Re: D&RG 1889 Narrow Gauge Train 0rder Engine 168

When a despatcher tapped out a train order to an operator over the telegraph back in the day, any number was read as a numeral then spelled out letter-by-letter. The operator copied down the order as the despatcher telegraphed it to him, then read it back to the despatcher. Again, any numbers were read as numerals, then spelled out letter-by-letter. If the despatcher was satisfied the order had been received correctly by the operator he then issued a "complete at" time to the despatcher to place on the order. That would indicate to the crew receiving the order that it was complete and correct.
This is why you see each number written in both numeral and letter form on this order.
Were errors ever made? Unfortunately, yes! If you would like to learn about a train order error, and the resulting disaster, Google "Canoe River Train Wreck"



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/09/2023 08:28PM by George W Pearce.