MrDankEngine

In this week's story, Splatter and Dodge were tired of shunting trucks in Bridlington Goods Yard with the other diesel shunters. They were last seen on Sodor when the Thomas clones were invading the island and have not returned since. So they decided to sneak off to look for their former boss, Diesel 10, who was part of the Fat Controller's railway.

Narrator: Bridlington Goods Yard is always very busy. The diesel shunters that worked there are always shunting trucks around the yard for the other engines to take on their errands. But there was a pair of diesel engines that weren't often seen working, and that pair was Splatter and Dodge. The two diesels were both the same colour, but their cabs were different. Splatter had a purple cab, and Dodge had an olive green cab. Splatter and Dodge were always in their shed watching the other diesels do all the shunting.

Splatter: Hey Dodge, when do you think we'll be getting out of this place?

Dodge: I don't know, Splatter. I wish we could sneak off without anyone noticing us.

Splatter: But this place is full of engines and rolling stock. How can we get out of here if there are all these trucks in our way?

Dodge: Maybe we can shunt the trucks by ourselves? Isn't that what we always do?

Splatter: I know, Dodge. Let's just get this over and done with.

Dodge: If you say so, Splatter. (Splatter and Dodge move out of their shed shunting the trucks on their tracks just as Henry arrived with a goods train from Sodor)

Henry: Huh? Is that Splatter and Dodge shunting trucks in Bridlington?

Hurricane: Splatter and Dodge? Who are Splatter and Dodge, Henry?

Henry: It's quite a long story, Hurricane. Those two grey diesels over there with green and purple cabs are Splatter and Dodge. They once came to Sodor long ago to plot revenge to get rid of us steamies.

Hurricane: I doubt it, Henry. There's no way your fat controller would allow that.

Henry: Absolutely not, Hurricane! Our controller loves having his engines be useful on his railway. But I just hope that those two diesels don't eavesdrop on our conversation.

Narrator: But Splatter and Dodge were eavesdropping on the conversation, and an idea flew into their internal tanks.

Splatter: I guess maybe it's time that we do go back to the Island of Sodor to find our former boss, Diesel 10.

Dodge: But what happened to our other boss, Diesel 11?

Splatter: Never mind what happened to him, let's sneak off later tonight.

Dodge: Ugh, if you say so, Splatter.

Narrator: That night, when all the diesel shunters were asleep, Splatter and Dodge snuck quietly out of their sheds and were preparing to head back to the Island of Sodor to reunite with their former boss, Diesel 10.

Splatter: Are you ready to go back to Sodor, Dodge?

Dodge: I guess so, Splatter. But we can't wake up the other diesels, so let's roll quietly out of this yard. (Splatter and Dodge leave the goods yard)

Narrator: In the middle of the night, Splatter and Dodge were making their way back to the island of Sodor. But they didn't go quite far, as they had to stop at a goods station.

Splatter: We'll sleep here tonight and continue the rest of the journey tomorrow.

Dodge: Alright, Splatter. Don't let the bedbugs bite.

Narrator: The next morning, Splatter and Dodge had just woken up to continue their journey to Sodor. Just then, they saw a passenger train approaching, pulled by the famous Flying Scotsman.

Flying Scotsman: Everybody, all aboard! Your next stop is Cononley!

Splatter: Excuse me, umm, is this train going to the Island of Sodor?

Dodge: We need to get there right away.

Flying Scotsman: Sodor? Pah! I'm not going there today, I'm going to take a charter train to Cononley.

Splatter: Then how do we get to Sodor from here?

Flying Scotsman: It's gonna be a long trip to get to Sodor from here, but I'm sure you can ask other engines for directions.

Dodge: Thanks for that, we'll be going shortly.

Flying Scotsman: Just why are you two going to Sodor for?

Splatter: That's none of your business!

Dodge: We've got unfinished business to do here, and we gotta finish it fast! (Splatter and Dodge leave the station)

Narrator: Splatter and Dodge went across the mainland to get to Sodor. The Flying Scotsman was right. It was indeed a very long trip to get there.

Dodge: How much further to Sodor, Splatter?

Splatter: I don't know, Dodge! This island is so big that I don't even know where we're going!

Narrator: Just then, the two diesels came to a junction and were having trouble deciding which way to go.

Dodge: Splatter, why have we stopped?

Splatter: I'm trying to decide which way to take. Left or right?

Dodge: Left or right, right or left, who cares! Let's get a move on!

Splatter: Alright, Dodge, we'll go this way! (Splatter and Dodge take the left track that goes to the canal where Beresford is)

Dodge: This doesn't look like Sodor at all, Splatter. We're stuck by some stupid canal with that blue crane over there.

Splatter: Maybe we can ask that crane for directions.

Beresford: Halt! Who goes there!

Splatter: We're just trying to ask you for directions, whatever your name is.

Beresford: The name's Beresford, and what are you two diesels doing here?

Dodge: We're trying to find a way to get to Sodor. Do you know the directions?

Beresford: Why certainly, just keep going further down this line until you get onto the main line. Then you'll end up in a big junction, and over a long viaduct.

Splatter: Thanks for the directions, Beresford. Come on, Dodge, let's go!

Dodge: Right behind you, Splatter! (The two diesels leave the canal)

Narrator: Splatter and Dodge went through the busy junction that's filled with other passing engines. Then, they went over the long viaduct, and just then, they had to stop at a signal.

Splatter: We'll just stop here at this signal to let another engine pass.

Dodge: Another engine, Splatter? I don't see any other engines around here.

Splatter: Well I do see someone approaching from that direction. (Connor pulls into view to drop off his passengers)

Connor: Oh, hello there you two, where are you going?

Dodge: The island of Sodor.

Connor: Oh really? Well I just got back from that railway, and it's always busy over there.

Splatter: You have? Then tell us how to get there if you may.

Connor: You just have to go further along the main line, just a few more stations until you get to Barrow.

Dodge: Barrow? You mean the Barrow-in-Furness?

Connor: Yes, that's the name of the station! Once you go through there, you'll see a red drawbridge that connects the mainland and Sodor.

Splatter: Now we remember where Sodor is, don't we Dodge?

Dodge: Emphatically, Splatter! (Their signal turns to green as they leave the station)

Connor: Bye you two!

Narrator: After passing through a few stations, Splatter and Dodge arrived at Barrow, and they realised they were getting close to Sodor.

Splatter: We're in Barrow, Dodge. You know what this means?

Dodge: Yep, we're getting really close to Sodor now!

Narrator: At the Vicarstown Bridge, Stepney was waiting for the bridge to lower after a ship had passed. But as it lowered down, he saw Splatter and Dodge up ahead and was concerned.

Stepney: What are those two diesels doing here? Shouldn't they be working in Bridlington?

