Of wailing dread at the grim pit’s head,

But along the wires was waft

A word from the junction signals,

“The Flying Scotchman’s through!

Clear the line; she’s late.” And the 12.48

Is ten minutes overdue!

I’ve hardly a second for thought, sir,

The 12.48’s in sight.

“Put steam, on, men, run her through, and then

We may still pull ye through all right.”