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MOBY362 DICK25 ; OR519 THE19 WHALE422 by406 Herman44 Melville25 CHAPTER293 153 Loomings Call259 me2 Ishmael196 . Some265 years116 ago141 --never206 mind118 how19 long544 precisely217 -- having69 little554 or519 no235 money383 in107 my36 purse322 , and236 nothing324 particular336 to261 interest323 me2 on392 shore280 , I482 thought186 I482 would282 sail218 about123 a10 little554 and236 see370 the19 watery59 part207 of89 the19 world126 . It162 is487 a10 way435 I482 have254 of89 driving280 off111 the19 spleen29 and236 regulating43 the19 circulation93 . Whenever15 I482 find138 myself99 growing66 grim19 about123 the19 mouth414 ; whenever15 it162 is487 a10 damp264 , drizzly321 November197 in107 my36 soul428 ; whenever15 I482 find138 myself99 involuntarily124 pausing19 before344 coffin284 warehouses152 , and236 bringing9 up405 the19 rear252 of89 every389 funeral390 I482 meet16 ; and236 especially371 whenever15 my36 hypos get126 such420 an138 upper403 hand252 of89 me2 , that14 it162 requires205 a10 strong145 moral221 principle420 to261 prevent491 me2 from316 deliberately336 stepping299 into554 the19 street100 , and236 methodically178 knocking82 people482 's483 hats379 off111 --then45 , I482 account102 it162 high361 time577 to261 get126 to261 sea67 as113 soon18 as113 I482 can450 . This256 is487 my36 substitute53 for190 pistol167 and236 ball141 . With449 a10 philosophical404 flourish473 Cato102 throws53 himself282 upon419 his433 sword273 ; I482 quietly380 take279 to261 the19 ship438 . There340 is487 nothing324 surprising359 in107 this256 . If141 they382 but330 knew480 it162 , almost518 all145 men62 in107 their219 degree209 , some265 time577 or519 other282 , cherish181 very515 nearly575 the19 same541 feelings120 towards417 the19 ocean224 with449 me2 . There340 now20 is487 your162 insular129 city82 of89 the19 Manhattoes279 , belted114 round287 by406 wharves329 as113 Indian303 isles425 by406 coral22 reefs258 --commerce292 surrounds246 it162 with449 her400 surf283 . Right499 and236 left159 , the19 streets374 take279 you227 waterward. Its234 extreme31 downtown303 is487 the19 battery451 , where579 that14 noble226 mole156 is487 washed479 by406 waves443 , and236 cooled565 by406 breezes127 , which16 a10 few49 hours127 previous376 were324 out66 of89 sight365 of89 land406 . Look523 at65 the19 crowds451 of89 water520 -gazers there340 . Circumambulate377 the19 city82 of89 a10 dreamy247 Sabbath280 afternoon128 . Go20 from316 Corlears Hook157 to261 Coenties Slip64 , and236 from316 thence158 , by406 Whitehall255 , northward63 . What243 do353 you227 see370 ?--Posted478 like410 silent382 sentinels583 all145 around66 the19 town172 , stand530 thousands7 upon419 thousands7 of89 mortal371 men62 fixed564 in107 ocean224 reveries423 . Some265 leaning559 against417 the19 spiles122 ; some265 seated158 upon419 the19 pier-heads331 ; some265 looking318 over82 the19 bulwarks411 glasses527 ! of89 ships21 from316 China253 ; some265 high361 aloft276 in107 the19 rigging516 , as113 if141 striving388 to261 get126 a10 still278 better34 seaward246 peep222 . But330 these527 are314 all145 landsmen117 ; of89 week11 days351 pent314 up405 in107 lath336 and236 plaster113 -- tied101 to261 counters414 , nailed419 to261 benches23 , clinched353 to261 desks3 . How19 then45 is487 this256 ? Are314 the19 green549 fields64 gone190 ? What243 do353 they382 here135 ? But330 look523 ! here135 come420 more348 crowds451 , pacing253 straight346 for190 the19 water520 , and236 seemingly261 bound108 for190 a10 dive316 . Strange440 ! Nothing324 will584 content7 them146 but330 the19 extremest522 limit272 of89 the19 land406 ; loitering86 under533 the19 shady88 lee472 of89 yonder41 warehouses152 will584 not518 suffice137 . No235 . They382 must226 get126 just108 as113 nigh254 the19 water520 as113 they382 possibly201 can450 without309 falling498 in107 . And236 there340 they382 stand530 --miles278 of89 them146 --leagues116 . Inlanders all145 , they382 come420 from316 lanes76 and236 alleys41 , streets374 and236 avenues441 ,-- north174 , east524 , south257 , and236 west569 . Yet443 here135 they382 all145 unite475 . Tell392 me2 , does565 the19 magnetic181 virtue16 of89 the19 needles265 of89 the19 compasses344 of89 all145 those427 ships21 attract27 them146 thither118 ? Once248 more348 . Say306 you227 are314 in107 the19 country362 ; in107 some265 high361 land406 of89 lakes157 . Take279 almost518 any501 path234 you227 please153 , and236 ten198 to261 one470 it162 carries440 you227 down133 in107 a10 dale571 , and236 leaves441 you227 there340 by406 a10 pool298 in107 the19 stream184 . There340 is487 magic54 in107 it162 . Let66 the19 most216 absent122 -minded335 of89 men62 be341 plunged340 in107 his433 deepest494 reveries423 --stand530 that14 man17 on392 his433 legs108 , set422 his433 feet349 a10 -going227 , and236 he362 will584 infallibly426 lead362 you227 to261 water520 , if141 water520 there340 be341 in107 all145 that14 region145 . Should255 you227 ever208 be341 athirst280 in107 the19 great259 American272 desert255 , try266 this256 experiment40 , if141 your162 caravan125 happen352 to261 be341 supplied338 with449 a10 metaphysical38 professor281 . Yes143 , as113 every389 one470 knows286 , meditation21 and236 water520 are314 wedded489 for190 ever208 . But330 here135 is487 an138 artist292 . He362 desires401 to261 paint94 you227 the19 dreamiest, shadiest24 , quietest282 , most216 enchanting248 bit72 of89 romantic133 landscape192 in107 all145 the19 valley18 of89 the19 Saco398 . What243 is487 the19 chief156 element38 he362 employs102 ? There340 stand530 his433 trees354 , each520 with449 a10 hollow511 trunk389 , as113 if141 a10 hermit44 and236 a10 crucifix127 were324 within503 ; and236 here135 sleeps136 his433 meadow310 , and236 there340 sleep233 his433 cattle264 ; and236 up405 from316 yonder41 cottage29 goes205 a10 sleepy452 smoke99 . Deep483 into554 distant353 woodlands75 winds399 a10 mazy110 way435 , reaching141 to261 overlapping25 spurs342 of89 mountains202 bathed120 in107 their219 hill219 -side246 blue240 . But330 though400 the19 picture264 lies27 thus362 tranced110 , and236 though400 this256 pine54 -tree482 shakes560 down133 its234 sighs75 like410 leaves441 upon419 this256 shepherd224 's483 head219 , yet443 all145 were324 vain216 , unless54 the19 shepherd224 's483 eye220 were324 fixed564 upon419 the19 magic54 stream184 before344 him248 . Go20 visit229 the19 Prairies155 in107 June277 , when189 for190 scores316 on392 scores316 of89 miles278 you227 wade401 knee235 -deep483 among483 Tiger293 -lilies--what243 is487 the19 one470 charm251 wanting361 ?-- Water520 there340 is487 not518 a10 drop22 of89 water520 there340 ! Were324 Niagara438 but330 a10 cataract192 of89 sand380 , would282 you227 travel362 your162 thousand586 miles278 to261 see370 it162 ? Why177 did444 the19 poor533 poet384 of89 Tennessee165 , upon419 suddenly193 receiving124 two527 handfuls106 of89 silver205 , deliberate29 whether454 to261 buy105 him248 a10 coat7 , which16 he362 sadly75 needed133 , or519 invest308 his433 money383 in107 a10 pedestrian19 trip345 to261 Rockaway4 Beach183 ? Why177 is487 almost518 every389 robust127 healthy456 boy110 with449 a10 robust127 healthy456 soul428 in107 him248 , at65 some265 time577 or519 other282 crazy418 to261 go20 to261 sea67 ? Why177 upon419 your162 first13 voyage137 as113 a10 passenger403 , did444 you227 yourself176 feel461 such420 a10 mystical493 vibration78 , when189 first13 told82 that14 you227 and236 your162 ship438 were324 now20 out66 of89 sight365 of89 land406 ? Why177 did444 the19 old447 Persians111 hold204 the19 sea67 holy61 ? Why177 did444 the19 Greeks489 give142 it162 a10 separate495 deity220 , and236 own248 brother46 of89 Jove274 ? Surely388 all145 this256 is487 not518 without309 meaning62 . And236 still278 deeper253 the19 meaning62 of89 that14 story197 of89 Narcissus57 , who319 because540 he362 could375 not518 grasp332 the19 tormenting362 , mild117 image74 he362 saw113 in107 the19 fountain524 , plunged340 into554 it162 and236 was454 drowned83 . But330 that14 same541 image74 , we465 ourselves15 see370 in107 all145 rivers320 and236 oceans60 . It162 is487 the19 image74 of89 the19 ungraspable17 phantom101 of89 life71 ; and236 this256 is487 the19 key140 to261 it162 all145 . Now20 , when189 I482 say306 that14 I482 am375 in107 the19 habit169 of89 going227 to261 sea67 whenever15 I482 begin183 to261 grow163 hazy147 about123 the19 eyes125 , and236 begin183 to261 be341 over82 conscious443 of89 my36 lungs40 , I482 do353 not518 mean504 to261 have254 it162 inferred165 that14 I482 ever208 go20 to261 sea67 as113 a10 passenger403 . For190 to261 go20 as113 a10 passenger403 you227 must226 needs41 have254 a10 purse322 , and236 a10 purse322 is487 but330 a10 rag479 unless54 you227 have254 something181 in107 it162 . Besides465 , passengers368 get126 sea67 -sick250 -- grow163 quarrelsome46 --don280 't500 sleep233 of89 nights224 --do353 not518 enjoy173 themselves510 much61 , as113 a10 general37 thing309 ;--no235 , I482 never206 go20 as113 a10 passenger403 ; nor137 , though400 I482 am375 something181 of89 a10 salt183 , do353 I482 ever208 go20 to261 sea67 as113 a10 Commodore415 , or519 a10 Captain295 , or519 a10 Cook41 . I482 abandon12 the19 glory173 and236 distinction301 of89 such420 offices257 to261 those427 who319 like410 them146 . For190 my36 part207 , I482 abominate245 all145 honorable15 respectable376 toils83 , trials186 , and236 tribulations160 of89 every389 kind451 whatsoever268 . It162 is487 quite327 as113 much61 as113 I482 can450 do353 to261 take279 care307 of89 myself99 , without309 taking146 care307 of89 ships21 , barques247 , brigs231 , schooners303 , and236 what243 not518 . And236 as113 for190 going227 as113 cook41 ,--though400 I482 confess315 there340 is487 considerable75 glory173 in107 that14 , a10 cook41 being264 a10 sort42 of89 officer70 on392 ship438 -board540 --yet443 , somehow425 , I482 never206 fancied100 broiling367 fowls206 ;--though400 once248 broiled183 , judiciously106 buttered117 , and236 judgmatically salted212 and236 peppered83 , there340 is487 no235 one470 who319 will584 speak337 more348 respectfully42 , not518 to261 say306 reverentially190 , of89 a10 broiled183 fowl11 than77 I482 will584 . It162 is487 out66 of89 the19 idolatrous163 dotings of89 the19 old447 Egyptians188 upon419 broiled183 ibis25 and236 roasted540 river201 horse409 , that14 you227 see370 the19 mummies110 of89 those427 creatures5 in107 their219 huge132 bakehouses the19 pyramids202 . No235 , when189 I482 go20 to261 sea67 , I482 go20 as113 a10 simple271 sailor561 , right499 before344 the19 mast44 , plumb360 down133 into554 the19 fore259 -castle271 , aloft276 there340 to261 the19 royal161 mast44 -head116 . True483 , they382 rather178 order343 me2 about123 some265 , and236 make175 me2 jump50 from316 spar14 to261 spar14 , like410 a10 grasshopper375 in107 a10 May236 meadow310 . And236 at65 first13 , this256 sort42 of89 thing309 is487 unpleasant421 enough217 . It162 touches26 one470 's483 sense85 of89 honor497 , particularly106 if141 you227 come420 of89 an138 old447 established214 family347 in107 the19 land406 , the19 Van164 Rensselaers279 , or519 Randolphs263 , or519 Hardicanutes. And236 more348 than77 all145 , if141 just108 previous376 to261 putting243 your162 hand252 into554 the19 tar59 -pot209 , you227 have254 been185 lording84 it162 as113 a10 country362 schoolmaster115 , making415 the19 tallest2 boys22 stand530 in107 awe305 of89 you227 . The19 transition59 is487 a10 keen202 one470 , I482 assure511 you227 , from316 a10 schoolmaster115 to261 a10 sailor561 , and236 requires205 a10 strong145 decoction401 of89 Seneca65 and236 the19 Stoics173 to261 enable93 you227 to261 grin401 and236 bear48 it162 . But330 even198 this256 wears270 off111 in107 time577 . What243 of89 it162 , if141 some265 old447 hunks110 of89 a10 sea67 -captain295 orders199 me2 to261 get126 a10 broom559 and236 sweep471 down133 the19 decks386 ? What243 does565 that14 indignity29 amount11 to261 , weighed107 , I482 mean504 , in107 the19 scales543 of89 the19 New36 Testament413 ? Do353 you227 think424 the19 archangel82 Gabriel152 thinks344 anything480 the19 less261 of89 me2 , because540 I482 promptly481 and236 respectfully42 obey67 that14 old447 hunks110 in107 that14 particular336 instance141 ? Who319 ain't500 a10 slave126 ? Tell392 me2 that14 . Well263 , then45 , however44 the19 old447 sea67 -captains124 may236 order343 me2 about123 --however44 they382 may236 thump421 and236 punch117 me2 about123 , I482 have254 the19 satisfaction500 of89 knowing240 that14 it162 is487 all145 right499 ; that14 everybody77 else212 is487 one470 way435 or519 other282 served460 in107 much61 the19 same541 way435 -- either45 in107 a10 physical43 or519 metaphysical38 point438 of89 view370 , that14 is487 ; and236 so281 the19 universal397 thump421 is487 passed87 round287 , and236 all145 hands87 should255 rub104 each520 other282 's483 shoulder168 -blades248 , and236 be341 content7 . Again52 , I482 always367 go20 to261 sea67 as113 a10 sailor561 , because540 they382 make175 a10 point438 of89 paying475 me2 for190 my36 trouble328 , whereas18 they382 never206 pay496 passengers368 a10 single77 penny78 that14 I482 ever208 heard444 of89 . On392 the19 contrary166 , passengers368 themselves510 must226 pay496 . And236 there340 is487 all145 the19 difference3 in107 the19 world126 between77 paying475 and236 being264 paid490 . The19 act10 of89 paying475 is487 perhaps75 the19 most216 uncomfortable72 infliction392 that14 the19 two527 orchard365 thieves437 entailed392 upon419 us569 . But330 being264 paid490 ,-- what243 will584 compare184 with449 it162 ? The19 urbane27 activity293 with449 which16 a10 man17 receives80 money383 is487 really406 marvellous35 , considering115 that14 we465 so281 earnestly98 believe191 money383 to261 be341 the19 root24 of89 all145 earthly64 ills368 , and236 that14 on392 no235 account102 can450 a10 monied142 man17 enter204 heaven163 . Ah132 ! how19 cheerfully100 we465 consign277 ourselves15 to261 perdition431 ! Finally69 , I482 always367 go20 to261 sea67 as113 a10 sailor561 , because540 of89 the19 wholesome45 exercise240 and236 pure61 air209 of89 the19 fore259 -castle271 deck505 . For190 as113 in107 this256 world126 , head219 winds399 are314 far258 more348 prevalent83 than77 winds399 from316 astern39 (that14 is487 , if141 you227 never206 violate74 the19 Pythagorean378 maxim499 ), so281 for190 the19 most216 part207 the19 Commodore415 on392 the19 quarter6 -deck505 gets27 his433 atmosphere64 at65 second386 hand252 from316 the19 sailors64 on392 the19 forecastle367 . He362 thinks344 he362 breathes410 it162 first13 ; but330 not518 so281 . In107 much61 the19 same541 way435 do353 the19 commonalty417 lead362 their219 leaders211 in107 many282 other282 things4 , at65 the19 same541 time577 that14 the19 leaders211 little554 suspect307 it162 . But330 wherefore220 it162 was454 that14 after358 having69 repeatedly179 smelt286 the19 sea67 as113 a10 merchant332 sailor561 , I482 should255 now20 take279 it162 into554 my36 head219 to261 go20 on392 a10 whaling155 voyage137 ; this256 the19 invisible186 police198 officer70 of89 the19 Fates553 , who319 has399 the19 constant149 surveillance264 of89 me2 , and236 secretly208 dogs393 me2 , and236 influences232 me2 in107 some265 unaccountable316 way435 -- he362 can450 better34 answer164 than77 any501 one470 else212 . And236 , doubtless101 , my36 going227 on392 this256 whaling155 voyage137 , formed294 part207 of89 the19 grand229 programme544 of89 Providence112 that14 was454 drawn564 up405 a10 long544 time577 ago141 . It162 came549 in107 as113 a10 sort42 of89 brief59 interlude201 and236 solo260 between77 more348 extensive83 performances11 . I482 take279 it162 that14 this256 part207 of89 the19 bill338 must226 have254 run172 something181 like410 this256 : "Grand229 Contested256 Election142 for190 the19 Presidency301 of89 the19 United419 States443 . "WHALING155 VOYAGE137 BY406 ONE470 ISHMAEL196 ." "BLOODY357 BATTLE105 IN107 AFFGHANISTAN116 ." Though400 I482 cannot tell392 why177 it162 was454 exactly315 that14 those427 stage22 managers25 , the19 Fates553 , put190 me2 down133 for190 this256 shabby24 part207 of89 a10 whaling155 voyage137 , when189 others317 were324 set422 down133 for190 magnificent512 parts470 in107 high361 tragedies225 , and236 short522 and236 easy281 parts470 in107 genteel284 comedies579 , and236 jolly50 parts470 in107 farces305 -- though400 I482 cannot tell392 why177 this256 was454 exactly315 ; yet443 , now20 that14 I482 recall288 all145 the19 circumstances267 , I482 think424 I482 can450 see370 a10 little554 into554 the19 springs35 and236 motives5 which16 being264 cunningly193 presented320 to261 me2 under533 various183 disguises255 , induced45 me2 to261 set422 about123 performing444 the19 part207 I482 did444 , besides465 cajoling24 me2 into554 the19 delusion12 that14 it162 was454 a10 choice340 resulting105 from316 my36 own248 unbiased4 freewill220 and236 discriminating336 judgment83 . Chief156 among483 these527 motives5 was454 the19 overwhelming211 idea250 of89 the19 great259 whale422 himself282 . Such420 a10 portentous125 and236 mysterious304 monster480 roused336 all145 my36 curiosity501 . Then45 the19 wild230 and236 distant353 seas350 where579 he362 rolled226 his433 island516 bulk181 ; the19 undeliverable, nameless427 perils140 of89 the19 whale422 ; these527 , with449 all145 the19 attending416 marvels25 of89 a10 thousand586 Patagonian31 sights24 and236 sounds394 , helped204 to261 sway497 me2 to261 my36 wish95 . With449 other282 men62 , perhaps75 , such420 things4 would282 not518 have254 been185 inducements74 ; but330 as113 for190 me2 , I482 am375 tormented256 with449 an138 everlasting249 itch439 for190 things4 remote141 . I482 love391 to261 sail218 forbidden36 seas350 , and236 land406 on392 barbarous38 coasts147 . Not518 ignoring356 what243 is487 good221 , I482 am375 quick241 to261 perceive131 a10 horror134 , and236 could375 still278 be341 social149 with449 it162 --would282 they382 let66 me2 --since374 it162 is487 but330 well263 to261 be341 on392 friendly495 terms297 with449 all145 the19 inmates480 of89 the19 place107 one470 lodges92 in107 . By406 reason238 of89 these527 things4 , then45 , the19 whaling155 voyage137 was454 welcome2 ; the19 great259 flood167 -gates253 of89 the19 wonder76 -world126 swung205 open464 , and236 in107 the19 wild230 conceits217 that14 swayed136 me2 to261 my36 purpose514 , two527 and236 two527 there340 floated6 into554 my36 inmost279 soul428 , endless489 processions161 of89 the19 whale422 , and236 , mid84 most216 of89 them146 all145 , one470 grand229 hooded374 phantom101 , like410 a10 snow498 hill219 in107 the19 air209 . CHAPTER293 2404 The19 Carpet446 -Bag41 I482 stuffed502 a10 shirt413 or519 two527 into554 my36 old447 carpet446 -bag41 , tucked143 it162 under533 my36 arm25 , and236 started492 for190 Cape23 Horn139 and236 the19 Pacific294 . Quitting155 the19 good221 city82 of89 old447 Manhatto, I482 duly163 arrived553 in107 New36 Bedford83 . It162 was454 on392 a10 Saturday22 night108 in107 December490 . Much61 was454 I482 disappointed86 upon419 learning219 that14 the19 little554 packet339 for190 Nantucket283 had364 already93 sailed248 , and236 that14 no235 way435 of89 reaching141 that14 place107 would282 offer422 , till181 the19 following181 Monday396 . As113 most216 young389 candidates66 for190 the19 pains97 and236 penalties13 of89 whaling155 stop48 at65 this256 same541 New36 Bedford83 , thence158 to261 embark296 on392 their219 voyage137 , it162 may236 as113 well263 be341 related377 that14 I482 , for190 one470 , had364 no235 idea250 of89 so281 doing227 . For190 my36 mind118 was454 made563 up405 to261 sail218 in107 no235 other282 than77 a10 Nantucket283 craft187 , because540 there340 was454 a10 fine333 , boisterous439 something181 about123 everything233 connected202 with449 that14 famous254 old447 island516 , which16 amazingly364 pleased282 me2 . Besides465 though400 New36 Bedford83 has399 of89 late351 been185 gradually355 monopolizing136 the19 business168 of89 whaling155 , and236 though400 in107 this256 matter176 poor533 old447 Nantucket283 is487 now20 much61 behind80 her400 , yet443 Nantucket283 was454 her400 great259 original463 -- the19 Tyre38 of89 this256 Carthage158 ;--the19 place107 where579 the19 first13 dead568 American272 whale422 was454 stranded299 . Where579 else212 but330 from316 Nantucket283 did444 those427 aboriginal15 whalemen451 , the19 Red293 -Men62 , first13 sally7 out66 in107 canoes471 to261 give142 chase89 to261 the19 Leviathan384 ? And236 where579 but330 from316 Nantucket283 , too11 , did444 that14 first13 adventurous499 little554 sloop172 put190 forth152 , partly311 laden126 with449 imported107 cobblestones238 --so281 goes205 the19 story197 -- to261 throw345 at65 the19 whales331 , in107 order343 to261 discover291 when189 they382 were324 nigh254 enough217 to261 risk97 a10 harpoon67 from316 the19 bowsprit120 ? Now20 having69 a10 night108 , a10 day112 , and236 still278 another269 night108 