Splatter: We can't stop you useless tin kettle!

Dodge: We've got unfinished business to do here!

Stepney: Unfinished business?! Oh, dear.

Narrator: By the time Splatter and Dodge were on Sodor, they went to the Dieselworks and saw a surprise waiting for them.

Diesel 10: (Gasps) Splodge? Is that you?

Splatter: Why yes it is, Diesel 10!

Dodge: We're back from the mainland after so long!

Diesel 10: That's marvellous! (Laughs) I'm so glad you two have returned, and you're just in time too!

Splatter: In time for what?

Dodge: Are we having a real party with balloons and confetti?

Diesel 10: Not just that, but I've got something very important to tell you...if you two could roll in.

Narrator: Splatter and Dodge were happy to have Diesel 10 again, and so they rolled inside the Dieselworks building to listen to Diesel 10's words, but I can't talk more or else I shall spoil the next story.

In this week's story, taking place after the events of Mines of Mystery, the Sodor Construction crew were in Italy helping Thomas, Gina, and Ester dig for more treasure and artefacts. As the diggers started to work in a musical rhythm, Max and Monty started boasting about the fact that diggers don’t actually dance while they're working. But when Max gets himself stuck, it's up to the diggers to save the day.

Narrator: Ever since Lorenzo and Beppe have been rediscovered, Thomas, Gina, and Ester have been very busy digging for treasures and artefacts on the Italian railway, with help from Jack and the Sodor Construction Crew. One morning, the machines had just woken up to start their day's work when Thomas arrived with some supplies.

Thomas: Morning Jack, morning guys! Did you enjoy your first night sleeping in Italy?

Jack: We sure have, Thomas! We can't wait to help Ester again today, now that Miss Jenny has sent us here.

Brenda: I wonder what we'll be digging today? Could we find more ancient stone blocks or broken vases?

Oliver: Maybe we'll might find some gold!

Alfie: Or maybe we'll dig deeper into the ancient Roman palace that Ester dug up!

Ester: It's a good thing I've gotten some help from you lot!

Jack: Thanks Ester, you know, sometimes we like to dig to a musical rhythm back on Sodor.

Max: Since when did you start dancing while digging, Jack?

Monty: Diggers don't dance, they just dig holes and foundations with their buckets.

Jack: Not like that, Monty. Whenever I dig for something, I like to hum to myself with a musical rhythm.

Max: Says who, Jack. We just want to get started on our first job of the day.

Gina: Hello everyone, Mia has informed me that you will continue to help Ester dig for more artefacts as well as foundations for the museum, and Thomas, you must go and collect some archaeologists to help continue the work.

Thomas: Alright, Gina. I've just dropped off these supplies from Stefano. We're gonna be very busy now that Jack and his team are here.

Ester: That's good, Thomas. Now you go and get those archaeologists.

Thomas: Will do, Ester. Ciao everyone! (Thomas leaves the construction site)

Gina: Ciao to you too, Thomas. See you soon!

Narrator: As soon as Thomas left, the machines were at work digging up more old parts that were from the palace Ester had found. As they worked hard, the diggers started getting into a musical rhythm, much to Max and Monty's annoyance.

Jack: (Humming to the chorus of the Work Song) Join in, Max! It's fun when you hum to a musical rhythm while you're digging.

Max: No thanks, Jack. You should focus on your jobs.

Alfie: We've still got to dig the foundations for the museum, so why don't we dance to a rhythm? It'll help pass the time.

Max: If you say so, guys.

Oliver: Did you know I can hum to a musical tune, Ester?

Ester: Can you, Oliver?

Oliver: Of course! I can hum to this tune! (Hums to the chorus of the work song)

Ester: Nice humming, Oliver.

Oliver: Thanks, Ester.

Monty: Are you dancing too, Oliver?

Oliver: Actually, I was just humming to a tune, not dancing.

Monty: Well, just fill me up with all the rubble you dug up.

Oliver: Alright then, Monty.

Monty: If only the rest of our team were here with us, then we would've gotten everything done quicker!

Brenda: Miss Jenny said that the rest of the crew have to stay back with their own jobs on Sodor, so they can't come with us to Italy.

Narrator: Monty knew that Brenda was right, and he drove off back to work. Meanwhile, Thomas pulled into the station to collect the archaeologists when she saw Mia waiting on the platform.

Mia: Ah, Thomas, after you drop off the archaeologists at the site, I need you to head back to Stefano with a load of dynamite. You must be careful if they're explosive.

Thomas: Don't worry, Mia. You can count on the number one engine around here! (Thomas leaves the station just as Gina pulled into the platform)

Gina: I'm back, Mia. What job do you have for me next?

Mia: Gina, I need you to deliver some building supplies for the museum. They're needed right away.

Gina: Righto, Mia! (Gina leaves the station)

Narrator: Back at the site, the machines continued work on the museum foundations. But the diggers continued humming to their musical rhythm, and their humming was starting to bother Max and Monty.

Max: Can you please keep quiet, guys? We're trying to work here!

Jack: Sorry Max, but that's the only way to help pass the time.

Alfie: We've still got a lot of digging to do, so you just have to cope with it.

Brenda: What's gotten into those dump trucks? Don't they want to join in?

Oliver: I don't think so, Brenda. They're not as cheerful as us diggers.

Monty: Come on guys, chop-chop! We've still got to get this job over and done with!

Ester: Alright, alright, Monty! We get it!

Narrator: Then there was trouble, as Max was driving carelessly along the rocky road, he didn't see some old wooden planks up ahead. (Max drives onto the planks and gets stuck into a ditch on his right side)

Max: Oof! That wasn't meant to happen! I'm stuck in this silly old ditch! I can't reverse! Help!

Monty: What's happened, Max?

Max: Monty, I'm stuck in the ditch! Go get help!

Monty: Don't worry, wait right here! (Monty drives back to the site to get help)

Narrator: Meanwhile, Thomas was waiting at a signal when Lorenzo and Beppe pulled up alongside him.

Lorenzo: Ciao, Thomas! Have you made any more mine discoveries lately?

Thomas: No I haven't Lorenzo, but I heard that Jack and his team found some ancient mosaics while they were helping Ester.

Beppe: That's wonderful news, Thomas. Ever since you rediscovered us in the mine, the news about it has been spreading across the whole Italian country!

Thomas: And I'm pretty sure my friends back on Sodor will hear about the news as well. Right then, I better get these archaeologists to the museum site. Ciao Lorenzo, Ciao Beppe!

Lorenzo and Beppe: Ciao, Thomas!

Narrator: When the diggers heard about Max's predicament, they drove to where he was stuck in the ditch.

Jack: Are you alright, Max?

Max: I will be if someone pulls me back on the ground!

