with his load of tankers, having come along to check on Ruth and the road engine. Ruth had just gotten out and was putting her bits and pieces in the Workshop.
"Oh, I'm so glad you're both safe!" Thomas exclaimed.
"Yeah, well…you won, Thomas," said Cleo. "You were the fastest."
"I'm not so sure about that," said Thomas. "You can go really fast on the rails."
"That was really fun, wasn't it? Running on rails!"
"And a little dangerous, Cleo," Ruth added. "I think we need to make you safe on the roads before you start thinking about the rails."
"Oh! That would be great, though, wouldn't it, Cleo?" said Thomas. "Then I can show you all the exciting places on Sodor!"
"One step at a time now, Thomas," said Ruth. "We don't want you two racing again. That's how accidents happen."
Ruth then opened Cleo's trunk, and in that moment, indeed, an accident there had been. In all the rushing and bumping about, all of the eggs from Farmer McColl's were broken, yolky and very sticky as Ruth picked up the bundle.
"Eww! Yuck!" she exclaimed. "Scrambled eggs, anyone?"
"Blech!" Cleo joked while Thomas joined in the laughing.
Just a few moments later, Thomas, Cleo and Ruth heard a familiar whistle and the sound of another car. On the line, Thomas saw Emily puffing in, and on the road, the Fat Controller's car came hurrying along. Emily stopped near Thomas, and down from her cab stepped David, just as the Fat Controller pulled in beside Cleo and got out.
"Ohh…" Cleo said softly as she gazed at Emily.
"Hello, Thomas. Hi, Ruth," Emily greeted.
"Emily? David? Sir? What are you all doing here?" asked Thomas.
"Well, Thomas. It would seem that something strange has been going on today," said the Fat Controller. "Excuse me, Ruth, but I've heard the most peculiar thing today. What's this I hear about a road engine dashing all over the Main Line, right up Gordon's line, then having to reverse full-tilt and turn around to get back on the road?"
Ruth suddenly felt nervous. She knew sooner or later this would happen.
"Oh…well, Sir Topham…this is the road engine right here," said Ruth. "This is my latest invention and friend, Cleo. She's been newly built brand-new as of very, very recently. Therefore, everything around her is quite literally brand-new to her firsthand. To that effect, she was keen to meet Thomas, and so when he came along today, I introduced them to each other."
"So you did," said the Fat Controller. "And exactly what happened altogether between the two of you?"
Ruth told them all about Cleo's endless curiosity and excitement of everything around her, including happened between her and Thomas, as well as their close call with Gordon. Once Ruth had told them everything, Emily spoke next.
"So that's what happened with you, is it, Thomas?" she said. "Because David and I also saw this road engine whiz by us too."
"Really, Emily? What was it like?" Thomas asked.
Emily and David told Thomas and Ruth about the whiz-by Cleo had given them and how David rode with Emily since then to find out what was going on.
"Well, well. So you got to see this little dear hurrying along too, did you, Emily?" said Thomas.
Emily nodded, then turned her full attention to the little road engine. Cleo looked at Emily again and was quite in awe at how beautiful the No. 12 Stirling was.
"Wow…H…Hello…E…Emily…" she said softly.
"So you're the little road engine who dashed on past me earlier today?" said Emily.
"Yes. I-I am," said Cleo.
Emily took a good look at Cleo, taking in her shape, curves and features. She could not recall seeing anything like this little car before. Very small, quick and most excitable indeed, and yet very precious. Presently, Emily found Cleo to be very, very adorable, and in that little moment, Emily felt a very soft, warm and cuddly sensation in her heart as she started making cutesy banter to the little road engine.
"So your name is Cleo, is it?" she said. "Well, my gracious, I've never seen such a tiny and adorable little car like you. Oh, you're such a precious, petite little darling!"
"He-he-he-he! Oh, Emily…" Cleo giggled most cutely.
Emily's eyes twinkled almost motherly as she huffed a little closer, cooing and jiggling sweetly to her tiny little friend.
"Aww, Cleo. Tiny little Cleo, well, aren't you the sweetest little thing? Oh-ho-ho-ho! Who's my adorable little Cleo-sweetie-tums? Ohh, you're SOO cute and adorable, just like a teddy bear! Yes, you are! Coochie-coochie-coo!"
Cleo blushed bright red and giggled most delightfully, as did Emily. Thomas couldn't help but feel his heart melting with such delight to see Emily and Cleo like this.
"Ahem!" the Fat Controller suddenly cut in. "I hate to interrupt this sentimental banter, but see here, Cleo..."
Thomas and Emily suddenly felt alert again as the Fat Controller approached the road engine.
"Now, Cleo. I know you're especially new to everything on Sodor, being newly built, of course. But I can't say I'm exactly pleased with your out-of-control rush today. To that effect, I fully insist and order that you learn to work safely and obey all the rules at all times."
"I'll definitely see to that, sir," said Ruth. "Today's little escapade is more than enough proof. In the meantime, however, I have a little problem here."
"What's that, Ruth?" Emily asked.
"Well, I had picked up a load of eggs from Farmer McColl's," said Ruth. "But now, with all the rushing about, they've all been broken. If I may…would anyone be willing to drop on by the farm and ask for more?"
Thomas and Emily considered, wishing they could be of some help, though they still had a little more work of their own to do. It was then that David saw his chance and came forward, taking a closer look at Cleo, who looked back at him curiously. Now able to make a close study of the road engine, David was notably intrigued. Cleo really wasn't like any other car he had ever seen, and in spite of her sugar rush-like energy just a short while ago, David secretly couldn't get over how adorable and precious Cleo was. It was then that he got an idea and nodded slowly.
