Frank Speaks Up

"Frank Speaks Up" is a story written by Loco123456.

Story
Frank is a diesel engine who works on the Arlesdale Railway. He pulls passengers and goods, and does other work. He enjoys his work, but feels as though no one understands him. He arrived late at Arlesburgh West to load ballast into the NWR's trucks for transportation along their railway. "You're late," snapped Oliver, "and now this ballast train has been cancelled!" "There is plenty of work for us to do while we wait for the next scheduled ballast train Mr. Oliver," said Toad kindly. "You don't understand what I had to deal with," grumbled Frank as he set to work. "A cow strayed onto the line, and-" "I get it; it delayed you. Just load up my trucks!" Frank angrily did so; he was happy when Oliver left to do some shunting in the yard.

Later, he took some farm-workers and flatbeds of lumber to repair the fence. "We didn't bring enough lumber," sighed the farm-workers. "We'll have to take the cows back to the farm." Frank quickly fetched cattle trucks to help take them back to another field. Then went to Ffarquharr Road to collect more lumber. It wasn't until sunset that the job was finished. He returned to the sheds looking tired. "Long day Frank?" asked Mike. "Stupid cow, bossy Oliver, and forgetful farm-workers," grumbled Frank as he backed into the berth beside Mike. "I hope tomorrow's better." "It won't be better with that attitude," warned Mike. "I get it; you're upset with all the problems of today. But maybe tomorrow you'll be able to overcome challenges." But Frank wasn't sure as he dozed off to sleep.

The next day he was sent to Arlesdale to collect wool sacks from the Cotton Farm. He then made stops to other farms along the way; but Farmer Willie, as usual, was late. "He better get here soon," said Frank, "otherwise we'll leave his wool behind." Farmer Willie's tractor had broken down due to him pushing it to its limit. A lorry arrived with his wool. Frank sped up to the next yard, and tried to make up for lost time; he knew that it would be difficult due to the train being less of a priority in the eyes of the signalmen. But at last he made it to Arlesburgh West. "Excellent work Frank," praised the Small Controller. "I heard that you tried your best to make up for lost time. You are a really useful engine!" But Frank still felt bad about the delay. That evening he spoke to Mike in the shed. "You were right; I did a fine job dealing with Willie today; but it would be nice to have someone to talk to." "Same here. Shall we talk to each other about our concerns, no matter how big or small?" "I'm game if you are," said Frank cheerfully, feeling much better knowing he could go to someone, and that just by telling Mike what he needed, he could surprisingly get it.