Trains

18/6/06

DOWN WITH DIESELS.

The bell rings in the signal box.
That means the train’s left Henderson
And Master Four, an expert, knows the drill.

He checks the signals are set right.
Yes! Signal man comes down the steps
With tablet for exchanger. Four approves.

And then it’s watch and wait. Eyes right.
Interminable wait. An age.
A distant smoke plume. Nearer whistle shriek.

Then charging up for its grand entrance.
Self important. Screeching brakes.
A REAL train, smoke, steam, hot smell, smuts.