johnny-kobayakawa-television2015

[johnny-kobayakawa-television2015]

Thomas and Friends: Sodor Online Journeys (Story 63): Percy's Predicament

Daisy's work in the countryside was full of surprises, but she was frightened of bulls and cows, but she remain very lazy and stubborn as she carried on.

One day, Toby brought Henrietta to the station where Percy was grumbly shunting. "Hello, Percy. I see Daisy's left the milk behind again." "I'll have to make a special journey with it I suppose. Anyone would think I've nothing to do." grumbled Percy. "Tell you what?" replied Toby. "I'll take the milk, and you fetch my trucks/freight cars." Their drivers and the stationmaster agreed.

Percy had never been into the quarry before. He began ordering the trucks/freight cars about. "Hurry along!" he said. The trucks/freight cars grumbled to each other. "This is Toby's place! Percy's got no right to poke his funnel around here and push us around!" They whispered and passed the word. "Pay Percy out!/Get back at Percy! Pay Percy out!/Get back at Percy!" "Come along!" huffed Percy. "No nonsense!" "We'll give him nonsense." giggled the trucks/freight cars. But they followed so quietly that Percy thought they were under control.

Suddenly, they saw a notice ahead. "All trains stop to pin down brakes." "Peep! Peep!" "Brakes, Guard/Conductor, please!" But before he could check them, the trucks/freight cars surged forward. "On! On!" they cried. "Help! Help!" whistled Percy. The man on duty rushed to warn traffic with his red flag, but was too late to switch Percy to a runaway siding.

Frantically trying to grip the rails, Percy slid into the yard. "Peep! Peep! Look out!" The brake van was in smithereens. Percy's driver and fireman jumped clear, but Percy was stranded. Emily: Oh my gosh! Percy, are you okay?! Percy: No I am not. I brought Toby's trucks/freight cars for him. But they surged against me. Emily: Oh, Percy, I'm sorry that happened!

Next day, the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt arrived. Toby and Daisy had helped clear the wreckage, but Percy stood on his perch. "We must now try," said the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt crossly, "to run the Branch Line with Toby and a Diesel. You have put us in an awkward Predicament." "I'm sorry, Sir." "You must stay there til we are ready," continued the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt, "perhaps it will teach you to be careful with trucks/freight cars." Percy sighed. The trucks/freight cars wobbled beneath their wheels. He quite understood about awkward predicaments. The Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt spoke severely to Daisy, too. "My engines do not tell lies," he said. "They work hard, without shirking. I send lazy engines away." Daisy was ashamed. "However," he went on, "Toby says you worked hard yesterday after that, so you shall have another chance." "Thank you, Sir," said Daisy. "I will work hard, Sir. Toby says he'll help me." "Excellent! What Toby doesn't know about Branch Line problems," the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt chuckled, "such as bulls, isn't worth knowing. Our Toby is an Experienced Engine."

Next day, Thomas came back while Percy was sent to be mended. Annie and Clarabel were delighted to see Thomas again, and he took them out for a run at once.

All were now firm friends, and Toby has taught Daisy a great deal. She shooed the cow off the line the other day all by herself. That shows you, doesn't it?

Story End

[johnny-kobayakawa-television2015]

Thomas and Friends: Sodor Online Journeys (Story 62): Bulls Eyes

One day, Toby was enjoying his day. He loves his cowcatchers and side plates since they help to prevent animals from getting hurt if they should stray onto the line. Daisy thought Toby's fenders were silly. "You're afraid of getting hurt yourself." she flounced. "I'm not." huffed Toby. "Yes you are. I don't have stupid cowcatchers, but I'm not frightened. I just toot, and they all go away." "But they don't." said Toby simply. "They would with me." sighed Daisy. "Animals always run if you toot, and look at them in the eye." "Even bulls?" asked Toby. "Even bulls." said Daisy. Daisy had never met a bull, but she purred away feeling quite unconcerned.

She tooted at a farm crossing and the horse and cart halted while she went by. "Pooh!" she said. "It's easy. I just toot and they all stand aside. Poor little Toby. I'm sorry he's frightened." At the next station, a policeman was waiting. "There's a bull on the line." he warned. "Please persuade it to return to the farmer." Daisy was excited. "Now," she thought. "I'll show Toby how to manage bulls."