following181 before344 me2 in107 New36 Bedford83 , ere83 I482 could375 embark296 for190 my36 destined197 port409 , it162 became70 a10 matter176 of89 concernment217 where579 I482 was454 to261 eat286 and236 sleep233 meanwhile282 . It162 was454 a10 very515 dubious170 -looking318 , nay358 , a10 very515 dark471 and236 dismal110 night108 , bitingly22 cold330 and236 cheerless336 . I482 knew480 no235 one470 in107 the19 place107 . With449 anxious256 grapnels188 I482 had364 sounded163 my36 pocket461 , and236 only517 brought85 up405 a10 few49 pieces283 of89 silver205 ,--So281 , wherever408 you227 go20 , Ishmael196 , said252 I482 to261 myself99 , as113 I482 stood1 in107 the19 middle39 of89 a10 dreary445 street100 shouldering248 my36 bag141 , and236 comparing339 the19 gloom7 towards417 the19 north174 with449 the19 darkness493 towards417 the19 south257 --wherever408 in107 your162 wisdom380 you227 may236 conclude1 to261 lodge272 for190 the19 night108 , my36 dear333 Ishmael196 , be341 sure41 to261 inquire41 the19 price248 , and236 don280 't500 be341 too11 particular336 . With449 halting82 steps392 I482 paced145 the19 streets374 , and236 passed87 the19 sign8 of89 "The19 Crossed202 Harpoons6 "--but330 it162 looked232 too11 expensive40 and236 jolly50 there340 . Further53 on392 , from316 the19 bright205 red293 windows115 of89 the19 "Sword273 -Fish187 Inn190 ," there340 came549 such420 fervent261 rays43 , that14 it162 seemed132 to261 have254 melted145 the19 packed55 snow498 and236 ice443 from316 before344 the19 house499 , for190 everywhere469 else212 the19 congealed109 frost113 lay62 ten198 inches301 thick502 in107 a10 hard337 , asphaltic4 pavement356 ,--rather178 weary306 for190 me2 , when189 I482 struck441 my36 foot467 against417 the19 flinty102 projections120 , because540 from316 hard337 , remorseless266 service343 the19 soles113 of89 my36 boots497 were324 in107 a10 most216 miserable364 plight215 . Too11 expensive40 and236 jolly50 , again52 thought186 I482 , pausing19 one470 moment258 to261 watch89 the19 broad267 glare27 in107 the19 street100 , and236 hear386 the19 sounds394 of89 the19 tinkling445 glasses527 within503 . But330 go20 on392 , Ishmael196 , said252 I482 at65 last436 ; don280 't500 you227 hear386 ? get126 away443 from316 before344 the19 door135 ; your162 patched435 boots497 are314 stopping406 the19 way435 . So281 on392 I482 went516 . I482 now20 by406 instinct72 followed234 the19 streets374 that14 took68 me2 waterward, for190 there340 , doubtless101 , were324 the19 cheapest189 , if141 not518 the19 cheeriest2 inns281 . Such420 dreary445 streets374 ! Blocks6 of89 blackness448 , not518 houses166 , on392 either45 hand252 , and236 here135 and236 there340 a10 candle248 , like410 a10 candle248 moving316 about123 in107 a10 tomb122 . At65 this256 hour384 of89 the19 night108 , of89 the19 last436 day112 of89 the19 week11 , that14 quarter6 of89 the19 town172 proved312 all145 but330 deserted178 . But330 presently166 I482 came549 to261 a10 smoky178 light382 proceeding422 from316 a10 low407 , wide465 building260 , the19 door135 of89 which16 stood1 invitingly497 open464 . It162 had364 a10 careless27 look523 , as113 if141 it162 were324 meant157 for190 the19 uses282 of89 the19 public3 ; so281 , entering423 , the19 first13 thing309 I482 did444 was454 to261 stumble113 over82 an138 ash481 -box226 in107 the19 porch337 . Ha387 ! thought186 I482 , ha387 , as113 the19 flying354 particles203 almost518 choked191 me2 , are314 these527 ashes243 from316 that14 destroyed197 city82 , Gomorrah102 ? But330 "The19 Crossed202 Harpoons6 ," and236 the19 "The19 Sword273 -Fish187 ?"--this256 , then45 must226 needs41 be341 the19 sign8 of89 "The19 Trap19 ." However44 , I482 picked129 myself99 up405 and236 hearing325 a10 loud556 voice233 within503 , pushed189 on392 and236 opened461 a10 second386 , interior163 door135 . It162 seemed132 the19 great259 Black581 Parliament221 sitting136 in107 Tophet210 . A10 hundred93 black581 faces97 turned492 round287 in107 their219 rows375 to261 peer169 ; and236 beyond421 , a10 black581 Angel63 of89 Doom73 was454 beating124 a10 book230 in107 a10 pulpit107 . It162 was454 a10 negro102 church317 ; and236 the19 preacher57 's483 text17 was454 about123 the19 blackness448 of89 darkness493 , and236 the19 weeping48 and236 wailing128 and236 teeth82 -gnashing190 there340 . Ha387 , Ishmael196 , muttered180 I482 , backing223 out66 , Wretched294 entertainment405 at65 the19 sign8 of89 'The19 Trap19 !' Moving316 on392 , I482 at65 last436 came549 to261 a10 dim14 sort42 of89 light382 not518 far258 from316 the19 docks99 , and236 heard444 a10 forlorn89 creaking39 in107 the19 air209 ; and236 looking318 up405 , saw113 a10 swinging379 sign8 over82 the19 door135 with449 a10 white82 painting320 upon419 it162 , faintly20 representing118 a10 tall373 straight346 jet423 of89 misty350 spray76 , and236 these527 words107 underneath224 --"The19 Spouter83 Inn190 :--Peter419 Coffin284 ." Coffin284 ?--Spouter83 ?--Rather178 ominous70 in107 that14 particular336 connexion400 , thought186 I482 . But330 it162 is487 a10 common304 name477 in107 Nantucket283 , they382 say306 , and236 I482 suppose120 this256 Peter419 here135 is487 an138 emigrant250 from316 there340 . As113 the19 light382 looked232 so281 dim14 , and236 the19 place107 , for190 the19 time577 , looked232 quiet337 enough217 , and236 the19 dilapidated196 little554 wooden35 house499 itself312 looked232 as113 if141 it162 might496 have254 been185 carted81 here135 from316 the19 ruins31 of89 some265 burnt37 district11 , and236 as113 the19 swinging379 sign8 had364 a10 poverty-stricken328 sort42 of89 creak23 to261 it162 , I482 thought186 that14 here135 was454 the19 very515 spot46 for190 cheap208 lodgings205 , and236 the19 best315 of89 pea212 coffee331 . It162 was454 a10 queer156 sort42 of89 place107 --a10 gable-ended225 old447 house499 , one470 side246 palsied26 as113 it162 were324 , and236 leaning559 over82 sadly75 . It162 stood1 on392 a10 sharp427 bleak151 corner204 , where579 that14 tempestuous431 wind262 Euroclydon375 kept290 up405 a10 worse561 howling204 than77 ever208 it162 did444 about123 poor533 Paul368 's483 tossed227 craft187 . Euroclydon375 , nevertheless104 , is487 a10 mighty2 pleasant233 zephyr105 to261 any501 one470 in107 -doors77 , with449 his433 feet349 on392 the19 hob562 quietly380 toasting320 for190 bed273 . In107 judging288 of89 that14 tempestuous431 wind262 called237 Euroclydon375 ," says424 an138 old447 writer280 --of89 whose286 works64 I482 possess35 the19 only517 copy380 extant557 --"it162 maketh29 a10 marvellous35 difference3 , whether454 thou173 lookest169 out66 at65 it162 from316 a10 glass27 window8 where579 the19 frost113 is487 all145 on392 the19 outside75 , or519 whether454 thou173 observest178 it162 from316 that14 sashless window8 , where579 the19 frost113 is487 on392 both558 sides331 , and236 of89 which16 the19 wight232 Death543 is487 the19 only517 glazier10 ." True483 enough217 , thought186 I482 , as113 this256 passage285 occurred205 to261 my36 mind118 --old447 black581 -letter539 , thou173 reasonest325 well263 . Yes143 , these527 eyes125 are314 windows115 , and236 this256 body348 of89 mine482 is487 the19 house499 . What243 a10 pity270 they382 didn't500 stop48 up405 the19 chinks415 and236 the19 crannies86 though400 , and236 thrust379 in107 a10 little554 lint41 here135 and236 there340 . But330 it162 's483 too11 late351 to261 make175 any501 improvements57 now20 . The19 universe426 is487 finished218 ; the19 copestone296 is487 on392 , and236 the19 chips333 were324 carted81 off111 a10 million437 years116 ago141 . Poor533 Lazarus27 there340 , chattering26 his433 teeth82 against417 the19 curbstone364 for190 his433 pillow376 , and236 shaking206 off111 his433 tatters89 with449 his433 shiverings265 , he362 might496 plug127 up405 both558 ears560 with449 rags302 , and236 put190 a10 corn237 -cob into554 his433 mouth414 , and236 yet443 that14 would282 not518 keep381 out66 the19 tempestuous431 Euroclydon375 . Euroclydon375 ! says424 old447 Dives165 , in107 his433 red293 silken488 wrapper344 --(he362 had364 a10 redder364 one470 afterwards418 ) pooh193 , pooh193 ! What243 a10 fine333 frosty58 night108 ; how19 Orion224 glitters218 ; what243 northern252 lights59 ! Let66 them146 talk173 of89 their219 oriental147 summer408 climes348 of89 everlasting249 conservatories477 ; give142 me2 the19 privilege414 of89 making415 my36 own248 summer408 with449 my36 own248 coals163 . But330 what243 thinks344 Lazarus27 ? Can450 he362 warm178 his433 blue240 hands87 by406 holding311 them146 up405 to261 the19 grand229 northern252 lights59 ? Would282 not518 Lazarus27 rather178 be341 in107 Sumatra208 than77 here135 ? Would282 he362 not518 far258 rather178 lay62 him248 down133 lengthwise288 along423 the19 line25 of89 the19 equator136 ; yea204 , ye483 gods325 ! go20 down133 to261 the19 fiery42 pit223 itself312 , in107 order343 to261 keep381 out66 this256 frost113 ? Now20 , that14 Lazarus27 should255 lie212 stranded299 there340 on392 the19 curbstone364 before344 the19 door135 of89 Dives165 , this256 is487 more348 wonderful291 than77 that14 an138 iceberg279 should255 be341 moored379 to261 one470 of89 the19 Moluccas287 . Yet443 Dives165 himself282 , he362 too11 lives245 like410 a10 Czar427 in107 an138 ice443 palace17 made563 of89 frozen446 sighs75 , and236 being264 a10 president66 of89 a10 temperance125 society520 , he362 only517 drinks530 the19 tepid166 tears470 of89 orphans27 . But330 no235 more348 of89 this256 blubbering522 now20 , we465 are314 going227 a10 -whaling155 , and236 there340 is487 plenty406 of89 that14 yet443 to261 come420 . Let66 us569 scrape455 the19 ice443 from316 our234 frosted83 feet349 , and236 see370 what243 sort42 of89 a10 place107 this256 "Spouter83 " may236 be341 . CHAPTER293 3212 The19 Spouter83 -Inn190 Entering423 that14 gable-ended225 Spouter83 -Inn190 , you227 found260 yourself176 in107 a10 wide465 , low407 , straggling361 entry282 with449 old447 -fashioned432 wainscots279 , reminding222 one470 of89 the19 bulwarks411 of89 some265 condemned518 old447 craft187 . On392 one470 side246 hung479 a10 very515 large385 oil118 painting320 so281 thoroughly4 besmoked141 , and236 every389 way435 defaced314 , that14 in107 the19 unequal153 crosslights545 by406 which16 you227 viewed41 it162 , it162 was454 only517 by406 diligent51 study252 and236 a10 series494 of89 systematic306 visits444 to261 it162 , and236 careful252 inquiry339 of89 the19 neighbors466 , that14 you227 could375 any501 way435 arrive8 at65 an138 understanding523 of89 its234 purpose514 . Such420 unaccountable316 masses361 of89 shades508 and236 shadows480 , that14 at65 first13 you227 almost518 thought186 some265 ambitious28 young389 artist292 , in107 the19 time577 of89 the19 New36 England348 hags350 , had364 endeavored69 to261 delineate384 chaos133 bewitched5 . But330 by406 dint75 of89 much61 and236 earnest495 contemplation501 , and236 oft9 repeated381 ponderings27 , and236 especially371 by406 throwing120 open464 the19 little554 window8 towards417 the19 back457 of89 the19 entry282 , you227 at65 last436 come420 to261 the19 conclusion330 that14 such420 an138 idea250 , however44 wild230 , might496 not518 be341 altogether31 unwarranted179 . But330 what243 most216 puzzled236 and236 confounded379 you227 was454 a10 long544 , limber227 , portentous125 , black581 mass36 of89 something181 hovering520 in107 the19 centre389 of89 the19 picture264 over82 three329 blue240 , dim14 , perpendicular83 lines241 floating30 in107 a10 nameless427 yeast275 . A10 boggy223 , soggy4 , squitchy picture264 truly530 , enough217 to261 drive548 a10 nervous154 man17 distracted180 . Yet443 was454 there340 a10 sort42 of89 indefinite376 , half119 -attained177 , unimaginable192 sublimity112 about123 it162 that14 fairly211 froze122 you227 to261 it162 , till181 you227 involuntarily124 took68 an138 oath115 with449 yourself176 to261 find138 out66 what243 that14 marvellous35 painting320 meant157 . Ever208 and236 anon88 a10 bright205 , but330 , alas129 , deceptive295 idea250 would282 dart293 you227 through295 .-- It162 's483 the19 Black581 Sea67 in107 a10 midnight539 gale440 .--It162 's483 the19 unnatural111 combat154 of89 the19 four175 primal177 elements225 .--It162 's483 a10 blasted253 heath303 .-- It162 's483 a10 Hyperborean26 winter317 scene228 .--It162 's483 the19 breaking6 -up405 of89 the19 icebound4 stream184 of89 Time577 . But330 at65 last436 all145 these527 fancies190 yielded90 to261 that14 one470 portentous125 something181 in107 the19 picture264 's483 midst533 . That14 once248 found260 out66 , and236 all145 the19 rest302 were324 plain28 . But330 stop48 ; does565 it162 not518 bear48 a10 faint316 resemblance128 to261 a10 gigantic157 fish187 ? even198 the19 great259 leviathan384 himself282 ? In107 fact12 , the19 artist292 's483 design31 seemed132 this256 : a10 final357 theory60 of89 my36 own248 , partly311 based391 upon419 the19 aggregated204 opinions320 of89 many282 aged361 persons5 with449 whom324 I482 conversed341 upon419 the19 subject382 . The19 picture264 represents272 a10 Cape23 -Horner in107 a10 great259 hurricane299 ; the19 half119 -foundered ship438 weltering213 there340 with449 its234 three329 dismantled426 masts212 alone2 visible94 ; and236 an138 exasperated190 whale422 , purposing43 to261 spring148 clean26 over82 the19 craft187 , is487 in107 the19 enormous327 act10 of89 impaling310 himself282 upon419 the19 three329 mast44 -heads279 . The19 opposite107 wall509 of89 this256 entry282 was454 hung479 all145 over82 with449 a10 heathenish320 array86 of89 monstrous395 clubs95 and236 spears450 . Some265 were324 thickly363 set422 with449 glittering144 teeth82 resembling445 ivory76 saws55 ; others317 were324 tufted272 with449 knots438 of89 human43 hair237 ; and236 one470 was454 sickle-shaped68 , with449 a10 vast43 handle546 sweeping61 round287 like410 the19 segment384 made563 in107 the19 new36 -mown grass418 by406 a10 long544 -armed116 mower244 . You227 shuddered147 as113 you227 gazed13 , and236 wondered315 what243 monstrous395 cannibal180 and236 savage398 could375 ever208 have254 gone190 a10 death543 -harvesting with449 such420 a10 hacking210 , horrifying83 implement72 . Mixed459 with449 these527 were324 rusty235 old447 whaling155 lances8 and236 harpoons6 all145 broken255 and236 deformed125 . Some265 were324 storied388 weapons489 . With449 this256 once248 long544 lance76 , now20 wildly356 elbowed41 , fifty406 years116 ago141 did444 Nathan84 Swain84 kill219 fifteen289 whales331 between77 a10 sunrise445 and236 a10 sunset305 . And236 that14 harpoon67 --so281 like410 a10 corkscrew181 now20 --was454 flung255 in107 Javan224 seas350 , and236 run172 away443 with449 by406 a10 whale422 , years116 afterwards418 slain268 off111 the19 Cape23 of89 Blanco331 . The19 original463 iron169 entered447 nigh254 the19 tail102 , and236 , like410 a10 restless92 needle459 sojourning392 in107 the19 body348 of89 a10 man17 , travelled452 full414 forty525 feet349 , and236 at65 last436 was454 found260 imbedded160 in107 the19 hump20 . Crossing402 this256 dusky98 entry282 , and236 on392 through295 yon252 low407 -arched4 way435 -- cut310 through295 what243 in107 old447 times121 must226 have254 been185 a10 great259 central229 chimney94 with449 fireplaces329 all145 round287 --you227 enter204 the19 public3 room65 . A10 still278 duskier354 place107 is487 this256 , with449 such420 low407 ponderous213 beams523 above502 , and236 such420 old447 wrinkled259 planks284 beneath320 , that14 you227 would282 almost518 fancy396 you227 trod319 some265 old447 craft187 's483 cockpits, especially371 of89 such420 a10 howling204 night108 , when189 this256 corner204 -anchored42 old447 ark25 rocked157 so281 furiously252 . On392 one470 side246 stood1 a10 long544 , low407 , shelf3 -like410 table572 covered452 with449 cracked423 glass27 cases108 , filled232 with449 dusty271 rarities125 gathered165 from316 this256 wide465 world126 's483 remotest95 nooks533 . Projecting336 from316 the19 further53 angle205 of89 the19 room65 stands256 a10 dark471 -looking318 den299 --the19 bar144 --a10 rude474 attempt385 at65 a10 right499 whale422 's483 head219 . Be341 that14 how19 it162 may236 , there340 stands256 the19 vast43 arched4 bone184 of89 the19 whale422 's483 jaw213 , so281 wide465 , a10 coach188 might496 almost518 drive548 beneath320 it162 . Within503 are314 shabby24 shelves315 , ranged435 round287 with449 old447 decanters40 , bottles149 , flasks141 ; and236 in107 those427 jaws341 of89 swift376 destruction423 , like410 another269 cursed441 Jonah41 (by406 which16 name477 indeed522 they382 called237 him248 ), bustles148 a10 little554 withered14 old447 man17 , who319 , for190 their219 money383 , dearly450 sells122 the19 sailors64 deliriums172 and236 death543 . Abominable156 are314 the19 tumblers522 into554 which16 he362 pours299 his433 poison24 . Though400 true483 cylinders155 without309 --within503 , the19 villanous336 green549 goggling121 glasses527 deceitfully409 tapered83 downwards468 to261 a10 cheating303 bottom461 . Parallel78 meridians258 rudely442 pecked260 into554 the19 glass27 , surround129 these527 footpads133 ' goblets402 . Fill380 to261 this256 mark169 , and236 your162 charge308 is487 but330 a10 penny78 ; to261 this256 a10 penny78 more348 ; and236 so281 on392 to261 the19 full414 glass27 -- the19 Cape23 Horn139 measure520 , which16 you227 may236 gulp364 down133 for190 a10 shilling389 . Upon419 entering423 the19 place107 I482 found260 a10 number196 of89 young389 seamen6 gathered165 about123 a10 table572 , examining12 by406 a10 dim14 light382 divers213 specimens91 of89 skrimshander. I482 sought82 the19 landlord270 , and236 telling196 him248 I482 desired480 to261 be341 accommodated88 with449 a10 room65 , received12 for190 answer164 that14 his433 house499 was454 full414 -- not518 a10 bed273 unoccupied128 . "But330 avast279 ," he362 added52 , tapping202 his433 forehead380 , "you227 haint367 no235 objections427 to261 sharing198 a10 harpooneer's483 blanket115 , have254 ye483 ? I482 s483 'pose you227 are314 goin88 ' a10 -whalin', so281 you227 'd67 better34 get126 used102 to261 that14 sort42 of89 thing309 ." I482 told82 him248 that14 I482 never206 liked80 to261 sleep233 two527 in107 a10 bed273 ; that14 if141 I482 should255 ever208 do353 so281 , it162 would282 depend236 upon419 who319 the19 harpooneer might496 be341 , and236 that14 if141 he362 (the19 landlord270 ) really406 had364 no235 other282 place107 for190 me2 , and236 the19 harpooneer was454 not518 decidedly96 objectionable447 , why177 rather178 than77 wander15 further53 about123 a10 strange440 town172 on392 so281 bitter236 a10 night108 , I482 would282 put190 up405 with449 the19 half119 of89 any501 decent136 man17 's415 blanket115 . "I482 thought186 so281 . All145 right499 ; take279 a10 seat88 . Supper4 ?