"Hmm…perhaps…this one…" he murmured.
"What is it, David?" Ruth asked.
"Hmm…well, Ruth," said David. "As the matter stands right now…I think this is actually a fitting situation, for Cleo and for me."
"What do you mean?" Ruth asked.
"I already told Emily since I ran into her earlier today," said David. "But perhaps I should tell the rest of you right now. The reason I've been wandering the roads today…is because I've been looking for the right car to drive, since I've never had one of my own since I first came here."
"Ohh…of course, David!" said Thomas. "You've always gotten around the road with Bertie or Algy."
"So that's why I saw you on the road today, is it, David?" said the Fat Controller. "I wonder…did you have any thoughts about a car like mine?"
"Admittedly, I did wonder about it, Sir Topham," said David. "But I'm looking for something of my own. To that effect, Ruth, I see all your eggs have been broken by all the rush. And Thomas and Emily still have a little work to do. Therefore…perhaps I could drive Cleo back to fetch you a new set of eggs?"
Thomas and Emily both turned to David quite curiously. Neither Ruth nor the Fat Controller were entirely sure about this.
"David…with all due respect, you've never driven on Sodor before," said the Fat Controller.
"Indeed. And Cleo has just had a most crazy first day on the roads and the rails," said Ruth. "I really don't want her getting too wild with a navy captain such as yourself."
"Well, Sir Topham, and Ruth," said David. "It's true I've never driven a car of my own before, but in my time with the Navy, when I wasn't out at sea, I recall driving military vehicles full of supplies and equipment for the platoons I worked with. As such, I do know the basic functions of a road vehicle. Besides, this is merely an experiment for me to see how she works. If I may?"
Still, Ruth and the Fat Controller didn't know what to think.
"Well, we don't know for sure," Emily spoke up. "But I think it would do David well to have a car of his own. Maybe he could give Cleo a trial and see how she does with him."
Ruth pondered a little more, knowing what a serious, responsible and practical person David was. It was then that with a trifle of hesitation, she made her decision.
"Hmm…Well…alright, then," she agreed. "I do appreciate your offer, David. Just don't let her get ahead of your control."
"I think I can make sure of that, thank you, Ruth," said David. "This is going to be interesting."
With that, he approached Cleo, opened her door and climbed in, taking a quick look at some of her switches and levers.
"Alright, then. Steering and shifting, like every car has…" he noted. "Accelerator pedal and brake pedal, there we go. Now, let's see who I've got here. I'll see you later, then, Emily."
Emily nodded back as David turned the key, Cleo started up, then slowly but surely, David and Cleo drove off to hit the road while Thomas, Emily, Ruth and the Fat Controller all watched them go. Ruth shook her head slowly, hoping not too much else would happen so far. Then the Fat Controller suddenly got an idea of his own and began pondering. After a few moments, he smiled and nodded slowly.
"Sir? What is it?" Thomas asked.
"Hmm…I'm just thinking, Thomas. Something to consider," he said. "In the meantime, I'd say you and Emily ought to finish your work for the day. As for me…I think there's something I must do."
The Fat Controller returned to his car and drove away while Thomas and Emily went on their own ways to finish their work, thinking to themselves as to what David and Cleo would be like together. When the Fat Controller returned to Knapford Station, he stepped into his office, then sat down and thought a little more about David's little experiment going on right now. Then he turned to his phone, picked it up and started dialing…
At the Elsbridge Cricket Field, the team was practicing a few swings for their next upcoming game, when there came the faint sound of the phone ringing through the office's open window. The head member of the team dashed into the office and answered it. Sure enough, it was the Fat Controller, and he told the team member a few things about David and Cleo the Road Engine…as well as the very idea he was now pondering for David if it could possibly be worked out. The Cricket player listened closely and carefully until all had been explained and suggested. He then took a little glance towards the road, and just who was standing right there on her own four wheels.
"I see…well, Sir Topham. That is a most interesting thought," said the Cricket player. "We'll certainly keep an open mind, and see how it all works out. I'm sure she would be most pleased."
"I think she would be too, mate," said the Fat Controller. "I'll check in again later. Goodbye."
With that, the Fat Controller hung up and looked out the window with a sure smile. However David's experience with Cleo would turn out, the Fat Controller had it all worked out.
Meanwhile, David and Cleo were running steadily along the road. So far, David had managed to keep Cleo driving smoothly and not too quickly, while also having put together the basic functions she had to show.
"Alright, then," he said. "Steering, gears and brake, all like any other car…but what about the rest of these?"
"The rest of what, David?" Cleo asked.
"These here," said David. "Say, Cleo? What's up with these switches?"
David was looking at the panel of four switches on Cleo's dashboard, wondering just what they could do. He then made his move and turned one of the switches. Sure enough, Cleo's body frame elevated right up, to which David gave a shout of surprise.
"Whoa! Whoa! WHAT is this?! Cleo! You've gone UP!"
"O-Ohh! That-that's my elevating switch!" Cleo exclaimed. "Yes, I can go up! Try the other one! That should get be back down, or turn me around, whichever!"
David quickly tried the right switch, to which Cleo's frame turned around then came back down, effectively in reverse now, to which David braked and brought her to a stop.
