Yes, we need to be glad for any steam operation these days, but I cringe every time I see a steam engine with a diesel behind it, making it look as if steam isn't dependable enough to carry the load on its own. Maybe the diesel is there to provide electrical power for some functions in the coaches. Or perhaps it's justified on heavily-travelled main lines like the UP where a steam breakdown would jeopardize revenue freight traffic. Otherwise, it seems to me that just the visual presence of a diesel tagging along sure spoils the concept of a genuine steam railroading experience such as one can have on railroads like the D&S, C&TS, etc., where the power is 100% dependable, reliable, trustworthy steam !