The Bargee

Hemel is a brash, charming canal worker who lives for life on the water. He clings to his independence and his Don Juan reputation, even as Christine's pregnancy complicates his world. He embodies the tension between a free, boat-bound life and the responsibilities of family.

Hemel's cousin and loyal, sometimes rival, who shares the canal lifestyle. He provides humor and practical help, while occasionally complicating Hemel's schemes. His presence highlights the camaraderie and risks of boat-mown living.

Daughter of lock-keeper Joe Turnbull, Christine falls for Hemel but fears canal life. She becomes pregnant and faces pressure about marriage and living on land, while her affection for Hemel remains strong.

Lock keeper and Christine's father, Joe disapproves of Hemel and the canal-worker lifestyle. He reacts with protective anger to the pregnancy, draining the canal and using drastic measures to assert control, revealing paternal authority and stubborn pride.

A barmaid and one of Hemel's lovers encountered during his canal circuit. Nellie learns of Hemel's other girlfriends, adding tension to Hemel's romantic life and the social dynamics of the canal towns.

An inept mariner Hemel repeatedly encounters in a small pleasure craft, providing a light, comic foil to the serious backdrop of canal life.

A character encountered within the canal community; interacts with the Turnbulls and the boatmen, contributing to the social web surrounding the lock-keeper and his daughter.

The local doctor who represents the broader social world beyond the lock-house and boats, offering medical perspective in a community facing stress.

The foreman of the boats' operation; he embodies workplace authority and the routine pressures of a canal-working environment.

The local barman, a social hub figure who observes canal life and provides a quiet link between characters.