"Whoa! There you are, David," said Cleo. "That…that's how I got off the road to get away from Gordon. What do you think?"
David seemed almost frozen in his seat, most surprised and bewildered by what had just happened. No car he had ever heard of could do something like this.
"I was not expecting that!" he gasped. "But I was expecting not to expect something, so it doesn't count. Now, Cleo. We must get back to Farmer McColl's, and get those eggs back to Ruth in one piece."
"Okay," said Cleo.
With that, David turned Cleo back around the right way and set off again down the road. A few moments later, David leaned out and patted Cleo's side.
"Well, Cleo. I think Emily is right on one thing," he said.
"Right about what?" she asked.
"I'm just going to say it. You really are adorable, Cleo," David admitted.
Cleo heard David and suddenly giggled and chirped most sweetly.
"He-he-he! Why, thank you, David."
"You know, Cleo, on the subject of me looking for a car…I must say you look quite impressive in your small shape. So compact, rounded and almost…magical. I don't think I've heard of a car quite so creative as you since 'Chitty-Chitty Bang-Bang,' except for the wings, that is."
Of course, Cleo had no idea what David was talking about as she looked back, rather puzzled.
"Uhh…what?" she asked. "Wh…what's a 'Chitty-Chitty Bang-Bang'? Is that a good thing?"
"Oh…well…as a car, of course it is, Cleo," said David. "I mean that in a very good way."
Cleo was quite flattered to hear this, and suddenly, quite against David's expectations, she took off and raced down the road with a giggle.
"Hey! He-e-ey! I say, what's happening now?!" David exclaimed.
"Look at me! I'm a 'Chitty-Chitty Bang-Bang!' Whee-hee!" squealed Cleo.
"Whoa, whoa there! Pace yourself, Cleo!" David ordered as he adjusted her gear shift and slowed her down.
"Aww, but David!" Cleo pleaded. "Why are you slowing me down?"
"You've done plenty of racing with Ruth already," said David. "And just because she isn't here now doesn't make any difference that you have to be careful."
"Oh, but come on, David," said Cleo. "Don't you want to get to the farm quickly? I could really go fast."
"Yes, Cleo, but that's not the point that-Who-o-oa!"
David suddenly exclaimed as Cleo took off again, swerving a little along the road. David held tightly onto the steering wheel and tried to redirect her, but despite him gaining more control, Cleo was still notably excitable as she went a little hastily, going fast along the road again, though not as fast as with Thomas. David just held onto the wheel and turned however he had to until they came back to the farm. Farmer McColl looked up and was a little surprised to see Cleo back so soon, and being driven by David as he put Cleo in the parking shift and stepped out, not seeming the most pleased with Cleo's rushed nature even now.
"Hello, Farmer McColl," said David.
"Hello, Captain Rider," said Farmer McColl. "Say, that's the same car Ruth was driving when she came for her eggs. What brings her back here again?"
"I do, Farmer McColl," said David. "I really hope you don't mind as to why…"
"Mind what?" he asked.
"Well, you see, before and even after Ruth picked up her eggs, Cleo got a little excited," said David. "She thought she and Thomas were playing a game, and in all the rush, by the time they returned to the workshop, all of Ruth's eggs got broken, effectively inedible. Therefore, if I may, I'd like to order a new round of eggs to bring back to her. I'm sure I can keep Cleo under enough control to not let them break this time, though she's still being a little hyper even with me."
Farmer McColl was a little dismayed that his eggs for Ruth had gone to waste, but despite having to gather a whole new set, he knew he could trust David's stance with excitable road engines such as Cleo.
"Hmm. Very well, David. As you wish," he said. "You just wait here, and I'll get them ready."
"No need to rush, Farmer McColl," said David. "I'm in no hurry, and neither should you, Cleo. Not after the hurry you had with Thomas."
"Ohh. Y…yes, sir," Cleo answered meekly.
Farmer McColl returned to the henhouse. Thankfully, there were still plenty of eggs that could still be put to good use, and so he gathered a fair deal more. Once they were arranged and packaged, he came out again and handed the package to David, who put them in Cleo's trunk again.
"Thank you, Farmer McColl," said David. "I'll make sure these eggs go back all in one piece. And here's a little something for your troubles."
He then drew his wallet and gave Farmer McColl twenty pounds.
"Why, thank you, David. Much appreciated," he said.
"Pleasure, Farmer McColl. Good day to you, sir," said David.
Then he got into Cleo again, then set off on their way back to the workshop. But shortly after they had gone over the hill again, Cleo thought back to what Thomas said at the workshop, then looked back. Even now, she couldn't contain her excitement of everything around her. With that, she giggled and started going faster again.
"Cleo! What's all the excitement for?" said David. "We have to get these eggs back to Ruth."
"Oh, but David! I just recalled!" said Cleo. "Thomas said I could see all the exciting places on Sodor once I learn the rails more properly! There's so, so much to see and discover! Couldn't I see even a little bit of it for myself? You and I could explore around!"
With that, Cleo started turning toward the rails again, but not five seconds later, Cleo felt her gears downshift again and slow her down. She groaned and looked back, seeing that David had lowered her shift to a slower speed as he steered her away from the line and continued along the road. It was then that David shook his head and Cleo heard him speak quietly and seriously.
"Oh, no you don't. Not again. Sorry."
Cleo felt a little jump in her heart as she could sense David was not kidding around. He sternly meant every word he said. Realizing she had no choice, she frowned to herself as they carried on down the road.
"Hmph," she huffed.
