(When the body of a loco piolet is taken from his quarters, he makes a last whimsical look at his own life) . br ********************************************************************************* br As my body passes the gate, br A long whistle is heard. br As I begin my last voyage, br A train is heard at a distance. br br And out of my coffin br I peep unto the rising smoke. br Long forgotten years open their wings br And make unto me a fleeting dive. br br Crossing the pastures of life br I steered my train thro’ countless seasons. br Standing at the helm of matchless distances br I brought home a whole generation. br br And the rhythm of wheels was my life, br The rising steam was my very breathe. br With the flying meads I shared a song, br Unto the silent nights it was an endless prayer. br br And crossing the rills and many hills, br Taverns and multitude Junctions, br I reached my last post, br I took my train to the safest shores.