Alfie: Don't worry, Max. We'll try to get you out!

Oliver: Monty, do you think you can try pull your brother out of the ditch?

Monty: I'll try, Oliver.

Narrator: A chain was attached between Max's rear bumper and Monty's own, and Monty pulled his twin out of the ditch with all of his might.

Brenda: You can do it, Monty! (Monty struggles to pull his twin brother out of the ditch)

Max: Pull harder, Monty!

Monty: (Straining) I'm trying, Max! (Groaning) Almost there! (Max is finally free from the ditch and the machines cheered)

Machines: Hooray!

Monty: I did it! I saved you, Monty!

Max: Thanks for helping me, Max. I should've just focused on my jobs rather than thinking about the machines humming to their musical rhythms.

Alfie: So now do you have something to say to us, diggers?

Max: Yeah, we're very sorry for boasting about how diggers don't dance.

Monty: We only said that because we don't usually hum to rhythms when we worked back on Sodor.

Jack: That's alright, you two. Now we can go back to work on digging the foundations for the new museum!

Ester: Gina is here with the first load of dynamite! That's just what we need left to finish the job with a blast!

Gina: (Chuckles) Nice one, Ester!

Thomas: I'm here with the archaeologists! Now we can finish the job together!

Gina: And I just need to go and fetch the building supplies from Stefano, ciao! (Gina leaves the site)

Jack: Now don't go ending up blowing yourself up like you did last time when you helped Gina.

Thomas: Don't worry, Jack. This time I will be more careful working near dynamite.

Ester: That's the spirit, Thomas!

Narrator: Soon, the machines were back at work digging up the foundations for the museum, as well as finding more artefacts with the archaeologists. This time, whenever the machines hum to a musical rhythm, Max and Monty always make sure to be considerate towards them and carry on with their work.

Max: You know, Monty, I guess working to a musical rhythm isn't so bad after all.

Monty: Quite right, Monty. I hope we'll get the foundations done before Thomas comes back with the next load of dynamite.

Narrator: That evening, the machines had just finished digging the foundations when Thomas returned with his load of dynamite. Lorenzo and Beppe have also arrived to check on the progress.

Lorenzo: Ciao, everyone! How's the foundations getting along?

Jack: The foundations for the museum are now complete! Thomas has also arrived with another load of dynamite to blow up more rocks.

Thomas: And we just have to wait for Gina with the building supplies. (Gina returns with the supplies)

Gina: I'm here with the building supplies!

Ester: Gracias, Gina! Now we can finish building the museum and put all those artefacts inside!

Beppe: Jolly good idea, Ester! But you might wanna be careful with them if they're all delicate.

Gina: Don't worry, Beppe. We'll be taking care of the artefacts, won't we, Thomas?

Thomas: We sure will, Gina! After all, all tracks lead to Rome!

Lorenzo: That's right, Thomas! (Everyone laughs)

In this week's story, Thomas, Percy, and Nia were sent to America to help out at the dockyard in San Francisco. While they were shunting, they came across Hank, whom Thomas and Percy have known for a long time. Nia wasn't familiar with Hank when he was last seen on Sodor taking part in the global fair with a lot of other international engines. One night, the engines gathered in the sheds as Hank told them a story about how he became homesick after working on Sodor shortly after his arrival and would also explain why he only ever appeared in one episode of the actual show, "Heave Ho Thomas."

Narrator: It was a big day for Thomas, Percy, and Nia. The Fat Controller had sent them all the way to America to help out at the dockyard in San Francisco. There were a lot of trucks that needed to be shunted, but the three Sodor engines were working very hard.

Thomas: What do you think of San Francisco, Percy?

Percy: It looks very different compared to Brendam Docks back home on Sodor.

Nia: This is where Thomas and I were supposed to deliver the coffee from Brazil during our world travels. However, somebody decided to play a trick on me and sent me ahead with half of the load.

Thomas: But this wasn't my idea, Nia. I delivered my own load the next day after you finished yours and went off to China without me.

Nia: Alright, Thomas. Let's not talk more about this and continue shunting. We have to make the Fat Controller proud if he sends the three of us all the way to the States again.

Thomas: But this time, Percy has decided to tag along. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else with my best friend by my side.

Percy: That's right, Thomas. I wonder what faces will come by the dockyard.

Narrator: Just then, the three engines heard a low but familiar whistle, which Thomas and Percy recognised.

Thomas: Did you hear that whistle, Percy?

Percy: Yes I did, Thomas. It sounds a bit familiar, but I kinda forgot who made that low whistle sound.

Hank: I did, partners! Howdy to you all!

Thomas and Percy: (Gasps) Hank!

Nia: Huh? Hank? Who's Hank?

Hank: Well, well, well, if it isn't my old little Sodor friends, Thomas and Percy? What brings you here in the USA? And who might this be?

Thomas: This orange tank engine is Nia, she comes from another country, Kenya!

Hank: Howdy, Nia! I gotta say you're one of the finest little engines I've ever seen!

Nia: Well howdy to you too, Hank. You're as strong as a giant.

Percy: Hey, that's what I said when Thomas and I first saw Hank arrive on Sodor years ago.

Thomas: That's right, Percy. The last time Hank was seen on Sodor was when he took part in the global fair at the Sodor Airport with the international engines, but he didn't tell us why he first left the island shortly after his arrival.

Hank: Well uhhh, I couldn't explain why I left your tiny little island after I first arrived, but I can tell you three a story about it this evening.

Thomas: Alright Hank, that sounds good. A nice long story to keep us entertained during our American visit.

Percy: Ooh, we'd like a good story.

Narrator: That evening, Thomas, Percy, and Nia were resting in the sheds after a hard day's work shunting. Just then, Hank pulled into view to tell his story.

Hank: Well folks, are you ready for a rootin' tootin' tale of big ol' Hank's absence from working on Sodor?

Thomas: We sure are, Hank.

Percy: I hope this story isn't too emotional, because you didn't tell us why you left Sodor in the first place.

Nia: Tell us your story, Hank. We've been waiting to hear it.

Hank: Alright, Nia. Gather round folks, cause this story is goin' to begin!

Narrator: And this was the story that Hank told. Many years ago, on the day after his arrival on Sodor, Hank was pulling into Knapford Station, where he saw the Fat Controller waiting on the platform.

STH: Good morning, Hank. Are you enjoying your stay on Sodor?

Hank: I sure am, sir. So what's my first job on your little railway?

STH: I need you to take some pipes from Knapford Yards to Brendam Docks. They are very heavy, and now that you're here, you're just the engine for the job. A happy engine is a useful engine!

Hank: Thanks sir, that's where I helped Thomas drop off the stone yesterday after he cracked his cylinder. (Thomas arrives with Annie and Clarabel)

Thomas: Morning, Hank. What's your first job on Sodor going to be?