Champion isn't really a fierce bull, but this morning he was cross. He strayed from his field, crashed through a fence, slithered down a slope and now he didn't know where he was. Suddenly, he saw some grass. "Now for my breakfast." he thought. "Uwu!" said Daisy. "Go on." Champion was too busy chomping to take any notice. "Uwu! Uwu!" said Daisy again. Champion kept grazing. "This is all wrong." said Daisy. "How can I look him in the eye if he won't turn around?" At last he did. "Moo!" said Champion. "Ah, oh." murmured Daisy. "Why doesn't he run away?" "Go on, Daisy." said her driver. "He's harmless." "Yes." said Daisy unhappily. "You know he's harmless and I know he's harmless but does he know? Besides, look at his horns. If I bump into him he might hurt me- uh, them. The farmer wouldn't like that." Champion went up close, and sniffed at Daisy. [Champion: (sniffing on Daisy)] "Oooooooooof!" said Daisy, and that was that. Daisy did no more.

Toby was bemused and amused to see her back in the station so soon. "Bulls always run if you toot and look them in the eye. Eh, Daisy?" Daisy stayed silent. "Ah, well." continued Toby. "We can live and learn. I'd better chase him away for you I suppose." He clanked away to find Champion.

Toby's bell rang and his whistle sounded but Champion took no notice. Then Toby whooshed loudly. That did the trick. Toby whooshed a little more. Once breakfast was over, Champion chuntered away to join the farmer.

Daisy was feeling exhausted. She was glad when her day's work was over. Some boys were on the platform. Some boys were on the platform. Suddenly, one of them came running holding a paper bag. "Look, Daisy." one teased. "I've got some sweets, they're called 'Bulls Eyes'! I like them. Do you?" They shared the sweets and ate them happily. "Grrrrrh!" said Daisy. "Keep your old bull’s-eyes!" And Daisy scuttled off to her shed.

Story End

[johnny-kobayakawa-television2015]

Thomas and Friends: Sodor Online Journeys (Story 61): Daisy

Percy and Toby were worried. Thomas's recent accident had caused a great deal of trouble, and The Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt was waiting for them while they watched. "Here…" he said. "…is Daisy. The Diesel Railcar who has come to help while Thomas is…um…indisposed." "Please, Sir." asked Percy. "Will she go when Thomas comes back, Sir?" "That depends." said The Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt. "Meanwhile, however long she stays, you two will make her welcome, and comfortable." "Yes, Sir." We'll try, Sir." said the engines. "Good. Run along now and show her the shed. She will want to rest after her journey.

Daisy was hard to please as she shuddered at the engine shed. "This is dreadfully smelly. I'm highly sprung, and anything smelly is bad for my swerves."

Then they tried the carriage shed. "This is better." said Daisy, "but whatever is that rubbish?" The rubbish turned out to be Annie, Clarabel, and Henrietta who are most offened. "We won't stay here to be insulted." they fumed. Percy and Toby had to take them away, and spent half of the night soothing their hurt feelings.

The engines woke up the next morning feeling exhausted. Daisy, on the other hand felt bright and cheerful. "Uwu! Uwu!" she tooted as she came out of the yard and on her way to the station.

"Look at me." she purred to the passengers. "I'm the latest diesel, highly sprung, and right up to date. You won't want Thomas's bumpy old Annie and Clarabel now." The passengers were interested, so they climbed onboard, and waited for Daisy to start. But Daisy didn't move. She saw that a milk van was to be coupled up to her. "Do they expect me to pull that?" asked Daisy. "Surely," said her driver. "You can pull one van." "I won't." said Daisy. "Percy can do it. He loves messing about with trucks/freight cars." Daisy began to shudder violently. "Nonsense," said her driver. "Come on now, back down!" Daisy lurched backwards. She was so cross that she blew a fuse. "Told you." she said and stopped. Everyone argued with her, but it was no use. "It's fitter's orders." she said. "What is?" asked the Passengers." "My fitter's a very nice man. He comes every week and exams me carefully. 'Daisy…', he says, '…never never pull. You're highly sprung and pulling is bad for your swerves.' So that's how it is." finished Daisy. "Stuff and nonsense." said the Stationmaster. "I can't under it." said the Shunter. "Whatever made The Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt send us such a feeble?" "Feeble!? Feeble!" spluttered Daisy. "Let me…" "Stop arguing." grumbled the passengers. "We're late already." So they uncoupled the van, and Daisy purred away away, feeling very pleased with herself.

"That's a good story." she chuckled. "I'll just do what work I'll choose, and no more." But she said it herself.