--you227 want350 supper4 ? Supper4 'll300 be341 ready464 directly58 ." I482 sat77 down133 on392 an138 old447 wooden35 settle92 , carved455 all145 over82 like410 a10 bench80 on392 the19 Battery451 . At65 one470 end149 a10 ruminating225 tar59 was454 still278 further53 adorning362 it162 with449 his433 jack299 -knife60 , stooping492 over82 and236 diligently344 working113 away443 at65 the19 space468 between77 his433 legs108 . He362 was454 trying83 his433 hand252 at65 a10 ship438 under533 full414 sail218 , but330 he362 didn't500 make175 much61 headway492 , I482 thought186 . At65 last436 some265 four175 or519 five103 of89 us569 were324 summoned77 to261 our234 meal246 in107 an138 adjoining59 room65 . It162 was454 cold330 as113 Iceland203 -- no235 fire559 at65 all145 --the19 landlord270 said252 he362 couldn't500 afford282 it162 . Nothing324 but330 two527 dismal110 tallow157 candles457 , each520 in107 a10 winding486 sheet327 . We465 were324 fain264 to261 button282 up405 our234 monkey335 jackets140 , and236 hold204 to261 our234 lips585 cups58 of89 scalding181 tea521 with449 our234 half119 frozen446 fingers345 . But330 the19 fare19 was454 of89 the19 most216 substantial101 kind451 --not518 only517 meat160 and236 potatoes287 , but330 dumplings461 ; good221 heavens494 ! dumplings461 for190 supper4 ! One470 young389 fellow369 in107 a10 green549 box226 coat7 , addressed169 himself282 to261 these527 dumplings461 in107 a10 most216 direful137 manner153 . "My36 boy110 ," said252 the19 landlord270 , "you227 'll300 have254 the19 nightmare305 to261 a10 dead568 sartainty415 ." "Landlord270 ," I482 whispered89 , "that14 aint142 the19 harpooneer is487 it162 ?" "Oh367 , no235 ," said252 he362 , looking318 a10 sort42 of89 diabolically14 funny96 , "the19 harpooneer is487 a10 dark471 complexioned253 chap287 . He362 never206 eats47 dumplings461 , he362 don280 't500 -- he362 eats47 nothing324 but330 steaks316 , and236 he362 likes93 'em rare296 ." "The19 devil411 he362 does565 ," says424 I482 . "Where579 is487 that14 harpooneer? Is487 he362 here135 ?" "He362 'll300 be341 here135 afore462 long544 ," was454 the19 answer164 . I482 could375 not518 help526 it162 , but330 I482 began132 to261 feel461 suspicious312 of89 this256 "dark471 complexioned253 " harpooneer. At65 any501 rate515 , I482 made563 up405 my36 mind118 that14 if141 it162 so281 turned492 out66 that14 we465 should255 sleep233 together440 , he362 must226 undress14 and236 get126 into554 bed273 before344 I482 did444 . Supper4 over82 , the19 company280 went516 back457 to261 the19 bar144 -room65 , when189 , knowing240 not518 what243 else212 to261 do353 with449 myself99 , I482 resolved158 to261 spend357 the19 rest302 of89 the19 evening581 as113 a10 looker52 on392 . Presently166 a10 rioting250 noise254 was454 heard444 without309 . Starting423 up405 , the19 landlord270 cried506 , "That14 's76 the19 Grampus31 's483 crew126 . I482 seed272 her400 reported123 in107 the19 offing463 this256 morning417 ; a10 three329 years116 ' voyage137 , and236 a10 full414 ship438 . Hurrah277 , boys22 ; now20 we465 'll300 have254 the19 latest523 news314 from316 the19 Feegees." A10 tramping26 of89 sea67 boots497 was454 heard444 in107 the19 entry282 ; the19 door135 was454 flung255 open464 , and236 in107 rolled226 a10 wild230 set422 of89 mariners347 enough217 . Enveloped28 in107 their219 shaggy200 watch89 coats172 , and236 with449 their219 heads366 muffled58 in107 woollen27 comforters332 , all145 bedarned and236 ragged244 , and236 their219 beards306 stiff549 with449 icicles374 , they382 seemed132 an138 eruption400 of89 bears97 from316 Labrador331 . They382 had364 just108 landed451 from316 their219 boat439 , and236 this256 was454 the19 first13 house499 they382 entered447 . No235 wonder76 , then45 , that14 they382 made563 a10 straight346 wake205 for190 the19 whale422 's483 mouth414 -- the19 bar144 --when189 the19 wrinkled259 little554 old447 Jonah41 , there340 officiating445 , soon18 poured476 them146 out66 brimmers141 all145 round287 . One470 complained145 of89 a10 bad458 cold330 in107 his433 head219 , upon419 which16 Jonah41 mixed459 him248 a10 pitch115 -like25 potion143 of89 gin78 and236 molasses541 , which16 he362 swore470 was454 a10 sovereign324 cure166 for190 all145 colds25 and236 catarrhs24 whatsoever268 , never206 mind118 of89 how19 long544 standing144 , or519 whether454 caught105 off111 the19 coast287 of89 Labrador331 , or519 on392 the19 weather405 side246 of89 an138 ice443 -island516 . The19 liquor4 soon18 mounted191 into554 their219 heads366 , as113 it162 generally402 does565 even198 with449 the19 arrantest58 topers116 newly318 landed451 from316 sea67 , and236 they382 began132 capering183 about123 most216 obstreperously55 . I482 observed340 , however44 , that14 one470 of89 them146 held212 somewhat77 aloof413 , and236 though400 he362 seemed132 desirous305 not518 to261 spoil181 the19 hilarity435 of89 his433 shipmates98 by406 his433 own248 sober121 face556 , yet443 upon419 the19 whole199 he362 refrained16 from316 making415 as113 much61 noise254 as113 the19 rest302 . This256 man17 interested42 me2 at65 once248 ; and236 since374 the19 sea67 -gods325 had364 ordained246 that14 he362 should255 soon18 become548 my36 shipmate283 (though400 but330 a10 sleeping341 partner284 one470 , so281 far258 as113 this256 narrative81 is487 concerned583 ), I482 will584 here135 venture40 upon419 a10 little554 description396 of89 him248 . He362 stood1 full414 six415 feet349 in107 height20 , with449 noble226 shoulders476 , and236 a10 chest98 like410 a10 coffer-dam434 . I482 have254 seldom140 seen154 such420 brawn359 in107 a10 man17 . His433 face556 was454 deeply225 brown446 and236 burnt37 , making415 his433 white82 teeth82 dazzling49 by406 the19 contrast205 ; while55 in107 the19 deep483 shadows480 of89 his433 eyes125 floated6 some265 reminiscences252 that14 did444 not518 seem404 to261 give142 him248 much61 joy430 . His433 voice233 at65 once248 announced451 that14 he362 was454 a10 Southerner265 , and236 from316 his433 fine333 stature74 , I482 thought186 he362 must226 be341 one470 of89 those427 tall373 mountaineers142 from316 the19 Alleghanian Ridge435 in107 Virginia354 . When189 the19 revelry279 of89 his433 companions19 had364 mounted191 to261 its234 height20 , this256 man17 slipped227 away443 unobserved44 , and236 I482 saw113 no235 more348 of89 him248 till181 he362 became70 my36 comrade148 on392 the19 sea67 . In107 a10 few49 minutes368 , however44 , he362 was454 missed71 by406 his433 shipmates98 , and236 being264 , it162 seems19 , for190 some265 reason238 a10 huge132 favorite461 with449 them146 , they382 raised493 a10 cry561 of89 "Bulkington! Bulkington! where579 's483 Bulkington?" and236 darted362 out66 of89 the19 house499 in107 pursuit305 of89 him248 . It162 was454 now20 about123 nine140 o24 'clock489 , and236 the19 room65 seeming59 almost518 supernaturally350 quiet337 after358 these527 orgies279 , I482 began132 to261 congratulate38 myself99 upon419 a10 little554 plan99 that14 had364 occurred205 to261 me2 just108 previous376 to261 the19 entrance237 of89 the19 seamen6 . No235 man17 prefers484 to261 sleep233 two527 in107 a10 bed273 . In107 fact12 , you227 would282 a10 good221 deal543 rather178 not518 sleep233 with449 your162 own248 brother46 . I482 don280 't500 know60 how19 it162 is487 , but330 people482 like410 to261 be341 private541 when189 they382 are314 sleeping341 . And236 when189 it162 comes268 to261 sleeping341 with449 an138 unknown10 stranger233 , in107 a10 strange440 inn190 , in107 a10 strange440 town172 , and236 that14 stranger233 a10 harpooneer, then45 your162 objections427 indefinitely25 multiply74 . Nor137 was454 there340 any501 earthly64 reason238 why177 I482 as113 a10 sailor561 should255 sleep233 two527 in107 a10 bed273 , more348 than77 anybody58 else212 ; for190 sailors64 no235 more348 sleep233 two527 in107 a10 bed273 at65 sea67 , than77 bachelor371 Kings474 do353 ashore122 . To261 be341 sure41 they382 all145 sleep233 together440 in107 one470 apartment18 , but330 you227 have254 your162 own248 hammock323 , and236 cover172 yourself176 with449 your162 own248 blanket115 , and236 sleep233 in107 your162 own248 skin428 . The19 more348 I482 pondered182 over82 this256 harpooneer, the19 more348 I482 abominated301 the19 thought186 of89 sleeping341 with449 him248 . It162 was454 fair320 to261 presume212 that14 being264 a10 harpooneer, his433 linen330 or519 woollen27 , as113 the19 case346 might496 be341 , would282 not518 be341 of89 the19 tidiest336 , certainly124 none365 of89 the19 finest66 . I482 began132 to261 twitch127 all145 over82 . Besides465 , it162 was454 getting369 late351 , and236 my36 decent136 harpooneer ought170 to261 be341 home450 and236 going227 bedwards. Suppose120 now20 , he362 should255 tumble553 in107 upon419 me2 at65 midnight539 -- how19 could375 I482 tell392 from316 what243 vile221 hole73 he362 had364 been185 coming140 ? "Landlord270 ! I482 've149 changed21 my36 mind118 about123 that14 harpooneer.-- I482 shan't500 sleep233 with449 him248 . I482 'll300 try266 the19 bench80 here135 ." "Just108 as113 you227 please153 ; I482 'm250 sorry147 I482 cant355 spare295 ye483 a10 tablecloth117 for190 a10 mattress286 , and236 it162 's483 a10 plaguy415 rough75 board540 here135 "--feeling384 of89 the19 knots438 and236 notches236 . "But330 wait315 a10 bit72 , Skrimshander; I482 've149 got286 a10 carpenter262 's483 plane451 there340 in107 the19 bar144 --wait315 , I482 say306 , and236 I482 'll300 make175 ye483 snug310 enough217 ." So281 saying9 he362 procured133 the19 plane451 ; and236 with449 his433 old447 silk55 handkerchief286 first13 dusting423 the19 bench80 , vigorously167 set422 to261 planing333 away443 at65 my36 bed273 , the19 while55 grinning424 like410 an138 ape318 . The19 shavings117 flew424 right499 and236 left159 ; till181 at65 last436 the19 plane451 -iron169 came549 bump124 against417 an138 indestructible143 knot403 . The19 landlord270 was454 near70 spraining181 his433 wrist117 , and236 I482 told82 him248 for190 heaven163 's483 sake523 to261 quit295 --the19 bed273 was454 soft226 enough217 to261 suit373 me2 , and236 I482 did444 not518 know60 how19 all145 the19 planing333 in107 the19 world126 could375 make175 eider362 down133 of89 a10 pine54 plank243 . So281 gathering20 up405 the19 shavings117 with449 another269 grin401 , and236 throwing120 them146 into554 the19 great259 stove373 in107 the19 middle39 of89 the19 room65 , he362 went516 about123 his433 business168 , and236 left159 me2 in107 a10 brown446 study252 . I482 now20 took68 the19 measure520 of89 the19 bench80 , and236 found260 that14 it162 was454 a10 foot467 too11 short522 ; but330 that14 could375 be341 mended88 with449 a10 chair253 . But330 it162 was454 a10 foot467 too11 narrow140 , and236 the19 other282 bench80 in107 the19 room65 was454 about123 four175 inches301 higher574 than77 the19 planed236 one470 -- so281 there340 was454 no235 yoking245 them146 . I482 then45 placed556 the19 first13 bench80 lengthwise288 along423 the19 only517 clear408 space468 against417 the19 wall509 , leaving231 a10 little554 interval114 between77 , for190 my36 back457 to261 settle92 down133 in107 . But330 I482 soon18 found260 that14 there340 came549 such420 a10 draught246 of89 cold330 air209 over82 me2 from316 under533 the19 sill345 of89 the19 window8 , that14 this256 plan99 would282 never206 do353 at65 all145 , especially371 as113 another269 current52 from316 the19 rickety88 door135 met130 the19 one470 from316 the19 window8 , and236 both558 together440 formed294 a10 series494 of89 small350 whirlwinds82 in107 the19 immediate388 vicinity208 of89 the19 spot46 where579 I482 had364 thought186 to261 spend357 the19 night108 . The19 devil411 fetch261 that14 harpooneer, thought186 I482 , but330 stop48 , couldn't500 I482 steal238 a10 march396 on392 him248 --bolt156 his433 door135 inside438 , and236 jump50 into554 his433 bed273 , not518 to261 be341 wakened314 by406 the19 most216 violent336 knockings282 ? It162 seemed132 no235 bad458 idea250 but330 upon419 second386 thoughts26 I482 dismissed302 it162 . For190 who319 could375 tell392 but330 what243 the19 next27 morning417 , so281 soon18 as113 I482 popped74 out66 of89 the19 room65 , the19 harpooneer might496 be341 standing144 in107 the19 entry282 , all145 ready464 to261 knock142 me2 down133 ! Still278 looking318 around66 me2 again52 , and236 seeing426 no235 possible277 chance292 of89 spending348 a10 sufferable343 night108 unless54 in107 some265 other282 person550 's483 bed273 , I482 began132 to261 think424 that14 after358 all145 I482 might496 be341 cherishing393 unwarrantable35 prejudices86 against417 this256 unknown10 harpooneer. Thinks344 I482 , I482 'll300 wait315 awhile16 ; he362 must226 be341 dropping279 in107 before344 long544 . I482 'll300 have254 a10 good221 look523 at65 him248 then45 , and236 perhaps75 we465 may236 become548 jolly50 good221 bedfellows451 after358 all145 --there340 's483 no235 telling196 . But330 though400 the19 other282 boarders76 kept290 coming140 in107 by406 ones396 , twos18 , and236 threes169 , and236 going227 to261 bed273 , yet443 no235 sign8 of89 my36 harpooneer. "Landlord270 ! said252 I482 , "what243 sort42 of89 a10 chap287 is487 he362 --does565 he362 always367 keep381 such420 late351 hours127 ?" It162 was454 now20 hard337 upon419 twelve293 o24 'clock489 . The19 landlord270 chuckled88 again52 with449 his433 lean279 chuckle64 , and236 seemed132 to261 be341 mightily88 tickled156 at65 something181 beyond421 my36 comprehension367 . "No235 ," he362 answered100 , "generally402 he362 's483 an138 early92 bird443 --airley to261 bed273 and236 airley to261 rise251 --yea204 , he362 's483 the19 bird443 what243 catches124 the19 worm128 . But330 to261 -night108 he362 went516 out66 a10 peddling141 , you227 see370 , and236 I482 don280 't500 see370 what243 on392 airth367 keeps20 him248 so281 late351 , unless54 , may236 be341 , he362 can450 't500 sell298 his433 head219 ." "Can450 't500 sell298 his433 head219 ?--What243 sort42 of89 a10 bamboozingly story197 is487 this256 you227 are314 telling196 me2 ?" getting369 into554 a10 towering210 rage293 . "Do353 you227 pretend493 to261 say306 , landlord270 , that14 this256 harpooneer is487 actually69 engaged479 this256 blessed473 Saturday22 night108 , or519 rather178 Sunday151 morning417 , in107 peddling141 his433 head219 around66 this256 town172 ?" "That14 's76 precisely217 it162 ," said252 the19 landlord270 , "and236 I482 told82 him248 he362 couldn't500 sell298 it162 here135 , the19 market286 's483 overstocked27 ." "With449 what243 ?" shouted300 I482 . "With449 heads366 to261 be341 sure41 ; ain't500 there340 too11 many282 heads366 in107 the19 world126 ?" "I482 tell392 you227 what243 it162 is487 , landlord270 ," said252 I482 quite327 calmly170 , "you227 'd67 better34 stop48 spinning170 that14 yarn118 to261 me2 --I482 'm250 not518 green549 ." "May236 be341 not518 ," taking146 out66 a10 stick50 and236 whittling225 a10 toothpick331 , "but330 I482 rayther446 guess304 you227 'll300 be341 done135 brown446 if141 that14 ere83 harpooneer hears561 you227 a10 slanderin' his433 head219 ." "I482 'll300 break483 it162 for190 him248 ," said252 I482 , now20 flying354 into554 a10 passion38 again52 at65 this256 unaccountable316 farrago325 of89 the19 landlord270 's483 . "It162 's483 broke356 a10 'ready464 ," said252 he362 . "Broke356 ," said252 I482 --"broke356 , do353 you227 mean504 ?" "Sartain320 , and236 that14 's76 the19 very515 reason238 he362 can450 't500 sell298 it162 , I482 guess304 ." "Landlord270 ," said252 I482 , going227 up405 to261 him248 as113 cool102 as113 Mt105 . Hecla25 in107 a10 snowstorm348 --"landlord270 , stop48 whittling225 . You227 and236 I482 must226 understand111 one470 another269 , and236 that14 too11 without309 delay309 . I482 come420 to261 your162 house499 and236 want350 a10 bed273 ; you227 tell392 me2 you227 can450 only517 give142 me2 half119 a10 one470 ; that14 the19 other282 half119 belongs402 to261 a10 certain31 harpooneer. And236 about123 this256 harpooneer, whom324 I482 have254 not518 yet443 seen154 , you227 persist38 in107 telling196 me2 the19 most216 mystifying410 and236 exasperating434 stories264 tending293 to261 beget415 in107 me2 an138 uncomfortable72 feeling384 towards417 the19 man17 whom324 you227 design31 for190 my36 bedfellow219 --a10 sort42 of89 connexion400 , landlord270 , which16 is487 an138 intimate155 and236 confidential147 one470 in107 the19 highest575 degree209 . I482 now20 demand320 of89 you227 to261 speak337 out66 and236 tell392 me2 who319 and236 what243 this256 harpooneer is487 , and236 whether454 I482 shall66 be341 in107 all145 respects403 safe520 to261 spend357 the19 night108 with449 him248 . And236 in107 the19 first13 place107 , you227 will584 be341 so281 good221 as113 to261 unsay530 that14 story197 about123 selling238 his433 head219 , which16 if141 true483 I482 take279 to261 be341 good221 evidence17 that14 this256 harpooneer is487 stark376 mad235 , and236 I482 've149 no235 idea250 of89 sleeping341 with449 a10 madman361 ; and236 you227 , sir271 , you227 I482 mean504 , landlord270 , you227 , sir271 , by406 trying83 to261 induce237 me2 to261 do353 so281 knowingly295 would282 thereby190 render509 yourself176 liable520 to261 a10 criminal133 prosecution480 ." "Wall509 ," said252 the19 landlord270 , fetching320 a10 long544 breath150 , "that14 's76 a10 purty367 long544 sarmon415 for190 a10 chap287 that14 rips439 a10 little554 now20 and236 then45 . But330 be341 easy281 , be341 easy281 , this256 here135 harpooneer I482 have254 been185 tellin400 ' you227 of89 has399 just108 arrived553 from316 the19 south257 seas350 , where579 he362 bought45 up405 a10 lot167 of89 'balmed New36 Zealand115 heads366 (great259 curios281 , you227 know60 ), and236 he362 's483 sold7 all145 on392 'em but330 one470 , and236 that14 one470 he362 's483 trying83 to261 sell298 to261 -night108 , cause220 to261 -morrow376 's483 Sunday151 , and236 it162 would282 not518 do353 to261 be341 sellin80 ' human43 heads366 about123 the19 streets374 when189 folks6 is487 goin88 ' to261 churches44 . He362 wanted85 to261 last436 Sunday151 , but330 I482 stopped564 him248 just108 as113 he362 was454 goin88 ' out66 of89 the19 door135 with449 four175 heads366 strung20 on392 a10 string446 , for190 all145 the19 airth367 like410 a10 string446 of89 inions415 ." This256 account102 cleared241 up405 the19 otherwise542 unaccountable316 mystery254 , and236 showed507 that14 the19 landlord270 , after358 all145 , had364 had364 no235 idea250 of89 fooling40 me2 -- but330 at65 the19 same541 time577 what243 could375 I482 think424 of89 a10 harpooneer who319 stayed117 out66 of89 a10 Saturday22 night108 clean26 into554 the19 holy61 Sabbath280 , engaged479 in107 such420 a10 cannibal180 business168 as113 selling238 the19 heads366 of89 dead568 idolators103 ? "Depend236 upon419 it162 , landlord270 , that14 harpooneer is487 a10 dangerous2 man17 ." "He362 pays86 reg'lar370 ," was454 the19 rejoinder330 . "But330 come420 , it162 's483 getting369 dreadful405 late351 , you227 had364 better34 be341 turning69 flukes155 --it162 's483 a10 nice2 bed273 : Sal551 and236 me2 slept172 in107 that14 ere83 bed273 the19 night108 we465 were324 spliced352 . There340 's483 plenty406 of89 room65 for190 two527 to261 kick16 about123 in107 that14 bed273 ; it162 's483 an138 almighty473 big245 bed273 that14 . Why177 , afore462 we465 give142 it162 up405 , Sal551 used102 to261 put190 our234 Sam551 and236 little554 Johnny17 in107 the19 foot467 of89 it162 . But330 I482 got286 a10 dreaming47 and236 sprawling3 about123 one470 night108 , and236 somehow425 , Sam551 got286 pitched101 on392 the19 floor418 , and236 came549 near70 breaking6 his433 arm25 . After358 that14 , Sal551 said252 it162 wouldn't500 do353 . Come420 along423 here135 , I482 'll300 give142 ye483 a10 glim2 in107 a10 jiffy325 ;" and236 so281 saying9 he362 lighted422 a10 candle248 and236 held212 it162 towards417 me2 , offering18 to261 lead362 the19 way435 . But330 I482 stood1 irresolute75 ; when189 looking318 at65 a10 clock489 in107 the19 corner204 , he362 exclaimed281 "I482 vum it162 's483 Sunday151 --you227 won't500 see370 that14 harpooneer to261 -night108 ; he362 's483 come420 to261 anchor141 somewhere201 --come420 along423 then45 ; do353 come420 ; won't500 ye483 come420 ?" I482 considered484 the19 matter176 a10 moment258 , and236 then45 up405 stairs330 we465 went516 , and236 I482 was454 ushered509 into554 a10 small350 room65 , cold330 as113 a10 clam152 , and236 furnished201 , sure41 enough217 , with449 a10 prodigious223 bed273 , almost518 big245 enough217 indeed522 for190 any501 four175 harpooneers to261 sleep233 abreast127 . "There340 ," said252 the19 landlord270 , placing287 the19 candle248 on392 a10 crazy418 old447 sea67 chest98 that14 did444 double20 duty468 as113 a10 wash160 -stand530 and236 centre389 table572 ; "there340 , make175 yourself176 comfortable402 now20 ; and236 good221 night108 to261 ye483 ." I482 turned492 round287 from316 eyeing49 the19 bed273 , but330 he362 had364 disappeared5 . Folding309 back457 the19 counterpane65 , I482 stooped14 over82 the19 bed273 . Though400 none365 of89 the19 most216 elegant194 , it162 yet443 stood1 the19 scrutiny127 tolerably21 well263 . I482 then45 glanced411 round287 the19 room65 ; and236 besides465 the19 bedstead127 and236 centre389 table572 , could375 see370 no235 other282 furniture11 belonging168 to261 the19 place107 , but330 a10 rude474 shelf3 , the19 four175 walls116 , and236 a10 papered284 fireboard representing118 a10 man17 striking22 a10 whale422 . Of89 things4 not518 properly93 belonging168 to261 the19 room65 , there340 was454 a10 hammock323 lashed97 up405 , and236 thrown359 upon419 the19 floor418 in107 one470 corner204 ; also119 a10 large385 seaman166 's483 bag141 , containing247 the19 harpooneer's483 wardrobe57 , no235 doubt71 in107 lieu402 of89 a10 land406 trunk389 . Likewise193 , there340 was454 a10 parcel295 of89 outlandish292 bone184 fish187 hooks561 on392 the19 shelf3 over82 the19 fire559 -place107 , and236 a10 tall373 harpoon67 standing144 at65 the19 head219 of89 the19 bed273 . But330 what243 is487 this256 on392 the19 chest98 ? I482 took68 it162 up405 , and236 held212 it162 close65 to261 the19 light382 , and236 felt440 it162 , and236 smelt286 it162 , and236 tried73 every389 way435 possible277 to261 arrive8 at65 some265 satisfactory423 conclusion330 concerning368 it162 . I482 can450 compare184 it162 to261 nothing324 but330 a10 large385 door135 mat316 , ornamented423 at65 the19 edges15 with449 little554 tinkling445 tags356 something181 like410 the19 stained224 porcupine127 quills508 round287 an138 Indian303 moccasin361 . There340 was454 a10 hole73 or519 slit430 in107 the19 middle39 of89 this256 mat316 , as113 you227 see370 the19 same541 in107 South257 American272 ponchos92 . But330 could375 it162 be341 possible277 that14 any501 sober121 harpooneer would282 get126 into554 a10 door135 mat316 , and236 parade83 the19 streets374 of89 any501 Christian235 town172 in107 that14 sort42 of89 guise110 ? I482 put190 it162 on392 , to261 try266 it162 , and236 it162 weighed107 me2 down133 like410 a10 hamper425 , being264 uncommonly194 shaggy200 and236 thick502 , and236 I482 thought186 a10 little554 damp264 , as113 though400 this256 mysterious304 harpooneer had364 been185 wearing166 it162 of89 a10 rainy533 day112 . I482 went516 up405 in107 it162 