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The book is an autobiographical account of the author's life, focusing on his career in the railway industry. The author begins by describing his early life, including his childhood in Derby, his education, and his first experiences in the railway service. He recounts his friendships, including a close relationship with a friend named Tom, and his career advancements, highlighting the significant events and personalities that shaped his life. The author worked with various railway companies, including the Midland Railway, the Caledonian Railway, and the Belfast and County Down Railway, and held positions such as chief clerk and general manager. Throughout the book, the author reflects on the changes in the railway industry, including the introduction of new technologies and the expansion of railway lines. He also shares his thoughts on the future of railways in Ireland and the impact of government control on the industry. The author's experiences and relationships with notable railway men, such as Mr. Wainwright and Lord Pirrie, are also discussed, highlighting their contributions to the railway's transformation. The book concludes with the author's reflection on his time in Ireland and his experiences with the Irish railway system, including the challenges and opportunities he faced, as well as his appointment to the Dominions' Royal Commission and his travels to various countries to examine railway systems. Overall, the book provides a detailed and personal account of the author's life and career in the railway industry, offering insights into the history and development of railways in Ireland and beyond.
The chapter introduces the author's life story, starting with his early days as a junior clerk in the Midland Railway at Derby. He describes his family background, his education, and his first experiences in the railway service. The author also recounts his friendship with Tom, a fellow clerk, and their shared interests and adventures. As the author progresses in his career, he takes on new challenges and responsibilities, including a move to Glasgow to work for the Caledonian Railway. The chapter sets the stage for the author's future experiences and reflections on his life in the railway service.
The chapter describes the author's childhood, family, and early life in Derby. The author was born in 1851 and spent his childhood in Derby, where his father worked for the Midland Railway. The author's family was large, with nine children, and his father's salary was modest, around £300 a year. The author attended a day school in Derby and developed a love for reading and writing. He was delicate in health and often absent from school, which prevented him from participating in outdoor games and exercises. The author's early life was marked by a love for sedentary pursuits, such as reading, writing, and drawing. He was also fond of country walks and had a great liking for nature. The author's family was musical, and he was taught to play the piano, but he never became proficient. The author's love for poetry and verse led him to write his own poems, and he was included in a collection of Scottish poets. The author's early life was also marked by a love for storytelling and a fascination with the railway, which would later become his career.
The chapter discusses the author's experiences with the Midland Railway and "King Hudson", a prominent figure in the railway industry. It also touches on the author's early life, including his childhood and education, and his introduction to the railway service. The chapter then shifts to the author's time in Glasgow, where he worked with the Caledonian Railway and later became the general manager of the Glasgow and South-Western Railway. The author reflects on the significant events and personalities that shaped his career, including his relationships with notable figures such as Mr. Wainwright and Mr. Johnstone. The chapter concludes with the author's move to Belfast to take up the position of general manager of the Belfast and County Down Railway, marking a new chapter in his career.
The chapter discusses the author's life in the Victorian era, describing the fashions, manners, and social norms of the time. The author reflects on their childhood, education, and early career in the railway service, highlighting the significant events and personalities that shaped their life. The chapter also touches on the author's experiences with the Midland Railway, the Caledonian Railway, and the Glasgow and South-Western Railway, as well as their interactions with notable figures such as Mr. James Allport and Mr. Wainwright. The author's friendships, including their close relationship with Tom, are also mentioned. The chapter concludes with the author's move to Glasgow and their new role as chief clerk to the general manager of the Glasgow and South-Western Railway.
The chapter describes the author's early office life, starting as a junior clerk in the Midland Railway at Derby. He recounts his first day, being handed a huge pile of documents called "Way Bills" and feeling overwhelmed. However, he soon found his feet and was promoted to work under a kind and experienced clerk. The author describes the office staff, including a literary genius, a fashionable young man, and a senior clerk who was disliked by everyone. He also mentions the prevalence of swearing, drinking, and borrowing money among the clerks. The author's health improved, and he became more confident in his work, eventually being promoted and moving to a new department. He reflects on the differences between his office life and that of his contemporaries, noting that his office was more eccentric and individualistic. The author also recalls his friendships, including one with a man named Tom, and his experiences with shorthand and office work.
