Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Model 68 riding mower, forward gears, riding mower

Question
Got this unit as a fixer upper.Got the motor to run.Seems I can only get the tranny into reverse,not any of the forward gears.I noticed that on top of the tranny there is a gizmo with 2 wires running to it.What's that for, is it a safety device or something not allowing one to put it in gear unless the clutch is depressed or something like that ?  

Answer
The wires are the safeties.  They have no internal trans function.

Does the lever move at all in forward.  If yes you, wait a minute, yes or no, you have an internal issue.

Pull the trans out and take off the top.  Take a look.  The problem will be obvious.  If it's not obvious you are in over your head.  Not the fixer upper for you.  Have a garage sell.