to261 a10 bit72 of89 glass27 stuck120 against417 the19 wall509 , and236 I482 never206 saw113 such420 a10 sight365 in107 my36 life71 . I482 tore493 myself99 out66 of89 it162 in107 such420 a10 hurry183 that14 I482 gave572 myself99 a10 kink232 in107 the19 neck239 . I482 sat77 down133 on392 the19 side246 of89 the19 bed273 , and236 commenced8 thinking385 about123 this256 head219 -peddling141 harpooneer, and236 his433 door135 mat316 . After358 thinking385 some265 time577 on392 the19 bed273 -side246 , I482 got286 up405 and236 took68 off111 my36 monkey335 jacket481 , and236 then45 stood1 in107 the19 middle39 of89 the19 room65 thinking385 . I482 then45 took68 off111 my36 coat7 , and236 thought186 a10 little554 more348 in107 my36 shirt413 sleeves363 . But330 beginning188 to261 feel461 very515 cold330 now20 , half119 undressed14 as113 I482 was454 , and236 remembering170 what243 the19 landlord270 said252 about123 the19 harpooneer's483 not518 coming140 home450 at65 all145 that14 night108 , it162 being264 so281 very515 late351 , I482 made563 no235 more348 ado124 , but330 jumped499 out66 of89 my36 pantaloons4 and236 boots497 , and236 then45 blowing248 out66 the19 light382 tumbled494 into554 bed273 , and236 commended539 myself99 to261 the19 care307 of89 heaven163 . Whether454 that14 mattress286 was454 stuffed502 with449 corncobs or519 broken255 crockery27 , there340 is487 no235 telling196 , but330 I482 rolled226 about123 a10 good221 deal543 , and236 could375 not518 sleep233 for190 a10 long544 time577 . At65 last436 I482 slid132 off111 into554 a10 light382 doze260 , and236 had364 pretty252 nearly575 made563 a10 good221 offing463 towards417 the19 land406 of89 Nod133 , when189 I482 heard444 a10 heavy421 footfall110 in107 the19 passage285 , and236 saw113 a10 glimmer110 of89 light382 come420 into554 the19 room65 from316 under533 the19 door135 . Lord106 save556 me2 , thinks344 I482 , that14 must226 be341 the19 harpooneer, the19 infernal84 head219 -peddler279 . But330 I482 lay62 perfectly26 still278 , and236 resolved158 not518 to261 say306 a10 word486 till181 spoken507 to261 . Holding311 a10 light382 in107 one470 hand252 , and236 that14 identical351 New36 Zealand115 head219 in107 the19 other282 , the19 stranger233 entered447 the19 room65 , and236 without309 looking318 towards417 the19 bed273 , placed556 his433 candle248 a10 good221 way435 off111 from316 me2 on392 the19 floor418 in107 one470 corner204 , and236 then45 began132 working113 away443 at65 the19 knotted506 cords388 of89 the19 large385 bag141 I482 before344 spoke185 of89 as113 being264 in107 the19 room65 . I482 was454 all145 eagerness275 to261 see370 his433 face556 , but330 he362 kept290 it162 averted101 for190 some265 time577 while55 employed263 in107 unlacing275 the19 bag141 's483 mouth414 . This256 accomplished225 , however44 , he362 turned492 round287 --when189 , good221 heavens494 ; what243 a10 sight365 ! Such420 a10 face556 ! It162 was454 of89 a10 dark471 , purplish266 , yellow95 color13 , here135 and236 there340 stuck120 over82 with449 large385 blackish160 looking318 squares239 . Yes143 , it162 's483 just108 as113 I482 thought186 , he362 's483 a10 terrible132 bedfellow219 ; he362 's483 been185 in107 a10 fight330 , got286 dreadfully98 cut310 , and236 here135 he362 is487 , just108 from316 the19 surgeon135 . But330 at65 that14 moment258 he362 chanced424 to261 turn17 his433 face556 so281 towards417 the19 light382 , that14 I482 plainly450 saw113 they382 could375 not518 be341 sticking457 -plasters at65 all145 , those427 black581 squares239 on392 his433 cheeks282 . They382 were324 stains221 of89 some265 sort42 or519 other282 . At65 first13 I482 knew480 not518 what243 to261 make175 of89 this256 ; but330 soon18 an138 inkling221 of89 the19 truth350 occurred205 to261 me2 . I482 remembered66 a10 story197 of89 a10 white82 man17 --a10 whaleman98 too11 -- who319 , falling498 among483 the19 cannibals27 , had364 been185 tattooed101 by406 them146 . I482 concluded157 that14 this256 harpooneer, in107 the19 course171 of89 his433 distant353 voyages368 , must226 have254 met130 with449 a10 similar101 adventure44 . And236 what243 is487 it162 , thought186 I482 , after358 all145 ! It162 's483 only517 his433 outside75 ; a10 man17 can450 be341 honest287 in107 any501 sort42 of89 skin428 . But330 then45 , what243 to261 make175 of89 his433 unearthly110 complexion243 , that14 part207 of89 it162 , I482 mean504 , lying204 round287 about123 , and236 completely385 independent330 of89 the19 squares239 of89 tattooing42 . To261 be341 sure41 , it162 might496 be341 nothing324 but330 a10 good221 coat7 of89 tropical92 tanning51 ; but330 I482 never206 heard444 of89 a10 hot424 sun397 's483 tanning51 a10 white82 man17 into554 a10 purplish266 yellow95 one470 . However44 , I482 had364 never206 been185 in107 the19 South257 Seas350 ; and236 perhaps75 the19 sun397 there340 produced258 these527 extraordinary346 effects531 upon419 the19 skin428 . Now20 , while55 all145 these527 ideas264 were324 passing147 through295 me2 like410 lightning171 , this256 harpooneer never206 noticed157 me2 at65 all145 . But330 , after358 some265 difficulty263 having69 opened461 his433 bag141 , he362 commenced8 fumbling14 in107 it162 , and236 presently166 pulled213 out66 a10 sort42 of89 tomahawk279 , and236 a10 seal40 -skin428 wallet141 with449 the19 hair237 on392 . Placing287 these527 on392 the19 old447 chest98 in107 the19 middle39 of89 the19 room65 , he362 then45 took68 the19 New36 Zealand115 head219 --a10 ghastly442 thing309 enough217 -- and236 crammed522 it162 down133 into554 the19 bag141 . He362 now20 took68 off111 his433 hat107 -- a10 new36 beaver418 hat107 --when189 I482 came549 nigh254 singing288 out66 with449 fresh540 surprise125 . There340 was454 no235 hair237 on392 his433 head219 --none365 to261 speak337 of89 at65 least453 -- nothing324 but330 a10 small350 scalp-knot403 twisted279 up405 on392 his433 forehead380 . His433 bald117 purplish266 head219 now20 looked232 for190 all145 the19 world126 like410 a10 mildewed101 skull9 . Had364 not518 the19 stranger233 stood1 between77 me2 and236 the19 door135 , I482 would282 have254 bolted74 out66 of89 it162 quicker420 than77 ever208 I482 bolted74 a10 dinner322 . Even198 as113 it162 was454 , I482 thought186 something181 of89 slipping522 out66 of89 the19 window8 , but330 it162 was454 the19 second386 floor418 back457 . I482 am375 no235 coward92 , but330 what243 to261 make175 of89 this256 headpeddling purple167 rascal231 altogether31 passed87 my36 comprehension367 . Ignorance211 is487 the19 parent501 of89 fear103 , and236 being264 completely385 nonplussed453 and236 confounded379 about123 the19 stranger233 , I482 confess315 I482 was454 now20 as113 much61 afraid248 of89 him248 as113 if141 it162 was454 the19 devil411 himself282 who319 had364 thus362 broken255 into554 my36 room65 at65 the19 dead568 of89 night108 . In107 fact12 , I482 was454 so281 afraid248 of89 him248 that14 I482 was454 not518 game233 enough217 just108 then45 to261 address512 him248 , and236 demand320 a10 satisfactory423 answer164 concerning368 what243 seemed132 inexplicable367 in107 him248 . Meanwhile282 , he362 continued44 the19 business168 of89 undressing291 , and236 at65 last436 showed507 his433 chest98 and236 arms536 . As113 I482 live554 , these527 covered452 parts470 of89 him248 were324 checkered265 with449 the19 same541 squares239 as113 his433 face556 , his433 back457 , too11 , was454 all145 over82 the19 same541 dark471 squares239 ; he362 seemed132 to261 have254 been185 in107 a10 Thirty521 Years116 ' War169 , and236 just108 escaped197 from316 it162 with449 a10 sticking457 -plaster113 shirt413 . Still278 more348 , his433 very515 legs108 were324 marked67 , as113 if141 a10 parcel295 of89 dark471 green549 frogs102 were324 running296 up405 the19 trunks231 of89 young389 palms173 . It162 was454 now20 quite327 plain28 that14 he362 must226 be341 some265 abominable156 savage398 or519 other282 shipped26 aboard298 of89 a10 whaleman98 in107 the19 South257 Seas350 , and236 so281 landed451 in107 this256 Christian235 country362 . I482 quaked375 to261 think424 of89 it162 . A10 peddler279 of89 heads366 too11 --perhaps75 the19 heads366 of89 his433 own248 brothers100 . He362 might496 take279 a10 fancy396 to261 mine482 --heavens494 ! look523 at65 that14 tomahawk279 ! But330 there340 was454 no235 time577 for190 shuddering143 , for190 now20 the19 savage398 went516 about123 something181 that14 completely385 fascinated94 my36 attention518 , and236 convinced469 me2 that14 he362 must226 indeed522 be341 a10 heathen336 . Going227 to261 his433 heavy421 grego, or519 wrapall, or519 dreadnaught, which16 he362 had364 previously250 hung479 on392 a10 chair253 , he362 fumbled41 in107 the19 pockets240 , and236 produced258 at65 length202 a10 curious264 little554 deformed125 image74 with449 a10 hunch4 on392 its234 back457 , and236 exactly315 the19 color13 of89 a10 three329 days351 ' old447 Congo25 baby236 . Remembering170 the19 embalmed59 head219 , at65 first13 I482 almost518 thought186 that14 this256 black581 manikin41 was454 a10 real305 baby236 preserved335 in107 some265 similar101 manner153 . But330 seeing426 that14 it162 was454 not518 at65 all145 limber227 , and236 that14 it162 glistened424 a10 good221 deal543 like410 polished370 ebony59 , I482 concluded157 that14 it162 must226 be341 nothing324 but330 a10 wooden35 idol191 , which16 indeed522 it162 proved312 to261 be341 . For190 now20 the19 savage398 goes205 up405 to261 the19 empty450 fire559 -place107 , and236 removing46 the19 papered284 fire559 -board540 , sets83 up405 this256 little554 hunch4 -backed270 image74 , like410 a10 tenpin250 , between77 the19 andirons281 . The19 chimney94 jambs299 and236 all145 the19 bricks364 inside438 were324 very515 sooty213 , so281 that14 I482 thought186 this256 fire559 -place107 made563 a10 very515 appropriate20 little554 shrine77 or519 chapel60 for190 his433 Congo25 idol191 . I482 now20 screwed453 my36 eyes125 hard337 towards417 the19 half119 hidden78 image74 , feeling384 but330 ill236 at65 ease387 meantime210 --to261 see370 what243 was454 next27 to261 follow408 . First13 he362 takes362 about123 a10 double20 handful330 of89 shavings117 out66 of89 his433 grego pocket461 , and236 places423 them146 carefully374 before344 the19 idol191 ; then45 laying116 a10 bit72 of89 ship438 biscuit369 on392 top70 and236 applying451 the19 flame113 from316 the19 lamp330 , he362 kindled73 the19 shavings117 into554 a10 sacrificial37 blaze69 . Presently166 , after358 many282 hasty183 snatches366 into554 the19 fire559 , and236 still278 hastier244 withdrawals303 of89 his433 fingers345 (whereby358 he362 seemed132 to261 be341 scorching251 them146 badly36 ), he362 at65 last436 succeeded76 in107 drawing407 out66 the19 biscuit369 ; then45 blowing248 off111 the19 heat218 and236 ashes243 a10 little554 , he362 made563 a10 polite499 offer422 of89 it162 to261 the19 little554 negro102 . But330 the19 little554 devil411 did444 not518 seem404 to261 fancy396 such420 dry430 sort42 of89 fare19 at65 all145 ; he362 never206 moved492 his433 lips585 . All145 these527 strange440 antics335 were324 accompanied26 by406 still278 stranger233 guttural167 noises72 from316 the19 devotee384 , who319 seemed132 to261 be341 praying152 in107 a10 sing549 -song253 or519 else212 singing288 some265 pagan118 psalmody402 or519 other282 , during309 which16 his433 face556 twitched364 about123 in107 the19 most216 unnatural111 manner153 . At65 last436 extinguishing310 the19 fire559 , he362 took68 the19 idol191 up405 very515 unceremoniously402 , and236 bagged116 it162 again52 in107 his433 grego pocket461 as113 carelessly184 as113 if141 he362 were324 a10 sportsman227 bagging303 a10 dead568 woodcock562 . All145 these527 queer156 proceedings121 increased406 my36 uncomfortableness522 , and236 seeing426 him248 now20 exhibiting67 strong145 symptoms128 of89 concluding84 his433 business168 operations181 , and236 jumping286 into554 bed273 with449 me2 , I482 thought186 it162 was454 high361 time577 , now20 or519 never206 , before344 the19 light382 was454 put190 out66 , to261 break483 the19 spell416 in107 which16 I482 had364 so281 long544 been185 bound108 . But330 the19 interval114 I482 spent329 in107 deliberating337 what243 to261 say306 , was454 a10 fatal460 one470 . Taking146 up405 his433 tomahawk279 from316 the19 table572 , he362 examined192 the19 head219 of89 it162 for190 an138 instant279 , and236 then45 holding311 it162 to261 the19 light382 , with449 his433 mouth414 at65 the19 handle546 , he362 puffed305 out66 great259 clouds342 of89 tobacco331 smoke99 . The19 next27 moment258 the19 light382 was454 extinguished140 , and236 this256 wild230 cannibal180 , tomahawk279 between77 his433 teeth82 , sprang253 into554 bed273 with449 me2 . I482 sang379 out66 , I482 could375 not518 help526 it162 now20 ; and236 giving207 a10 sudden309 grunt446 of89 astonishment5 he362 began132 feeling384 me2 . Stammering225 out66 something181 , I482 knew480 not518 what243 , I482 rolled226 away443 from316 him248 against417 the19 wall509 , and236 then45 conjured169 him248 , whoever23 or519 whatever38 he362 might496 be341 , to261 keep381 quiet337 , and236 let66 me2 get126 up405 and236 light382 the19 lamp330 again52 . But330 his433 guttural167 responses426 satisfied376 me2 at65 once248 that14 he362 but330 ill236 comprehended104 my36 meaning62 . "Who319 -e443 debel454 you227 ?"--he362 at65 last436 said252 --"you227 no235 speak337 -e443 , dam434 -me2 , I482 kill219 -e443 ." And236 so281 saying9 the19 lighted422 tomahawk279 began132 flourishing136 about123 me2 in107 the19 dark471 . "Landlord270 , for190 God185 's483 sake523 , Peter419 Coffin284 !" shouted300 I482 . "Landlord270 ! Watch89 ! Coffin284 ! Angels29 ! save556 me2 !" "Speak337 -e443 ! tell392 -ee me2 who319 -ee be341 , or519 dam434 -me2 , I482 kill219 -e443 !" again52 growled479 the19 cannibal180 , while55 his433 horrid280 flourishings160 of89 the19 tomahawk279 scattered17 the19 hot424 tobacco331 ashes243 about123 me2 till181 I482 thought186 my36 linen330 would282 get126 on392 fire559 . But330 thank166 heaven163 , at65 that14 moment258 the19 landlord270 came549 into554 the19 room65 light382 in107 hand252 , and236 leaping397 from316 the19 bed273 I482 ran391 up405 to261 him248 . "Don280 't500 be341 afraid248 now20 ," said252 he362 , grinning424 again52 , "Queequeg here135 wouldn't500 harm191 a10 hair237 of89 your162 head219 ." "Stop48 your162 grinning424 ," shouted300 I482 , "and236 why177 didn't500 you227 tell392 me2 that14 that14 infernal84 harpooneer was454 a10 cannibal180 ?" "I482 thought186 ye483 know60 'd67 it162 ;--didn't500 I482 tell392 ye483 , he362 was454 a10 peddlin151 ' heads366 around66 town172 ?--but330 turn17 flukes155 again52 and236 go20 to261 sleep233 . Queequeg, look523 here135 --you227 sabbee me2 , I482 sabbee--you227 this256 man17 sleepe195 you227 --you227 sabbee?" "Me2 sabbee plenty406 "--grunted354 Queequeg, puffing4 away443 at65 his433 pipe124 and236 sitting136 up405 in107 bed273 . "You227 gettee in107 ," he362 added52 , motioning180 to261 me2 with449 his433 tomahawk279 , and236 throwing120 the19 clothes98 to261 one470 side246 . He362 really406 did444 this256 in107 not518 only517 a10 civil58 but330 a10 really406 kind451 and236 charitable495 way435 . I482 stood1 looking318 at65 him248 a10 moment258 . For190 all145 his433 tattooings he362 was454 on392 the19 whole199 a10 clean26 , comely27 looking318 cannibal180 . What243 's483 all145 this256 fuss286 I482 have254 been185 making415 about123 , thought186 I482 to261 myself99 --the19 man17 's415 a10 human43 being264 just108 as113 I482 am375 : he362 has399 just108 as113 much61 reason238 to261 fear103 me2 , as113 I482 have254 to261 be341 afraid248 of89 him248 . Better34 sleep233 with449 a10 sober121 cannibal180 than77 a10 drunken314 Christian235 . "Landlord270 ," said252 I482 , "tell392 him248 to261 stash his433 tomahawk279 there340 , or519 pipe124 , or519 whatever38 you227 call259 it162 ; tell392 him248 to261 stop48 smoking470 , in107 short522 , and236 I482 will584 turn17 in107 with449 him248 . But330 I482 don280 't500 fancy396 having69 a10 man17 smoking470 in107 bed273 with449 me2 . It162 's483 dangerous2 . Besides465 , I482 ain't500 insured191 ." This256 being264 told82 to261 Queequeg, he362 at65 once248 complied427 , and236 again52 politely322 motioned347 me2 to261 get126 into554 bed273 --rolling253 over82 to261 one470 side246 as113 much61 as113 to261 say306 -- I482 won't500 touch486 a10 leg331 of89 ye483 ." "Good221 night108 , landlord270 ," said252 I482 , "you227 may236 go20 ." I482 turned492 in107 , and236 never206 slept172 better34 in107 my36 life71 . CHAPTER293 4489 The19 Counterpane65 Upon419 waking428 next27 morning417 about123 daylight155 , I482 found260 Queequeg's483 arm25 thrown359 over82 me2 in107 the19 most216 loving309 and236 affectionate57 manner153 . You227 had364 almost518 thought186 I482 had364 been185 his433 wife37 . The19 counterpane65 was454 of89 patchwork60 , full414 of89 odd19 little554 parti-colored213 squares239 and236 triangles232 ; and236 this256 arm25 of89 his433 tattooed101 all145 over82 with449 an138 interminable86 Cretan158 labyrinth57 of89 a10 figure55 , no235 two527 parts470 of89 which16 were324 of89 one470 precise158 shade116 -- owing98 I482 suppose120 to261 his433 keeping482 his433 arm25 at65 sea67 unmethodically in107 sun397 and236 shade116 , his433 shirt413 sleeves363 irregularly287 rolled226 up405 at65 various183 times121 -- this256 same541 arm25 of89 his433 , I482 say306 , looked232 for190 all145 the19 world126 like410 a10 strip396 of89 that14 same541 patchwork60 quilt182 . Indeed522 , partly311 lying204 on392 it162 as113 the19 arm25 did444 when189 I482 first13 awoke174 , I482 could375 hardly182 tell392 it162 from316 the19 quilt182 , they382 so281 blended366 their219 hues223 together440 ; and236 it162 was454 only517 by406 the19 sense85 of89 weight213 and236 pressure102 that14 I482 could375 tell392 that14 Queequeg was454 hugging535 me2 . My36 sensations198 were324 strange440 . Let66 me2 try266 to261 explain349 them146 . When189 I482 was454 a10 child451 , I482 well263 remember499 a10 somewhat77 similar101 circumstance407 that14 befell129 me2 ; whether454 it162 was454 a10 reality214 or519 a10 dream86 , I482 never206 could375 entirely148 settle92 . The19 circumstance407 was454 this256 . I482 had364 been185 cutting454 up405 some265 caper60 or519 other282 -- I482 think424 it162 was454 trying83 to261 crawl445 up405 the19 chimney94 , as113 I482 had364 seen154 a10 little554 sweep471 do353 a10 few49 days351 previous376 ; and236 my36 stepmother281 who319 , somehow425 or519 other282 , was454 all145 the19 time577 whipping26 me2 , or519 sending1 me2 to261 bed273 supperless377 ,-- my36 mother276 dragged460 me2 by406 the19 legs108 out66 of89 the19 chimney94 and236 packed55 me2 off111 to261 bed273 , though400 it162 was454 only517 two527 o24 'clock489 in107 the19 afternoon128 of89 the19 21st427 June277 , the19 longest14 day112 in107 the19 year347 in107 our234 hemisphere353 . I482 felt440 dreadfully98 . But330 there340 was454 no235 help526 for190 it162 , so281 up405 stairs330 I482 went516 to261 my36 little554 room65 in107 the19 third301 floor418 , undressed14 myself99 as113 slowly149 as113 possible277 so281 as113 to261 kill219 time577 , and236 with449 a10 bitter236 sigh423 got286 between77 the19 sheets281 . I482 lay62 there340 dismally122 calculating368 that14 sixteen68 entire230 hours127 must226 elapse78 before344 I482 could375 hope211 for190 a10 resurrection281 . Sixteen68 hours127 in107 bed273 ! the19 small350 of89 my36 back457 ached454 to261 think424 of89 it162 . And236 it162 was454 so281 light382 too11 ; the19 sun397 shining40 in107 at65 the19 window8 , and236 a10 great259 rattling282 of89 coaches143 in107 the19 streets374 , and236 the19 sound181 of89 gay323 voices386 all145 over82 the19 house499 . I482 felt440 worse561 and236 worse561 -- at65 last436 I482 got286 up405 , dressed321 , and236 softly461 going227 down133 in107 my36 stockinged379 feet349 , sought82 out66 my36 stepmother281 , and236 suddenly193 threw459 myself99 at65 her400 feet349 , beseeching233 her400 as113 a10 particular336 favor161 to261 give142 me2 a10 good221 slippering for190 my36 misbehaviour362 : anything480 indeed522 but330 condemning27 me2 to261 lie212 abed24 such420 an138 unendurable163 length202 of89 time577 . But330 she391 was454 the19 best315 and236 most216 conscientious196 of89 stepmothers261 , and236 back457 I482 had364 to261 go20 to261 my36 room65 . For190 several479 hours127 I482 lay62 there340 broad267 awake255 , feeling384 a10 great259 deal543 worse561 than77 I482 have254 ever208 done135 since374 , even198 from316 the19 greatest479 subsequent312 misfortunes410 . At65 last436 I482 must226 have254 fallen40 into554 a10 troubled327 nightmare305 of89 a10 doze260 ; and236 slowly149 waking428 from316 it162 --half119 steeped204 in107 dreams299 --I482 opened461 my36 eyes125 , and236 the19 before344 sunlit250 room65 was454 now20 wrapped99 in107 outer359 darkness493 . Instantly186 I482 felt440 a10 shock44 running296 through295 all145 my36 frame84 ; nothing324 was454 to261 be341 seen154 , and236 nothing324 was454 to261 be341 heard444 ; but330 a10 supernatural367 hand252 seemed132 placed556 in107 mine482 . My36 arm25 hung479 over82 the19 counterpane65 , and236 the19 nameless427 , unimaginable192 , silent382 form238 or519 phantom101 , to261 which16 the19 hand252 belonged455 , seemed132 closely218 seated158 by406 my36 bed273 -side246 . For190 what243 seemed132 ages146 piled126 on392 ages146 , I482 lay62 there340 , frozen446 with449 the19 most216 awful539 fears259 , not518 daring322 to261 drag426 away443 my36 hand252 ; yet443 ever208 thinking385 that14 if141 I482 could375 but330 stir290 it162 one470 single77 inch65 , the19 horrid280 spell416 would282 be341 broken255 . I482 knew480 not518 how19 this256 consciousness539 at65 last436 glided152 away443 from316 me2 ; but330 waking428 in107 the19 morning417 , I482 shudderingly100 remembered66 it162 all145 , and236 for190 days351 and236 weeks522 and236 months17 afterwards418 I482 lost308 myself99 in107 confounding89 attempts13 to261 explain349 the19 mystery254 . Nay358 , to261 this256 very515 hour384 , I482 often227 puzzle364 myself99 with449 it162 . Now20 , take279 away443 the19 awful539 fear103 , and236 my36 sensations198 at65 feeling384 the19 supernatural367 hand252 in107 mine482 were324 very515 similar101 , in107 their219 strangeness58 , to261 those427 which16 I482 experienced93 on392 waking428 up405 and236 seeing426 Queequeg's483 pagan118 arm25 thrown359 round287 me2 . But330 at65 length202 all145 the19 past111 night108 's483 events390 soberly238 recurred402 , one470 by406 one470 , in107 fixed564 reality214 , and236 then45 I482 lay62 only517 alive298 to261 the19 comical135 predicament142 . For190 though400 I482 tried73 to261 move361 his433 arm25 -- unlock169 his433 bridegroom3 clasp86 --yet443 , sleeping341 as113 he362 was454 , he362 still278 hugged318 me2 tightly259 , as113 though400 naught80 but330 death543 should255 part207 us569 twain313 . I482 now20 strove180 to261 rouse441 him248 --"Queequeg!"