Story End

[johnny-kobayakawa-television2015]

[johnny-kobayakawa-television2015]

Thomas and Friends: Sodor Online Journeys (Story 60): Thomas Comes To Breakfast

Thomas the Tank Engine has worked on his Branch Line for many years, and knows it very well.

"You know just where to stop, Thomas." laughed his driver. "You could've almost managed it with out me." Thomas had become conceited. He didn't realize that his driver was just joking.

Later, he boasted to the others. "Driver says I don't need him now." he told the others. "Don't be so daft!" snorted Percy. "I never go without my driver." said Toby earnestly. "I'd be frightened." "Pooh!" boasted Thomas. "I'm not scared." "You never dare." they glared. "I would then. You'll see."

The Next Morning, The firelighter came early. Thomas drowsed comfortably as the warmth spread through his boiler. Percy and Toby were still asleep. Then Thomas suddenly remember. "Silly stick in the muds." he chuckled. "I'll show them. Driver said I could managed without him. First I'll just go out, then I'll stop and wheesh! That'll make'em jump, so here it goes." Thomas thought he was very clever, but really he was only moving because a careless cleaner had metaled his controls. He soon found his mistake. He tried to wheesh, but he couldn't. He tried to stop, but he couldn't. He just kept rolling along. He didn't dare look at what was coming next. There was the stationmaster's house. The Stationmaster and his family were about to have breakfast when…."Horrors!" cried Thomas, and shut his eyes tight. The house rocked, broken glass tingled, and plaster went everywhere. Thomas had collected a bush on his travels. He peered into the room through its leaves. He couldn't speak. The stationmaster was furious. His wife picked up her plate. "You miserable engine!" she scolded. "Just look what you've done to our breakfast! Now I shall have to cook some more!" she banged the door. More plaster fell. This time it fell on Thomas. Thomas felt depressed.

While nobody came, workmen propped up the house with strong poles, and laid rails through the garden. Meanwhile/Then to his surprise, The Scottish Twins (Donald and Douglas) arrived. "Dinna fash yersel, Thomas. We'll soon have ye back on the rails." they laughed. Donald and Douglas are puffing hard, and they managed to haul Thomas back to the yard. Bits of fencing, a bush, and a broken window frame festooned his front, which was badly twisted. The twins laughed, and left him. Thomas was in disgrace.

"You are a very naughty engine./You're in a lot of Trouble, Thomas." "I know, Sir. I'm sorry, Sir." Thomas's voice was muffled behind his bush. "You must go to the works, and have your front mended. It will be a long job." "Yes, Sir." faltered Thomas. "Meanwhile," said the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt. "A diesel railcar will do your work." "A d-d-d-diesel, Sir?" Thomas spluttered. "Yes, Thomas. Diesels always stay in their sheds until they are wanted. Diesels never go gallivanting off to breakfast in Stationmaster's Houses." The Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt turned on his heel, and sternly walked away.

Story End

[johnny-kobayakawa-television2015]

Thomas and Friends: Sodor Online Journeys (Story 59): The Deputation

Snow came early that year on the Island of Sodor. It was heavier than usual. It stayed too, and choked the lines. Most engines hate snow. Donald and Douglas were use to it. They were soon coupled back to back, with a van between their tenders. Then, each with a snowplough on their fronts, as they set to work. They puffed busily backwards and forwards patrolling the line. Generally the snow slipped away easily, but sometimes they found deeper drifts. Presently, they came to a drift which was larger than most. They charged it, and were just backing up for another try when there was a feeble and a whistle. People waved and shouted for help. "Losh sakes, Donal, it's Henry! Dinna fash yersel, Henry. Bide a wee. We'll hae ye oot!"

Henry was feeling grateful. He saw all was not well. The twins were glum. They told him that the Fat Controller was returning soon/They told him that Sir Topham Hatt was making a decision. "He'll send uz back/away for shair," they said. "It's a shame!" sympathised Percy. "A lot of nonsense about a signalbox," grumbled Gordon. "That Brake Van too," put in James. "Good riddance. That's what I say." They were splendid in the snow/the twins were splendid in the snow," added Henry. "It isn't fair." They all agreed that something must be done, but none knew what.

One day, Percy talked to Edward about it. "What you need," said Edward, "is a Deputation." He explained what that was. When Edward finished, Percy ran back quickly.

"Edward says we need a Depotstation," he told the others. "Of course," said Gordon, "the question is…" "…what is a desperation?" asked Henry. "It's when engines tell the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt something's wrong," said Percy, "and ask him to put it right." "Did you say tell the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt?" asked Duck thoughtfully. There was a long silence.

