Pluck and Luck, No. 1235

From Engineer to President This serial by Jas. C. Merritt follows the rise of Danny De Lorme from newly-hired railroad fireman to licensed engineer. Old Phil Simcoe, a master engineer on the Alleghany Central Railroad's treacherous Rocky River Division, hires the seventeen-year-old Danny as his fireman. During a run, Danny meets Jessie Gilmore, the beautiful daughter of the Mill Creek station keeper. When Phil sustains injuries from a fall at Mill Creek station, Danny successfully operates the express engine back to the junction and again on the return route while Division Superintendent Mallard observes. Impressed by Danny's competence and timing, Mallard reports to the railroad president. Danny is subsequently appointed to run No. 6, the express engine, becoming the railroad's youngest engineer. The narrative emphasizes Danny's skill, dedication to duty, and the admiration he garners from seasoned railroaders.