And then what a cheer went up!
Ralph imagined that now, since his enemies had been disposed of, quiet times were ahead. But this was not to be. Adventures in plenty still awaited him, and what some of them were will be related in another story, to be called "Ralph on the Overland Express; or, The Trials and Triumphs of a Young Engineer."
"It was certainly a great day, mother," said the young fireman, when he got home from the celebration.
"Yes, Ralph," answered Mrs. Fairbanks. "And to think that you helped to make that day possible. Oh, I am proud of you!" And she gave him a fond caress.
"And the best of it is, that we have all those thousands of dollars," continued the young fireman. "We are not exactly rich, but we are comfortably situated, eh?"
"Yes, indeed, Ralph! But listen to me. Do you want to leave the railroad? You might go into business, or go to college, or—"
"No, no, mother! I was born to follow a railroad life—I feel it. Who knows, some day I may be the President of some road."
"That is true. Well, have your wish, Ralph. They tell me now you are the best fireman in
