Q.—Should it be necessary, after pitching over a summit, to pump up a gauge or more of water, what should be the condition of the fire?
A.—The fire should be kept bright, and burning freely.
Q.—Why is this important?
A.—To prevent chilling the flues, causing them to leak.
Q.—Should you have ample water after pitching over, what should be the condition of the fire?
A.—It should be leveled and settled down, and covered over sufficiently to prevent unnecessary waste of steam or fuel.
Q.—Should the pump or injectors fail on the road, what would you do?
A.—First, smother down the fire, stop promptly, take off the hose, and raise the tank-valves to ascertain that they are connected; also see that the strainers are clear. If all is found clear, then try the injectors again; and, if the engine has a pump, take it down, and see that the valves are free, and would also run water through the feed-pipes. When all is open and free, put them up, and try them again.
Q.—Should the water in the boiler get too low to allow you time for the examination, what would you do?
A.—Draw the fire, and send a messenger to the nearest telegraph office for assistance.