Hank: I'll be taking some heavy pipes from Knapford Yards to Brendam Docks.

Thomas: That's very useful for a strong engine like you.

Hank: And where are you taking your passengers to?

Thomas: I'm taking them to Lord Callan's castle today. I hope you get those pipes delivered to Brendam Docks.

Hank: I know I will, happy trails, Thomas! (Hank leaves Knapford to get to the shunting yards)

Narrator: By the time Hank arrived at Knapford Yards, he was surprised to see that there were only four flatbeds of pipes loaded.

Hank: Only four flatbeds? Excuse me sir, but are there more flatbeds of pipes that need to go down to Brendam?

Yard Manager: I'm sorry Hank, but this is the amount of flatbeds I have for you to take. I can't spare anymore for you, I'm afraid.

Hank: I've pulled way more flatbeds than that back where I came from, but oh well. I guess the journey to Brendam shouldn't be that much of a problem. So couple me up and watch me go!

Yard Manager: Alright, Hank. If you insist. (Hank couples up to the flatbeds and whistles)

Narrator: As Hank was making his way to Brendam Docks, a bad thought came into his silver smokebox.

Hank: I guess coming here really isn't such a good idea. I should've just stayed back home and rejected the Sodor offer.

Narrator: At Wellsworth, Edward and Gordon were collecting their passengers when they saw Hank pass by with the flatbeds of pipes. He didn't even notice the two blue tender engines.

Gordon: Where is that giant engine taking these pipes to, Edward?

Edward: Perhaps he's taking them to Brendam Docks, Gordon. That's what I heard from the stationmaster.

Gordon: And he didn't even bother saying hello to us? I thought he enjoyed his welcome party we had yesterday.

Edward: I don't know, Gordon. But I don't think Hank is smiling right now.

Narrator: By the time Hank arrived at Brendam Docks, he had changed his mind about working on Sodor, and was starting to feel homesick.

Hank: (Sigh) I wish I was back in my old railway.

Cranky: What's wrong, Hank? Aren't you grateful that you're here with the pipes?

Hank: It's not the job I was given, Cranky. You don't understand that I'm homesick.

Cranky: Homesick? But you just arrived on the island yesterday, and now you're feeling homesick? I'm sorry but there aren't any ships going back to your home right now, so you'll just have to wait.

Hank: Have to wait? Oh well, I guess beggars can't be choosers I suppose. (Hank is uncoupled from the flatbeds and puffs away)

Narrator: Hank wasn't feeling very cheerful now. He wished he didn't come to Sodor, and he wished he could tell the Fat Controller that he wanted to go back home.

Hank: I feel so bad for coming here, this is no place for me. I have to tell the Fat Controller that I want to go back home.

Narrator: But as Hank returned to Knapford, he saw Percy dropping off some mail and was surprised to see the big engine looking unhappy.

Percy: What's wrong, Hank? Why aren't you enjoying your time on Sodor?

Hank: I'm feeling homesick, Percy. Where's the Fat Controller? I wanna have a word with him.

Percy: I'm sorry, Hank, but the Fat Controller has gone home for his tea. He won't be back in his office until tomorrow.

Narrator: Hank didn't say a word to Percy as he puffed slowly away sulking. Percy didn't know why Hank was down in the dumps. That evening, Hank was resting in Knapford Sheds when Murdoch pulled up alongside him.

Murdoch: Hello Hank, what's the matter?

Hank: (Sigh) I don't wanna talk about it, Murdoch.

Murdoch: It's alright, Hank. I won't tell anyone, tell me what's wrong.

Hank: You see, when I was told to take some pipes to the docks, there were only four flatbeds. Back in my old home, I used to pull twenty flatbeds of pipes with a lot of other bigger engines. We were iron giants, rulers of the rails, and heavy metal machines that could travel long distances. But my journey from the yards to your little docks isn't as long as I thought it was going to be.

Murdoch: What's wrong with a short distance, Hank?

Hank: I used to travel across the whole country with my old friends, making overnight stops during our delivery runs. Working on the bigger railways was my life, as it was meant to be that way. And now, I'm feeling really homesick now that I'm thinking about my old home.

Murdoch: Sorry to hear that, Hank. If you tell the Fat Controller that you want to go back home, I'm sure he'll understand.

Hank: I'd rather not tell him, Murdoch. I think I'm gonna go sleep now. (Yawns) Night, Murdoch.

Narrator: The next morning, Hank was the only engine in the shed, as he wasn't ready to leave yet. He was still thinking about his old railway when he began to sing. (Hank sings the song "Homesick")

LYRICS:

I miss my friends, the big engines.

Some of these ways, they don't make no sense.

Cause I'm homesick, yes I'm homesick. (I really am!)

I worked all day in such a different way, I wanna go home.

I feel so bad!

My pistons pumped hard, from railyard to railyard.

I don't know what I'm doing, I am not on guard!

Cause I'm homesick, yes I'm homesick.

I worked all day in such a different way, I wanna go home.

Cause every time I of think of my old track,

I wanna go back, I wanna gooooo home.

Hank: (Sigh) I miss my big old track.

Narrator: Just then, the Fat Controller arrived at the sheds to give Hank his second job on Sodor.

STH: There you are, Hank. Why haven't you left the sheds yet?

Hank: Sir, I was just thinking about the good times I had when I was working on my old railway. The trains I used to pull were very long, unlike the ones on Sodor, and I used to travel really long distances too.

STH: I understand that you're feeling homesick, Hank, but I've got another job for you. You must go straight to the coaling plant and deliver coal to all the hoppers at the stations. A railway can't run without coal you know.

Hank: Okay then, sir.

Narrator: But as Hank was about to ask another question, the Fat Controller had already driven off. Hank really wanted to tell him that he wanted to go back home, but he couldn't find a way to do so. Later, Hank was delivering the coal. He had a long line of trucks, even Hector was at the back of the train.

Hector: Why are you going a bit slow, Hank? Can't you go any faster?

Hank: I'm sorry, Hector. It's just that when I first saw you at the coaling plant, you reminded me of the long hopper cars I used to pull back where I came from. They were filled with coal, grain, stone, gravel, and iron ore!

Hector: Think about your old home later, Hank. This coal delivery is very important. You don't want to get into trouble with the Fat Controller, do you?

Hank: I guess so, Hector.

Narrator: Just then, Hank decided to make a quick stop at the Sodor Airport to have a talk with Jeremy the jet, who was resting in his hangar.

Hector: Why have we stopped at the airport, Hank?

Hank: I won't be long, Hector. I need to talk to that jet plane who's in his hangar first.

Jeremy: Hello there, Hank. Why have you stopped by hangar? We planes don't run on coal you know.

