Re: Diesels and the C&TS

Ya know- The other night Roger and I sat on the balcony watching the yard. We were both in a mellow frame, and spoke of our love for the railroad. Said I: "It's all so impossible, so improbable, so impractical, and really stupid by any measure of business. I guess that's why I love it."
OK, so if we're just trying to save money, shut the steam down and just run diesels, or better yet, stuff it and mount it and run a museum.
Can you give me chapter and verse on how this is going to save money? The alleged half-mil each is going to be spent on the steam locomotives anyway. I question the half-mil figure, but let's not quibble. The time and money that is being spent on restoration of a diesel of questionable value, could be spent on steam restoration NOW.
I still don't understand just what sort of useful role the 19 could play. How much CAN it pull? Just HOW would it perform as a work-train hog? Just HOW would it perform in a rescue?
The CTSRR should not have a money/manpower problem much longer. Increased ridership and lack of profit-motive should see to that.
I am not too concerned about what the D&S is doing, or whether the Rio Grande ever ran diesels on the line. The last operator who tried using diesels on the CTSRR paid dearly in lost ridership for that decision.
The fact is, this IS a STEAM rairoad and every effort should be made to make sure it stays that way. Even having a single diesel on the property raises a possibilty that makes me shudder. Impractical? You betchum Red Ryder! Who cares?