No Stop-Overs

'No Stop-Overs' is a short story by John A. Thompson, first published in 1898, set during the Alaskan gold rush. It follows railroad engineer Sam Tebbetts and his fireman, Plapp, as they navigate the challenges of supplying mining camps while grappling with the temptations of gold prospecting. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, perseverance, and the tension between duty and ambition, culminating in a dramatic confrontation with claim jumpers. This work captures the spirit of frontier life and the camaraderie among those drawn to the gold rush.