[20 seconds later]

"I propose," said Gordon at last, "that Percy be our-er-hmm-disputation." "HI!/ME!" squeaked Percy. "I can't." "Rubbish, Percy." said Henry. "It's easy." "That's settled then," said Gordon. Poor Percy wished it wasn't!

"Hullo Percy! It's nice to be back." Percy jumped. Some trucks/cars went flying. "I uh y-y-yes Sir, please Sir." "You look nervous, Percy. What's the matter?" "Please Sir, they've made me a Desperation Sir. But to speak to you Sir. I don't like it Sir." The Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt pondered. "Do you mean a Deputation, Percy?" he asked. "Yes Sir, please Sir. It's Donald and Douglas Sir. They say, Sir, that if you send them away, Sir, they'll be turned into Scrap, Sir. That'd be dreadful, Sir. Please Sir, don't them away, Sir. They're nice engines, Sir." "Thank you, Percy. That will do." After that, he walked away.

Later, the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt spoke to the Engines. "I had a deputation yesterday," said the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt. "I understand your feelings, but I do not approve of interference./I understand your feelings, but I do not approve the matter." He paused impressively. "Donald and Douglas, I hear that your work in the snow was good. What colour paint would you like?" The twins were surprised. "Blue, Sirr, please." "Very well. But your names will be painted on you. We'll have no more 'mistakes'." "Thankye, Sirr. Dis this mean that the baith o' uz…?" The Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt smiled. "It means…" But the rest of his speech was drowned in a delighted chorus of cheers and whistles. The twins were here to stay.

Story End

[johnny-kobayakawa-television2015]

Thomas and Friends: Sodor Online Journeys (Story 58): Break Van/Donald and Douglas

While Douglas misplaced the Special Coach, the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt scolded the twins severely. "There must be no more tricks." he said. "I shall be watching you both. I am trying to decide which engine is to stay." he strode away. After he'd gone, the twins were glum. Neither twin wanted to stay without the other. Even though that this would mean that they'll be sent away, so Donald and Douglas thought it best to be good, and work hard til the end. Slowly but surely, they started to wonder what they were doing today.

There was a Break Van in the yard who had taken a dislike to Douglas. Things always went wrong when he had to take it out. His trains were late, and he was blamed. Douglas began to worry. Donald, which was Douglas's Twin, was cross at him. "Ye're a muckle nuisance," said Donald one day. "It's tae leave ye behind I'd be wantin'." "You can't," said the Break Van, "I'm essential." "Och are ye?" Donald burst out. "Ye're naethin' but a screechin' an' a noise when a's said an' done. Spite Douggie wad ye? Tak that." "Oh! Oh! Oh!" cried the Van. "Haud yer wheesht," said Donald severely. "There's mair comin' syne ye misbehave."

The van behave better after that, until later on, Donald had an accident.

The rails were slippery, and he couldn't stop in time. Donald was lucky that he wasn't hurt, but the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt was most annoyed. "I am disappointed, Donald," he said. "I did not expect such-uh-such clumsiness from you. I had decided to send Douglas back and keep you." "I'm sorry, Sirr." said Donald. "I should think so too," continued the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt indignantly. "You have upset my Arrangements. Now James will have to help with the goods work, while you have your tender mended. James won't like that."

The Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt was right. James grumbled dreadfully about extra work.

"Any wan wad think," said Douglas, "that Donal had his accident on purrpose. I heard tell," he went on, "aboot an engine an' some tar wagons." Gordon and Henry chuckled. "Shut up!" said James. "It's not funny." He didn't like to be reminded of his own accident. "Weel, weel, weel!" said Douglas innocently. "Shairly James it wasna you? Ye dinna say!" James didn't say. He sulked away to find his train.

"He's cross/James is cross," sniggered the spiteful Break Van. "We'll try to make him crosser still!" "Hold back!" giggled the trucks/freight cars to each other. James did his best, but he was exhausted when they reached Edward's station. Luckily, Douglas was there. "Help me up the hill please," panted James. "These trucks/freight cars are playing tricks." "We'll show them," said Douglas grimly.

