The Haunted Traveler Vol. 2 Issue 1

158
until 6:30pm, almost the start time for his business dinner
meeting. This simply would not do.
§
He dashed through the doors and scanned the various
tracks. Many of them were filled with steam trains getting
ready to head in sundry directions. The train cars were ornate
with polished brass plating and stenciling around the windows.
Although the platform was dank, he could see
through the well-lit windows trimmed by elaborate curtains.
Passengers were snug in their large leather seats. The overheads
were paneled in teak, exposed brass racks revealed fine
leather luggage.
Mathers lamented not getting to the station sooner.
He also felt frustration over the train running on schedule.
He was an important professional, keeping the world of commerce
headed in the proper direction, legally speaking.
Panic grew to an outright fit. Mathers had no way
to determine which train he should board. “Why don’t they
have signs above each track?” he muttered.
“Do you require assistance?” a conductor asked.
Mathers turned to see the conductor standing nearby,
dressed in a tailored grey uniform of fine spun wool. The
sleeves were trimmed in black; his hat had a snub visor.
“Well, my apologies,” said Mathers. “I’m afraid that I didn’t
see you standing there.”
“That’s quite all right,” the conductor replied. “Do
you need help finding your train?”
“Why, I most certainly do,” Mathers said. “Much appreciated.”
“Which train are you seeking to board?”
“The 3:30 express to Pennsylvania Station.”
The conductor nodded, as though he was expecting