I and The boatman

To continue with my journey, I needed a boat to cross the river. Although, I knew I can swim, but there was a fear to get drowned. Therefore, I kept looking for a boat. My luck was with me, as I found a boatman nearby. I get into his boat and crossed the river, giving a penny in return which he accepted, humbly. I went along with my journey leaving both the boat and the boatman behind!

'What a pity?', I thought about the boatman. Though he had a boat of his own, he is stuck in the middle, not taking the path which I was seeking. I smiled at his foolishness and went along my way.

Further down the path I was again in front of a river looking for a boat to help me out. To my astonishment, I found the same boatman with another boat. Puzzled, I sat in his boat, crossed the river and then asked how he could be here when I saw him before! He smiled at my curiosity and said calmly, 'Further down the path, there is another river, and you will find me there as well.'