"Come on! Come on!" puffed James to the Trucks/Freight Cars. "Get movin' you! Get movin' you!" puffed Douglas from behind. Slowly but surely, the snorting engines forced the unwilling Trucks/Freight Cars up Gordon's Hill. But James was losing steam. "I can't do it! I can't do it!" he panted. "Lae it tae me! Lae it tae me!" shouted Douglas. The Guard/Conductor was anxious. "Go steady!" he yelled to Douglas. "The van's breaking." The van broke into pieces as the Guard/Conductor jumped clear. Douglas wasn't hurt either, so Edward brought the workmen to clear the mess. The Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt was onboard. "I might have known it would be Douglas!" he said. "I'm sorry Sirr." apologized Douglas. "Mebbe I was clumsy, but I wadna be beaten by yon tricksie van." "I see," said the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt. "Douglas was grand Sir," said Edward. "James had no steam left, but Douglas worked hard enough for three. I heard him from my yard." "Two would have been enough," said the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt drily. "I want to be fair, Douglas," he went on. "I admire your determination, but…I don't know, I really don't know." The Fat Controller was making up his mind about something./Sir Topham Hatt was making up his mind about which engine to send away. So he turned and walked thoughtfully away. It was clear to Douglas that he wanted a long drink, but that's another story.

Story End

[johnny-kobayakawa-television2015]

Thomas and Friends: Sodor Online Journeys (Story 57): The Missing Coach

Donald and Douglas are Twin Engines, they arrived from Scotland to help the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt, but only one engine has been expected. The Twins meant well, but did cause confusion. The Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt had given them numbers. Donald was 9, and Douglas was 10, but he was still planning to send one engine home.

When the workmen had finished, the Twins were left alone in the Shed. "Ye may hae noticed, Douggie, that yon penters forgot somethin'." "What did they forget?" "They pented braw new nummers on oor tenders, but they put nane on uz." "Ye mean," grinned Douglas, "that we can…" "Juist that," chuckled Donald. "Haud yer wheesht. Here comes the Inspector." "Now 9 and 10," smiled the Inspector, "here's Duck. He'll show you around before you start work."

The Twins enjoyed themselves, and were soon friends with Duck. They don't mind what they did, they tackled goods trains and coaches easily; for once, the trucks/cars knew better to try any tricks.

"We like it fine here," said Donald. "That's good," smiled Duck, "but take my tip, watch out for Gordon, Henry and James. They're sure to try some nonsense." "Dinna fash yersel," chuckled Douglas. "We'll suin settle them."

Donald and Douglas had deep-toned whistles. Gordon and Henry thought it was a joke. "They sound like 'buses'," said Gordon. "Or ships," sniggered Henry. "Tugboat Annie!" laughed Gordon. "Ha! Ha!" Donald and Douglas cruised quietly up, one on each side. "Ye wadnae be makkin' fun o' uz wad ye noo?" asked Donald. Gordon and Henry jumped. They glanced nervously from side to side. "Uh, no," said Gordon. "No, no, certainly not," said Henry. "That's fine," said Douglas. "Noo just mind the baith o' ye, and keep it that wey." That was the way Gordon and Henry kept it!

Everyday at 3.30, Gordon steams in with the Express which is called "The Wild Nor' Wester", and is full of people from the Mainland. There's also a special coach for travelling places to Thomas's Branch Line. When the other coaches are taken away, engines have to remember to shunt the special coach to the bay platform. It doesn't wait there long, Thomas, Annie and Clarabel comes hurrying to the Junction to fetch it. Thomas is very proud of his special coach.

One afternoon, Douglas was helping Duck in the Yard while Donald waited to take a goods train to the other end of the line. As Duck was busy arranging Donald's Trucks/Cars, Douglas was offered to take away Gordon's Coaches.

Douglas was enjoying himself, when an awful thought struck him. "I hope the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt disna find oot I shudna be here. I cudna abide gooin' back aloone." He worried so much over this that he forgot about Thomas's Special Coach. He pushed it with the others into the carriage siding, and then ambled along to join Donald at the Water Column.

As he went, Thomas, who was complaining came by. "Where's my coach?" he asked. "Cooch?" asked Donald. "What cooch?" "My special coach that Gordon brought it for me. It's gone, and I must find it." He bustled away. "Losh sakes!" said Douglas. "I maun hae stowed the special cooch wi the ithers." And he did. A mob of angry passengers were erupted from a siding. "They're complanin' to the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt. He'll be comin' here next." said Donald's Driver. "Noo listen," said Douglas's Driver. "We'll change tenders. So Donal, ye hae tae tak yon Guids. Be quick noo!"

So Donald, with Douglas's tender, went away with the Goods before they came near.

