Beadle's Half Dime Library No. 691

# Catalog Note

"The Railroad Panic's Big Day" by Col. A. F. Holt is a railroad adventure serial published in this Beadle and Adams weekly. The story follows Headlight Harry, a young locomotive engineer, and his fireman Rufe Ruffle as they prepare the locomotive "Fleetwing" for the inaugural run on the newly completed Belmont Branch railroad. The line, extending fifty miles from Richville to Belmont in a prosperous mining valley, opens following metal discoveries. Harry has the honor of piloting an excursion train carrying railroad officials and pleasure-seekers. The narrative reveals Harry is engaged to Ruth, the flagman's daughter, rather than to Mabel Melrose, the wealthy president's daughter. The train departs to public fanfare and travels through scenic valleys, forests, and villages over a two-hour journey. At Belmont, President Melrose formally opens the road, followed by civic ceremonies, sports, processions, and fireworks. Harry and Rufe later join the celebrations.