Decades ago, when Timothy was still young, he was pulling some freight down his old branchline. He worked there, far away from where he would end up, with his sister Clementine. They were both strong engines, taking trains from the southern part of the line to the northern part of the line daily. One winter, the two were in the sheds getting ready to leave.
“It’s your turn to take the freight train today,” Said TImothy., “People will get to see me now.”

“But I’ll get a good run in,” Replied Clementine.

“Whoever gets back to the sheds first gets the first wash then” Timothy challenged.

“Then you better get a head start,” Clementine said, as Timothy left the shed.

Clementine was attached to a snow plow for her train. She would clear the track ahead of Timothy, so he could ride better. She didn’t like pulling freight, but loved the snow. Timothy was at the platform, waiting for Clementine. Nobody was on board yet, for the coaches were colder than the station. 

“I hope you can keep up,” She said as she left, “I’ll see you back at the sheds.”

“I won’t see you, I’ll be asleep by then.” Timothy whistled. 

Clementine rolled her eyes and puffed away.

Clementine arrived at the freight yards, as it started to snow more and more. She didn’t see Timothy pass her, but the freight yards were farther up the line then the station. 

“We’re going to have to get home,” said her driver, “Otherwise your water might freeze.”

She started to chuff away with her next train, excited for winning the race.

Timothy however, wasn’t doing as well. He was cold, and had trouble keeping up a good amount of pressure. He stopped at each station, letting off steam as people loaded. The snow piled on the line ahead of him, making it harder and harder for him to keep going. Eventually, he stopped as his wheels slid. The passengers had to sit in their coaches, as Timothy’s driver had to walk back to the station. Clementine was coming down the line with her freight and snowplow, keeping up steam.

“Help!” whistled Timothy, “I’m stuck!’

“Such a pity,” Clementine said, “If you wait a little longer I’ll be back to get you.”

She first took the coaches back, letting them all out at the nearby station. She then came back and pulled Timothy to the station as well. 

“You stay here,” She said, “I have passengers to take.”

She then finished Timothy’s route with the snowplow at her front.

She arrived back at the sheds very late that night. Timothy was already there, looking very dirty.

“I saved the first wash for you,” He said, “You deserve it.”
“Thank you,” replied Clementine, “Next time, you’ll have to rescue me!”

The two laughed, as they slowly went to sleep.