--but330 his433 only517 answer164 was454 a10 snore291 . I482 then45 rolled226 over82 , my36 neck239 feeling384 as113 if141 it162 were324 in107 a10 horse409 -collar102 ; and236 suddenly193 felt440 a10 slight259 scratch316 . Throwing120 aside408 the19 counterpane65 , there340 lay62 the19 tomahawk279 sleeping341 by406 the19 savage398 's483 side246 , as113 if141 it162 were324 a10 hatchet273 -faced115 baby236 . A10 pretty252 pickle110 , truly530 , thought186 I482 ; abed24 here135 in107 a10 strange440 house499 in107 the19 broad267 day112 , with449 a10 cannibal180 and236 a10 tomahawk279 ! "Queequeg!--in107 the19 name477 of89 goodness64 , Queequeg, wake205 !" At65 length202 , by406 dint75 of89 much61 wriggling305 , and236 loud556 and236 incessant91 expostulations35 upon419 the19 unbecomingness22 of89 his433 hugging535 a10 fellow369 male447 in107 that14 matrimonial14 sort42 of89 style303 , I482 succeeded76 in107 extracting41 a10 grunt446 ; and236 presently166 , he362 drew175 back457 his433 arm25 , shook161 himself282 all145 over82 like410 a10 Newfoundland208 dog322 just108 from316 the19 water520 , and236 sat77 up405 in107 bed273 , stiff549 as113 a10 pike412 -staff359 , looking318 at65 me2 , and236 rubbing120 his433 eyes125 as113 if141 he362 did444 not518 altogether31 remember499 how19 I482 came549 to261 be341 there340 , though400 a10 dim14 consciousness539 of89 knowing240 something181 about123 me2 seemed132 slowly149 dawning364 over82 him248 . Meanwhile282 , I482 lay62 quietly380 eyeing49 him248 , having69 no235 serious97 misgivings217 now20 , and236 bent406 upon419 narrowly57 observing278 so281 curious264 a10 creature82 . When189 , at65 last436 , his433 mind118 seemed132 made563 up405 touching80 the19 character239 of89 his433 bedfellow219 , and236 he362 became70 , as113 it162 were324 , reconciled190 to261 the19 fact12 ; he362 jumped499 out66 upon419 the19 floor418 , and236 by406 certain31 signs211 and236 sounds394 gave572 me2 to261 understand111 that14 , if141 it162 pleased282 me2 , he362 would282 dress46 first13 and236 then45 leave450 me2 to261 dress46 afterwards418 , leaving231 the19 whole199 apartment18 to261 myself99 . Thinks344 I482 , Queequeg, under533 the19 circumstances267 , this256 is487 a10 very515 civilized441 overture267 ; but330 , the19 truth350 is487 , these527 savages247 have254 an138 innate507 sense85 of89 delicacy201 , say306 what243 you227 will584 ; it162 is487 marvellous35 how19 essentially89 polite499 they382 are314 . I482 pay496 this256 particular336 compliment480 to261 Queequeg, because540 he362 treated277 me2 with449 so281 much61 civility42 and236 consideration196 , while55 I482 was454 guilty290 of89 great259 rudeness24 ; staring523 at65 him248 from316 the19 bed273 , and236 watching330 all145 his433 toilette282 motions62 ; for190 the19 time577 my36 curiosity501 getting369 the19 better34 of89 my36 breeding158 . Nevertheless104 , a10 man17 like410 Queequeg you227 don280 't500 see370 every389 day112 , he362 and236 his433 ways101 were324 well263 worth84 unusual322 regarding23 . He362 commenced8 dressing217 at65 top70 by406 donning227 his433 beaver418 hat107 , a10 very515 tall373 one470 , by406 the19 by406 , and236 then45 --still278 minus153 his433 trowsers206 -- he362 hunted439 up405 his433 boots497 . What243 under533 the19 heavens494 he362 did444 it162 for190 , I482 cannot tell392 , but330 his433 next27 movement128 was454 to261 crush482 himself282 -- boots497 in107 hand252 , and236 hat107 on392 --under533 the19 bed273 ; when189 , from316 sundry53 violent336 gaspings83 and236 strainings, I482 inferred165 he362 was454 hard337 at65 work385 booting314 himself282 ; though400 by406 no235 law231 of89 propriety22 that14 I482 ever208 heard444 of89 , is487 any501 man17 required566 to261 be341 private541 when189 putting243 on392 his433 boots497 . But330 Queequeg, do353 you227 see370 , was454 a10 creature82 in107 the19 transition59 state135 -- neither74 caterpillar369 nor137 butterfly125 . He362 was454 just108 enough217 civilized441 to261 show460 off111 his433 outlandishness402 in107 the19 strangest86 possible277 manner153 . His433 education26 was454 not518 yet443 completed102 . He362 was454 an138 undergraduate31 . If141 he362 had364 not518 been185 a10 small350 degree209 civilized441 , he362 very515 probably244 would282 not518 have254 troubled327 himself282 with449 boots497 at65 all145 ; but330 then45 , if141 he362 had364 not518 been185 still278 a10 savage398 , he362 never206 would282 have254 dreamt516 of89 getting369 under533 the19 bed273 to261 put190 them146 on392 . At65 last436 , he362 emerged100 with449 his433 hat107 very515 much61 dented19 and236 crushed197 down133 over82 his433 eyes125 , and236 began132 creaking39 and236 limping439 about123 the19 room65 , as113 if141 , not518 being264 much61 accustomed295 to261 boots497 , his433 pair106 of89 damp264 , wrinkled259 cowhide364 ones396 -- probably244 not518 made563 to261 order343 either45 --rather178 pinched121 and236 tormented256 him248 at65 the19 first13 go20 off111 of89 a10 bitter236 cold330 morning417 . Seeing426 , now20 , that14 there340 were324 no235 curtains259 to261 the19 window8 , and236 that14 the19 street100 being264 very515 narrow140 , the19 house499 opposite107 commanded571 a10 plain28 view370 into554 the19 room65 , and236 observing278 more348 and236 more348 the19 indecorous325 figure55 that14 Queequeg made563 , staving279 about123 with449 little554 else212 but330 his433 hat107 and236 boots497 on392 ; I482 begged345 him248 as113 well263 as113 I482 could375 , to261 accelerate93 his433 toilet421 somewhat77 , and236 particularly106 to261 get126 into554 his433 pantaloons4 as113 soon18 as113 possible277 . He362 complied427 , and236 then45 proceeded121 to261 wash160 himself282 . At65 that14 time577 in107 the19 morning417 any501 Christian235 would282 have254 washed479 his433 face556 ; but330 Queequeg, to261 my36 amazement223 , contented520 himself282 with449 restricting90 his433 ablutions160 to261 his433 chest98 , arms536 , and236 hands87 . He362 then45 donned126 his433 waistcoat498 , and236 taking146 up405 a10 piece121 of89 hard337 soap458 on392 the19 wash160 -stand530 centre389 table572 , dipped377 it162 into554 water520 and236 commenced8 lathering26 his433 face556 . I482 was454 watching330 to261 see370 where579 he362 kept290 his433 razor471 , when189 lo418 and236 behold525 , he362 takes362 the19 harpoon67 from316 the19 bed273 corner204 , slips437 out66 the19 long544 wooden35 stock437 , unsheathes309 the19 head219 , whets157 it162 a10 little554 on392 his433 boot159 , and236 striding110 up405 to261 the19 bit72 of89 mirror543 against417 the19 wall509 , begins374 a10 vigorous113 scraping276 , or519 rather178 harpooning6 of89 his433 cheeks282 . Thinks344 I482 , Queequeg, this256 is487 using14 Rogers310 's483 best315 cutlery115 with449 a10 vengeance72 . Afterwards418 I482 wondered315 the19 less261 at65 this256 operation261 when189 I482 came549 to261 know60 of89 what243 fine333 steel184 the19 head219 of89 a10 harpoon67 is487 made563 , and236 how19 exceedingly257 sharp427 the19 long544 straight346 edges15 are314 always367 kept290 . The19 rest302 of89 his433 toilet421 was454 soon18 achieved251 , and236 he362 proudly345 marched158 out66 of89 the19 room65 , wrapped99 up405 in107 his433 great259 pilot559 monkey335 jacket481 , and236 sporting320 his433 harpoon67 like410 a10 marshal192 's483 baton427 . CHAPTER293 587 Breakfast408 I482 quickly183 followed234 suit373 , and236 descending181 into554 the19 bar144 -room65 accosted137 the19 grinning424 landlord270 very515 pleasantly215 . I482 cherished117 no235 malice157 towards417 him248 , though400 he362 had364 been185 skylarking364 with449 me2 not518 a10 little554 in107 the19 matter176 of89 my36 bedfellow219 . However44 , a10 good221 laugh559 is487 a10 mighty2 good221 thing309 , and236 rather178 too11 scarce462 a10 good221 thing309 ; the19 more348 's483 the19 pity270 . So281 , if141 any501 one470 man17 , in107 his433 own248 proper249 person550 , afford282 stuff471 for190 a10 good221 joke568 to261 anybody58 , let66 him248 not518 be341 backward19 , but330 let66 him248 cheerfully100 allow368 himself282 to261 spend357 and236 to261 be341 spent329 in107 that14 way435 . And236 the19 man17 that14 has399 anything480 bountifully101 laughable70 about123 him248 , be341 sure41 there340 is487 more348 in107 that14 man17 than77 you227 perhaps75 think424 for190 . The19 bar144 -room65 was454 now20 full414 of89 the19 boarders76 who319 had364 been185 dropping279 in107 the19 night108 previous376 , and236 whom324 I482 had364 not518 as113 yet443 had364 a10 good221 look523 at65 . They382 were324 nearly575 all145 whalemen451 ; chief156 mates264 , and236 second386 mates264 , and236 third301 mates264 , and236 sea67 carpenters185 , and236 sea67 coopers26 , and236 sea67 blacksmiths136 , and236 harpooneers, and236 ship438 keepers271 ; a10 brown446 and236 brawny364 company280 , with449 bosky388 beards306 ; an138 unshorn395 , shaggy200 set422 , all145 wearing166 monkey335 jackets140 for190 morning417 gowns454 . You227 could375 pretty252 plainly450 tell392 how19 long544 each520 one470 had364 been185 ashore122 . This256 young389 fellow369 's483 healthy456 cheek327 is487 like410 a10 sun397 -toasted pear270 in107 hue296 , and236 would282 seem404 to261 smell124 almost518 as113 musky280 ; he362 cannot have254 been185 three329 days351 landed451 from316 his433 Indian303 voyage137 . That14 man17 next27 him248 looks150 a10 few49 shades508 lighter415 ; you227 might496 say306 a10 touch486 of89 satin114 wood46 is487 in107 him248 . In107 the19 complexion243 of89 a10 third301 still278 lingers37 a10 tropic303 tawn, but330 slightly238 bleached80 withal157 ; he362 doubtless101 has399 tarried399 whole199 weeks522 ashore122 . But330 who319 could375 show460 a10 cheek327 like410 Queequeg? which16 , barred314 with449 various183 tints210 , seemed132 like410 the19 Andes341 ' western227 slope98 , to261 show460 forth152 in107 one470 array86 , contrasting286 climates181 , zone173 by406 zone173 . "Grub364 , ho31 !" now20 cried506 the19 landlord270 , flinging389 open464 a10 door135 , and236 in107 we465 went516 to261 breakfast408 . They382 say306 that14 men62 who319 have254 seen154 the19 world126 , thereby190 become548 quite327 at65 ease387 in107 manner153 , quite327 self442 -possessed95 in107 company280 . Not518 always367 , though400 : Ledyard161 , the19 great259 New36 England348 traveller258 , and236 Mungo170 Park236 , the19 Scotch481 one470 ; of89 all145 men62 , they382 possessed95 the19 least453 assurance41 in107 the19 parlor522 . But330 perhaps75 the19 mere393 crossing402 of89 Siberia239 in107 a10 sledge398 drawn564 by406 dogs393 as113 Ledyard161 did444 , or519 the19 taking146 a10 long544 solitary407 walk405 on392 an138 empty450 stomach274 , in107 the19 negro102 heart470 of89 Africa269 , which16 was454 the19 sum213 of89 poor533 Mungo170 's483 performances11 -- this256 kind451 of89 travel362 , I482 say306 , may236 not518 be341 the19 very515 best315 mode49 of89 attaining399 a10 high361 social149 polish203 . Still278 , for190 the19 most216 part207 , that14 sort42 of89 thing309 is487 to261 be341 had364 anywhere436 . These527 reflections104 just108 here135 are314 occasioned403 by406 the19 circumstance407 that14 after358 we465 were324 all145 seated158 at65 the19 table572 , and236 I482 was454 preparing52 to261 hear386 some265 good221 stories264 about123 whaling155 ; to261 my36 no235 small350 surprise125 nearly575 every389 man17 maintained345 a10 profound371 silence309 . And236 not518 only517 that14 , but330 they382 looked232 embarrassed198 . Yes143 , here135 were324 a10 set422 of89 sea67 -dogs393 , many282 of89 whom324 without309 the19 slightest44 bashfulness48 had364 boarded52 great259 whales331 on392 the19 high361 seas350 --entire230 strangers226 to261 them146 -- and236 duelled them146 dead568 without309 winking222 ; and236 yet443 , here135 they382 sat77 at65 a10 social149 breakfast408 table572 --all145 of89 the19 same541 calling56 , all145 of89 kindred402 tastes180 --looking318 round287 as113 sheepishly7 at65 each520 other282 as113 though400 they382 had364 never206 been185 out66 of89 sight365 of89 some265 sheepfold296 among483 the19 Green549 Mountains202 . A10 curious264 sight365 ; these527 bashful18 bears97 , these527 timid197 warrior140 whalemen451 ! But330 as113 for190 Queequeg--why177 , Queequeg sat77 there340 among483 them146 -- at65 the19 head219 of89 the19 table572 , too11 , it162 so281 chanced424 ; as113 cool102 as113 an138 icicle104 . To261 be341 sure41 I482 cannot say306 much61 for190 his433 breeding158 . His433 greatest479 admirer102 could375 not518 have254 cordially167 justified107 his433 bringing9 his433 harpoon67 into554 breakfast408 with449 him248 , and236 using14 it162 there340 without309 ceremony37 ; reaching141 over82 the19 table572 with449 it162 , to261 the19 imminent22 jeopardy95 of89 many282 heads366 , and236 grappling423 the19 beefsteaks26 towards417 him248 . But330 that14 was454 certainly124 very515 coolly156 done135 by406 him248 , and236 every389 one470 knows286 that14 in107 most216 people482 's483 estimation287 , to261 do353 anything480 coolly156 is487 to261 do353 it162 genteelly57 . We465 will584 not518 speak337 of89 all145 Queequeg's483 peculiarities38 here135 ; how19 he362 eschewed95 coffee331 and236 hot424 rolls475 , and236 applied122 his433 undivided317 attention518 to261 beefsteaks26 , done135 rare296 . Enough217 , that14 when189 breakfast408 was454 over82 he362 withdrew400 like410 the19 rest302 into554 the19 public3 room65 , lighted422 his433 tomahawk279 -pipe124 , and236 was454 sitting136 there340 quietly380 digesting53 and236 smoking470 with449 his433 inseparable88 hat107 on392 , when189 I482 sallied183 out66 for190 a10 stroll115 . CHAPTER293 6400 The19 Street100 If141 I482 had364 been185 astonished260 at65 first13 catching263 a10 glimpse12 of89 so281 outlandish292 an138 individual233 as113 Queequeg circulating135 among483 the19 polite499 society520 of89 a10 civilized441 town172 , that14 astonishment5 soon18 departed467 upon419 taking146 my36 first13 daylight155 stroll115 through295 the19 streets374 of89 New36 Bedford83 . In107 thoroughfares147 nigh254 the19 docks99 , any501 considerable75 seaport296 will584 frequently475 offer422 to261 view370 the19 queerest452 looking318 nondescripts204 from316 foreign198 parts470 . Even198 in107 Broadway92 and236 Chestnut292 streets374 , Mediterranean241 mariners347 will584 sometimes77 jostle451 the19 affrighted35 ladies66 . Regent253 Street100 is487 not518 unknown10 to261 Lascars98 and236 Malays400 ; and236 at65 Bombay330 , in107 the19 Apollo559 Green549 , live554 Yankees44 have254 often227 scared92 the19 natives165 . But330 New36 Bedford83 beats241 all145 Water520 Street100 and236 Wapping191 . In107 these527 last436 -mentioned124 haunts132 you227 see370 only517 sailors64 ; but330 in107 New36 Bedford83 , actual143 cannibals27 stand530 chatting225 at65 street100 corners124 ; savages247 outright472 ; many282 of89 whom324 yet443 carry160 on392 their219 bones5 unholy483 flesh331 . It162 makes32 a10 stranger233 stare236 . But330 , besides465 the19 Feegeeans, Tongatobooarrs, Erromanggoans, Pannangians, and236 Brighggians, and236 , besides465 the19 wild230 specimens91 of89 the19 whaling155 -craft187 which16 unheeded208 reel315 about123 the19 streets374 , you227 will584 see370 other282 sights24 still278 more348 curious264 , certainly124 more348 comical135 . There340 weekly374 arrive8 in107 this256 town172 scores316 of89 green549 Vermonters25 and236 New36 Hampshire324 men62 , all145 athirst280 for190 gain101 and236 glory173 in107 the19 fishery136 . They382 are314 mostly190 young389 , of89 stalwart323 frames400 ; fellows131 who319 have254 felled284 forests238 , and236 now20 seek292 to261 drop22 the19 axe288 and236 snatch276 the19 whale422 -lance76 . Many282 are314 as113 green549 as113 the19 Green549 Mountains202 whence494 they382 came549 . In107 some265 things4 you227 would282 think424 them146 but330 a10 few49 hours127 old447 . Look523 there340 ! that14 chap287 strutting336 round287 the19 corner204 . He362 wears270 a10 beaver418 hat107 and236 swallow195 -tailed141 coat7 , girdled312 with449 a10 sailor561 -belt323 and236 a10 sheath188 -knife503 . Here135 comes268 another269 with449 a10 sou'-wester282 and236 a10 bombazine104 cloak85 . No235 town172 -bred128 dandy122 will584 compare184 with449 a10 country362 -bred128 one470 --I482 mean504 a10 downright402 bumpkin26 dandy122 --a10 fellow369 that14 , in107 the19 dog322 -days351 , will584 mow109 his433 two527 acres506 in107 buckskin197 gloves29 for190 fear103 of89 tanning51 his433 hands87 . Now20 when189 a10 country362 dandy122 like410 this256 takes362 it162 into554 his433 head219 to261 make175 a10 distinguished365 reputation193 , and236 joins78 the19 great259 whale422 -fishery136 , you227 should255 see370 the19 comical135 things4 he362 does565 upon419 reaching141 the19 seaport296 . In107 bespeaking9 his433 sea67 -outfit, he362 orders199 bell28 -buttons458 to261 his433 waistcoats29 ; straps86 to261 his433 canvas557 trowsers206 . Ah132 , poor533 Hay515 -Seed98 ! how19 bitterly259 will584 burst174 those427 straps86 in107 the19 first13 howling204 gale440 , when189 thou173 art462 driven228 , straps86 , buttons458 , and236 all145 , down133 the19 throat461 of89 the19 tempest125 . But330 think424 not518 that14 this256 famous254 town172 has399 only517 harpooneers, cannibals27 , and236 bumpkins260 to261 show460 her400 visitors143 . Not518 at65 all145 . Still278 New36 Bedford83 is487 a10 queer156 place107 . Had364 it162 not518 been185 for190 us569 whalemen451 , that14 tract8 of89 land406 would282 this256 day112 perhaps75 have254 been185 in107 as113 howling204 condition62 as113 the19 coast287 of89 Labrador331 . As113 it162 is487 , parts470 of89 her400 back457 country362 are314 enough217 to261 frighten202 one470 , they382 look523 so281 bony23 . The19 town172 itself312 is487 perhaps75 the19 dearest173 place107 to261 live554 in107 , in107 all145 New36 England348 . It162 is487 a10 land406 of89 oil118 , true483 enough217 : but330 not518 like410 Canaan492 ; a10 land406 , also119 , of89 corn237 and236 wine102 . The19 streets374 do353 not518 run172 with449 milk362 ; nor137 in107 the19 spring148 -time577 do353 they382 pave132 them146 with449 fresh540 eggs151 . Yet443 , in107 spite431 of89 this256 , nowhere209 in107 all145 America133 will584 you227 find138 more348 patrician-like410 houses166 ; parks232 and236 gardens435 more348 opulent137 , than77 in107 New36 Bedford83 . Whence494 came549 they382 ? how19 planted82 upon419 this256 once248 scraggy366 scoria83 of89 a10 country362 ? Go20 and236 gaze568 upon419 the19 iron169 emblematical244 harpoons6 round287 yonder41 lofty161 mansion491 , and236 your162 question562 will584 be341 answered100 . Yes143 ; all145 these527 brave218 houses166 and236 flowery284 gardens435 came549 from316 the19 Atlantic198 , Pacific294 , and236 Indian303 oceans60 . One470 