That guy down there ahead means business." I don't think he would have dared try to run the gauntlet in any case, for the best the engine could do with that load behind it was a wheezy twenty miles an hour, and the track was so out of repair that even that speed wasn't safe.

I was willing to bet Grim hadn't lifted a rail or placed any obstruction in the way, but the driver had no means of knowing that.
"Son of a gun, eh ?" he repeated.

"What in 'ell's 'e want ?" "Nothing, if you pay attention to him.

All he hankers for is humoring.

He wants to talk." "Uh! What in 'ell's a matter with him ?" "Nothing, but he'll put a crimp in your machinery unless you stay and chin with him." "I give him dry steam.