After many hours of looking for the car, Thomas wondered if he had the energy to keep going.  He knew, of course, that he had been a silly little engine in the past and he shuddered at the thought of making another mistake.  Finally, he had no choice but to take a rest.  Then, wondrously, he saw the bloody Volkswagen Beetle with four manes flowing out the windows like he had seen so many times before. 

Peep, peep, he said excitedly.  He didn’t intend to give himself away, but he did.  The Volkswagen Beetle became uncoupled, backed up, turned around on the turntable, and headed towards Thomas, making a happy galloping sound.  Have I made new friends? Thomas wondered. 

Hello! Sir Paul said joyously.  The others had guitar-breastplates that dangled forlornly. 

No one even knows I can play this, Ringo bemoaned. 

Remember, Sir Paul said, if you follow me to the Fifth World that will remove us from this Earth, everyone will appreciate you in oblivion.  The Hopis and the Mayans both said so.  Don’t you want to join us, Thomas?  You’ll know the time by the signs.  Thomas had never considered something so marvelous, but he wondered what Gordon would think and if Percy and Toby could come too.

Your friend Charles Manson the farmer will be there as well, Sir Paul added. 

Thomas couldn’t imagine anything more horrible.  He released steam from his funnel, rolled his eyes around quickly, and felt ill. 

Just keep your keys about you, mate, John interrupted.  The Earth will birth an egg that will become a crown.  It will make us all better.   George nodded and backed up John with a guitar solo to show his support. Before Thomas could decide for himself, the Beatles returned to their car with their white suits beaming, crashed into a presidential podium, and vanished into the flames.