and236 all145 , they382 were324 harpooned290 and236 dragged460 up405 hither342 from316 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 sea67 . Can450 Herr574 Alexander312 perform312 a10 feat1 like410 that14 ? In107 New36 Bedford83 , fathers305 , they382 say306 , give142 whales331 for190 dowers25 to261 their219 daughters197 , and236 portion120 off111 their219 nieces166 with449 a10 few49 porpoises298 a10 -piece121 . You227 must226 go20 to261 New36 Bedford83 to261 see370 a10 brilliant354 wedding377 ; for190 , they382 say306 , they382 have254 reservoirs25 of89 oil118 in107 every389 house499 , and236 every389 night108 recklessly72 burn118 their219 lengths469 in107 spermaceti283 candles457 . In107 summer408 time577 , the19 town172 is487 sweet417 to261 see370 ; full414 of89 fine333 maples8 -- long544 avenues441 of89 green549 and236 gold231 . And236 in107 August29 , high361 in107 air209 , the19 beautiful239 and236 bountiful348 horse409 -chestnuts141 , candelabra91 -wise16 , proffer18 the19 passer-by128 their219 tapering416 upright145 cones180 of89 congregated203 blossoms163 . So281 omnipotent448 is487 art462 ; which16 in107 many282 a10 district11 of89 New36 Bedford83 has399 superinduced203 bright205 terraces75 of89 flowers325 upon419 the19 barren415 refuse337 rocks265 thrown359 aside408 at65 creation182 's483 final357 day112 . And236 the19 women275 of89 New36 Bedford83 , they382 bloom266 like410 their219 own248 red293 roses542 . But330 roses542 only517 bloom266 in107 summer408 ; whereas18 the19 fine333 carnation210 of89 their219 cheeks282 is487 perennial378 as113 sunlight333 in107 the19 seventh31 heavens494 . Elsewhere154 match441 that14 bloom266 of89 theirs137 , ye483 cannot, save556 in107 Salem389 , where579 they382 tell392 me2 the19 young389 girls388 breathe393 such420 musk16 , their219 sailor561 sweethearts233 smell124 them146 miles278 off111 shore280 , as113 though400 they382 were324 drawing407 nigh254 the19 odorous485 Moluccas287 instead398 of89 the19 Puritanic310 sands118 . CHAPTER293 7203 The19 Chapel60 In107 this256 same541 New36 Bedford83 there340 stands256 a10 Whaleman98 's483 Chapel60 , and236 few49 are314 the19 moody447 fishermen24 , shortly425 bound108 for190 the19 Indian303 Ocean224 or519 Pacific294 , who319 fail126 to261 make175 a10 Sunday151 visit229 to261 the19 spot46 . I482 am375 sure41 that14 I482 did444 not518 . Returning53 from316 my36 first13 morning417 stroll115 , I482 again52 sallied183 out66 upon419 this256 special326 errand264 . The19 sky331 had364 changed21 from316 clear408 , sunny200 cold330 , to261 driving280 sleet149 and236 mist322 . Wrapping439 myself99 in107 my36 shaggy200 jacket481 of89 the19 cloth102 called237 bearskin445 , I482 fought66 my36 way435 against417 the19 stubborn452 storm218 . Entering423 , I482 found260 a10 small350 scattered17 congregation23 of89 sailors64 , and236 sailors64 ' wives473 and236 widows342 . A10 muffled58 silence309 reigned208 , only517 broken255 at65 times121 by406 the19 shrieks400 of89 the19 storm218 . Each520 silent382 worshipper227 seemed132 purposely140 sitting136 apart526 from316 the19 other282 , as113 if141 each520 silent382 grief318 were324 insular129 and236 incommunicable38 . The19 chaplain471 had364 not518 yet443 arrived553 ; and236 there340 these527 silent382 islands59 of89 men62 and236 women275 sat77 steadfastly106 eyeing49 several479 marble364 tablets18 , with449 black581 borders133 , masoned into554 the19 wall509 on392 either45 side246 the19 pulpit107 . Three329 of89 them146 ran391 something181 like410 the19 following181 , but330 I482 do353 not518 pretend493 to261 quote254 : SACRED32 TO261 THE19 MEMORY333 OF89 JOHN416 TALBOT102 , Who319 , at65 the19 age157 of89 eighteen387 , was454 lost308 overboard247 Near70 the19 Isle41 of89 Desolation143 , off111 Patagonia111 , November197 1st127 , 1836360 . THIS256 TABLET260 Is487 erected412 to261 his433 Memory333 BY406 HIS433 SISTER126 . SACRED32 TO261 THE19 MEMORY333 OF89 ROBERT203 LONG544 , WILLIS67 ELLERY389 , NATHAN84 COLEMAN117 , WALTER457 CANNY223 , SETH377 MACY39 , AND236 SAMUEL77 GLEIG273 , Forming354 one470 of89 the19 boats83 ' crews559 OF89 THE19 SHIP438 ELIZA321 Who319 were324 towed376 out66 of89 sight365 by406 a10 Whale422 , On392 the19 Off111 -shore280 Ground127 in107 the19 PACIFIC294 , December490 31st296 , 1839386 . THIS256 MARBLE364 Is487 here135 placed556 by406 their219 surviving61 SHIPMATES98 . SACRED32 TO261 THE19 MEMORY333 OF89 The19 late351 CAPTAIN295 EZEKIEL29 HARDY241 , Who319 in107 the19 bows460 of89 his433 boat439 was454 killed409 by406 a10 Sperm26 Whale422 on392 the19 coast287 of89 Japan53 , August29 3d487 , 183366 . THIS256 TABLET260 Is487 erected412 to261 his433 Memory333 BY406 HIS433 WIDOW231 . Shaking206 off111 the19 sleet149 from316 my36 ice443 -glazed hat107 and236 jacket481 , I482 seated158 myself99 near70 the19 door135 , and236 turning69 sideways496 was454 surprised55 to261 see370 Queequeg near70 me2 . Affected283 by406 the19 solemnity310 of89 the19 scene228 , there340 was454 a10 wondering263 gaze568 of89 incredulous361 curiosity501 in107 his433 countenance553 . This256 savage398 was454 the19 only517 person550 present112 who319 seemed132 to261 notice76 my36 entrance237 ; because540 he362 was454 the19 only517 one470 who319 could375 not518 read98 , and236 , therefore94 , was454 not518 reading210 those427 frigid499 inscriptions162 on392 the19 wall509 . Whether454 any501 of89 the19 relatives443 of89 the19 seamen6 whose286 names360 appeared88 there340 were324 now20 among483 the19 congregation23 , I482 knew480 not518 ; but330 so281 many282 are314 the19 unrecorded337 accidents122 in107 the19 fishery136 , and236 so281 plainly450 did444 several479 women275 present112 wear250 the19 countenance553 if141 not518 the19 trappings1 of89 some265 unceasing360 grief318 , that14 I482 feel461 sure41 that14 here135 before344 me2 were324 assembled170 those427 , in107 whose286 unhealing hearts431 the19 sight365 of89 those427 bleak151 tablets18 sympathetically83 caused308 the19 old447 wounds371 to261 bleed366 afresh59 . Oh367 ! ye483 whose286 dead568 lie212 buried205 beneath320 the19 green549 grass418 ; who319 standing144 among483 flowers325 can450 say306 --here135 , here135 lies27 my36 beloved169 ; ye483 know60 not518 the19 desolation143 that14 broods89 in107 bosoms504 like410 these527 . What243 bitter236 blanks140 in107 those427 black581 -bordered83 marbles484 which16 cover172 no235 ashes243 ! What243 despair187 in107 those427 immovable214 inscriptions162 ! What243 deadly49 voids41 and236 unbidden102 infidelities295 in107 the19 lines241 that14 seem404 to261 gnaw212 upon419 all145 Faith511 , and236 refuse337 resurrections393 to261 the19 beings6 who319 have254 placelessly perished264 without309 a10 grave344 . As113 well263 might496 those427 tablets18 stand530 in107 the19 cave84 of89 Elephanta99 as113 here135 . In107 what243 census198 of89 living117 creatures5 , the19 dead568 of89 mankind40 are314 included559 ; why177 it162 is487 that14 a10 universal397 proverb204 says424 of89 them146 , that14 they382 tell392 no235 tales527 , though400 containing247 more348 secrets107 than77 the19 Goodwin439 Sands118 ! how19 it162 is487 that14 to261 his433 name477 who319 yesterday235 departed467 for190 the19 other282 world126 , we465 prefix165 so281 significant143 and236 infidel183 a10 word486 , and236 yet443 do353 not518 thus362 entitle159 him248 , if141 he362 but330 embarks277 for190 the19 remotest95 Indies181 of89 this256 living117 earth513 ; why177 the19 Life71 Insurance415 Companies13 pay496 death543 -forfeitures upon419 immortals327 ; in107 what243 eternal155 , unstirring paralysis95 , and236 deadly49 , hopeless189 trance202 , yet443 lies27 antique58 Adam482 who319 died575 sixty332 round287 centuries168 ago141 ; how19 it162 is487 that14 we465 still278 refuse337 to261 be341 comforted316 for190 those427 who319 we465 nevertheless104 maintain357 are314 dwelling394 in107 unspeakable4 bliss128 ; why177 all145 the19 living117 so281 strive57 to261 hush4 all145 the19 dead568 ; wherefore220 but330 the19 rumor368 of89 a10 knocking82 in107 a10 tomb122 will584 terrify503 a10 whole199 city82 . All145 these527 things4 are314 not518 without309 their219 meanings186 . But330 Faith511 , like410 a10 jackal380 , feeds304 among483 the19 tombs410 , and236 even198 from316 these527 dead568 doubts289 she391 gathers439 her400 most216 vital204 hope211 . It162 needs41 scarcely71 to261 be341 told82 , with449 what243 feelings120 , on392 the19 eve245 of89 a10 Nantucket283 voyage137 , I482 regarded393 those427 marble364 tablets18 , and236 by406 the19 murky330 light382 of89 that14 darkened21 , doleful223 day112 read98 the19 fate74 of89 the19 whalemen451 who319 had364 gone190 before344 me2 . Yes143 , Ishmael196 , the19 same541 fate74 may236 be341 thine72 . But330 somehow425 I482 grew5 merry486 again52 . Delightful113 inducements74 to261 embark296 , fine333 chance292 for190 promotion282 , it162 seems19 --aye86 , a10 stove373 boat439 will584 make175 me2 an138 immortal15 by406 brevet92 . Yes143 , there340 is487 death543 in107 this256 business168 of89 whaling155 --a10 speechlessly86 quick241 chaotic133 bundling40 of89 a10 man17 into554 Eternity380 . But330 what243 then45 ? Methinks462 we465 have254 hugely256 mistaken49 this256 matter176 of89 Life71 and236 Death543 . Methinks462 that14 what243 they382 call259 my36 shadow438 here135 on392 earth513 is487 my36 true483 substance316 . Methinks462 that14 in107 looking318 at65 things4 spiritual467 , we465 are314 too11 much61 like410 oysters453 observing278 the19 sun397 through295 the19 water520 , and236 thinking385 that14 thick502 water520 the19 thinnest240 of89 air209 . Methinks462 my36 body348 is487 but330 the19 lees163 of89 my36 better34 being264 . In107 fact12 take279 my36 body348 who319 will584 , take279 it162 I482 say306 , it162 is487 not518 me2 . And236 therefore94 three329 cheers416 for190 Nantucket283 ; and236 come420 a10 stove373 boat439 and236 stove373 body348 when189 they382 will584 , for190 stave416 my36 soul428 , Jove274 himself282 cannot. CHAPTER293 8414 The19 Pulpit107 I482 had364 not518 been185 seated158 very515 long544 ere83 a10 man17 of89 a10 certain31 venerable57 robustness9 entered447 ; immediately172 as113 the19 storm218 -pelted door135 flew424 back457 upon419 admitting158 him248 , a10 quick241 regardful409 eyeing49 of89 him248 by406 all145 the19 congregation23 , sufficiently12 attested83 that14 this256 fine333 old447 man17 was454 the19 chaplain471 . Yes143 , it162 was454 the19 famous254 Father339 Mapple, so281 called237 by406 the19 whalemen451 , among483 whom324 he362 was454 a10 very515 great259 favorite461 . He362 had364 been185 a10 sailor561 and236 a10 harpooneer in107 his433 youth327 , but330 for190 many282 years116 past111 had364 dedicated87 his433 life71 to261 the19 ministry466 . At65 the19 time577 I482 now20 write570 of89 , Father339 Mapple was454 in107 the19 hardy241 winter317 of89 a10 healthy456 old447 age157 ; that14 sort42 of89 old447 age157 which16 seems19 merging202 into554 a10 second386 flowering232 youth327 , for190 among483 all145 the19 fissures143 of89 his433 wrinkles318 , there340 shone14 certain31 mild117 gleams34 of89 a10 newly318 developing212 bloom266 -- the19 spring148 verdure329 peeping374 forth152 even198 beneath320 February222 's483 snow498 . No235 one470 having69 previously250 heard444 his433 history183 , could375 for190 the19 first13 time577 behold525 Father339 Mapple without309 the19 utmost43 interest323 , because540 there340 were324 certain31 engrafted64 clerical256 peculiarities38 about123 him248 , imputable237 to261 that14 adventurous499 maritime243 life71 he362 had364 led46 . When189 he362 entered447 I482 observed340 that14 he362 carried232 no235 umbrella371 , and236 certainly124 had364 not518 come420 in107 his433 carriage21 , for190 his433 tarpaulin2 hat107 ran391 down133 with449 melting59 sleet149 , and236 his433 great259 pilot559 cloth102 jacket481 seemed132 almost518 to261 drag426 him248 to261 the19 floor418 with449 the19 weight213 of89 the19 water520 it162 had364 absorbed116 . However44 , hat107 and236 coat7 and236 overshoes261 were324 one470 by406 one470 removed447 , and236 hung479 up405 in107 a10 little554 space468 in107 an138 adjacent118 corner204 ; when189 , arrayed155 in107 a10 decent136 suit373 , he362 quietly380 approached93 the19 pulpit107 . Like410 most216 old447 fashioned432 pulpits301 , it162 was454 a10 very515 lofty161 one470 , and236 since374 a10 regular400 stairs330 to261 such420 a10 height20 would282 , by406 its234 long544 angle205 with449 the19 floor418 , seriously378 contract284 the19 already93 small350 area472 of89 the19 chapel60 , the19 architect557 , it162 seemed132 , had364 acted553 upon419 the19 hint335 of89 Father339 Mapple, and236 finished218 the19 pulpit107 without309 a10 stairs330 , substituting143 a10 perpendicular83 side246 ladder391 , like410 those427 used102 in107 mounting473 a10 ship438 from316 a10 boat439 at65 sea67 . The19 wife37 of89 a10 whaling155 captain295 had364 provided100 the19 chapel60 with449 a10 handsome66 pair106 of89 red293 worsted208 man17 -ropes461 for190 this256 ladder391 , which16 , being264 itself312 nicely560 headed124 , and236 stained224 with449 a10 mahogany389 color13 , the19 whole199 contrivance139 , considering115 what243 manner153 of89 chapel60 it162 was454 , seemed132 by406 no235 means502 in107 bad458 taste134 . Halting82 for190 an138 instant279 at65 the19 foot467 of89 the19 ladder391 , and236 with449 both558 hands87 grasping427 the19 ornamental25 knobs457 of89 the19 man17 -ropes461 , Father339 Mapple cast99 a10 look523 upwards110 , and236 then45 with449 a10 truly530 sailor561 -like410 but330 still278 reverential169 dexterity101 , hand252 over82 hand252 , mounted191 the19 steps392 as113 if141 ascending116 the19 main501 -top70 of89 his433 vessel155 . The19 perpendicular83 parts470 of89 this256 side246 ladder391 , as113 is487 usually211 the19 case346 with449 swinging379 ones396 , were324 of89 cloth102 -covered452 rope265 , only517 the19 rounds369 were324 of89 wood46 , so281 that14 at65 every389 step204 there340 was454 a10 joint65 . At65 my36 first13 glimpse12 of89 the19 pulpit107 , it162 had364 not518 escaped197 me2 that14 however44 convenient470 for190 a10 ship438 , these527 joints401 in107 the19 present112 instance141 seemed132 unnecessary444 . For190 I482 was454 not518 prepared59 to261 see370 Father339 Mapple after358 gaining225 the19 height20 , slowly149 turn17 round287 , and236 stooping492 over82 the19 pulpit107 , deliberately336 drag426 up405 the19 ladder391 step204 by406 step204 , till181 the19 whole199 was454 deposited328 within503 , leaving231 him248 impregnable410 in107 his433 little554 Quebec361 . I482 pondered182 some265 time577 without309 fully530 comprehending264 the19 reason238 for190 this256 . Father339 Mapple enjoyed400 such420 a10 wide465 reputation193 for190 sincerity143 and236 sanctity247 , that14 I482 could375 not518 suspect307 him248 of89 courting508 notoriety292 by406 any501 mere393 tricks110 of89 the19 stage22 . No235 , thought186 I482 , there340 must226 be341 some265 sober121 reason238 for190 this256 thing309 ; furthermore181 , it162 must226 symbolize67 something181 unseen173 . Can450 it162 be341 , then45 , that14 by406 that14 act10 of89 physical43 isolation354 , he362 signifies8 his433 spiritual467 withdrawal152 for190 the19 time577 , from316 all145 outward393 worldly483 ties481 and236 connexions355 ? Yes143 , for190 replenished198 with449 the19 meat160 and236 wine102 of89 the19 word486 , to261 the19 faithful284 man17 of89 God185 , this256 pulpit107 , I482 see370 , is487 a10 self442 -containing247 stronghold273 --a10 lofty161 Ehrenbreitstein102 , with449 a10 perennial378 well263 of89 water520 within503 the19 walls116 . But330 the19 side246 ladder391 was454 not518 the19 only517 strange440 feature400 of89 the19 place107 , borrowed199 from316 the19 chaplain471 's483 former157 sea67 -farings. Between77 the19 marble364 cenotaphs402 on392 either45 hand252 of89 the19 pulpit107 , the19 wall509 which16 formed294 its234 back457 was454 adorned315 with449 a10 large385 painting320 representing118 a10 gallant323 ship438 beating124 against417 a10 terrible132 storm218 off111 a10 lee472 coast287 of89 black581 rocks265 and236 snowy152 breakers317 . But330 high361 above502 the19 flying354 scud124 and236 dark471 -rolling253 clouds342 , there340 floated6 a10 little554 isle41 of89 sunlight333 , from316 which16 beamed101 forth152 an138 angel63 's483 face556 ; and236 this256 bright205 face556 shed155 a10 distant353 spot46 of89 radiance29 upon419 the19 ship438 's483 tossed227 deck505 , something181 like410 that14 silver205 plate396 now20 inserted102 into554 the19 Victory129 's483 plank243 where579 Nelson364 fell421 . "Ah132 , noble226 ship438 ," the19 angel63 seemed132 to261 say306 , "beat449 on392 , beat449 on392 , thou173 noble226 ship438 , and236 bear48 a10 hardy241 helm285 ; for190 lo418 ! the19 sun397 is487 breaking6 through295 ; the19 clouds342 are314 rolling253 off111 -- serenest166 azure154 is487 at65 hand252 ." Nor137 was454 the19 pulpit107 itself312 without309 a10 trace327 of89 the19 same541 sea67 -taste134 that14 had364 achieved251 the19 ladder391 and236 the19 picture264 . Its234 panelled8 front196 was454 in107 the19 likeness460 of89 a10 ship438 's483 bluff4 bows460 , and236 the19 Holy61 Bible253 rested314 on392 a10 projecting336 piece121 of89 scroll62 work385 , fashioned432 after358 a10 ship438 's483 fiddle-headed124 beak560 . What243 could375 be341 more348 full414 of89 meaning62 ?--for190 the19 pulpit107 is487 ever208 this256 earth513 's483 foremost61 part207 ; all145 the19 rest302 comes268 in107 its234 rear252 ; the19 pulpit107 leads134 the19 world126 . From316 thence158 it162 is487 the19 storm218 of89 God185 's483 quick241 wrath450 is487 first13 descried313 , and236 the19 bow146 must226 bear48 the19 earliest69 brunt218 . From316 thence158 it162 is487 the19 God185 of89 breezes127 fair320 or519 foul528 is487 first13 invoked398 for190 favorable270 winds399 . Yes143 , the19 world126 's483 a10 ship438 on392 its234 passage285 out66 , and236 not518 a10 voyage137 complete191 ; and236 the19 pulpit107 is487 its234 prow451 . CHAPTER293 9390 The19 Sermon167 Father339 Mapple rose449 , and236 in107 a10 mild117 voice233 of89 unassuming10 authority146 ordered143 the19 scattered17 people482 to261 condense273 . "Star274 board540 gangway240 , there340 ! side246 away443 to261 larboard203 --larboard203 gangway240 to261 starboard309 ! Midships27 ! midships27 !" There340 was454 a10 low407 rumbling41 of89 heavy421 sea67 -boots497 among483 the19 benches23 , and236 a10 still278 slighter173 shuffling60 of89 women275 's483 shoes436 , and236 all145 was454 quiet337 again52 , and236 every389 eye220 on392 the19 preacher57 . He362 paused390 a10 little554 ; then45 kneeling311 in107 the19 pulpit107 's483 bows460 , folded305 his433 large385 brown446 hands87 across129 his433 chest98 , uplifted533 his433 closed523 eyes125 , and236 offered336 a10 prayer377 so281 deeply225 devout292 that14 he362 seemed132 kneeling311 and236 praying152 at65 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 sea67 . This256 ended225 , in107 prolonged246 solemn303 tones129 , like410 the19 continual222 tolling147 of89 a10 bell28 in107 a10 ship438 that14 is487 foundering283 at65 sea67 in107 a10 fog554 -- in107 such420 tones129 he362 commenced8 reading210 the19 following181 hymn169 ; but330 changing219 his433 manner153 towards417 the19 concluding84 stanzas105 , burst174 forth152 with449 a10 pealing304 exultation54 and236 joy430 -- The19 ribs92 and236 terrors192 in107 the19 whale422 , Arched4 over82 me2 a10 dismal110 gloom7 , While55 all145 God185 's483 sun397 -lit26 waves443 rolled226 by406 , And236 lift229 me2 deepening151 down133 to261 doom73 . I482 saw113 the19 opening306 maw314 of89 hell169 , With449 endless489 pains97 and236 sorrows521 there340 ; Which16 none365 but330 they382 that14 feel461 can450 tell392 -- Oh367 , I482 was454 plunging93 to261 despair187 . In107 black581 distress273 , I482 called237 my36 God185 , When189 I482 could375 scarce462 believe191 him248 mine482 , He362 bowed26 his433 ear515 to261 my36 complaints321 -- No235 more348 the19 whale422 did444 me2 confine416 . With449 speed468 he362 flew424 to261 my36 relief60 , As113 on392 a10 radiant460 dolphin110 borne493 ; Awful539 , yet443 bright205 , as113 lightning171 shone14 The19 face556 of89 my36 Deliverer271 God185 . My36 song12 for190 ever208 shall66 record571 That14 terrible132 , that14 joyful435 hour384 ; I482 give142 the19 glory173 to261 my36 God185 , His433 all145 the19 mercy378 and236 the19 power145 . Nearly575 all145 joined210 in107 singing288 this256 hymn169 , which16 swelled213 high361 above502 the19 howling204 of89 the19 storm218 . A10 brief59 pause391 ensued337 ; the19 preacher57 slowly149 turned492 over82 the19 leaves441 of89 the19 Bible253 , and236 at65 last436 , folding309 his433 hand252 down133 upon419 the19 proper249 page425 , said252 : "Beloved169 shipmates98 , clinch66 the19 