Douglas and his Driver waited with innocent expressions. "No. 9," said the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt. "Why haven't you taken the goods?" "My tender is awa' Sirr." The Driver showed him the tender, but it was still uncoupled. "I see, some defect no doubt. Tell me, why did No. 10 leave so quickly?" "Mebbe Sirr," put in Douglas, "he saw ye comin' an' thocht he was late." "Hm," said the Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt. "Here you are, Gentlemen, are the facts. No. 10 has been shunting in the yard. Your coach disappeared. We investigate. No. 10-uh-disappears too. You can draw your conclusions. Please accept my apologies. The matter will be investigated. Good afternoon, Gentlemen." The Fat Controller/Sir Topham Hatt watched until they climbed the Station Ramp. His shoulders twitched; he wiped his eyes. It seems as if that he was crying, but he wasn't. He swung round suddenly. "Douglas," he said sternly, "why are you masquerading with Donald's tender?"

Story End

[johnny-kobayakawa-television2015]

Thomas and Friends: Sodor Online Journeys (Story 56): Little Old Twins

One day, the Owner brought some people to see the Railway. They travelled in the trains, and looked at stations, and bridges, and coaches. "Yes," they would say thoughtfully, "we'll take this"; or "No, we won't take that." They made notes in their books. Peter Sam whispered to Sir Handel. "Men came and did that on our old line." "And then," said Sir Handel, "soon afterwards, it was…it was…" "Sold," finished Peter Sam mournfully.

Peter Sam didn't sing anymore. He wanted to cry. The coaches felt sorry for him. "What's the matter with you?" asked his Driver. "You look like a dying duck!" "We don't want to be sold," said Peter Sam miserably. "Sold!" the Driver was surprised. "Who to?" "To those people who came and talked about taking things." "You silly little engine," laughed his Driver. "They're not going to buy us. They're going to take our pictures on Television." And he tried to explain what that meant. "Not going to be sold! Not going to be sold!" sang Peter Sam. He could hardly wait to tell the others.

He told them about the Television as well, and they were pleased and excited too. All except Sir Handel. "I don't hold with it," he grumbled. "Vulgar, I call it. Fancy traipsing about making an exhibition of yourselves. I won't do it, I tell you. Tellysomething indeed! Just let the Thin Controller/Mr. Percival come here, I'll tell him something!" Skarloey said nothing. He just smiled at Peter Sam. But the next day, when the Thin Controller/Mr. Percival did come to explain about the Television, Sir Handel kept strangely quiet! "Now," said the Thin Controller/Mr. Percival at last, "I want every engine to take part." "I d-d-don't feel well," quavered Sir Handel. "You poor engine," said the Thin Controller/Mr. Percival gravely, "you can stay in the shed…" Sir Handel smiled broadly! "…and your Driver and Fireman shall take you to pieces. That will make a very interesting picture. Just what we need." Sir Handel's feelings were beyond words! "That's that," said the Thin Controller/Mr. Percival. "Now Skarloey, will you take Agnes, Ruth, Lucy, Jemima, and Beatrice?" "Yes please Sir, I was hoping you would let me have them." "Duncan shall have a goods train, while Rusty, with Mr. Hugh and the men, can show how we mend the line." "Please Sir! What about me Sir?" asked Peter Sam anxiously. The Thin Controller/Mr. Percival smiled. "You Peter Sam, shall pull the special Television train." "Oh Sir! Oh Sir!" bubbled Peter Sam in ecstasy.

The Television men built towers for cameras beside the line. They put cameras on a flat truck/car too, and filled the Van with wires and instruments. Some trucks/cars, coupled behind, carried aerials and generators. Everyone practised hard till they knew just what they had to do. At last when the time came, the announcer gave the signal. "We're on the air! We're on the air!" puffed Peter Sam. He rolled the heavy train to the "Shops", where Sir Handel was being mended. Sir Handel did not enjoy their visit!

"We're on the air! We're on the air!" chanted Peter Sam. He trundled over the bridge near the middle station. "Peep Peep!" he whistled to Duncan, "we're coming!" The Announcer talked to Duncan. Then, the Announcer also talked to Rusty, and he explained about their work. Soon they had to go. Peter Sam whistled, and Rusty tooted in reply.