As they continued on their way, David took in all that had happened and suddenly came to a certain conclusion which he knew he had to tell the others. He now knew the sort of car that Cleo was, and would surely remain to be as her standard personality, and that was all he needed to know up to now.
Back at the Workshop, Ruth was still waiting for David and Cleo to come back with her eggs, hoping they wouldn't be broken this time. She looked at her watch, then down the road.
"Where could they be?" she asked herself. "I do hope Cleo didn't try riding the rails again."
At that moment, Thomas and Emily came along, having done their work for the day and were curious to see how David managed with Cleo.
"Hello, Ruth," said Thomas. "Emily and I have just finished our work for the day."
"And we were curious as to how David's been getting on with Cleo," said Emily. "Have you seen them, Ruth?"
"Not yet. I've been waiting for them, though," said Ruth. "I'm curious to know what David thinks of…"
At that moment, there came the sound of a car, then sure enough, Cleo came rolling along the road with David. Thomas, Emily and Ruth all watched as they drove in closer, although Cleo didn't seem too excited now, and David bore a neutral expression as he stopped Cleo then came down from her seat.
"Hello again, David and Cleo," said Ruth. "You're back from your little drive, I see."
"So, how did it go, David?" asked Emily. "How did you and Cleo get on together?"
David looked at Emily, then to Ruth.
"Well, Ruth. As I ought to have expected, Cleo got a little excited yet again. Though I managed to keep her running smoothly enough…I hope."
Then he headed to Cleo's trunk, opened it and took a look. After a moment he nodded to himself then spoke.
"Well, Ruth. We returned to Farmer McColl's, and despite a little unwarranted haste and rushing about…here we are."
Ruth watched as David unloaded the bundle of eggs, all of which were miraculously intact and in one piece. Not one egg was broken, and so David walked over and handed the bunch to Ruth, who was indeed thankful.
"Well, the eggs are certainly all intact this time. Thank you, David."
Thomas and Emily were happy to see it all worked out, but when they looked at David, they suddenly felt unsure. Despite the eggs' success, David didn't seem to be fully satisfied.
"What is it, David?" said Thomas. "Aren't you glad to have experienced driving Cleo?"
David breathed in and sighed as he looked up.
"I am glad to have experienced it, Thomas," he said. "But given how it all turned out, I need to be bluntly honest, Ruth. Cleo means well, and she is indeed a precious figure…but I'm actually not satisfied."
Cleo suddenly felt a jump in her heart, as did Ruth. David then told them about her ongoing excitement on the way the farm and back again, to which he had to take control and keep her on the road. Thomas, Emily and Ruth all understood David's point, while Cleo seemed a little ashamed of herself.
"Well, she is of course brand-new to everything," said Ruth. "But is there anything else to it, David?"
David looked at Cleo again and seemed disappointed and sympathetic at the same time.
"Well. It seems that even having a navy captain as her driver wasn't enough for her to completely hold to the rules of the road. Understandably, as she is literally brand-new, she has a whole world out there to learn before she can fully understand, and I mean that in the best way I can."
"I see where you're coming from, David," said Ruth. "So what's your ultimate verdict? Do you think she could work at all for you to drive?"
David thought a little more, then slowly looked up.
"No. I don't think we would work together. She's too excitable for someone like me to drive. But to tell you the truth, it's more than just that. She doesn't fit me as her car, and I don't fit her either as her driver. I couldn't be her driver even if I wanted to be. You're already her driver, Ruth. After all, you built her. Therefore, she's under your management, and so it always should be."
"You're right, David," said Ruth. "I do think it would be best that Cleo remains my car so as I can help her learn things bit by bit."
Cleo heard everything, and although she was sad to see David disappointed, she too understood well enough and nodded slowly.
"Well…I'm sorry I couldn't be the car for you, David," she peeped lowly. "But…but I am glad to have met you just the same."
David turned to Cleo again and walked over to her. She looked right at him as he crouched a little then held her cheeks.
"So am I to have met you, Cleo," he said. "But here and now, in the matter of ownership, you have Ruth to do just that. So I'll say goodbye now, Cleo. I wish you every joy and thrill you can find here on Sodor, and every meaningful experience you can share with Ruth."
Cleo nodded surely as she could sense David's good will to her just the same.
"Thank you, David," she said gently. "Well…it looks like this day is done for me."
"I think so too, Cleo," said Ruth. "You deserve to rest your wheels now."
David watched as Ruth maneuvered Cleo into her shed. With that, Ruth went into her workshop again, while David walked over toward Thomas and Emily.
"So. That's it, then," said Thomas.
"That's that," David sighed. "Although, out-of-control as she is…there is something precious about her."
"There is indeed, David. And you did get to experience driving her," said Emily. "But now this does leave me wondering about what…or rather who you could drive, if not Cleo."
"Well, perhaps another opportunity will show itself in due course," said David. "I would still very much like to have a car of my own, just as I have you as my steam engine, Emily."
"Indeed. Well, come aboard, David. I'll bring you home," said Emily.
David nodded and got in her cab, then looked back towards Ruth's Workshop and eyed Cleo once more. She looked back at him and managed to smile even a little bit. David nodded back to her, then looked ahead as Emily set off down the line. Thomas set off on his own way, curious as to who David would end up driving if he got the chance.
As Emily rode along the line, David thought back on his experience with Cleo and his search for a car before he met her. All things considered, there was still some searching to be done, but he had a good feeling that the next opportunity would come soon enough. Soon, Emily arrived at Arlesburgh and stopped along the Rider House. David stepped down and looked to her.