Hank: Jeremy, I have a question for you, if you don't mind me asking this, but have you ever flown to a country called America?

Jeremy: You mean that giant country? No I haven't, Hank. I've been to America in all my life! I'm not a jumbo jet you know, only those planes can travel to other countries.

Hank: Then what countries have you been to that isn't America?

Jeremy: The only country I ever fly to is England which is Sodor's mainland. I'm sorry Hank, but you have to finish your coal delivery. (Gordon comes from behind Hector with his express)

Gordon: Hurry up you big great engine! You're blocking my track!

Hank: Shoot! Sorry, Gordon! I didn't see you there.

Hector: I knew stopping here beside the platform is a bad idea. (Hank leaves the airport with his coal delivery as Gordon continues to moan)

Gordon: Oh, the indignity!

Narrator: Hank was worried about running late with his coal delivery, so he went faster and faster, and then there was trouble! (Hank applies his brakes as he crashes into the back of Douglas' train as he and the brake van both derail along with Douglas' rear trucks)

Douglas: Oi! What's going on back there?

Hank: Bust my cowcatcher! I'm so sorry, partner. I didn't see you there!

Hector: This is just pathetic, now we're gonna be really late with the coal delivery!

Douglas: Next time, look carefully where ye're goin'!

Narrator: Hank didn't feel so handsome now, he felt like he was missing his home the most. So Douglas' driver telephoned for help, and Harvey and Rocky arrived to put Hank, the brake van, and the rear trucks back on the rails.

Harvey: It's a good thing we were nearby to clear up this mess, Hank. I was just taking Rocky back to the rescue centre until we were alerted to this emergency.

Rocky: There you go, Hank. You're back on the rails. At least you weren't completely derailed, otherwise you would've been too heavy for me to lift.

Hector: You're like Edward and Gordon put together as one giant engine!

Narrator: Hank still didn't say a word to anyone as he continued on with his coal delivery. But that night, he snuck out of the sheds, puffed back to Brendam Docks and saw a ship being loaded with cargo.

Hank: Hey, Cranky!

Cranky: Ugh, you again? What are you doing here in the middle of the night?

Hank: Where is this ship going to?

Cranky: Why do you need to know? All I know from the captain is that this ship is going down to Canada but not America, and that's final. So please leave me alone!

Hank: Actually, I have a very important favour for you.

Cranky: And what favour is it? (The scene fades back to the present as Hank finishes telling his story to Thomas, Percy, and Nia)

Hank: And that's how I returned all the way back home to the states after being on Sodor for just two nights.

Thomas: But why didn't you tell the Fat Controller first?

Hank: I tried convincing him to send me back home, but he was too busy to answer.

Nia: Yeah, the Fat Controller is one busy man if he has his railway to run.

Percy: It was a bit rude for you to sneak off to Brendam like that, Hank. But that was quite a story you've told us tonight.

Hank: It sure was, Percy. Now you three better get some sleep because we've got an early start tomorrow. I'm taking a special to Los Angeles, so you must get my train ready before it's due to depart.

Thomas: Don't worry, Hank, we will. Won't we guys?

Percy: We sure will, Thomas!

Nia: We can do it!

Hank: That's the spirit, guys! I know you three can do it. (Yawns) Goodnight folks.

Thomas, Percy, and Nia: Night, Hank!

Narrator: And with that, the engines fell fast asleep. Thomas and Percy were happy to see Hank again and were looking forward to the Los Angeles special tomorrow.

In this week's story, Skiff was giving railboat tours around the harbour and decided to explore the rest of the coast after he dropped off his last load of guests. But as he and Captain Joe sailed along Tidmouth Beach, they spotted a rusty old barge that was marooned in the sand, which we know is Bulstrode. When Skiff asked Thomas, Percy, and Toby about the grumpy old barge, they knew him too well and recalled his history of how Percy got into an accident when he dropped some stone into Bulstrode's hull from above the dock. And before anyone asks, no, I am not trying to copy ilovetrains3232's Skiff and the Grumpy Barge story, this is my OWN take of how Skiff meets Bulstrode in my own series.

Narrator: Skiff is a white wooden boat with a blue hull who can travel on both rails and in water. He usually gives visitors tours around Arlesburgh Harbour with his captain Joe, but sometimes he likes to explore the coast that goes to Tidmouth whenever he and Captain Joe aren't busy.

Skiff: Isn't the beach in Tidmouth so beautiful, Captain Joe?

Captain Joe: It sure is, Skiff. This would be a perfect place for people to go on holiday!

Skiff: But if they want to ride on me, then they'll have to travel by rail all the way to Arlesbrugh by train.

Captain Joe: Alright, Skiff. Let's get back to port before the sun goes down.

Skiff: Aye, aye, Captain Joe!

Narrator: That evening, Skiff and Captain Joe returned to the harbour after a long day of exploring the coast. Just then, Duck was passing by with his last load of passengers for the day.

Duck: Good evening, Skiff. Did you enjoy your day off exploring the coast of Tidmouth?

Skiff: I sure did, Duck! I've got the weekend off, so that means I'll be going back there tomorrow!

Duck: That's good to hear. Right, I better take my last load of passengers to Tidmouth before I return to my shed. I'll see you tomorrow, Skiff! (Duck leaves the harbour)

Skiff: Bye, Duck! See you soon!

Captain Joe: Alright Skiff, it's time for me to head back home. Have a good night's sleep.

Skiff: You too, Captain Joe! I can't wait for tomorrow!

Narrator: The next morning, Skiff and Captain Joe were sailing back to Tidmouth Beach. The waves were gentle enough for Skiff to sail on.

Skiff: It's a good thing there isn't a storm today, Captain Joe. Otherwise, I would've been shipwrecked and turned into driftwood!

Captain Joe: Don't worry, Skiff. At least the waves are being gentle enough for the both of us to sail all the way to Tidmouth.

Narrator: By the time they arrived at Tidmouth Beach, Skiff noticed something rather unusual in the sand.

Skiff: Hey, Captain Joe? What's that in the sand?

Captain Joe: I don't know, Skiff. Whatever it is, it looks like a rusty old barge that's been marooned for who knows how long. (They get closer until Skiff noticed it was a barge with a face on it)

Skiff: (Gasps) This barge has a face on it too, Captain Joe! But does it have a name?

Captain Joe: It says "Bulstrode" on the port and starboard sides.

Bulstrode: Hello? Who goes there?

Skiff: (Gasps) Bulstrode just spoke!

Bulstrode: Of course I'm speaking, you idiot! What on earth are you doing here at Tidmouth Beach? Are you gonna get marooned in the sand like I did many years ago?

Skiff: Actually, I was about to ask if you know your history before you were left here.

Bulstrode: I don't wana talk about it, so back off from my surroundings, you wooden nimble raft!

