The Canal Boat That Never Reached Birmingham

The boat was called Audrey. She was long and narrow, painted green and red. Martin’s father drove Audrey for thirty years. Now, his father was gone. Martin had a simple plan: drive the boat to a new owner in Birmingham.

Martin did not know how to drive a boat. On the first day, the canal was quiet. The water was brown and slow. On the second morning, Martin reached a lock. A lock is a water gate that moves boats up or down. Martin pushed the heavy metal bar. He pushed hard, but he slipped. He fell into the cold water.

A woman on the path laughed. Her name was Pat. She helped Martin out of the water. Pat lived on an orange boat. She made him a cup of tea. She showed him how to open the lock. 'The canal tells you what it needs,' she said. 'You just have to listen.'

They travelled together for two days. Pat showed him the best pubs and the most beautiful trees. Martin looked at the golden light on the water. He began to understand why his father loved the canal. He was not in a hurry anymore.

He called the man in Birmingham. 'I need more time,' Martin said. 'Take your time,' the man replied.

Martin reached Birmingham two weeks later. He sold the boat and gave the new owner his map. On the map, Martin had written the names of plants and the best places to stop.

'Someone knew this canal well,' the new owner said.

'Two people,' Martin said. 'Now it is your turn.'