Throughout their journey, the three friends—J., George, and Harris—frequently engage in small talk with the people they encounter at various inns and pubs along the river. These interactions often serve as humorous interludes, highlighting the characters' personalities and their knack for finding themselves in comical situations.

One notable instance of small talk occurs at an inn in Marlow, where J. and George strike up a conversation with an elderly man. The man, a retired bargeman, regales them with tales of his past adventures on the river, including a harrowing encounter with a swan. J. and George, eager to hear more, encourage the man's storytelling, interjecting with questions and expressing their admiration for his experiences.

In another instance, at a pub in Pangbourne, Harris engages in a lively discussion with a local about the merits of different fishing techniques. Harris, ever opinionated, passionately defends his preferred method, while the local counters with his own expertise. The exchange, though lighthearted, showcases Harris's competitive nature and his tendency to become engrossed in debates.

These examples demonstrate how the three friends use small talk to connect with others and add a touch of humor to their journey. Their conversations, often sparked by shared interests or a simple desire to chat, reveal their amiable nature and their ability to find common ground with people from all walks of life.