Captain Joe: Whoa! Steady, Skiff! You nearly knocked me overboard!

Skiff: Sorry Captain Joe, but this barge won't stop making rude remarks about me.

Captain Joe: It's probably best if we leave Bulstrode alone and head back up to Arlesburgh. We don't want to disturb him in peace.

Skiff: I guess you're right, Captain Joe. Maybe I should ask the other engines if they know anything about Bulstrode.

Captain Joe: Good idea, Skiff. So that way, they'll explain why Bulstrode is bad tempered and wants to be left alone.

Narrator: As Skiff returned to his rails in Arlesburgh, the first engine he asked was Daisy the Diesel Railcar.

Skiff: Hey Daisy, you're not gonna guess what I saw at Tidmouth Beach this morning.

Daisy: Did you see some buried treasure that's been left from long ago?

Skiff: I didn't see any treasure, but I did spot an old barge named Bulstrode. He was so bad tempered, he told me to back off and called me a wooden nimble raft!

Daisy: How rude! I don't think you're like that, Skiff. I think you're very unique. You're a boat who can travel on both rails and by sea!

Skiff: Thanks Daisy, at least you're nicer than Bulstrode. Although I did hear about your past from the other engines.

Daisy: Ugh, don't mention it, Skiff! (Daisy leaves the harbour)

Skiff: Ehh, bye Daisy?

Narrator: Later, Skiff and Captain Joe went to Arlesburgh Junction where Oliver was waiting for his trucks of ballast to be loaded.

Oliver: Oh, hello Skiff. What are you doing here?

Skiff: Oliver, I was just wondering. Have you seen this old barge marooned at Tidmouth Beach? His name is Bulstrode, and he doesn't look quite friendly.

Oliver: I've seen that barge a lot of times every time I pass the beach in Tidmouth. I haven't had that much history with him, but if you want to talk to someone, why don't you go down to Knapford and ask Percy?

Toad: Mr. Oliver is right, Mr. Skiff. We've heard about what that barge is like from not just Mr. Percy but Mr. Thomas and Mr. Toby as well.

Rex: Alright, Oliver. Your ballast trucks are almost ready to go. I just need to fill in one more truck before you can leave.

Oliver: Thanks for that, Rex. Now like I said before, if you want to talk to someone about Bulstrode, ask Percy.

Skiff: Thanks Oliver, I will. (Skiff leaves Arlesburgh Junction)

Narrator: By the time Skiff arrived at Knapford, Thomas and Toby were there, dropping off their last load of passengers for the day, and were also surprised to see Skiff.

Thomas: Hello Skiff, what brings you here in Knapford?

Skiff: Thomas, where's Percy? I need to speak to him about something.

Toby: Percy was helping us with our passenger runs today, so he should be coming back soon. (Percy arrives at Knapford with his coaches) Now he's returning to Knapford.

Percy: I'm back from my passenger run. Oh, hello Skiff. What a surprise to see you here.

Skiff: Percy! Thank goodness you're here! I've been wanting to ask you this all day.

Percy: Ask me what?

Skiff: I spotted this old barge at Tidmouth Beach, and I was wondering if you had any history with it.

Percy: You mean Bulstrode? I've had a very bad history with him.

Skiff: Yes, that's the one! Can you please tell me what happened?

Percy: Alright Skiff, because you asked. (Steam transitions to a recreated flashback scene from Special Attraction when Percy was working in Knapford Harbour) It happened many years ago when I was shunting the troublesome trucks in Knapford Harbour. There was a barge named Bulstrode who wouldn't stop bossing the trucks around.

Bulstrode: Come on, come on, why aren't you trucks where you should be?

Truck #1: There's no engine, and we can only go where we put!

Truck #2: You're in the wrong place, not us!

Percy: But as I arrived at the lower dock where the trucks are, they told me this.

Truck #3: Our stone is for Bulstrode, so please put us in the top siding so that we can load him up and be rid of him.

Percy: And so I did, as the trucks asked. But as I pushed them to the top, they crashed through a set of buffers and fell off the tall dock, crashing into Bulstrode's hull!

Bulstrode: (Mumbling) Oh, I'm sinking!

Percy: I stood dazed and surprised and was stuck there until the mess was clear and Bulstrode was towed away. So that was my bad experience with that barge, and I hope you understand his backstory, Skiff.

Skiff: Oh my, that is a bad story, Percy.

Toby: And ever since he got put on that beach, children were playing around him all day long, and he was soon put to good use.

Annie: We don't like Bulstrode's bad temper!

Clarabel: Here, here!

Thomas: Even Annie and Clarabel are agreeing on this one.

Skiff: Surely Bulstrode can do other things rather than just being stuck on the beach. How long has he been there for?

Thomas: He's been there for about 30 years!

Skiff: 30 years?! That's a very long time!

Narrator: As Thomas, Percy, and Toby left Knapford, Skiff was about to go back to Arlesburgh when Arthur came rushing in with red cheeks on his face.

Arthur: (Panting) I need to speak to the Fat Controller, it's important!

STH: What's going on, Arthur?

Arthur: The fishermen have caught too much fish, and there aren't enough boats in the fishing village! We need another boat that's much bigger and more useful for the job.

STH: I'm sorry, Arthur, but I can't make arrangements for your fishing village line right now. I still need to keep up with my own schedule and check my rosters! I'm a very busy man who's running this railway.

Narrator: Just then, an idea flew into Skiff's hull.

Skiff: Perhaps, you could use a barge that's marooned in Tidmouth Beach!

STH: A barge marooned in Tidmouth Beach? Now where have I heard that before?

Narrator: That evening, Skiff and Captain Joe stopped at Tidmouth Beach on the rails, followed by Arthur and the Fat Controller.

Bulstrode: Oh great, it's you again! Wait, why are you on the rails instead of the water?

Skiff: I'm a railboat, Bulstrode. I can travel on both rails and by sea. But we're going to give you another chance to be useful again!

Bulstrode: Huh? How is that so? I've been stuck on this beach for almost 30 years, and I can't do anything at this rate!

Arthur: We could use you, Bulstrode. The fishing village in my line is in need of another barge. The fishermen need your help, and you're their only choice.

STH: Well Bulstrode, I will give you another chance if you can be a really useful barge when transporting all that fish on Arthur's line.

Captain Joe: Sir Topham is right, Bulstrode. We will organise a trip to the works for you to have all the barnacle scraped off your hull, and have you repainted from top to bottom.

Bulstrode: A full restoration? Oh, thank you guys! I'm sorry for being so bossy to those trucks all those years ago, and I'm sorry for yelling at you too, Skiff.

Skiff: That's alright, Bulstrode. Friends?

Bulstrode: You bet!

