02x15 - Better Late Than Never

[bunniefuu]

Life was difficult.
Workmen were mending the viaduct.

The Fat Controller didn't want
to close the railway

while the work was done,
so repairs took a long time.

The engines had to take great care

and they were often late
getting to the junction

where Thomas would collect
his passengers.

Thomas grew crosser.

“Time's time. Why should I
keep passengers waiting

“while Henry and James dawdle about?"

“If we hurried across the viaduct,
it might collapse.

“What would you do then?"

“Run my train on time," said Thomas.

He hurried away before Henry answered.

Bertie was impatient too.

He was timed to arrive just after Thomas.

His passengers found they were
kept waiting till Thomas arrived.

Bertie grew cross. “Late again!"
he remarked as Thomas panted in.

“I thought you could go fast, Thomas.

“Time for another race. I could beat you."

Thomas let off steam.
“Rubbish,” he hissed.

“The engines dither about on the viaduct
and blame the workmen.

“It's an excuse for laziness."

One day James was later than ever.

“Sorry, Thomas. I was held up
and the viaduct made it worse."

“Lucky for you
I'm a guaranteed connection.”

He puffed importantly away.

“Come along,” he panted to the coaches,

who did their best,
but Thomas couldn't save time.

Thomas saw Bertie.
His radiator was steaming.

“What's the matter?
You should be at the station."

"I feel dreadful,” moaned Bertie.

“Driver can't make me better.

“Thank goodness you're late.
Can you take my passengers?"

“Of course.” He felt sorry for Bertie
and promised to get help.

Thomas set off. He felt more cheerful.

Bertie's passengers
reached home safely.

Bertie came to thank Thomas.

“I'm sorry I teased you.”

“It's all right. I'm glad I could help.

“Being late isn't such a bad thing.”

With a last greeting,
the friends went back to work.

(Tooting)