Argosy All-Story Weekly, July 11, 1925 — page 140: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

294 Jim lay back on his pillow, his eyes closed and in a short time, he fell into a peaceful slumber. Zeb tiptoed from the room and went down the corridor out into the street, a song of joy singing in his heart. Jim was too discerning, he knew, to long remain in ig- norance of what he himself strongly sus- pected. He went up to the office to find out about a run that would give him his nights at home and he learned other things that were good to hear. Dropping in to the trainmaster’s office, Charley Keene, after congratulating him on his marriage, in- formed him that the old man wanted to see him. Wondering what was up, Zeb entered the superintendent’s office. The old man shook hands with him. “Well, White, now that you’re an old married man, I expect you have your heart set on a regular run that will bring you home every night.” “Colonel, you’re a good guesser. How did you know that was what I wanted?” The colonel smiled his knowing smile. *“T’ve been here for thirty years and have seen a hundred or more men get married. And without exception, they fan up here first thing for a run that will give ’em time at home. It’s natural and I like to see it. A man that has a contented and happy home life, is pretty apt to take care of his train. The best men we have are the fel- lows who own their own homes and have a woman waiting there for their return. By the way, White, I promised to keep you in mind and give you a boost first chance.” Zeb wondered what was coming. The superintendent leisurely lit his cigar, puffed a few times then continued: - “ Well, here it is. Mark up for the West End Division—exclusively.” “Why, colonel, if I do that, I auto- matically cut myself out of a main line run. There’s just a few trains out there, and they are not very desirable. I wanted one for a while, but I have my heart set on hauling the Limited some day and it’s a main line run.” “Yes, that’s so, but here’s a bit of news. The West End in five years will be a bigger ARGOSY-ALLSTORY WEEKLY. division than the main line is now. In fact, I haven’t a doubt but that it will be the main line.” He took a few steps across the room, looked out the window and continued: “‘ Mark up for it now, Zeb, and you’ll stand first on the list. I’ve got nothing to do with the West End after the first of next month.” For a second the significance of the words did not sink in, then Zeb understood. The West End had been made a division to itself and he, Zeb White, had a chance to become the “oldest” engineer on that division. To think his ambition would so soon be realized! It almost took his breath away. His eyes were shining. “ Colonel, grateful, very much so. Thanks. all I can say.” He wanted to say more, but the words would not come. He turned to leave. What it was, he never could explain, but something tempted him to turn and say to the other, even as his hand touched the door knob. “I’m sure pleased, and I know two other PORE: who will be.” “Two?” the colonel asked, puzzled. I’m “ Who's the other besides the wife?” | “Jim Brown. He’s in the hospital now.” ; “Yes, I’ve heard about Jim. It’s a shame, too. What does he want to get drunk for? Jim’s a smart fellow, well liked, and I know, from experience with him, his word is as good as gold. But the booze—”. The colonel shook his head. | Zeb replied, and there was a ring of | pleasure in his voice: “ Well, he’s given his | word; he’s off it for good.” Then a great | resolve came to him. “ Colonel, can’t you —won’t you—put him back if he lays on the drink?” : The colonel studied. ‘ No, White—that is beyond me. Jim’s off for good. I’m sorry, but—” He hesitated. Zeb was all attention as the superintendent added: | “ There’s a chance for him, though.” “A chance for him?” Zeb asked eagerly. “What is it? I’d give anything to see him set right,” “Come and sit down and I'll tell you about it.” Seated across the flat lopped table, Zeb - <S That’s: cComichboo