Number 3 Stationmaster

• They were called stationmaster

arthur nicholas rea at killin junction station aged 22 years

In "Where the Red Fern Grows," the stationmaster may have sensed a deep bond between the boy and his dogs, a unique connection that goes beyond the ordinary relationship between a pet and its owner. This bond could have exuded a sense of loyalty, love, and companionship that was palpable to the stationmaster, giving him a glimpse into the special connection the boy shared with his beloved dogs.

It is possible that the stationmaster required an actual conductor to accompany and introduce all arrivals, or suspect that he'd been discovered.