Operation of trains and station work

Preface

Among railway men may be noticed two broad class distinctions — one represented by the man who never concerns himself with anything more than the regular performance of his routine duties and who seldom advances; the "other represented by the man who is constantly on the~alert for' information, who by seeking reasons learns to reach conclusions and, unceasingly widening the range of his knowledge, increases his chances to grasp opportunities, fits himself .for promotion and inevitably rises to a commanding position.

For every possible "why" there is a "because" which should be sought out. One who possesses the spirit of inquiry is not content merely with the knowledge gained by his personal experience. Valuable though it be, something more is needed by men who eventually go out and do things. This spirit has been and is being developed more and more by the varied classes of employees in the transportation department. With the rapid development, expansion, improvement and change in railways in recent years has come a change in their operating forces fully as marked ; as much an evolution in the one as in the other case. What the future holds in store for railroad men can be only surmised; but whatever it be, the keen minds of the bright young railroad men of today, may safely be trusted to keep their profession in the forefront of human progress, through a manifestation of the spirit of inquiry, observation and study, coupled with experience and intelligent practical application of their knowledge.

The proper administration of the transportation department is of first importance ; it is in closest contact with the general public. Trains must be run safely and on time; freight must be . promptly handled without friction with shippers. Its numerous departmental employees should not only "know their business," but should be able to take the initative when sudden emergencies or new conditions are met.

This volume — one of a series — is designed to meet the needs of the student and the busy railway man, who, not being satisfied with statements, seeks reasons and asks "why?" It gives in concise form the fruits of ripe experience, research and study. In its compilation many authorities were consulted, and an endeavor made to present in a different light and in a new combination only that which appeared most suitable for the purpose. Neither originality of subject-matter nor railway experience is claimed by the compiler, nevertheless after many years of active work among and with railway men on different railroads he felt wholly competent to undertake the labor of which this book is the result. If, inadvertently, credit has not been given where due he ventures to hope that the "will be accepted for the deed" — and to those writers to whom credit is given in the text, as well as to F. L. Meyer, and G. E. Collingwood, whose valuable writings have been either consulted or quoted he desires to make grateful acknowledgement, and also to Professor E. R. Dewsnup from whose very excellent book : "Railway Organization and Working," extensive quotations have been made. The forms or blanks shown in the appendices comprise a few of the many contained in Kirkman's "Science of Railways," a most valuable work for those wishing a more comprehensive and scholarly treatment of the subject. That portion relating to telegraphy was especially prepared by Mr. F. W. Hallett, who, in referring to the perplexing cares of telegraphy and those who daily labor at it says: he, too, has "shared their anxious cares," and he hopes that what he has written may "help lighten their burdens."

Finally, in the hope that it may be found of real interest and benefit by those for whom it is primarilly intended, this book is sent forth upon its mission.

The Compiler.