# The Fen Ferry explained — The Black Arrow

> Chapter companion for The Black Arrow by Robert Louis Stevenson.

## What happens

Dick Shelton and Matcham cross the River Till with the ferryman Hugh, who warns them of John-a-Fenne lying in wait. Despite precautions, they are ambushed, their horse is shot, and the boat capsizes. Matcham saves Dick from drowning, and they escape into the woods, where Dick jests about Matcham's girlish appearance and they share food before Dick scouts ahead.

## Themes in this chapter

### Identity and Disguise

Matcham's appearance and mannerisms lead to mistaken identity, with Hugh and Dick both questioning whether he is a girl.

### Loyalty and Betrayal

Hugh Ferryman's loyalty to Sir Daniel is compromised by fear of John-a-Fenne, leading to a tense crossing.

## Character check-ins

### Dick Shelton

Shows leadership and bravery, rescues Matcham, and jokes about his appearance.

### Matcham

Reveals ability to swim, saves Dick from drowning, and is teased for looking like a maid.

### Hugh Ferryman

Ferries Dick and Matcham, warns of John-a-Fenne, and is complicit in the ambush.

### John-a-Fenne

Ambushes the party from an island, shoots their horse, and causes the boat to capsize.

## Key lines

> Time's in the saddle

I am in a hurry

_Dick uses this phrase to express urgency to the ferryman._

> Ye be mortal small made, master

You are very slight in build, sir

_Hugh Ferryman comments on Matcham's slender physique, hinting at his feminine appearance._

> I swim like a cannonball

I am a poor swimmer

_Dick admits his inability to swim after being rescued by Matcham._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_black_arrow_se/chapters/iii-the-fen-ferry
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_black_arrow_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_black_arrow_se/chapters