The "X" Response

d. Completing the order. After the order is copied, the first operator

addressed by the dispatcher, the one copying the order for the superior

train, reads the order back.

As the operator repeats the order, the

dispatcher underscores each word.

If the repetition is correct in all

respects, the dispatcher completes the order by saying "complete" and giving

the exact time, such as 0931 hours.

This, in effect, is saying, 'Okay,

you've got it correct at 0931 hours. You are free to deliver the order to

the train when it arrives."

The word "complete" is generally abbreviated

"com," and it is written along with the time in the appropriate spaces at

the bottom of the train order (fig. 5.1). Then in turn each of the other

operators repeats the order from his written copy, as the dispatcher

underscores each word in his train-order book and completes the order as he

did for the first operator. Now, they, too, are authorized to deliver the

orders to their respective trains along with a Clearance Form "A" (par.

5.8).

In short, train orders have no validity until they have been

completed, and the completing is done according to the superiority of the

particular trains. This means that the order for the superior train, which

is being restricted, must be completed before the one for the inferior train

which the order helps. The only exception to this procedure is known as the

"X" response, discussed in the next paragraph.

5.6.

THE "X" RESPONSE

Train-order rules require that, when an order has been transmitted to

several offices, the receiving operators are to repeat it at once from their

copy and in the succession in which the several offices have been addressed.

Therefore, the last operator addressed is the last one to repeat it. The

dispatcher and all operators on the wire listen for any flaws or omissions

in the repetitions.

Occasionally, however, the last operator must necessarily repeat the

order first. This is permitted when it can be completed and delivered to an

inferior train which would otherwise be delayed while several other

operators are repeating the order to the dispatcher. When this occurs, he

directs that the operator receiving the order for the superior train give

the "X" response, as rule 212 in appendix III explains. Then he permits the

operator copying the order for the inferior train to repeat his first and,

when he's finished, to deliver it.

Once the "X" response is given, the

order may be repeated and made complete to the inferior train before the

operator copying for the superior train repeats his order. When this

76