Edward Eagan is the foreman of a section gang on a steam railroad. The story opens with him at home at the bedside of his wife, who is dangerously ill. A physician is called and, leaving his wife with the doctor, Eagan goes out and proceeds up the track with his men to their work. The wife becomes worse and the physician decides to telegraph for the husband. He does so, and the message is delivered to Eagan. Eagan gives his men instructions and rides swiftly in the direction of his home. While proceeding his machine is derailed. He stops and notices that the rails have spread. The fast express is about due. Eagan hesitates and his mind is filled with conflicting emotions. Placing the car on the track, he races back and summons his men. They repair the track just as the fast express rushes pass. Hastily bidding his men return to their work up the track, Eagan again mounts the vehicle and starts for home. He has his reward, for the faithful doctor, who has not left the side of the wife, allays his fears and pronounces her out of danger.