Wish Me Luck!

     I'm bidding on a lovely little engine on eBay. I know Camelbacks didn't really make it this far west, but I think they're far more interesting than the standard steam configuration. And since shortness is a quality I admire in rolling stock, this is a natural for the T&D. I will have no problem designating a freak vein of anthracite somewhere in the vicinity for this little puff-horse to burn.

     It's a Mantua, and has markings for the New York Central & Harlem River, which I may or may not not change. It suffers from an exposed drive train, which is a problem with many steamers, but I'm willing to overlook. If you're bidding against me, I wish you luck (you'll need it.) If you're not bidding, wish me luck! Either way, tonight is the final showdown.

     Experiments with water putty continue. As one might guess, the more water you add the longer the drying time. I think the best application for making cobblestone street is to mix it fairly stiff, and spread it on the base in place, rather than make separate carved castings and placing them later. The putty dries slower (days) but the plywood base holds it firm and prevents it from warping. When it comes time to pave Drywater, I'll build the entire scene from the street up as a separate diorama. Tracks will be laid, forms built in, and putty spread. That way I can work on it slowly and with all around access.