"Thank you, Emily," he said. "Today was certainly an interesting day for me. Cleo is certainly a wonder in her way, but I think there's yet another car out there waiting for me."
"Oh, there is, David. I'm very sure of it," said Emily. "Who knows what or who it may be? I'll see you later."
With that, Emily whistled goodbye and set off on her way home. David watched her go, then headed up to the front door. When he stepped inside, he could hear Beatrice's voice and found her talking on the phone.
"…Really? Is that right, Sir Topham? Well, I think that would do quite nicely," she said as she looked up. "Oh. He just got back now. I'll hear all about it, then call you back…thank you. Goodbye."
Beatrice hung up, then came over to her son and hugged him.
"Hi, Mum," said David.
"Hello, David," she greeted. "So. You've taken the day to look for a car of your own."
"So I have," said David. "It's been a curious day indeed, and there's a fair bit to tell you about it. Did…did Sir Topham tell you anything just now?"
"In fact, he did, David," said Beatrice. "He told me a few interesting things about today. Bur for now, I'd like to hear how it all went with you."
David nodded and beckoned his mother to sit with him on the sofa. There he told her the whole story from his car-watching to meeting Cleo and his first drive with her. Beatrice listened to everything David had to tell, nodding curiously every few moments as she thought about what to tell the Fat Controller next. Soon, Beatrice had heard everything and she nodded curiously.
"Well, David. That's quite an experience for you," she said. "Cleo certainly sounds very adorable. And indeed from your description, an excitable little sweetie."
"That she is, Mum," said David. "Though in the end, we both agreed that it's best that Ruth remains her driver…leaving me still on the search for my own car."
"Hmm. Well, David. This is all very telling," said Beatrice. "If you don't mind, I think I need a private call with Sir Topham. Just give me a few minutes."
"Of course, Mum."
David then went upstairs while Beatrice returned to the phone and telephoned Knapford Station again. The Fat Controller answered at once and soon he heard all about David's little journey with Cleo and the outcome of the little experience. It was then that he told Ruth exactly what he had in mind and what he would be doing quite soon.
"Oh, Sir Topham. That would be most lovely," said Beatrice. "David will be very pleased."
"I know he will be, Beatrice," said the Fat Controller. "Just leave everything to me."
"Of course, sir. Goodbye," said Beatrice.
After she hung up, Beatrice went upstairs to David's bedroom, where he was sitting by the window.
"Well, Mum? What did he say?"
"Well, David. I've told Sir Topham everything, David," said Beatrice. "He now knows about your little ride with Cleo. Now, as the matter stands…he has made a certain arrangement, and he wishes to see you tomorrow morning. Until then, what happens in his office stays in his office."
David felt a little jump in his heart, wondering what this could imply. After a moment, he gave a little nod and a smile, to which Beatrice nodded and smiled back. And so, for the rest of the day, David and Beatrice went about their business while the rest of the engines went through their day's work until all was done, during which time the Fat Controller worked out his arrangements with the Elsbridge Cricket Team who agreed his plan could work very nicely.
As evening set in, all the engines had returned to their sheds, and at Knapford Station, the Fat Controller was just about ready to leave his office when he heard the sound of a vehicle approaching just outside the station. He perked up and came out of his office where he saw head member of the Elsbridge Cricket team standing at the station entrance, holding a large tarp. The Fat Controller then came along the station wall and saw the vehicle they had brought over. In that moment, he nodded surely and came right up to the vehicle.
"Good. This is very good," said the Fat Controller. "Now, my dear. You've come a very long way since the start, with the Elsbridge Cricket Team and myself. But now…if he thinks you're the one for him tomorrow…that would be most lovely indeed. Don't you think?"
"Oh, I do, sir," said the vehicle. "Thank you kindly. I'll be ready as soon as he comes."
"I know you will be," said the Fat Controller. "For now, you have a pleasant evening."
With that, the Elsbridge Cricket team member covered the vehicle with the tarp for the night, then joined the Fat Controller in his car to head on their way home. By this time, all had been arranged for David to hit the road properly once the time came. Night soon fell and the stars swept through the sky. All the engines on the railway were in their sheds and sound asleep, as were David and Beatrice in their home at Arlesburgh. As David slept through the night, he continued to think about Cleo and his endeavor to find a car of his own, and very soon, there was going to be a most beloved gift for him to behold.
The next morning, David woke up with a jump in his heart as he looked out the window. Just then, Beatrice came in with a smile to her son. They both knew what had been planned this very morning, and so after David made ready and had a good breakfast, he hurried to the bus terminal to board Bertie. As Bertie made his way to Knapford, David now had a good sense he wouldn't have to rely on Bertie so often anymore, and neither would Beatrice.
Bertie soon arrived at Knapford Station and David stepped off. He just started walking toward the entrance when his eyes fell upon something along the station wall. There he saw a particular shape covered by a tarp which he couldn't recall seeing before. Presently, David began to feel a small creeping sense in his mind and suddenly turned around.
"Say, Bertie…I don't think you'll need to wait for me," he said. "You go on ahead and look after the rest of your passengers."
Bertie honked on his horn and set off down the road while David came to the office door and knocked, to which the Fat Controller answered.
"Good morning, David. I see you got my message. Do come in," he said.
David stepped inside the office and sat down across from the Fat Controller's desk.
"You wished to see me this morning, sir," said David.
