The Nerve of Foley, and Other Railroad Stories

"The Nerve of Foley, and Other Railroad Stories" by Frank H. Spearman is a collection of railroad-related short stories written in the late 19th century. The tales revolve around the lives of railroad workers and the unique challenges they face, emphasizing themes of courage, camaraderie, and conflict within the industry. Central to these stories are characters such as engineer Foley, who exemplifies remarkable bravery and skill in various high-pressure situations. The opening of the first story introduces us to the tense environment of a railroad strike, where engineers are planning to walk out in protest. Among them is Andrew Cameron, a talented but headstrong engineer who has a young family to consider. As the story unfolds, we see the impact of the strike on the operations of the railroad and the arrival of Foley, a newcomer whose actions during a dangerous incident involving a runaway train not only display his exceptional nerve but also lead to a significant turning point in resolving tensions between the striking engineers and management. This compelling start sets the tone for the adventures and challenges faced by those working in the high-stakes world of railroads.