on its side, should be lifted as quickly as may be into a vertical position; to do so, a purchase should be obtained under the framing on the lowest side, in two places if possible; two long and tough sways should be brought to bear on these points, and several men placed to weigh upon each; and as the Engine is gradually lifted by the sways, every movement should be followed up and supported by screw-jacks bedded on timber blocking. When the Engine has been lifted upright, it should be firmly supported by timbers placed as stanchions under the framing; the earth may then be cautiously removed from under the wheels, and a length of rail introduced, taking care to bed it as securely as possible on the blockings previously laid down, without disturbing them: the same process should be repeated on the other side, and cross sleepers driven in under both
rails to secure the foundation. As soon as the Engine is in a vertical position and rails inserted under the wheels, a temporary railway may be laid down in continuation, and the Engine again drawn on the main line. It will much facilitate the raising of the Engine if the water is drawn away out of the boiler as soon as it is sufficiently cool.
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In all cases of accident involving stoppage on the main line, it is of the highest importance that some person should immediately be sent back about three-quarters of a mile along the road, to give the proper signal of obstruction, and prevent any following train from running in unexpectedly.
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The most essential personal qualifications of an Engine-man are, sobriety
and steadiness, activity, presence of mind, and unceasing watchfulness; and wherever these are combined with an accurate knowledge of the construction of a Locomotive Engine and the principles of its management, they tend in no small degree towards rendering Railways, what they properly are, the safest as well as the most agreeable mode of travelling.
REGULATIONS FOR THE FIRST APPOINTMENT OF AN ENGINE-MAN, ADOPTED BY THE DIRECTORS OF THE LONDON AND CROYDON RAILWAY.
1840.
1. The candidate must not be under twenty-one years of age, and must produce a certificate of a sound constitution and steady habits.