last436 verse267 of89 the19 first13 chapter293 of89 Jonah41 --'And236 God185 had364 prepared59 a10 great259 fish187 to261 swallow195 up405 Jonah41 .'" "Shipmates98 , this256 book230 , containing247 only517 four175 chapters185 -- four175 yarns122 --is487 one470 of89 the19 smallest443 strands22 in107 the19 mighty2 cable41 of89 the19 Scriptures134 . Yet443 what243 depths416 of89 the19 soul428 does565 Jonah41 's483 deep483 sealine sound181 ! what243 a10 pregnant182 lesson147 to261 us569 is487 this256 prophet25 ! What243 a10 noble226 thing309 is487 that14 canticle494 in107 the19 fish187 's483 belly511 ! How19 billow510 -like410 and236 boisterously26 grand229 ! We465 feel461 the19 floods481 surging403 over82 us569 , we465 sound181 with449 him248 to261 the19 kelpy244 bottom461 of89 the19 waters556 ; sea67 -weed and236 all145 the19 slime367 of89 the19 sea67 is487 about123 us569 ! But330 what243 is487 this256 lesson147 that14 the19 book230 of89 Jonah41 teaches202 ? Shipmates98 , it162 is487 a10 two527 -stranded299 lesson147 ; a10 lesson147 to261 us569 all145 as113 sinful291 men62 , and236 a10 lesson147 to261 me2 as113 a10 pilot559 of89 the19 living117 God185 . As113 sinful291 men62 , it162 is487 a10 lesson147 to261 us569 all145 , because540 it162 is487 a10 story197 of89 the19 sin228 , hard337 -heartedness183 , suddenly193 awakened390 fears259 , the19 swift376 punishment100 , repentance71 , prayers173 , and236 finally69 the19 deliverance283 and236 joy430 of89 Jonah41 . As113 with449 all145 sinners196 among483 men62 , the19 sin228 of89 this256 son26 of89 Amittai426 was454 in107 his433 wilful160 disobedience571 of89 the19 command190 of89 God185 -- never206 mind118 now20 what243 that14 command190 was454 , or519 how19 conveyed223 -- which16 he362 found260 a10 hard337 command190 . But330 all145 the19 things4 that14 God185 would282 have254 us569 do353 are314 hard337 for190 us569 to261 do353 --remember499 that14 -- and236 hence503 , he362 oftener222 commands245 us569 than77 endeavors212 to261 persuade223 . And236 if141 we465 obey67 God185 , we465 must226 disobey180 ourselves15 ; and236 it162 is487 in107 this256 disobeying217 ourselves15 , wherein396 the19 hardness396 of89 obeying163 God185 consists303 . "With449 this256 sin228 of89 disobedience571 in107 him248 , Jonah41 still278 further53 flouts473 at65 God185 , by406 seeking427 to261 flee440 from316 Him248 . He362 thinks344 that14 a10 ship438 made563 by406 men62 , will584 carry160 him248 into554 countries279 where579 God185 does565 not518 reign145 but330 only517 the19 Captains124 of89 this256 earth513 . He362 skulks50 about123 the19 wharves329 of89 Joppa189 , and236 seeks168 a10 ship438 that14 's76 bound108 for190 Tarshish103 . There340 lurks115 , perhaps75 , a10 hitherto533 unheeded208 meaning62 here135 . By406 all145 accounts311 Tarshish103 could375 have254 been185 no235 other282 city82 than77 the19 modern446 Cadiz83 . That14 's76 the19 opinion316 of89 learned277 men62 . And236 where579 is487 Cadiz83 , shipmates98 ? Cadiz83 is487 in107 Spain20 ; as113 far258 by406 water520 , from316 Joppa189 , as113 Jonah41 could375 possibly201 have254 sailed248 in107 those427 ancient463 days351 , when189 the19 Atlantic198 was454 an138 almost518 unknown10 sea67 . Because540 Joppa189 , the19 modern446 Jaffa76 , shipmates98 , is487 on392 the19 most216 easterly149 coast287 of89 the19 Mediterranean241 , the19 Syrian314 ; and236 Tarshish103 or519 Cadiz83 more348 than77 two527 thousand586 miles278 to261 the19 westward381 from316 that14 , just108 outside75 the19 Straits273 of89 Gibraltar136 . See370 ye483 not518 then45 , shipmates98 , that14 Jonah41 sought82 to261 flee440 worldwide4 from316 God185 ? Miserable364 man17 ! Oh367 ! most216 contemptible178 and236 worthy60 of89 all145 scorn8 ; with449 slouched364 hat107 and236 guilty290 eye220 , skulking434 from316 his433 God185 ; prowling12 among483 the19 shipping319 like410 a10 vile221 burglar189 hastening248 to261 cross416 the19 seas350 . So281 disordered181 , self442 -condemning27 is487 his433 look523 , that14 had364 there340 been185 policemen14 in107 those427 days351 , Jonah41 , on392 the19 mere393 suspicion368 of89 something181 wrong70 , had364 been185 arrested266 ere83 he362 touched367 a10 deck505 . How19 plainly450 he362 's483 a10 fugitive332 ! no235 baggage80 , not518 a10 hat107 -box434 , valise446 , or519 carpet446 -bag41 ,--no235 friends169 accompany361 him248 to261 the19 wharf545 with449 their219 adieux12 . At65 last436 , after358 much61 dodging213 search352 , he362 finds455 the19 Tarshish103 ship438 receiving124 the19 last436 items18 of89 her400 cargo88 ; and236 as113 he362 steps392 on392 board540 to261 see370 its234 Captain295 in107 the19 cabin192 , all145 the19 sailors64 for190 the19 moment258 desist472 from316 hoisting50 in107 the19 goods121 , to261 mark169 the19 stranger233 's483 evil2 eye220 . Jonah41 sees187 this256 ; but330 in107 vain216 he362 tries279 to261 look523 all145 ease387 and236 confidence46 ; in107 vain216 essays272 his433 wretched294 smile265 . Strong145 intuitions396 of89 the19 man17 assure511 the19 mariners347 he362 can450 be341 no235 innocent156 . In107 their219 gamesome110 but330 still278 serious97 way435 , one470 whispers336 to261 the19 other282 --"Jack299 , he362 's483 robbed320 a10 widow231 ;" or519 , "Joe105 , do353 you227 mark169 him248 ; he362 's483 a10 bigamist253 ;" or519 , "Harry70 lad342 , I482 guess304 he362 's483 the19 adulterer129 that14 broke356 jail3 in107 old447 Gomorrah102 , or519 belike142 , one470 of89 the19 missing210 murderers205 from316 Sodom27 ." Another269 runs399 to261 read98 the19 bill338 that14 's76 stuck120 against417 the19 spile415 upon419 the19 wharf545 to261 which16 the19 ship438 is487 moored379 , offering18 five103 hundred93 gold231 coins294 for190 the19 apprehension26 of89 a10 parricide25 , and236 containing247 a10 description396 of89 his433 person550 . He362 reads284 , and236 looks150 from316 Jonah41 to261 the19 bill338 ; while55 all145 his433 sympathetic129 shipmates98 now20 crowd16 round287 Jonah41 , prepared59 to261 lay62 their219 hands87 upon419 him248 . Frighted191 Jonah41 trembles175 . and236 summoning74 all145 his433 boldness186 to261 his433 face556 , only517 looks150 so281 much61 the19 more348 a10 coward92 . He362 will584 not518 confess315 himself282 suspected189 ; but330 that14 itself312 is487 strong145 suspicion368 . So281 he362 makes32 the19 best315 of89 it162 ; and236 when189 the19 sailors64 find138 him248 not518 to261 be341 the19 man17 that14 is487 advertised405 , they382 let66 him248 pass153 , and236 he362 descends255 into554 the19 cabin192 . "'Who319 's483 there340 ?' cries104 the19 Captain295 at65 his433 busy130 desk294 , hurriedly12 making415 out66 his433 papers434 for190 the19 Customs146 --'Who319 's483 there340 ?' Oh367 ! how19 that14 harmless268 question562 mangles69 Jonah41 ! For190 the19 instant279 he362 almost518 turns136 to261 flee440 again52 . But330 he362 rallies301 . 'I482 seek292 a10 passage285 in107 this256 ship438 to261 Tarshish103 ; how19 soon18 sail218 ye483 , sir271 ?' Thus362 far258 the19 busy130 Captain295 had364 not518 looked232 up405 to261 Jonah41 , though400 the19 man17 now20 stands256 before344 him248 ; but330 no235 sooner338 does565 he362 hear386 that14 hollow511 voice233 , than77 he362 darts337 a10 scrutinizing122 glance362 . 'We465 sail218 with449 the19 next27 coming140 tide523 ,' at65 last436 he362 slowly149 answered100 , still278 intently258 eyeing49 him248 . 'No235 sooner338 , sir271 ?'--'Soon18 enough217 for190 any501 honest287 man17 that14 goes205 a10 passenger403 .' Ha387 ! Jonah41 , that14 's76 another269 stab21 . But330 he362 swiftly441 calls15 away443 the19 Captain295 from316 that14 scent355 . 'I482 'll300 sail218 with449 ye483 ,'--he362 says424 ,--'the19 passage285 money383 how19 much61 is487 that14 ?-- I482 'll300 pay496 now20 .' For190 it162 is487 particularly106 written388 , shipmates98 , as113 if141 it162 were324 a10 thing309 not518 to261 be341 overlooked183 in107 this256 history183 , 'that14 he362 paid490 the19 fare19 thereof533 ' ere83 the19 craft187 did444 sail218 . And236 taken222 with449 the19 context404 , this256 is487 full414 of89 meaning62 . "Now20 Jonah41 's483 Captain295 , shipmates98 , was454 one470 whose286 discernment273 detects166 crime455 in107 any501 , but330 whose286 cupidity181 exposes13 it162 only517 in107 the19 penniless221 . In107 this256 world126 , shipmates98 , sin228 that14 pays86 its234 way435 can450 travel362 freely386 and236 without309 a10 passport509 ; whereas18 Virtue16 , if141 a10 pauper51 , is487 stopped564 at65 all145 frontiers264 . So281 Jonah41 's483 Captain295 prepares242 to261 test124 the19 length202 of89 Jonah41 's483 purse322 , ere83 he362 judge337 him248 openly196 . He362 charges255 him248 thrice282 the19 usual278 sum213 ; and236 it162 's483 assented18 to261 . Then45 the19 Captain295 knows286 that14 Jonah41 is487 a10 fugitive332 ; but330 at65 the19 same541 time577 resolves31 to261 help526 a10 flight306 that14 paves348 its234 rear252 with449 gold231 . Yet443 when189 Jonah41 fairly211 takes362 out66 his433 purse322 , prudent183 suspicions220 still278 molest367 the19 Captain295 . He362 rings25 every389 coin77 to261 find138 a10 counterfeit522 . Not518 a10 forger113 , any501 way435 , he362 mutters211 ; and236 Jonah41 is487 put190 down133 for190 his433 passage285 . 'Point438 out66 my36 state135 -room122 , Sir271 ,' says424 Jonah41 now20 , 'I482 'm250 travel362 -weary306 ; I482 need32 sleep233 ." "Thou173 look523 'st193 like410 it162 ,' says424 the19 Captain295 , 'there340 's483 thy43 room65 .' Jonah41 enters157 , and236 would282 lock297 the19 door135 , but330 the19 lock297 contains81 no235 key140 . Hearing325 him248 foolishly104 fumbling14 there340 , the19 Captain295 laughs259 lowly117 to261 himself282 , and236 mutters211 something181 about123 the19 doors77 of89 convicts248 ' cells102 being264 never206 allowed339 to261 be341 locked105 within503 . All145 dressed321 and236 dusty271 as113 he362 is487 , Jonah41 throws53 himself282 into554 his433 berth283 , and236 finds455 the19 little554 state135 -room122 ceiling30 almost518 resting455 on392 his433 forehead380 . The19 air209 is487 close65 , and236 Jonah41 gasps439 . Then45 , in107 that14 contracted355 hole73 , sunk336 , too11 , beneath320 the19 ship438 's483 water520 -line25 , Jonah41 feels450 the19 heralding252 presentiment236 of89 that14 stifling434 hour384 , when189 the19 whale422 shall66 hold204 him248 in107 the19 smallest443 of89 his433 bowels499 ' wards65 . "Screwed453 at65 its234 axis20 against417 the19 side246 , a10 swinging379 lamp330 slightly238 oscillates229 in107 Jonah41 's483 room65 ; and236 the19 ship438 , heeling83 over82 towards417 the19 wharf545 with449 the19 weight213 of89 the19 last436 bales445 received12 , the19 lamp330 , flame113 and236 all145 , though400 in107 slight259 motion544 , still278 maintains261 a10 permanent339 obliquity413 with449 reference116 to261 the19 room65 ; though400 , in107 truth350 , infallibly426 straight346 itself312 , it162 but330 made563 obvious147 the19 false490 , lying204 levels211 among483 which16 it162 hung479 . The19 lamp330 alarms22 and236 frightens165 Jonah41 ; as113 lying204 in107 his433 berth283 his433 tormented256 eyes125 roll473 round287 the19 place107 , and236 this256 thus362 far258 successful1 fugitive332 finds455 no235 refuge154 for190 his433 restless92 glance362 . But330 that14 contradiction127 in107 the19 lamp330 more348 and236 more348 appals218 him248 . The19 floor418 , the19 ceiling30 , and236 the19 side246 , are314 all145 awry439 . 'Oh367 ! so281 my36 conscience75 hangs170 in107 me2 !' he362 groans257 , "straight346 upward557 , so281 it162 burns160 ; but330 the19 chambers125 of89 my36 soul428 are314 all145 in107 crookedness393 !' "Like410 one470 who319 after358 a10 night108 of89 drunken314 revelry279 hies450 to261 his433 bed273 , still278 reeling17 , but330 with449 conscience75 yet443 pricking490 him248 , as113 the19 plungings12 of89 the19 Roman333 race392 -horse409 but330 so281 much61 the19 more348 strike374 his433 steel184 tags356 into554 him248 ; as113 one470 who319 in107 that14 miserable364 plight215 still278 turns136 and236 turns136 in107 giddy19 anguish75 , praying152 God185 for190 annihilation138 until316 the19 fit12 be341 passed87 ; and236 at65 last436 amid240 the19 whirl111 of89 woe295 he362 feels450 , a10 deep483 stupor266 steals282 over82 him248 , as113 over82 the19 man17 who319 bleeds180 to261 death543 , for190 conscience75 is487 the19 wound342 , and236 there340 's483 naught80 to261 staunch393 it162 ; so281 , after358 sore446 wrestling529 in107 his433 berth283 , Jonah41 's483 prodigy13 of89 ponderous213 misery395 drags295 him248 drowning35 down133 to261 sleep233 . "And236 now20 the19 time577 of89 tide523 has399 come420 ; the19 ship438 casts468 off111 her400 cables25 ; and236 from316 the19 deserted178 wharf545 the19 uncheered385 ship438 for190 Tarshish103 , all145 careening101 , glides29 to261 sea67 . That14 ship438 , my36 friends169 , was454 the19 first13 of89 recorded84 smugglers124 ! the19 contraband471 was454 Jonah41 . But330 the19 sea67 rebels386 ; he362 will584 not518 bear48 the19 wicked5 burden382 . A10 dreadful405 storm218 comes268 on392 , the19 ship438 is487 like410 to261 break483 . But330 now20 when189 the19 boatswain185 calls15 all145 hands87 to261 lighten369 her400 ; when189 boxes381 , bales445 , and236 jars230 are314 clattering406 overboard247 ; when189 the19 wind262 is487 shrieking516 , and236 the19 men62 are314 yelling244 , and236 every389 plank243 thunders320 with449 trampling292 feet349 right499 over82 Jonah41 's483 head219 ; in107 all145 this256 raging173 tumult269 , Jonah41 sleeps136 his433 hideous298 sleep233 . He362 sees187 no235 black581 sky331 and236 raging173 sea67 , feels450 not518 the19 reeling17 timbers125 , and236 little554 hears561 he362 or519 heeds290 he362 the19 far258 rush6 of89 the19 mighty2 whale422 , which16 even198 now20 with449 open464 mouth414 is487 cleaving403 the19 seas350 after358 him248 . Aye86 , shipmates98 , Jonah41 was454 gone190 down133 into554 the19 sides331 of89 the19 ship438 -- a10 berth283 in107 the19 cabin192 as113 I482 have254 taken222 it162 , and236 was454 fast208 asleep492 . But330 the19 frightened172 master131 comes268 to261 him248 , and236 shrieks400 in107 his433 dead568 ear515 , 'What243 meanest486 thou173 , O24 , sleeper136 ! arise376 !' Startled475 from316 his433 lethargy283 by406 that14 direful137 cry561 , Jonah41 staggers241 to261 his433 feet349 , and236 stumbling354 to261 the19 deck505 , grasps192 a10 shroud260 , to261 look523 out66 upon419 the19 sea67 . But330 at65 that14 moment258 he362 is487 sprung376 upon419 by406 a10 panther51 billow510 leaping397 over82 the19 bulwarks411 . Wave556 after358 wave556 thus362 leaps575 into554 the19 ship438 , and236 finding350 no235 speedy282 vent363 runs399 roaring182 fore259 and236 aft2 , till181 the19 mariners347 come420 nigh254 to261 drowning35 while55 yet443 afloat2 . And236 ever208 , as113 the19 white82 moon45 shows364 her400 affrighted35 face556 from316 the19 steep108 gullies72 in107 the19 blackness448 overhead7 , aghast331 Jonah41 sees187 the19 rearing251 bowsprit120 pointing295 high361 upward557 , but330 soon18 beat449 downward157 again52 towards417 the19 tormented256 deep483 . "Terrors192 upon419 terrors192 run172 shouting421 through295 his433 soul428 . In107 all145 his433 cringing103 attitudes167 , the19 God185 -fugitive332 is487 now20 too11 plainly450 known86 . The19 sailors64 mark169 him248 ; more348 and236 more348 certain31 grow163 their219 suspicions220 of89 him248 , and236 at65 last436 , fully530 to261 test124 the19 truth350 , by406 referring146 the19 whole199 matter176 to261 high361 Heaven163 , they382 all145 -outward393 to261 casting19 lots461 , to261 see370 for190 whose286 cause220 this256 great259 tempest125 was454 upon419 them146 . The19 lot167 is487 Jonah41 's483 ; that14 discovered36 , then45 how19 furiously252 they382 mob308 him248 with449 their219 questions300 . 'What243 is487 thine72 occupation83 ? Whence494 comest422 thou173 ? Thy43 country362 ? What243 people482 ? But330 mark169 now20 , my36 shipmates98 , the19 behavior4 of89 poor533 Jonah41 . The19 eager516 mariners347 but330 ask238 him248 who319 he362 is487 , and236 where579 from316 ; whereas18 , they382 not518 only517 receive327 an138 answer164 to261 those427 questions300 , but330 likewise193 another269 answer164 to261 a10 question562 not518 put190 by406 them146 , but330 the19 unsolicited26 answer164 is487 forced28 from316 Jonah41 by406 the19 hard337 hand252 of89 God185 that14 is487 upon419 him248 . "'I482 am375 a10 Hebrew99 ,' he362 cries104 --and236 then45 --'I482 fear103 the19 Lord106 the19 God185 of89 Heaven163 who319 hath585 made563 the19 sea67 and236 the19 dry430 land406 !' Fear103 him248 , O24 Jonah41 ? Aye86 , well263 mightest475 thou173 fear103 the19 Lord106 God185 then45 ! Straightway210 , he362 now20 goes205 on392 to261 make175 a10 full414 confession499 ; whereupon44 the19 mariners347 became70 more348 and236 more348 appalled24 , but330 still278 are314 pitiful12 . For190 when189 Jonah41 , not518 yet443 supplicating403 God185 for190 mercy378 , since374 he362 but330 too11 well263 knew480 the19 darkness493 of89 his433 deserts195 ,-- when189 wretched294 Jonah41 cries104 out66 to261 them146 to261 take279 him248 and236 cast99 him248 forth152 into554 the19 sea67 , for190 he362 knew480 that14 for190 his433 sake523 this256 great259 tempest125 was454 upon419 them146 ; they382 mercifully379 turn17 from316 him248 , and236 seek292 by406 other282 means502 to261 save556 the19 ship438 . But330 all145 in107 vain216 ; the19 indignant367 gale440 howls516 louder364 ; then45 , with449 one470 hand252 raised493 invokingly to261 God185 , with449 the19 other282 they382 not518 unreluctantly83 lay62 hold204 of89 Jonah41 . "And236 now20 behold525 Jonah41 taken222 up405 as113 an138 anchor141 and236 dropped2 into554 the19 sea67 ; when189 instantly186 an138 oily212 calmness232 floats36 out66 from316 the19 east524 , and236 the19 sea67 is487 still278 , as113 Jonah41 carries440 down133 the19 gale440 with449 him248 , leaving231 smooth388 water520 behind80 . He362 goes205 down133 in107 the19 whirling122 heart470 of89 such420 a10 masterless25 commotion155 that14 he362 scarce462 heeds290 the19 moment258 when189 he362 drops6 seething261 into554 the19 yawning480 jaws341 awaiting408 him248 ; and236 the19 whale422 shoots536 -to261 all145 his433 ivory76 teeth82 , like410 so281 many282 white82 bolts147 , upon419 his433 prison26 . Then45 Jonah41 prayed460 unto177 the19 Lord106 out66 of89 the19 fish187 's483 belly511 . But330 observe213 his433 prayer377 , and236 so281 many282 white82 bolts147 , upon419 his433 prison26 . Then45 Jonah41 prayed460 unto177 learn341 a10 weighty503 lesson147 . For190 sinful291 as113 he362 is487 , Jonah41 does565 not518 weep543 and236 wail86 for190 direct314 deliverance283 . He362 feels450 that14 his433 dreadful405 punishment100 is487 just108 . He362 leaves441 all145 his433 deliverance283 to261 God185 , contenting263 himself282 with449 this256 , that14 spite431 of89 all145 his433 pains97 and236 pangs290 , he362 will584 still278 look523 towards417 His433 holy61 temple237 . And236 here135 , shipmates98 , is487 true483 and236 faithful284 repentance71 ; not518 clamorous331 for190 pardon143 , but330 grateful107 for190 punishment100 . And236 how19 pleasing133 to261 God185 was454 this256 conduct161 in107 Jonah41 , is487 shown446 in107 the19 eventual263 deliverance283 of89 him248 from316 the19 sea67 and236 the19 whale422 . Shipmates98 , I482 do353 not518 place107 Jonah41 before344 you227 to261 be341 copied129 for190 his433 sin228 but330 I482 do353 place107 him248 before344 you227 as113 a10 model413 for190 repentance71 . Sin228 not518 ; but330 if141 you227 do353 , take279 heed163 to261 repent489 of89 it162 like410 Jonah41 ." While55 he362 was454 speaking22 these527 words107 , the19 howling204 of89 the19 shrieking516 , slanting522 storm218 without309 seemed132 to261 add236 new36 power145 to261 the19 preacher57 , who319 , when189 describing105 Jonah41 's483 sea67 -storm218 , seemed132 tossed227 by406 a10 storm218 himself282 . His433 deep483 chest98 heaved52 as113 with449 a10 ground127 -swell280 ; his433 tossed227 arms536 seemed132 the19 warring84 elements225 at65 work385 ; and236 the19 thunders320 that14 rolled226 away443 from316 off111 his433 swarthy335 brow474 , and236 the19 light382 leaping397 from316 his433 eye220 , made563 all145 his433 simple271 hearers440 look523 on392 him248 with449 a10 quick241 fear103 that14 was454 strange440 to261 them146 . There340 now20 came549 a10 lull118 in107 his433 look523 , as113 he362 silently533 turned492 over82 the19 leaves441 of89 the19 Book230 once248 more348 ; and236 , at65 last436 , standing144 motionless498 , with449 closed523 eyes125 , for190 the19 moment258 , seemed132 communing21 with449 God185 and236 himself282 . But330 again52 he362 leaned265 over82 towards417 the19 people482 , and236 bowing452 his433 head219 