DIABOLICAL ATTEMPT TO OVERTHROW THE TRAIN

Feilding Star, Volume I, Issue 1, 21 May 1879, Page 3

DIABOLICAL ATTEMPT TO OVERTHROW THE TRAIN

A 25ft. SAPLING ACROSS THE RAILS. PROMPT ACTION OF THE ENGINE DRIVER. About a fortnight since it was reported to the police that an obstruction had been placed across the line on Mr Whisker’s, property, evidently with the intention of capsizing the night train from Foxton. A close investigation into the circumstances of the case followed, but so far no clue has been obtained as to the perpetrators of this dastardly action. From enquiries we learn that the engine-drivers on coming along that portion of the line which runs through Mr. Whisker’s property, noticed something ahead lying across the rails and immediately shut off the steam, applied the brakes, and pulled up within a few feet of the obstruction. On examination it proved to be a sapling about 25 feet in length, which had evidently been newly cut from the bush and carried a considerable distance, as at this point there is a large clearing and the bush is 200 yards away from the line. This infamous business appears to have been carried out in the coolest manner possible, as had the person been in a hurry he could easily have placed one of the sleepers across the line, as there were plenty on the spot. It is also stated that on the next evening a bar of railway iron was placed across the line, but as to the accuracy of this statement we cannot vouch. It will also be remembered that a few evenings before this occurrence one of the drivers was struck on the face by a stone thrown by some rascal at the passing train. This may or may not have been done by the same person, but still it is peculiar that these occurrences should have taken place so close to one another. Is is earnestly hoped that the cold-blooded villian who attempted to overthrow the train, thus placing the lives of a large number of people in danger, may yet be brought to justice, and receive such punishment as will have a deterrent affect on others who might follow his example. Great credit is due to the engine-driver for the promp manner in which he stopped the train, as had it not been for this we should have had something more serious to chronicle.