The chapter discusses the author's experiences and reflections on friendship, highlighting the importance of genuine and lasting relationships in one's life. The author reminisces about their close friendship with Tom, which lasted for ten years and had a profound impact on their life. They also mention other friendships and acquaintances they made during their time at the Glasgow and South-Western Railway, including prominent railway men and other individuals who influenced their life and career. The author emphasizes the value of self-reliance and confidence, which they attribute to their experiences and interactions with others, particularly during their time in Scotland.
The chapter discusses the author's early life, education, and career in the railway service. He was born in 1851 in Derby and spent his childhood there, developing a love for reading, writing, and nature. The author's family was large, with nine children, and his father worked for the Midland Railway. He attended a day school in Derby and later became a junior clerk in the Midland Railway at the age of 16. The author describes his experiences in the railway service, including his time in Glasgow and his friendships with Tom and other colleagues. He also discusses the changes in fashions and manners during the Victorian era and the impact of the railway on society. The author's career progressed, and he became a general manager, first in Scotland and later in Ireland, where he worked for the Belfast and County Down Railway. He reflects on the challenges and opportunities he faced in his career and the lessons he learned along the way.
The chapter describes the author's life in Scotland, Glasgow, and his work with the Caledonian Line. He arrived in Glasgow on December 31, 1872, and was met by his friend Tom. They spent New Year's Day in Edinburgh, where they were impressed by the city's beauty. The author began working at St. Rollox, the stores department of the Caledonian Railway, where he met a kind and impressive-looking man who became his supervisor. However, the author soon discovered that his supervisor did not think highly of him and was critical of his work. Despite this, the author was determined to succeed and make a good impression. He attended his first public dinner and made his first speech in public, which was well-received. The author also became acquainted with a humorous artist named Cynicus and his mother, who was a woman of great intellectual endowment. The chapter also mentions the author's work with the Glasgow and South-Western Railway and his role as chief clerk to the general manager, Mr. Wainwright. The author describes Mr. Wainwright as a modern and progressive man who was well-respected by his directors and staff. The chapter concludes with the author's reflection on his time in Scotland and his appreciation for the country and its people.
The chapter discusses the author's experiences as the chief clerk to the general manager of the Glasgow and South-Western Railway, and his subsequent appointment as the general manager of the Belfast and County Down Railway in Ireland. The author reflects on the differences between the railway systems in Scotland and Ireland, and the challenges he faced in his new role. He also mentions his relationships with prominent railway men, including Mr. Wainwright and Lord Pirrie, and his experiences with the Railway Benevolent Institution in Scotland. The author's move to Ireland marked a new chapter in his career, and he was excited to take on new challenges and responsibilities as a general manager.
The author begins a new chapter in his life as the General Manager of the Belfast and County Down Railway in Ireland. He is 34 years old and has been in the railway service for 18 years. The railway is 68 miles long and has a busy traffic, with three fine sources of seaside traffic and several pleasure resorts. The author is responsible for managing the railway and its staff, and he takes great interest in his work, often going out of his way to examine the line and the employees at each station. He is well-liked by his staff and is able to secure their goodwill and help. The author also mentions that he has been fortunate in securing the confidence and attachment of his staff throughout his long period of railway management.
The chapter discusses the author's experiences as the General Manager of the Belfast and County Down Railway in Ireland. He reflects on his time in Scotland and his relationships with notable railway men, including Mr. Wainwright and Mr. Johnstone. The author also mentions his friendships and social connections, including his friends G.G. and J.B., and his acquaintance with the humorous artist Cynicus. He recalls his first trip abroad to Paris and his visits to the Railway Benevolent Institution. The author also discusses the Railway Acts of Parliament and their impact on the railway industry, including the Railway Returns (Continuous Brakes) Act and the Employers' Liability Act. He mentions the introduction of the Parcel Post and the Cheap Trains Act, and notes that these developments have improved the efficiency and safety of the railway system. The author concludes by reflecting on his personal growth and development during his time in Scotland and Ireland, and expresses his gratitude for the opportunities he has had.
