"I'll wager my steam conveyance machine can beat your saddled ostrich any day! We'll just see who can get the mail to Kansas City Faster! And I can carry more!" she said climbing into the cab.

- Caption by contest winner Joanna Howard

Upon waking, Dash O'Leary was surprised and slightly alarmed to find the railcar deserted.

 

 

A gambler by trade, Dash O'Leary was experienced enough never to bet the train would arrive on time.

 

 

Just one more adjustment, and the investigation would be on the right track.

 

Step One of Clever Jeanette's plan had been executed flawlessly.

 

Clever Jeanette took a moment to admire her handiwork. The plan was going splendidly.

Dark Charity kept a watchful eye, knowing full well the bells on the caboose would draw the ghastly creature's attention. 

 

Clever Jeanette felt the solution was just beyond her reach.

 

 

Their attempt to take the handcar would have met with great success had Sheets McGee removed his foot from the brake.

 

 

Clever Jeanette discovered the flaw in her plan almost immediately.

 

 

Clever Jeanette soon came to regret telling Sheets McGee to tap on the underside of her bunk should he think of anything she ought to know.

 

 

Something in the cadence of the mysterious gentleman's gait garnered Dark Charity's closer attention.

 

 

Clever Jeanette realized that to reach the city in time, she would need to take the train.