Penance Paid

Home again, home again,
Jiggedy jig.
As usual I was scoping other people's conversations.  I just can't help myself.  So...on the homeward trip.
Two men were engaging in a passing the time of day - a getting to know you kind of conversation - during the BC Ferry ride from Vancouver to Nanaimo. 

It gets down to 30 below in the Hazletons.
Ya, wicked weather, out there.
Oh, you've been up there?
Oh ya.  I worked on the railway.  Freezing work in winter.
My dad was with the railway.  He lost his leg. Under a train.  Cut right off!
Boy! that must have hurt!  

"Really?"  I restrained myself from saying.  "Do you think so?"
 I guess that's the penance paid for eavesdropping.