"That's right. I did," said the Fat Controller. "Now, David. Beatrice tells me you told her everything that happened with you and Cleo yesterday, and she told me herself."
David nodded and briefly recapped his journey with Cleo and how it all shaped out to be in the end with the decision he and Cleo had made.
"So in the end, I decided we had to say goodbye," said David. "At least as far as owning her is concerned. Even if I wanted to be her driver, Ruth already does that since she built Cleo herself. As such…Cleo is not my car."
"Well, I'm proud of you, David," said the Fat Controller. "You made the right choice, both on Cleo…and in coming here…to see what I have put in place."
"What do you mean by me coming here, sir?" said David.
"Because I've been doing a little work myself concerning you and cars," said the Fat Controller. "I spoke with Beatrice about it yesterday evening, as well as a few others, and now, given your experience thus far, I have found something, or rather someone who I think you will be very keen to have with you, just as you do with Emily. If you'll follow me…"
The Fat Controller then stood up and left the office while David followed him outside the station, and back toward the tarp covering the secret.
"Here, David," said the Fat Controller. "I do believe you must hit the road…with this dear old friend."
David watched as the Fat Controller held onto the tarp, then pulled it off, to which David's eyes befell quite the surprise and delight. There, standing before him…was Caroline. The Vintage Car who belonged to the Elsbridge Cricket Club for so many years. David stood very still for a moment with his heart stirring. A deep and eerie familiarity swept through him as he remembered the Railway Series story, "Train Stops Play." Caroline in turn gazed upon the young captain and slowly smiled.
"Well, my gracious," David said softly and seriously. "C…Caroline…is that really you?"
Caroline's eyes gleamed and she jittered with utmost delight.
"Why, yes, sir. Ohh…Captain Rider! Ohh, I've heard all about you over the years, sir! Sir Topham here tells me you've been looking for a car of your own…and so he told the Cricket Club everything, and we all thought I could be a fitting match for you."
David gasped lightly. "You, Caroline? As MY car?"
"Yes, of course! I was so delighted to hear the proposition!" said Caroline. "Oh, please, Captain! Wouldn't you be proud to have me as your official car?"
David looked closely at Caroline for a few moments, marveling at her old yet timeless looks. Being so caught up with Cleo the day before, he hadn't given thought to Caroline, but with her right before his eyes now, it seemed like a perfect match indeed, and it had been under his very nose until now.
"Well, by my cutlass," David smiled. "I gladly accept your motion, Caroline. I'll purchase you at once. The Cricket Club will be most pleased to hear who your new driver is."
Caroline just giggled, very pleased with her newfound driver.
"Well, this is most delightful to see, David," said the Fat Controller. "Now, I know she's not Cleo, or even my car, but with that said, Caroline here is more the type of car a navy captain should drive, I think."
"Oh, I quite agree, Bertram," David nodded. "Don't you, Caroline?"
"Ooh! Yes, yes, oh, YES!" Caroline jiggled happily.
With that, David stepped inside Caroline, turned the key and started her up. In the next moment, they were driving along the road with the Fat Controller right behind them on their way to the Cricket Field. As they drove along the road, David took in the feeling of driving Caroline, and he had to admit it was perfect. Taking note of her past stories of overheating, David made sure not to drive Caroline too fast along the road. After a while, they arrived at the Cricket Field and spoke with the manager, who was most pleased to see Caroline looking so merry with her new driver. David then drew a bank cheque, put in his payment for Caroline and handed it to the manager.
"There we go. Twelve-thousand pounds for Ms. Caroline as my official car," said David. "Just take that cheque to the bank and they'll have it put through right away."
"Many thanks, Captain Rider," said the manager. "We are very pleased to see that you've taken Caroline in as your own. This will be a most fitting new chapter for her."
"It certainly will be," sad David. "I'll take just as much care of her as I do Emily. And thank you, Sir Topham, for bringing Caroline forth."
"You're truly welcome, David," said the Fat Controller. "She's yours to drive and take care of from this moment forth."
And so it was arranged. David had made his payment and now had Caroline as his own car. Caroline was most flattered to have a navy captain as her driver now. It was then that David decided he had to share the news, and he and Caroline set off again down the road.
In the Rider House, Beatrice had been sitting in the living room, taking a glimpse at the Railway Series story, "Train Stops Play," and thinking most eagerly as to how David would take the offer he found at Knapford. She had just finished the last page of the book, when she heard a car honk from outside. Right away, she stood up and went to the front door. There, right along the road near the house was Caroline herself, and leaning out from her window was her new driver. David smiled and waved to his mother as she came down the steps and saw for herself.
"So, David. You've hit the road after all," Beatrice beamed. "I knew you'd love her to be your official car."
"My official car, she is, Mum," David nodded. "Isn't she a fine match?"
"She certainly is, David," said Beatrice. "May I join the ride?"
"Of course, madam! Do step inside," Caroline beamed.
Beatrice then got inside and sat right beside David, to which he honked Caroline's horn twice.
"Come on, Caroline. Let's show Thomas and Emily the news."
And together they set off along the road again.
Out on the Main Line, Thomas and Emily were huffing along side by side, both wondering how David was doing at the moment, and if he had found any other ideas for his own car.
"What do you think, Emily?" said Thomas. "Given yesterday's events, do you see David driving any particular class of car?"
