British Railways Fascinate.

I make no apology for “falling to” the fascination of the British railways. Many writers have expressed the view that all railway students within the Empire have the same preference, instinctively accepting the Motherland as the birth place of the railways. It is unfortunate that, owing to physical differences in our country, it would not be possible to plant in New Zealand a replica—on a modified scale—of one of the leading British railways. One finds, there, a permanent-way unsurpassed; the fastest locomotives built; single berth sleeping coaches that enable passengers to secure rest equivalent to that in a first-class hotel; comfortable day coaches; the comparative absence of level crossings; and all the modern conveniences that follow in the train of population. Yet they have their branch line troubles, much the same problem as other countries respecting axle load, strength of draw gear, and motor competition (but this, I think, is not so potential as in New Zealand). page 26 With all the splendid equipment, the transportation of holiday crowds is still a worrying problem to the British railways. But the holiday spirit of the race is a great help and goes a long way in avoiding confusion or complaint. Indeed, the London termini during these rush periods furnish remarkable sights, which help one to bear with patience the relatively small inconvenience experienced here at such times.