The chapter discusses the author's friendship with Tom, which lasted for ten years and had a profound impact on his life. The author describes how they met, their similar interests and habits, and how they lived together in Glasgow. Tom's health was delicate, and he eventually returned to England, where his health declined further, and he passed away. The author reflects on the significance of their friendship and how it influenced his life. He also mentions how Tom's descriptions of their fellow clerks at Derby helped him to remember them vividly, even after fifty years. The author's friendship with Tom was a deep and lasting one, and his memory continues to be a source of comfort and inspiration.
The author reflects on his life, from his early days as a junior clerk in the Midland Railway at Derby to his current position as General Manager of the Belfast and County Down Railway in Ireland. He discusses his experiences, friendships, and career advancements, highlighting the significant events and personalities that shaped his life. The author also touches on the changes in the railway industry, including the introduction of new technologies and the expansion of railway lines. Throughout the chapter, the author expresses his gratitude for the opportunities he has had and the lessons he has learned, demonstrating his growth and development as a person and a professional.
The chapter discusses the author's experiences as the General Manager of the Belfast and County Down Railway in Ireland. He reflects on the differences between the railway systems in Scotland and Ireland and the challenges he faced in his new role. The author describes the Belfast and County Down Railway, its location, and its traffic, as well as his responsibilities and interactions with the staff. He also mentions the changes he implemented, including the introduction of new carriages and the improvement of the permanent way. The author's relationships with the Chairman, Mr. Kelly, and Lord Pirrie, a director, are also discussed, highlighting their contributions to the railway's transformation. Additionally, the author shares his approach to managing staff, emphasizing the importance of kindness, consideration, and confidence.
The chapter discusses the author's experiences as the General Manager of the Belfast and County Down Railway in Ireland. He reflects on the differences between the railway systems in Scotland and Ireland and the challenges he faced in his new role. The author describes the Belfast and County Down Railway, its location, and its traffic, as well as his responsibilities and interactions with the staff. He also mentions the changes he implemented, including the introduction of new carriages and the improvement of the permanent way. The author's relationships with the Chairman, Mr. Kelly, and Lord Pirrie, a director, are also discussed, highlighting their contributions to the railway's transformation. Additionally, the author shares his approach to managing staff, emphasizing the importance of kindness, consideration, and confidence.
The chapter describes the author's experience as the General Manager of the Belfast and County Down Railway in Ireland. He reflects on the differences between the railway systems in Scotland and Ireland and the challenges he faced in his new role. The author mentions his relationships with prominent railway men, including Mr. Wainwright and Lord Pirrie, and his experiences with the Railway Benevolent Institution in Scotland. He also discusses the changes he implemented in the Belfast and County Down Railway, including the introduction of new carriages and the improvement of the permanent way. The author's approach to managing staff is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of kindness, consideration, and confidence.
The author continues to work as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland, and reflects on his experiences and the changes in the railway industry. He discusses the introduction of new technologies, the expansion of railway lines, and the impact of government regulations on the industry. The author also shares his thoughts on the future of railways, including the possibility of nationalization and the need for fair treatment of railway owners. Additionally, he mentions his personal life, including his friendships and travels, and notes the passing of time and the changes that have occurred in his life and career.
The chapter discusses the author's experiences as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland, including his work with the Railway and Canal Traffic Act, the Light Railways (Ireland) Act, and the Regulation of Railways Act. The author also recounts his interactions with prominent railway men, such as Edward John Cotton and Sir George Findlay, and his involvement in various railway projects and inquiries. Additionally, the chapter touches on the author's personal life, including his friendship with Walter Bailey and his travels to Spain, Portugal, and Egypt. The author also reflects on the future of railways in Ireland and the impact of government control on the industry.
The chapter discusses the author's life as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland. He reflects on his experiences, friendships, and career advancements, highlighting the significant events and personalities that shaped his life. The author also touches on the changes in the railway industry, including the introduction of new technologies and the expansion of railway lines. He expresses his gratitude for the opportunities he has had and the lessons he has learned, demonstrating his growth and development as a person and a professional. The chapter also mentions the author's involvement in various railway projects and inquiries, including the Light Railway Legislation in Ireland and the International Railway Congress. Additionally, the author shares his thoughts on the future of railways in Ireland and the impact of government control on the industry.