Narrator: The next morning, Ryan brought Judy and Jerome to lift Bulstrode out of the sand, and onto their flatbeds for his trip to the works for his restoration.

Judy: There you go, Bulstrode. You're free from the sand!

Jerome: You will be restored to shipshape!

Bulstrode: Thanks guys, I can't wait to get back in the water again after 30 years!

Ryan: Come on, Bulstrode, let's get you to the works! (Ryan leaves the beach with Bulstrode loaded onto Judy and Jerome's flatbeds)

Narrator: Soon, Bulstrode was restored and was back at work. This time, instead of carrying stones, he was helping Arthur and the fishermen with their jobs at the fishing village. Even though he can still lose his temper at times, Bulstrode was happy to be useful again.

Bulstrode: Come on lads, the sooner we get this job done, the better!

Donald: Look at this, Douggie! Bulstrode is being useful again!

Douglas: I know, Donnie! It's a good thing he has a new permanent home in Norramby with Arthur.

Arthur: All thanks to Skiff's idea!

Skiff: That's right, Arthur. I hope you're enjoying your new life here, Bulstrode.

Bulstrode: I'm enjoying it, alright. But the smell of fish is really strong, I haven't smelled it in ages!

Arthur: I'm sure you can get the hang of it, like Thomas did when he was sent to work here.

Skiff: Have fun fishing, Bulstrode! (Everyone laughs as Bulstrode groans and then he starts to laugh as well)

In this week's story, Nia was transporting a new gorilla to the animal park to be put in its new habitat. Nia has never seen a gorilla in her old home before. But the next morning, after she delivered the gorilla, it suddenly escaped from its habitat and was reported missing. So she alerts Harold, and together they search across the island for something big, black, and furry.

Narrator: Nia the Kenyan engine loves all sorts of different animals. She even gives safari tours in the Sodor Animal Park, which always reminds her of her old home in Africa. One morning, Nia was collecting some bananas from Vicarstown when she saw Thomas approaching with the main line local.

Thomas: Hello Nia, where are you taking these bananas?

Nia: Guess what, Thomas? The Fat Controller has asked me to transport a new creature to the animal park. It's going to be a gorilla!

Thomas: A gorilla on Sodor? Now that's something we don't see every day.

Nia: I know Thomas, I've never seen any gorillas back home. That's why I'm taking these bananas first.

Vicarstown Stationmaster: Alright Nia, that's all the bananas loaded for the animal park. Make sure they don't get all mouldy.

Nia: Alright sir, I'll see you later, Thomas!

Thomas: Bye, Nia! Enjoy your special job!

Narrator: As Nia was making her way to the animal park with her bananas, she saw Charlie up ahead at a signal.

Charlie: Hello Nia, where are you going today?

Nia: I'm delivering these bananas to the animal park. They're for the new gorilla that's arriving later today.

Charlie: A gorilla you say? Well I have a joke for you. What is a gorilla's favourite ice-cream flavour?

Nia: I don't know Charlie, what do gorillas eat for ice-cream?

Charlie: A chocolate chimp! (Both laughs)

Nia: That's so funny, Charlie! I didn't know gorillas could have ice cream. But I can't stay for more jokes, I have to carry on with my delivery. I'll see you later.

Charlie: Bye, Nia!

Narrator: By the time Nia arrived at the animal park with the bananas, Headkeeper Jack was waiting on the platform.

Headkeeper Jack: Thanks for delivering the bananas, Nia. Now we just have to wait for the gorilla to arrive, and then I'll escort it to its new habitat.

Nia: Alright, Headkeeper Jack. I'll let the Fat Controller know that I've delivered the bananas first before I go and get the gorilla. (Nia leaves the animal park)

Narrator: By the time Nia arrived at Knapford to talk to the Fat Controller, Gordon, James, and Henry were there.

Henry: You look happy today, Nia.

Nia: That's because I'm going to transport a new habitat for the animal park: a gorilla!

Gordon: A gorilla? (He and James both laugh) Surely the Fat Controller would ask one of us three to transport oversized and massive animals around.

James: Maybe you should transport lions instead! They're lighter than gorillas and elephants put together. (Laughing)

Henry: That's enough laughing you two! How would you like it if the Fat Controller took away your coaches and put you two on animal park duty?

Gordon: You mean we have to be stuck with those wild animals in their habitats? Oh, the indignity!

James: I'd rather take passengers to the animal park instead of being inside some random habitat that'll cause an animal to mess around with my paintwork.

Nia: He doesn't mean it, James. Henry was only joking.

STH: There you are, Nia. Thanks for delivering the bananas.

Nia: No problem, sir. Where do you want me to get the gorilla from?

STH: I need you to fetch the gorilla from Brendam Docks. I received word that it has just arrived and is all ready to go to its Sodor habitat.

Nia: Okay, sir. I'll go straight to the docks and pick up the gorilla. I'll see you at the sheds tonight, Gordon and James. (Nia leaves Knapford)

Narrator: That evening, Nia was on her way to the animal park once again. This time, she was transporting the gorilla itself to its new habitat on Sodor. By the time she arrived, Headkeeper Jack was pleased to see her.

Headkeeper Jack: Nia! Thank goodness you're here with the gorilla at last! Now I can escort it to its new habitat and make sure it doesn't escape.

Nia: Good idea, Headkeeper Jack. Now that the gorilla is delivered, I can tell my friends about what I've been up to today. (Nia leaves the animal park)

Narrator: That night at Tidmouth Sheds, Nia told the other engines all about her exciting delivery.

Thomas: Did you enjoy taking the gorilla to the animal park?

Nia: I sure did, Thomas! I can't wait to see the looks on the visitors' faces when they see the gorilla up close.

Gordon: How heavy was this gorilla, Nia?

Nia: It wasn't as heavy as transporting two elephants, Gordon.

James: But was it being reckless inside your livestock van?

Nia: The gorilla was very tame, James. So that meant I didn't have any accidents at all. (Yawns) Goodnight everyone.

Narrator: The next morning, Nia returned to the animal park to start her safari tours for the guests. But Headkeeper Jack had some bad news.

Nia: Morning, Headkeeper Jack. I'm ready to start my safari tours with the park guests.

Headkeeper Jack: I'm afraid I have bad news, Nia. The gorilla escaped from its habitat last night, and it's been reported missing!

Nia: (Gasps) Oh no! What are we gonna do?!

Headkeeper Jack: I'm afraid I'll have to cancel your safari tours. I know how much this means to you, but without the gorilla in its habitat, it wouldn't be the same.

Nia: Don't worry, sir. I know someone who can help me find the gorilla. I'll be back soon, I promise! (Nia leaves the animal park)

Narrator: As Nia left the animal park, she puffed straight to the Search and Rescue Centre, where she saw Harold the Helicopter.