"That's a little tricky, Thomas," said Emily. "I mean, David has his own galleon ship, the Sea Emperor. That tells me he's a person of slightly vintage, historical taste. The Fat Controller has his own car, as do many others on Sodor. Perhaps something like…"
Just then, they heard a honk on the road. They looked back, then sure enough, they saw Caroline driving along the road. Thomas and Emily looked closer, and much to their surprise and delight, they saw Beatrice in the passenger seat, and driving at the wheel was David.
"Thomas…what's this I see here?" Emily smiled.
"Oh, my goodness," Thomas smiled.
Just ahead was a signal tower, both of which were set at red. Thomas and Emily had to stop, and so David stopped Caroline right alongside the line. He stepped out of Caroline, cleared his throat and gestured toward her.
"Da-da-da-daah!" he presented proudly. "Thomas and Emily. Just have a look. Isn't she a wonder of the road? My official set of wheels for the road. Caroline!"
Thomas and Emily looked right at the sight before them, both smiling from buffer to buffer. Neither of them had thought this would be the car for David, now here they were.
"Oh, Caroline! It's you!" Thomas exclaimed.
"Whom did you expect? Cleo, perchance?" David teased. Then he told both engines about his visit with the Fat Controller.
"Wow! So he thought of Caroline to be yours," said Emily. "Oh, David. She looks wonderful! She's just the right match for you to drive along the road!"
"Too right, she is, Emily," said Beatrice as she got out. "We really do think she's just the car for a navy captain to drive, wherever the road takes her."
Thomas and Emily heartily agreed. Then suddenly, Caroline looked worried and formed a disappointed expression as she looked down and sighed.
"Caroline? What is it?" said Thomas.
"Oh…I…I just remembered," said Caroline. "I'm more than happy to be David's new car…except for one little problem."
"What's that, Caroline?" Emily asked.
"Well…I'm not exactly built for speed," said Caroline. "Whenever I go fast, more often than not, my engine overheats and I break down…and truly, I wouldn't mind going fast. David is of course a very good driver…but if only there was something that could be done so my engine wouldn't overheat at high speeds. It's been the way I run for as long as I can remember…but who could help change that?"
In that very moment, David had it all worked out as he looked ahead, then winked to Thomas and Emily.
"Say. Caroline, I've got an idea," he said. "I know someone who can help you with that very problem. I'll take you to her right away."
Beatrice agreed immediately, and so they set off down the road while Thomas and Emily's signals went green and they carried on, eager to see Caroline and the Riders again whenever they could.
In her workshop, Ruth was looking over a few plans for whatever invention she would think of next. Cleo was resting beside her in the shed when they suddenly heard the sound of a car coming.
"Hmm. Who could that be?" Ruth wondered.
She turned around and came out of the shed, then suddenly gasped when she saw Caroline stopping nearby. Then David and Beatrice came out together.
"Ruth! Look! It's another car!" Cleo exclaimed. "And David's here again!"
"Hello again, David. What brings you and Beatrice here?" asked Ruth. "Say…is that your car I'm looking at? She looks very divine."
"Indeed she is, Ruth," said David. "This is Caroline. She has a story or two to tell from the Railway Series, and Sir Topham Hatt told me this morning that he thought that I should have her, and I most certainly agree. I purchased her just a short while ago, and so she's my car now."
"Really? So you've found your official car," said Ruth. "Well, I think she's a perfect match for you. Very divine curves and lining."
"Why, thank you, Ms. Ruth," said Caroline. "Now there's actually more to all of this than our introductions. David hoped that perhaps you can be of some service."
"Really? Doing what?" asked Ruth.
David told Ruth all about Caroline's engine and its tendency of overheating at high speeds, to which he hoped she could do something to fix that problem.
"So I thought if you could look her over, and see how her engine works," said David. "Then probably you could see if there's anything that can be done to have her engine perform more smoothly at fast speeds?"
Ruth smiled curiously as she walked over and opened Caroline's hood, taking a closer look at the engine. David and Beatrice watched and waited as she examined Caroline's inner workings. About twenty minutes later, Ruth looked up again and spoke.
"Hmm. You know, this motor actually isn't too different from Cleo's motor. I can see why it doesn't work at very high speeds, but I think I can work something out with this. Give me, say, three hours, and I'll upgrade her engine so it runs more smoothly, so she can run at faster speeds."
"Thank you, Ruth," said David. "Just call for me when it's done, whenever that may be. See you later, Caroline."
"You too, David and Beatrice," said Caroline.
So Ruth got right to work, checking Caroline's engine as best she could, then drawing out plans for the upgrade. David and Beatrice decided to pass the time by walking along the countryside together, while at the workshop, Caroline and Cleo spent their time talking to each other and getting fairly acquainted. Ruth drew her plans, got her tools and equipment together and got to work, while Caroline waited with beaming anticipation for a much-needed upgrade.
Sure enough, after three hours of walking together through the countryside, David and Beatrice came back to Ruth's Workshop to see how everything was turning out. As they neared the workshop, Ruth came out looking quite pleased with herself.
"David and Beatrice. You're just in time. Come on over."
David and Beatrice came over and looked to see Caroline looking quite chipper and most confident.
"Well, Ruth? What's the status?" David asked.
"She's all set, David," said Ruth. "I've installed a few upgrades to her engine, giving her a longer range of speed. Now, she can go as fast as any car and not overheat."
David looked to Caroline and saw her smile and wink.
"Wonderful, Ruth. Thank you," said David. "And Caroline? How do you feel?"