The chapter discusses the author's transition to the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland, where he became the manager at the age of 39. He reflects on his experiences, friendships, and career advancements, highlighting the significant events and personalities that shaped his life. The author also touches on the changes in the railway industry, including the introduction of new technologies and the expansion of railway lines. He shares his thoughts on the future of railways in Ireland and the impact of government control on the industry. The chapter also mentions the author's involvement in various railway projects and inquiries, including the Light Railway Legislation in Ireland and the International Railway Congress.
The chapter discusses the author's experiences as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland, including his relationships with prominent railway men, such as Edward John Cotton and Sir George Findlay. The author also recounts his involvement in various railway projects and inquiries, including the Light Railway Legislation in Ireland and the International Railway Congress. Additionally, the chapter touches on the author's personal life, including his friendships and travels, and notes the passing of time and the changes that have occurred in his life and career. The author reflects on his time in Ireland and his experiences with the Irish railway system, including the challenges and opportunities he faced. He also discusses the future of railways in Ireland and the impact of government control on the industry.
The chapter discusses the author's life as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland, including his experiences, friendships, and career advancements. The author reflects on the changes in the railway industry, including the introduction of new technologies and the expansion of railway lines. The author also shares his thoughts on the future of railways in Ireland and the impact of government control on the industry. Additionally, the author mentions his involvement in various railway projects and inquiries, including the Light Railway Legislation in Ireland and the International Railway Congress. The author's relationships with prominent railway men, including Mr. Wainwright and Mr. Johnstone, are also discussed, highlighting their contributions to the railway's transformation. The chapter concludes with the author's reflection on his time in Ireland and his experiences with the Irish railway system, including the challenges and opportunities he faced.
The chapter discusses the author's life as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland. He reflects on his experiences, friendships, and career advancements, highlighting the significant events and personalities that shaped his life. The author also touches on the changes in the railway industry, including the introduction of new technologies and the expansion of railway lines. He expresses his gratitude for the opportunities he has had and the lessons he has learned, demonstrating his growth and development as a person and a professional. The chapter also mentions the author's involvement in various railway projects and inquiries, including the Light Railway Legislation in Ireland and the International Railway Congress. Additionally, the author shares his thoughts on the future of railways in Ireland and the impact of government control on the industry.
The chapter discusses the author's life as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland. He reflects on his experiences, friendships, and career advancements, highlighting the significant events and personalities that shaped his life. The author also touches on the changes in the railway industry, including the introduction of new technologies and the expansion of railway lines. He expresses his gratitude for the opportunities he has had and the lessons he has learned, demonstrating his growth and development as a person and a professional. Additionally, the chapter mentions the author's involvement in various railway projects and inquiries, including the Light Railway Legislation in Ireland and the International Railway Congress. The author shares his thoughts on the future of railways in Ireland and the impact of government control on the industry.
The chapter describes the author's life as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland. He reflects on his experiences, friendships, and career advancements, highlighting the significant events and personalities that shaped his life. The author also touches on the changes in the railway industry, including the introduction of new technologies and the expansion of railway lines. He expresses his gratitude for the opportunities he has had and the lessons he has learned, demonstrating his growth and development as a person and a professional. The chapter also mentions the author's involvement in various railway projects and inquiries, including the Light Railway Legislation in Ireland and the International Railway Congress. Additionally, the author shares his thoughts on the future of railways in Ireland and the impact of government control on the industry.
The author reflects on his life as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland, discussing his relationships with notable railway men, his experiences with the Railway Benevolent Institution, and his thoughts on the future of railways in Ireland. He also shares stories about his friendships, including one with Walter Bailey, and his travels to Spain, Portugal, and Egypt. The author's career advancements and challenges are highlighted, including his role in establishing an Irish branch of the Railway Benevolent Institution and his involvement in various railway projects and inquiries. The chapter concludes with the author's thoughts on the importance of fairness and justice in the treatment of railway owners and the need for a balanced approach to railway management.
