Forget me Knott settles down 5/5

"Full ahead," called Barnacle Bill.

The paddle wheels started turning again and the two boats separated rapidly. Fern continued gazing after the brig until it was practically out of sight. Then she turned to Barnacle Bill.

"Where did it come from and where's it going?" she asked.

"Where is 'she' going," corrected Barnacle Bill automatically, "all boats are called 'she'. I don't know where she's going but she certainly came from the goblin boatyard. We'll be coming up to it in a minute, so we'll go in and have a look if you like."

The steamer slowed again, headed for the southern shore and was soon threading its way through the channel leading to the boatyard. They moored at the quayside and Barnacle Bill took Fern ashore to meet the foregoblin.
"I wonder if you could spare the time to show miss Knott round the yard?" he asked. "I'm off to the chandler's for some rope and I'd like to fill my tanks with fresh water if I may."
Barnacle Bill went off to make his purchases while Fern was shown round the yard.

"Quite a practical sailor for a fairy," said Norman when Barnacle Bill returned. "You've taught her well young Bill."

Barnacle Bill actually blushed.

"Oh well, I've done my best to teach her my boating skills," he said modestly.

"Well we've taken to each other," said Norman "and if there's no objection, I'd like to take her on here as an apprentice. We can teach her boat building, rigging and fitting out..."

"Please Barnacle Bill," interrupted Fern eagerly. "I don't think anyone at the Wish Warehouse would miss me and I'd love to stay. There's something about the sea that really appeals to me."

"Well it's not up to me," said Barnacle Bill "but I'm sure neither Abigail or Moonshine would mind. I think they'd be only too pleased to know that you're happy. I'll have a word with them next time we meet."

He went back on board his vessel and after the usual flow of orders, steamed out into the river.

Fern and the foregoblin watched him leave.

"Right then Apprentice Fern, the first thing you have to learn here is how to make a good, strong cup of tea."

Smiling happily Fern followed Norman back towards the boatyard office and her new career.