They rumbled over the bridge near the waterfall, and rolled into the Top Station. The Owner climbed down. "We arranged for Television," he said, "to let everyone see our Little Old Engine. We are proud of him, 95 years old and good as new! There's nothing like him anywhere. Three cheers for Skarloey/Hooray for Skarloey." "Peep! Peep! Peep!" whistled Peter Sam, and everybody joined in. Skarloey smiled. "I'm very glad to be home again. Thank you Sir, and all, for your nice surprise. Now I'll surprise you. Listen! When I was mended on the Mainland, I found my Twin!" The Owner stared. "Is there really another engine like you?" "Yes Sir," chuckled Skarloey, "there is. Another engine came to be mended too, called 'Talyllyn'. When the workmen saw us together, they laughed and called us their 'little old twins'." "Talyllyn told me about his Railway. It is a lovely one, at Towyn in Wales. Well Sir, they mended us both, and sent us home; but I often think of Talyllyn. He's 95 years old too, just like me." "Please go to see him, all of you, and wish him 'Dry rails and good running' from Skarloey, his 'Little Old Twin'."

Story End

[johnny-kobayakawa-television2015]

Thomas and Friends: Sodor Online Journeys (Story 55): Rock 'N' Roll

One day, Skarloey was taking the coaches out and met old friends. He even met Rusty for the first time in his life. "You know," he said, "if I couldn't see the old faces and places, I'd think I was on a different railway. You've done wonders with these rails." Rusty laughed. "We hoped you would. Mr. Hugh, our foreman, said 'Let's mend the track so well that he won't know where he is!' And we did, and you didn't; if you take my meaning." Skarloey laughed as he started to like Rusty.

"There's still one bad bit," said Rusty. "It's just before the first station. An engine might come off there, but I'm worried about Duncan. He will do Rock 'n' Roll. Take a look. I shouldn't like his passengers hurt." "What's that about me? I'm a plain engine and I believe in plain speaking. Speak up, and stop whispering in corners." Rusty warned Duncan to be careful with the bad bit of the line. "Huh!" grunted Duncan, "I know my way about, thank you! I don't need smelly Diesels to tell me what to do." Rusty looked hurt. "Never mind," said Skarloey, "you've done your best."

The next morning, Duncan snorted and banged about in the Yard, then he clattered crossly to the station. James was already there when Duncan arrived. "You're late," he snapped. "I know," said Duncan, "it's that smelly Diesel's fault. Rusty told me how to stay on the rails, and then he goes off and leaves me to fetch my own coaches." "You poor engine," sympathized James. "I know all about Diesels. One crept into our Yard, and ordered us about. I soon sent him packing." An idea flew into Duncan's Funnel with admiration. He didn't know that James was boastful, and sometimes didn't tell the truth.

"Send Rusty packing! Send Rusty packing!" snorted Duncan. He climbed up the hill furiously. "Well done, boy!" encouraged his Driver. "Keep it up!" They were soon near the first station. Duncan was pleased. "Nothing's happened! Nothing's happened!" he chortled. "Silly old Diesel! Clever me!" and he swaggered along the line. "Steady boy!" said his Driver. He tried to check him, but it was too late. "Sleepers and ballast!" exclaimed Duncan. "I'm off!" And he was!

"I warned him," said Rusty crossly, "but all he did was to call me names." The little Diesel refused to move. "I'm sorry to disoblige," he went on, "but I am not going to help Duncan." "I'm ashamed of you, Rusty," said Skarloey severely, "think of the passengers. What are they going to do?" "Oh!" said Rusty, "I'd forgotten them. Yes, of course, we must help the passengers," and Rusty's engine roared into life.

Meanwhile, Duncan stood there, looking very sad. He had a lot to think about. "Oh dear!" thought Duncan, "now everyone will know how silly I am." Soon, Rusty arrived with the Workmen. The passengers decided to help, and the men showed them how to use the old sleepers and rails. They soon levered Duncan back onto the line.

After that, Duncan was extra careful all day.

That evening, when the day's work was done, Duncan rolled up to him. "Rusty," he whispered, "thank you for helping. I'm sorry I was rude to you." "That's all right." "I wish all Diesels were like you. Let's be friends." "Suits me," smiled Rusty. "We'll mend that bad bit of line first thing tomorrow."