The chapter discusses the author's life as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland. He reflects on his experiences, friendships, and career advancements, highlighting the significant events and personalities that shaped his life. The author also touches on the changes in the railway industry, including the introduction of new technologies and the expansion of railway lines. He expresses his gratitude for the opportunities he has had and the lessons he has learned, demonstrating his growth and development as a person and a professional. The chapter also mentions the author's involvement in various railway projects and inquiries, including the Light Railway Legislation in Ireland and the International Railway Congress. Additionally, the author shares his thoughts on the future of railways in Ireland and the impact of government control on the industry.
The chapter discusses the author's life as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland, including his experiences, friendships, and career advancements. The author reflects on the changes in the railway industry, including the introduction of new technologies and the expansion of railway lines. The author also shares his thoughts on the future of railways in Ireland and the impact of government control on the industry. Additionally, the chapter mentions the author's involvement in various railway projects and inquiries, including the Light Railway Legislation in Ireland and the International Railway Congress. The author expresses his gratitude for the opportunities he has had and the lessons he has learned, demonstrating his growth and development as a person and a professional.
The chapter discusses the author's life as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland, including his experiences, friendships, and career advancements. The author reflects on the changes in the railway industry, including the introduction of new technologies and the expansion of railway lines. The author also shares his thoughts on the future of railways in Ireland and the impact of government control on the industry. Additionally, the chapter mentions the author's involvement in various railway projects and inquiries, including the Light Railway Legislation in Ireland and the International Railway Congress. The author's relationships with prominent railway men, including Mr. Wainwright and Mr. Johnstone, are also discussed, highlighting their contributions to the railway's transformation. The chapter concludes with the author's reflection on his time in Ireland and his experiences with the Irish railway system, including the challenges and opportunities he faced. The author also discusses his appointment to the Dominions' Royal Commission and his travels to various countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, where he examined the railway systems and gathered information for the Commission's report.
The chapter describes the author's transition from a manager to a director of a railway company. He recounts his experiences as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland and his subsequent appointment as a Director of the Company. The author also discusses his involvement with the Railway Companies' Association and his role as Chairman of the General Managers' Conference. Additionally, he mentions his appointment to the Dominions' Royal Commission and his travels to various countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, where he examined the railway systems and gathered information for the Commission's report. The chapter concludes with the author's reflection on his time in Ireland and his experiences with the Irish railway system.
The author reflects on his life as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland and his subsequent appointment as a Director of the Company. He discusses his involvement with the Railway Companies' Association and his role as Chairman of the General Managers' Conference. The author also mentions his appointment to the Dominions' Royal Commission and his travels to various countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, where he examined the railway systems and gathered information for the Commission's report. The Commission's main business was to inquire into and report on the natural resources of the self-governing Dominions, their trade with the United Kingdom and other parts of the Empire, and their requirements for food and raw materials. The author discusses the Commission's findings and recommendations, including the need for an Imperial trade policy, the development of natural resources, and the importance of scientific research. The author also touches on the topic of migration, overseas communications, and the need for an Imperial Development Board.
The author reflects on his life as the General Manager of the Midland Great Western Railway of Ireland and his subsequent appointment as a Director of the Company. He discusses his involvement with the Railway Companies' Association and his role as Chairman of the General Managers' Conference. The author also mentions his appointment to the Dominions' Royal Commission and his travels to various countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, where he examined the railway systems and gathered information for the Commission's report. The Commission's main business was to inquire into and report upon the natural resources of the self-governing Dominions, their trade with the United Kingdom and other parts of the Empire, and their requirements for food and raw materials. The author discusses the Commission's findings and recommendations, including the need for an Imperial trade policy, the development of natural resources, and the importance of scientific research. The author concludes by reflecting on his time in Ireland and his experiences with the Irish railway system, including the challenges and opportunities he faced. The author also discusses his appointment as a Director of the Dublin and Kingstown Railway and his supervision of the management of the Burtonport Railway.