Air date: March 8th, 2011 (UK), April 16th, 2011 (US)
It is James' turn to be Sodor's rescue engine, and Toby's to his annoyance. James rejects Toby's help and refuses to work as part of a team when Gordon needs rescuing. However, James soon has to swallow his pride and ask Toby to assist him.
Tropes featured in the episode:
- All of the Other Reindeer: James believes Toby doesn't qualify as a rescue engine, because he is a steam tram. Thomas, however, is defensive about this.
- A Day in the Limelight: For James and Toby.
- An Aesop: Always listen to a partner’s advice.
- Covered in Mud: Gordon and James end up on the receiving end of this trope when they sink into a muddy swamp.
- Extreme Doormat: Toby meekly attempts to convince James to get Rocky, but is quickly shot down each time.
- Heel Realization: James, after he only worsens the problem and gets himself off the rails in the process.
- Leave Me Alone!: James refuses Toby's advice.
- The Quiet One: Gordon of all engines, limited only to his catchphrase throughout the entire episode.
- Rhymes on a Dime: "I'm the rescue engine on Sodor for the day! I'm a very busy engine! Stand back! Watch out! Make way!"
- Rule of Three: James' attempts to help Gordon cause him to get more derailed. His third attempt causes him to be in trouble as well.
- This Is Gonna Suck: Toby's expression as James tries to bump Gordon back on the line clearly reads this.