Story End

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Happy birthday Ami - September 10th

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I wonder, could the background here be planet Venus during the Silver Millennium

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Thomas and Friends: Sodor Online Journeys (Story 54): Home at Last

One day, Peter Sam will still feeling upset about what happened. He was still getting over his accident, and wanted to start work again, but the Thin Controller/Mr. Percival wouldn't let him. "Another day's rest will do you good." he said. "Besides, I got a surprise for you." "For me, Sir? How nice, Sir. What is it, Sir?" "Wait and see." The Surprise was Skarloey. "Oh!" said Peter Sam. "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 met Rusty." said Peter Sam. "Yes, I like that Diesel." "So do I." replied Peter Sam. "It's a pity that Duncan doesn't." "Who's Duncan?" "He's new here, and became a spare engine after my accident." explained Peter Sam. "Is he useful?" "He keeps busy, I'm sure he means well. He's bouncy and rude. He sings and sways as he swirls around. His driver called it 'Rock 'N' Roll'." "I understand." said Skarloey. Then, Skarloey's Driver interrupted him. "Duncan has done it again. He's stuck in a tunnel. Come on, Old Boy. We'll get him out."

Skarloey was pleased. He looked forward to meeting Duncan. They found a Brake Van with Some Workmen, and Hurried up the line. "How nice and smooth the rails are." thought Skarloey. "They mended all the old bumps. The little diesel was meant to do that. What are the differences Rusty's made to the line?" Quite soon, they found Duncan.

He was stuck at the far end of the tunnel, and he was very cross. "I'm a plain blunt engine. I speak as I find, tunnels should be tunnels, not rabbit holes! This railway is no good at all!" "Don't be silly!" snapped his Driver. "This tunnel is quite big enough for engines who don't Rock and Roll." It took a long time to clear away the rocks, and set Duncan free again. At last, Skarloey was able to push Duncan, and his coaches safely through. The Breakdown Crane and The Brake Van were left while the workmen made sure everything is safe. Duncan grumbled all the way home, but Skarloey paid no attention.

Later, the Thin Controller/Mr. Percival spoke severely to Duncan. "Listen to me, Duncan. There's nothing wrong with that tunnel. You stuck in it because you tried to do Rock 'N' Roll. Tunnels are not dance floors, and you're not a pop star." Then, the Thin Controller/Mr. Percival got his attention to Duncan's funnel. "If it happens again," he added. "I will find ways to cut you down to size. In other words, your career is on the line. Needn't I say more?" Duncan thought the Thin Controller/Mr. Percival had said quite enough, but remained completely silent, and still, for at least the whole evening.

Story End

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Thomas and Friends: Sodor Online Journeys (Story 53): Trucks!/Rusty Helps Peter Sam

One day, when Rusty came to the Island, Peter Sam and Sir Handel are very surprised to see Rusty, and they were glad to meet him. Gordon met Sir Handel when he saw him shunting. "Nobody understands our feelings." sympathized Gordon. "Now if you were ill, you couldn't go anywhere. Could you?" "Good idea." said Sir Handel. "I'll try it."

Next morning, Sir Handel did so. "I don't feel well." he groaned. There wasn't time to examine him, so some of his trucks/cars were coupled up behind Peter Sam's Coaches while Rusty promised to follow with the rest.

Peter Sam didn't mind the extra work, so he left his coaches at the station, and trundled cheerfully on.

Soon, they reached the quarry where the trucks/cars were needed. Empty trucks/cars at the bottom of the slope are hitched to a cable. Loaded trucks/cars at the top of the slope are hitched to another cable. And by their weight, loaded trucks/cars run down the steep slope pulling the empty ones up.

Later, Peter Sam waited at the bottom of the slope for the loaded trucks/cars. He never bumped trucks/cars unless they misbehaved. But the loaded trucks/cars couldn't see him properly. They thought he was Sir Handel. Their chance for trickery had come. "Faster! Faster!" they yelled. "No! No!" wailed the empty trucks/cars. "It's Peter Sam! It's Peter Sam!" but it was no use. "Hurrah! Hurrah!" roared the trucks/cars. Peter Sam saw them coming down, so he shut his eyes. "Peep! Peep!" wailed Peter Sam. "What did they do to me?" Rusty was working nearby, and came to help clear up the mess. "Bust my Buffers!" exclaimed Rusty. "Never mind, Peter Sam. We'll get you out."

Peter Sam felt battered. His funnel was cracked while his boiler was dented. "Thank you, Rusty." he sighed, as he limped slowly home.

"I'm sorry about your accident." said Sir Handel. "I always stand well back. Trucks/Cars don't like me you see." "Why didn't you warn me?" "Because I didn't think." "You never do. You can start now while you're doing Peter Sam's work as well as your own. That'll teach you to pretend you're ill." Sir Handel did start thinking about Gordon.

Story End

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Ranma ½ (2024) Episode 01

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