"Ooh, I feel like a young lady again," Caroline chimed merrily. "Now, Captain Rider. What say you and I hit the road together?"
"My pleasure, dear Ms. Caroline," David smiled as he and Beatrice stepped inside and buckled in.
"Now you're truly ready," said Beatrice. "What do you say, Caroline?"
"Time to hit the road, Riders!" Caroline chimed dearly.
David smiled and started her up again, then he and Beatrice waved goodbye to Ruth and Cleo, who waved and smiled back as Caroline set off swiftly down the road. As she ran along, Caroline felt no trouble in her engine at her quicker pace. She had never felt so well in her life. She was so happy, she could almost feel a song coming along for her soon…
By this time, Thomas and Emily had done a fair amount of work and were heading back along the Main Line side by side. Then suddenly, there came the sound of a honking horn again. They looked and there was Caroline running swiftly along the road, happy as can be, and David and Beatrice riding right along with her. David drove Caroline alongside the line and waved to Thomas and Emily.
"David! Hi!" Emily whistled. "How did it go with Ruth?"
"My dear friends," said David. "I thought perhaps we should have you know that after careful and detailed inner-workings and well-deserved upgrading, Caroline is now perfectly fit for any range of speed now."
"Cinders and Ashes! Really, David?" said Thomas. "So she won't overheat so much anymore?"
"She's been upgraded for faster speeds," said David. "No racing of course, but now her engine won't overheat so easily now."
"Hooray!" Emily cheered. "I knew Ruth could do it, David! How do you feel, Caroline?"
"Never so well in my life!" Caroline smiled. "I feel like a new car again. Ohh, this has been such a delight for me and for the Riders too!"
"That's very good," Emily smiled. "It's so nice to see you looking so chipper, Caroline."
"Why, thank you, Emily," Caroline beamed. "And it's so proud to now have David as my driver for the road!"
"Oh, yes, Caroline. You two go together succinctly," Emily chimed merrily. "I must say, David. There couldn't be a finer set of wheels for you on the road."
"I now have two of the best, Emily," said David. "I've got you on the rails, and now Caroline on the road…similarly to how Ruth rides Cleo and Thomas in her own way."
Emily smiled and whistled happily. "Well, David. Thomas and I are on our way back to Knapford to pick up a few more goods."
"Knapford, you say?" said David. "We're going your way too."
"Well, let's go together, shall we?" Emily chimed.
And so they did. Thomas and Emily huffed along the line while David, Beatrice and Caroline drove along the road beside the line. The vintage car continued to beam and smile most dearly as she drove along the road. Then she began to hum gently to herself. Thomas and Emily noticed and could see how content she was, and that's when it happened. Just as Caroline began to hum louder and more harmoniously, David, Beatrice, Thomas and Emily began to sing.
"Dear Caroline, dear Ms. Caroline
Dear Caroline, dear Ms. Caroline
Dear Caroline, dear Ms. Caroline
One, two, Dear Ms. Caroline
Dear Ms. Caroline, such a gem
Oh, my, dear Ms. Caroline
Dear Ms. Caroline, round the bend
Fast, slow, which ever one shows,
Such wonders you will grow!
Caroline, dear Ms. Caroline
The Rider of the road!
Caroline, dear Ms. Caroline
The Rider of the road!"
Caroline perked up at once and could only blush most delightfully as she heard the merry little song being sung for her. They sang the verse again, which only made Caroline's smile grow bigger and bigger. Then as soon as the engines and Riders had sung their part again, Caroline started singing along with her own verse.
"I'm swift as the sparrow flies
My curves, oh, they doth suffice!
I race just like Bertie does display!"
Then David sang next, followed by Thomas, Emily and Beatrice.
"You'll glide all along the road,
Your livery, it gives such a glow."
"And truly, a wondrous arra-a-a-ay!"
Then all of them at once sang the last bit together, with David finishing with the final bit.
"Dear Ms. Caroline,
Dear Ms. Caroline, such a gem
Oh, my, dear Ms. Caroline
Dear Ms. Caroline, round the bend
Fast, slow, which ever one shows,
Such wonders you will grow!
Caroline, dear Ms. Caroline
The Rider of the road!
Caroline, dear Ms. Caroline
The Rider of the r-o-o-o-oad!"
"Dear Ms. Caroline,
Dear Ms. Caroline,
Rider's wheels, Ms. Caroline!"
And with that, the song was done. Thomas, Emily, David, Beatrice and Caroline all laughed dearly together as they huffed and drove on their way together along the road and line with high spirits. David now had Caroline as his set of wheels for the road, just as Emily was his wheels for the rails. Caroline was indeed proud and happy to have a new chapter in her life, and one day soon, there would be another most fitting pair-up regarding Flynn and Belle. But that's another story.
And with this adaptation of "Cleo the Road Engine", we finally meet Cleo, the most precious, adorable character in the entire show, and in meeting her we're reintroduced to an older character that we haven't focused on in any of these stories; Caroline the Car, and what crazier way to bring her into the equation by having David officially purchase her from the Elsbridge Cricket Club. The song at the end is inspired by the melody of the song, "Chitty-Chitty Bang-Bang" by Dick Van Dyke, with the titular car itself being namedropped as well, and also, Jeremy wished to pay tribute to Richard Sherman, who passed away on May 25th, having written, with his brother Robert, many iconic songs for classic Disney movies. Anyways, next story is going to be another Belle and Flynn story, which is always exciting, so until then, tell us what you thought of this story, and as always, stay safe.