And Beyond That

This chapter begins with an examination of Falkner’s personality and habits, placing the author’s own observations in dialogue with previous characterizations of Falkner. The story of the railroad then continues, picking up in the mid-1880s with renewed efforts to continue construction. This leads to a dispute between Falkner and R. J. Thurmond, a co-owner of the Ripley Railroad. Their opposite personalities undoubtedly contributed to opposing styles of managing the risks of the railroad. Thurmond would eventually sell his interest in the railroad to Falkner, but this would not mark the end of their feud. This chapter covers the clashing of these two men and the continued construction of the railroad.