©2014 Ted H. Schaar
22. Big Sky
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Stopped
Big Sky country with Canada just beyond the horizon. Made good time for a while but then power cut out and we coasted to a halt. The conductor announced we
were having engine trouble and technicians were working on the
problem.
A follow-up announcement informed us the locomotive would be swapped for another--two are in front--and we would be on our way. This process would take about 25 minutes, the conductor said, but actually it was more like 90. Rolling
But it worked and we were off.Coach cars are at near capacity today. Various passengers have told us they take the train because it is cheaper than flying and they don't have automobiles. |
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Imbibing
Heavy drinkers on the train today. One tall, pasty-faced man in his 40s or 50s with long, thin hair started early and drank for hours. In the morning he was in the observation car talking with a slender man wearing a baseball hat and small earrings. Later I saw him with a raven-haired woman who appeared to be in her late 40s. She was slim and attractive. They had an animated conversation that went on for hours. I was sitting a bit away but heard snatches now and then. The man kept drinking and appeared to hold his liquor well. |
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Photos ©2014 Ted H. Schaar except where noted.