The Christmas Engine

The Christmas Engine is a magazine story.

Plot
It is Christmas Eve and the engines are still very busy. James has been sent to the harbour to collect an important parcel for The Fat Controller. The other engines are curious as to what is inside while James boasts it has to be something important if he was chosen to collect it.

While working in the yard, Percy sees something surprising inside The Fat Controller's office; Santa Claus! The other engines think Percy is being silly but Percy insists it is the truth. As the engines argue, Thomas arrives covered in sprigs of holly and tinsel tied from his funnel to his cab. Thomas gives a cheerful whistle, telling his friends to make way for "The Christmas Engine".

Shortly after, a colourful figure enters the yard. It is Santa Claus, just like Percy said! The man lifts his hat and beard to reveal himself as The Fat Controller. James' parcel was the Santa suit and Thomas is taking him to a special party for the schoolchildren. Even James has to admit that Thomas looks very splendid.

Characters

 * Thomas
 * Edward
 * James
 * Percy
 * Sir Topham Hatt
 * Henry

Goofs

 * The third and fifth illustrations are switched around.
 * In the seventh illustration, Henry is coloured blue.