Nia: Harold, we need your help!

Harold: What's the emergency, Nia?

Nia: The gorilla I delivered yesterday to the animal park has escaped from its habitat! This is an emergency!

Harold: Right you are, Nia! Duty calls! (Harold takes off to the sky as Nia searched on the ground)

Narrator: Soon, the search party for the missing gorilla had begun. Harold searched high, while Nia searched low.

Nia: Can you see the gorilla from up there, Harold?

Harold: I can't seem to find anything that's black! Most of the island from above is all green.

Nia: There's gotta be something we can do to find the gorilla.

Narrator: As they continued their search for the gorilla, an idea flew into Nia's funnel when she came to a junction where the left track would go to Ulfstead Castle.

Nia: This track goes to the earl's estate. If I go up there, then I'm sure I can find something black and furry. (She takes the left track to the castle)

Narrator: By the time Nia arrived at the castle, she saw the earl waiting on the platform.

Sir Robert: Hello Nia, what brings you here in my estate today?

Nia: I'm looking for something big, black, and furry, like a gorilla. Have you seen one roam by here?

Sir Robert: I'm sorry Nia, but I haven't seen any animals like that on my estate. But I heard that gorillas like to eat bananas.

Nia: Do you have any bananas inside your castle that you use for your banquets?

Sir Robert: Yes I do, actually. I'll ask Stephen to go into the castle and fetch a truck of bananas for you.

Narrator: It wasn't long until Stephen returned with the truck of bananas for Nia to take on her gorilla hunt.

Nia: Thanks for the bananas, sir. Now I can go and find that gorilla and bring it back to its habitat. (Nia leaves the castle with the bananas)

Sir Robert: Go steady now, Nia. Gorillas can be very tricky to cope with.

Narrator: As Nia left the estate with the bananas, she saw Harold in the air and hovered low towards her.

Harold: Why do you have bananas in your truck, Nia?

Nia: I got them from the earl at his castle. I'm using them to distract the gorilla so he can eat some while I take it back to the animal park.

Harold: Jolly good idea, Nia! You continue to search for the gorilla while I search from the air.

Nia: Alright, Harold. (Nia leaves the junction with the bananas)

Narrator: As Harold continued to search in the air, he hovered over the Culdee Fell Railway to spot any animals. But all he could find was the mountain engines carrying on with their work.

Harold: There's still no sign of the gorilla, not even from the Culdee Fell Railway.

Narrator: As Nia continued to search on the ground, she saw something up ahead that gave her a shock.

Nia: What's that I see up ahead? It looks like a big black object, but could it be the gorilla? (Nia puffs closer to the black object which was just Diesel at the washdown) Oh, it's you, Diesel.

Diesel: Nia? What are you doing here? And why do you have bananas in your truck? This better not be another one of those banana tricks Thomas pulled many years ago.

Nia: Actually, these bananas are for a gorilla that's escaped from its habitat at the animal park. I thought you were the gorilla because you're all black, just like him.

Diesel: Does it look like I'm a gorilla to you? Pah! I don't make animal noises, you silly steamie! (Diesel leaves the washdown)

Nia: Oh dear, now I'll never be able to find the gorilla now. (Thomas arrives on the scene)

Thomas: Hello Nia, what's wrong?

Nia: I can't find the gorilla anywhere, Thomas. Can you help me search for it?

Thomas: I'm sorry but I can't, I'm pulling the local again. But I will be sure to keep a lookout for anything black and furry. (Thomas leaves the washdown)

Nia: Oh thank you, Thomas. You're a very good friend!

Narrator: Throughout the day, Nia searched for the missing gorilla. She didn't want the bananas in her truck to go mouldy again. Just then, she came to the same signal box where she passed Charlie and saw something rather unusual blocking her track.

Nia: What's that blocking my line? It's all big, black, and very furry. (Gasps) It's the gorilla! I found it! I can't scare it with my whistle, but I can go back and fetch a livestock wagon and bring it back here, so I can make a trail of bananas for the gorilla to eat and get onboard.

Narrator: Nia's plan had worked perfectly. The driver had placed some bananas on the side of the track for the gorilla to chew on, and gently boarded the cattle truck Nia had fetched earlier. Just then, Henry was passing by with his log train.

Henry: What's going on here, Nia?

Nia: Nothing too much, Henry. Just making another delivery to the animal park as usual.

Henry: Rrright. (Henry leaves the signal box)

Narrator: As Nia was returning to the animal park, she saw Harold back at the rescue center, who had given up with the search, but didn't know about Nia finding the gorilla just yet.

Harold: I'm afraid to tell you this, but the gorilla is lost. I searched the whole island, and I couldn't find anything that's black or furry like that animal.

Nia: Is that right? Well take a look inside my cattle truck! (Nia rolls forward revealing the gorilla inside the cattle truck)

Harold: Why goodness me! Is that the missing gorilla?

Nia: Yep, I found it on my travels, and I saw it roaming around the main line towards Vicarstown.

Harold: Well done, Nia! The Fat Controller and the animal park workers will be happy with you.

Narrator: Harold was right. By the time Nia returned with the missing gorilla, the animal park guests had cheered. Even the Fat Controller and Headkeeper Jack were also pleased.

STH: Well done Nia, for tracking down the missing gorilla and bringing it back to its habitat.

Headkeeper Jack: Now we'll make sure the habitat stays enclosed, so enjoy your safari tours!

Nia: Thank you sir, and thank you Headkeeper Jack.

Narrator: That night at the sheds, the engines had heard about the whole story, and Gordon and James decided to apologise to Nia.

Gordon: We're sorry for misjudging you over the gorilla, Nia.

James: We didn't realise you were involved with a serious rescue mission with Harold.

Nia: It's okay, you two. The Fat Controller has decided to let all of us go to the animal park and check out the gorilla for ourselves!

Thomas: That's great, Nia! I can't wait to see the gorilla for real!

Nia: And I hope you'll get a close-up of it once Headkeeper Jack guides it to the platform for us engines to look at.

Narrator: The next morning, the engines gathered at the animal park as Headkeeper Jack brought the gorilla onto the platform for the engines to view.

Headkeeper Jack: This gorilla is our newest addition to the Sodor Animal Park. We hope you enjoyed looking at it as much as our guests did.

Thomas: Wow, Nia. That gorilla is very fearsome.

Nia: It is indeed, Thomas. I'm so glad you came to the animal park today.

Gordon: I guess gorillas aren't such a nuisance after all.

James: And I wonder how Henry will react if he sees it throw bananas at him like how that elephant squirts water in his face.

Henry: I'm right behind you James, and I heard that!

Nia: (Chuckles) Oh James, you do know how to make funny jokes as much as Charlie's. (Laughs)