Friday Filler
This is an excerpt from an 1850's era railroad rule-book. What is the "best wood" to be used used for?
1.--Attendants at Water Stations will be under the immediate direction of the Supervisor, and report to him. They must devote their whole time to the services of the Company under such arrangements, as may be made in each case: when paid by the month, all time, not actually employed in assisting to load engines, must be devoted to the preparation of fuel.
2.--Wood must be ranged upon the platforms in half cord piles, and the number of cords, quarters and half cords taken by each engine, as shown by graduated standards, must be marked upon the Wood Roll. Returns of the whole amount consumed by each engine, the amount of wood delivered, and the balance on hand, must be made to the Supervisor on the first day of each month. Failure to conform punctually and accurately to this rule will be regarded as evidence of neglect or incompetency.
3.--All wood consumed will be paid for according to the number of wood-checks received by the Station Keeper from the Engineers; and he is not to deliver them wood with receiving a check for it.
4.--it shall be the duty of the Attendants to keep up, if possible, a regular supply of water at all times. In winter to keep fires in the Tank-houses or at Reservoirs, to prevent freezing, and carefully examine pipes and water tanks, and thaw the pipes should they be frozen: should there be any obstruction in water pipes between the Station and head, he shall immediately report it to the Foreman of the Sub-divi[s]ion.
5.--The best wood must be carefully selected for ???, and the attendant must not allow it to be used for ???. If taken contrary to directions, the fact must be reported.
