1906

The platelayer had every other Sunday off. In return, on the Sundays he served, he also had to watch over the neighbouring platelayer's stretch. However, the platelayer was not completely free even on his day off. If he wanted to leave home, he had to request permission from the railway engineer. The response came not to the platelayer, but to the platelayer's immediate superior – the platelayer foreman.

To the Railway Engineer, Stockholm
The undersigned respectfully requests permission to travel to Tomteboda on the Sunday the 14th of this month.
January 2, 1906
Platelayer No. 1.004 G.H. Skoglund

Platelayer foreman Bergelmer
As Sundays are intended for much-needed rest for the staff after strenuous service and not for leisure trips, the application is not approved unless the purpose of the journey is stated. Please inform your staff of this and that when they wish to take leisure trips, they must request permission.
January 9, 1906
Bergelmer

From the book "Det bevingade hjulets folk" by Henry Kjellvard