lowly117 , with449 an138 aspect147 of89 the19 deepest494 yet443 manliest156 humility165 , he362 spake511 these527 words107 : "Shipmates98 , God185 has399 laid181 but330 one470 hand252 upon419 you227 ; both558 his433 hands87 press91 upon419 me2 . I482 have254 read98 ye483 by406 what243 murky330 light382 may236 be341 mine482 the19 lesson147 that14 Jonah41 teaches202 to261 all145 sinners196 ; and236 therefore94 to261 ye483 , and236 still278 more348 to261 me2 , for190 I482 am375 a10 greater505 sinner132 than77 ye483 . And236 now20 how19 gladly27 would282 I482 come420 down133 from316 this256 mast44 -head116 and236 sit215 on392 the19 hatches4 there340 where579 you227 sit215 , and236 listen417 as113 you227 listen417 , while55 some265 one470 of89 you227 reads284 me2 that14 other282 and236 more348 awful539 lesson147 which16 Jonah41 teaches202 to261 me2 , as113 a10 pilot559 of89 the19 living117 God185 . How19 being264 an138 anointed327 pilot559 -prophet25 , or519 speaker460 of89 true483 things4 and236 bidden124 by406 the19 Lord106 to261 sound181 those427 unwelcome98 truths297 in107 the19 ears560 of89 a10 wicked5 Nineveh375 , Jonah41 , appalled24 at65 the19 hostility257 he362 should255 raise265 , fled434 from316 his433 mission285 , and236 sought82 to261 escape565 his433 duty468 and236 his433 God185 by406 taking146 ship438 at65 Joppa189 . But330 God185 is487 everywhere469 ; Tarshish103 he362 never206 reached386 . As113 we465 have254 seen154 , God185 came549 upon419 him248 in107 the19 whale422 , and236 swallowed104 him248 down133 to261 living117 gulfs41 of89 doom73 , and236 with449 swift376 slantings tore493 him248 along423 'into554 the19 midst533 of89 the19 seas350 ,' where579 the19 eddying282 depths416 sucked355 him248 ten198 thousand586 fathoms375 down133 , and236 'the19 weeds524 were324 wrapped99 about123 his433 head219 ,' and236 all145 the19 watery59 world126 of89 woe295 bowled202 over82 him248 . Yet443 even198 then45 beyond421 the19 reach43 of89 any501 plummet204 --'out66 of89 the19 belly511 of89 hell169 '--when189 the19 whale422 grounded52 upon419 the19 ocean224 's483 utmost43 bones5 , even198 then45 , God185 heard444 the19 engulphed417 , repenting160 prophet25 when189 he362 cried506 . Then45 God185 spake511 unto177 the19 fish187 ; and236 from316 the19 shuddering143 cold330 and236 blackness448 of89 the19 sea67 , the19 whale422 came549 breeching406 up405 towards417 the19 warm178 and236 pleasant233 sun397 , and236 all145 the19 delights274 of89 air209 and236 earth513 ; and236 'vomited367 out66 Jonah41 upon419 the19 dry430 land406 ;' when189 the19 word486 of89 the19 Lord106 came549 a10 second386 time577 ; and236 Jonah41 , bruised19 and236 beaten442 --his433 ears560 , like410 two527 sea67 -shells203 , still278 multitudinously22 murmuring169 of89 the19 ocean224 -- Jonah41 did444 the19 Almighty473 's483 bidding340 . And236 what243 was454 that14 , shipmates98 ? To261 preach18 the19 Truth350 to261 the19 face556 of89 Falsehood48 ! That14 was454 it162 ! "This256 , shipmates98 , this256 is487 that14 other282 lesson147 ; and236 woe295 to261 that14 pilot559 of89 the19 living117 God185 who319 slights2 it162 . Woe295 to261 him248 whom324 this256 world126 charms153 from316 Gospel77 duty468 ! Woe295 to261 him248 who319 seeks168 to261 pour415 oil118 upon419 the19 waters556 when189 God185 has399 brewed293 them146 into554 a10 gale440 ! Woe295 to261 him248 who319 seeks168 to261 please153 rather178 than77 to261 appal180 ! Woe295 to261 him248 whose286 good221 name477 is487 more348 to261 him248 than77 goodness64 ! Woe295 to261 him248 who319 , in107 this256 world126 , courts363 not518 dishonor364 ! Woe295 to261 him248 who319 would282 not518 be341 true483 , even198 though400 to261 be341 false490 were324 salvation346 ! Yea204 , woe295 to261 him248 who319 as113 the19 great259 Pilot559 Paul368 has399 it162 , while55 preaching304 to261 others317 is487 himself282 a10 castaway439 ! He362 drooped491 and236 fell421 away443 from316 himself282 for190 a10 moment258 ; then45 lifting100 his433 face556 to261 them146 again52 , showed507 a10 deep483 joy430 in107 his433 eyes125 , as113 he362 cried506 out66 with449 a10 heavenly375 enthusiasm247 ,--"But330 oh367 ! shipmates98 ! on392 the19 starboard309 hand252 of89 every389 woe295 , there340 is487 a10 sure41 delight25 ; and236 higher574 the19 top70 of89 that14 delight25 , than77 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 woe295 is487 deep483 . Is487 not518 the19 main501 -truck120 higher574 than77 the19 kelson2 is487 low407 ? Delight25 is487 to261 him248 --a10 far258 , far258 upward557 , and236 inward337 delight25 -- who319 against417 the19 proud108 gods325 and236 commodores129 of89 this256 earth513 , ever208 stands256 forth152 his433 own248 inexorable74 self442 . Delight25 is487 to261 him248 whose286 strong145 arms536 yet443 support71 him248 , when189 the19 ship438 of89 this256 base258 treacherous166 world126 has399 gone190 down133 beneath320 him248 . Delight25 is487 to261 him248 , who319 gives529 no235 quarter6 in107 the19 truth350 , and236 kills261 , burns160 , and236 destroys92 all145 sin228 though400 he362 pluck132 it162 out66 from316 under533 the19 robes463 of89 Senators503 and236 Judges305 . Delight25 ,--top70 -gallant323 delight25 is487 to261 him248 , who319 acknowledges38 no235 law231 or519 lord106 , but330 the19 Lord106 his433 God185 , and236 is487 only517 a10 patriot66 to261 heaven163 . Delight25 is487 to261 him248 , whom324 all145 the19 waves443 of89 the19 billows295 of89 the19 seas350 of89 the19 boisterous439 mob308 can450 never206 shake180 from316 this256 sure41 Keel39 of89 the19 Ages146 . And236 eternal155 delight25 and236 deliciousness4 will584 be341 his433 , who319 coming140 to261 lay62 him248 down133 , can450 say306 with449 his433 final357 breath150 --O24 Father339 !-- chiefly90 known86 to261 me2 by406 Thy43 rod216 --mortal371 or519 immortal15 , here135 I482 die229 . I482 have254 striven136 to261 be341 Thine72 , more348 than77 to261 be341 this256 world126 's483 , or519 mine482 own248 . Yet443 this256 is487 nothing324 : I482 leave450 eternity380 to261 Thee15 ; for190 what243 is487 man17 that14 he362 should255 live554 out66 the19 lifetime3 of89 his433 God185 ?" He362 said252 no235 more348 , but330 slowly149 waving364 a10 benediction26 , covered452 his433 face556 with449 his433 hands87 , and236 so281 remained72 kneeling311 , till181 all145 the19 people482 had364 departed467 , and236 he362 was454 left159 alone2 in107 the19 place107 . CHAPTER293 10474 A10 Bosom82 Friend179 Returning53 to261 the19 Spouter83 -Inn190 from316 the19 Chapel60 , I482 found260 Queequeg there340 quite327 alone2 ; he362 having69 left159 the19 Chapel60 before344 the19 benediction26 some265 time577 . He362 was454 sitting136 on392 a10 bench80 before344 the19 fire559 , with449 his433 feet349 on392 the19 stove373 hearth61 , and236 in107 one470 hand252 was454 holding311 close65 up405 to261 his433 face556 that14 little554 negro102 idol191 of89 his433 ; peering446 hard337 into554 its234 face556 , and236 with449 a10 jack299 -knife60 gently284 whittling225 away443 at65 its234 nose176 , meanwhile282 humming243 to261 himself282 in107 his433 heathenish320 way435 . But330 being264 now20 interrupted34 , he362 put190 up405 the19 image74 ; and236 pretty252 soon18 , going227 to261 the19 table572 , took68 up405 a10 large385 book230 there340 , and236 placing287 it162 on392 his433 lap294 began132 counting345 the19 pages260 with449 deliberate29 regularity165 ; at65 every389 fiftieth19 page425 -- as113 I482 fancied100 --stopping406 for190 a10 moment258 , looking318 vacantly423 around66 him248 , and236 giving207 utterance400 to261 a10 long544 -drawn564 gurgling26 whistle43 of89 astonishment5 . He362 would282 then45 begin183 again52 at65 the19 next27 fifty406 ; seeming59 to261 commence308 at65 number196 one470 each520 time577 , as113 though400 he362 could375 not518 count332 more348 than77 fifty406 , and236 it162 was454 only517 by406 such420 a10 large385 number196 of89 fifties127 being264 found260 together440 , that14 his433 astonishment5 at65 the19 multitude170 of89 pages260 was454 excited283 . With449 much61 interest323 I482 sat77 watching330 him248 . Savage398 though400 he362 was454 , and236 hideously248 marred275 about123 the19 face556 --at65 least453 to261 my36 taste134 -- his433 countenance553 yet443 had364 a10 something181 in107 it162 which16 was454 by406 no235 means502 disagreeable392 . You227 cannot hide266 the19 soul428 . Through295 all145 his433 unearthly110 tattooings, I482 thought186 I482 saw113 the19 traces191 of89 a10 simple271 honest287 heart470 ; and236 in107 his433 large385 , deep483 eyes125 , fiery42 black581 and236 bold356 , there340 seemed132 tokens473 of89 a10 spirit227 that14 would282 dare11 a10 thousand586 devils377 . And236 besides465 all145 this256 , there340 was454 a10 certain31 lofty161 bearing354 about123 the19 Pagan118 , which16 even198 his433 uncouthness273 could375 not518 altogether31 maim84 . He362 looked232 like410 a10 man17 who319 had364 never206 cringed279 and236 never206 had364 had364 a10 creditor82 . Whether454 it162 was454 , too11 , that14 his433 head219 being264 shaved446 , his433 forehead380 was454 drawn564 out66 in107 freer377 and236 brighter260 relief60 , and236 looked232 more348 expansive44 than77 it162 otherwise542 would282 , this256 I482 will584 not518 venture40 to261 decide354 ; but330 certain31 it162 was454 his433 head219 was454 phrenologically282 an138 excellent161 one470 . It162 may236 seem404 ridiculous92 , but330 it162 reminded25 me2 of89 General37 Washington413 's483 head219 , as113 seen154 in107 the19 popular229 busts463 of89 him248 . It162 had364 the19 same541 long544 regularly37 graded557 retreating106 slope98 from316 above502 the19 brows259 , which16 were324 likewise193 very515 projecting336 , like410 two527 long544 promontories423 thickly363 wooded389 on392 top70 . Queequeg was454 George110 Washington413 cannibalistically developed396 . Whilst20 I482 was454 thus362 closely218 scanning505 him248 , half119 -pretending475 meanwhile282 to261 be341 looking318 out66 at65 the19 storm218 from316 the19 casement110 , he362 never206 heeded47 my36 presence492 , never206 troubled327 himself282 with449 so281 much61 as113 a10 single77 glance362 ; but330 appeared88 wholly497 occupied262 with449 counting345 the19 pages260 of89 the19 marvellous35 book230 . Considering115 how19 sociably354 we465 had364 been185 sleeping341 together440 the19 night108 previous376 , and236 especially371 considering115 the19 affectionate57 arm25 I482 had364 found260 thrown359 over82 me2 upon419 waking428 in107 the19 morning417 , I482 thought186 this256 indifference111 of89 his433 very515 strange440 . But330 savages247 are314 strange440 beings6 ; at65 times121 you227 do353 not518 know60 exactly315 how19 to261 take279 them146 . At65 first13 they382 are314 overawing136 ; their219 calm39 self442 -collectedness507 of89 simplicity336 seems19 as113 Socratic295 wisdom380 . I482 had364 noticed157 also119 that14 Queequeg never206 consorted330 at65 all145 , or519 but330 very515 little554 , with449 the19 other282 seamen6 in107 the19 inn190 . He362 made563 no235 advances510 whatever38 ; appeared88 to261 have254 no235 desire241 to261 enlarge568 the19 circle282 of89 his433 acquaintances222 . All145 this256 struck441 me2 as113 mighty2 singular216 ; yet443 , upon419 second386 thoughts26 , there340 was454 something181 almost518 sublime76 in107 it162 . Here135 was454 a10 man17 some265 twenty433 thousand586 miles278 from316 home450 , by406 the19 way435 of89 Cape23 Horn139 , that14 is487 -- which16 was454 the19 only517 way435 he362 could375 get126 there340 --thrown359 among483 people482 as113 strange440 to261 him248 as113 though400 he362 were324 in107 the19 planet382 Jupiter430 ; and236 yet443 he362 seemed132 entirely148 at65 his433 ease387 ; preserving129 the19 utmost43 serenity27 ; content7 with449 his433 own248 companionship256 ; always367 equal261 to261 himself282 . Surely388 this256 was454 a10 touch486 of89 fine333 philosophy14 ; though400 no235 doubt71 he362 had364 never206 heard444 there340 was454 such420 a10 thing309 as113 that14 . But330 , perhaps75 , to261 be341 true483 philosophers529 , we465 mortals72 should255 not518 be341 conscious443 of89 so281 living117 or519 so281 striving388 . So281 soon18 as113 I482 hear386 that14 such420 or519 such420 a10 man17 gives529 himself282 out66 for190 a10 philosopher19 , I482 conclude1 that14 , like410 the19 dyspeptic156 old447 woman448 , he362 must226 have254 "broken255 his433 digester." As113 I482 sat77 there340 in107 that14 now20 lonely137 room65 ; the19 fire559 burning70 low407 , in107 that14 mild117 stage22 when189 , after358 its234 first13 intensity285 has399 warmed225 the19 air209 , it162 then45 only517 glows41 to261 be341 looked232 at65 ; the19 evening581 shades508 and236 phantoms13 gathering20 round287 the19 casements212 , and236 peering446 in107 upon419 us569 silent382 , solitary407 twain313 ; the19 storm218 booming379 without309 in107 solemn303 swells446 ; I482 began132 to261 be341 sensible154 of89 strange440 feelings120 . I482 felt440 a10 melting59 in107 me2 . No235 more348 my36 splintered330 heart470 and236 maddened273 hand252 were324 turned492 against417 the19 wolfish178 world126 . This256 soothing60 savage398 had364 redeemed448 it162 . There340 he362 sat77 , his433 very515 indifference111 speaking22 a10 nature159 in107 which16 there340 lurked453 no235 civilized441 hypocrisies410 and236 bland284 deceits379 . Wild230 he362 was454 ; a10 very515 sight365 of89 sights24 to261 see370 ; yet443 I482 began132 to261 feel461 myself99 mysteriously275 drawn564 towards417 him248 . And236 those427 same541 things4 that14 would282 have254 repelled186 most216 others317 , they382 were324 the19 very515 magnets284 that14 thus362 drew175 me2 . I482 'll300 try266 a10 pagan118 friend179 , thought186 I482 , since374 Christian235 kindness376 has399 proved312 but330 hollow511 courtesy239 . I482 drew175 my36 bench80 near70 him248 , and236 made563 some265 friendly495 signs211 and236 hints260 , doing227 my36 best315 to261 talk173 with449 him248 meanwhile282 . At65 first13 he362 little554 noticed157 these527 advances510 ; but330 presently166 , upon419 my36 referring146 to261 his433 last436 night108 's483 hospitalities11 , he362 made563 out66 to261 ask238 me2 whether454 we465 were324 again52 to261 be341 bedfellows451 . I482 told82 him248 yes143 ; whereat279 I482 thought186 he362 looked232 pleased282 , perhaps75 a10 little554 complimented379 . We465 then45 turned492 over82 the19 book230 together440 , and236 I482 endeavored69 to261 explain349 to261 him248 the19 purpose514 of89 the19 printing102 , and236 the19 meaning62 of89 the19 few49 pictures371 that14 were324 in107 it162 . Thus362 I482 soon18 engaged479 his433 interest323 ; and236 from316 that14 we465 went516 to261 jabbering101 the19 best315 we465 could375 about123 the19 various183 outer359 sights24 to261 be341 seen154 in107 this256 famous254 town172 . Soon18 I482 proposed328 a10 social149 smoke99 ; and236 , producing1 his433 pouch380 and236 tomahawk279 , he362 quietly380 offered336 me2 a10 puff82 . And236 then45 we465 sat77 exchanging250 puffs136 from316 that14 wild230 pipe124 of89 his433 , and236 keeping482 it162 regularly37 passing147 between77 us569 . If141 there340 yet443 lurked453 any501 ice443 of89 indifference111 towards417 me2 in107 the19 Pagan118 's483 breast272 , this256 pleasant233 , genial173 smoke99 we465 had364 , soon18 thawed374 it162 out66 , and236 left159 us569 cronies92 . He362 seemed132 to261 take279 to261 me2 quite327 as113 naturally362 and236 unbiddenly as113 I482 to261 him248 ; and236 when189 our234 smoke99 was454 over82 , he362 pressed323 his433 forehead380 against417 mine482 , clasped202 me2 round287 the19 waist52 , and236 said252 that14 henceforth515 we465 were324 married306 ; meaning62 , in107 his433 country362 's483 phrase22 , that14 we465 were324 bosom82 friends169 ; he362 would282 gladly27 die229 for190 me2 , if141 need32 should255 be341 . In107 a10 countryman232 , this256 sudden309 flame113 of89 friendship140 would282 have254 seemed132 far258 too11 premature154 , a10 thing309 to261 be341 much61 distrusted136 ; but330 in107 this256 simple271 savage398 those427 old447 rules318 would282 not518 apply555 . After358 supper4 , and236 another269 social149 chat205 and236 smoke99 , we465 went516 to261 our234 room65 together440 . He362 made563 me2 a10 present112 of89 his433 embalmed59 head219 ; took68 out66 his433 enormous327 tobacco331 wallet141 , and236 groping127 under533 the19 tobacco331 , drew175 out66 some265 thirty521 dollars201 in107 silver205 ; then45 spreading85 them146 on392 the19 table572 , and236 mechanically143 dividing306 them146 into554 two527 equal261 portions315 , pushed189 one470 of89 them146 towards417 me2 , and236 said252 it162 was454 mine482 . I482 was454 going227 to261 remonstrate273 ; but330 he362 silenced548 me2 by406 pouring22 them146 into554 my36 trowsers206 ' pockets240 . I482 let66 them146 stay238 . He362 then45 went516 about123 his433 evening581 prayers173 , took68 out66 his433 idol191 , and236 removed447 the19 paper401 firebrand142 . By406 certain31 signs211 and236 symptoms128 , I482 thought186 he362 seemed132 anxious256 for190 me2 to261 join61 him248 ; but330 well263 knowing240 what243 was454 to261 follow408 , I482 deliberated23 a10 moment258 whether454 , in107 case346 he362 invited230 me2 , I482 would282 comply460 or519 otherwise542 . I482 was454 a10 good221 Christian235 ; born236 and236 bred128 in107 the19 bosom82 of89 the19 infallible59 Presbyterian90 Church317 . How19 then45 could375 I482 unite475 with449 this256 wild230 idolator4 in107 worshipping186 his433 piece121 of89 wood46 ? But330 what243 is487 worship48 ? thought186 I482 . Do353 you227 suppose120 now20 , Ishmael196 , that14 the19 magnanimous128 God185 of89 heaven163 and236 earth513 --pagans295 and236 all145 included559 --can450 possibly201 be341 jealous125 of89 an138 insignificant96 bit72 of89 black581 wood46 ? Impossible305 ! But330 what243 is487 worship48 ?-- to261 do353 the19 will584 of89 God185 ? that14 is487 worship48 . And236 what243 is487 the19 will584 of89 God185 ?-- to261 do353 to261 my36 fellow369 man17 what243 I482 would282 have254 my36 fellow369 man17 to261 do353 to261 me2 -- that14 is487 the19 will584 of89 God185 . Now20 , Queequeg is487 my36 fellow369 man17 . And236 what243 do353 I482 wish95 that14 this256 Queequeg would282 do353 to261 me2 ? Why177 , unite475 with449 me2 in107 my36 particular336 Presbyterian90 form238 of89 worship48 . Consequently441 , I482 must226 then45 unite475 with449 him248 in107 his433 ; ergo142 , I482 must226 turn17 idolator4 . So281 I482 kindled73 the19 shavings117 ; helped204 prop153 up405 the19 innocent156 little554 idol191 ; offered336 him248 burnt37 biscuit369 with449 Queequeg; salamed51 before344 him248 twice366 or519 thrice282 ; kissed35 his433 nose176 ; and236 that14 done135 , we465 undressed14 and236 went516 to261 bed273 , at65 peace216 with449 our234 own248 consciences303 and236 all145 the19 world126 . But330 we465 did444 not518 go20 to261 sleep233 without309 some265 little554 chat205 . How19 it162 is487 I482 know60 not518 ; but330 there340 is487 no235 place107 like410 a10 bed273 for190 confidential147 disclosures292 between77 friends169 . Man17 and236 wife37 , they382 say306 , there340 open464 the19 very515 bottom461 of89 their219 souls82 to261 each520 other282 ; and236 some265 old447 couples88 often227 lie212 and236 chat205 over82 old447 times121 till181 nearly575 morning417 . Thus362 , then45 , in107 our234 hearts431 ' honeymoon235 , lay62 I482 and236 Queequeg-- a10 cosy230 , loving309 pair106 . CHAPTER293 11441 Nightgown295 We465 had364 lain424 thus362 in107 bed273 , chatting225 and236 napping83 at65 short522 intervals295 , and236 Queequeg now20 and236 then45 affectionately167 throwing120 his433 brown446 tattooed101 legs108 over82 mine482 , and236 then45 drawing407 them146 back457 ; so281 entirely148 sociable263 and236 free483 and236 easy281 were324 we465 ; when189 , at65 last436 , by406 reason238 of89 our234 confabulations424 , what243 little554 nappishness remained72 in107 us569 altogether31 departed467 , and236 we465 felt440 like410 getting369 up405 again52 , though400 day112 -break327 was454 yet443 some265 way435 down133 the19 future44 . Yes143 , we465 became70 very515 wakeful264 ; so281 much61 so281 that14 our234 recumbent76 position383 began132 to261 grow163 wearisome264 , and236 by406 little554 and236 little554 we465 found260 ourselves15 sitting136 up405 ; the19 clothes98 well263 tucked143 around66 us569 , leaning559 against417 the19 headboard400 with449 our234 four175 knees214 drawn564 up405 close65 together440 , and236 our234 two527 noses261 bending252 over82 them146 , as113 if141 our234 knee235 -pans330 were324 warming250 -pans152 . We465 felt440 very515 nice2 and236 snug310 , the19 more348 so281 since374 it162 was454 so281 chilly76 out66 of89 doors77 ; indeed522 out66 of89 bed273 -clothes98 too11 , seeing426 that14 there340 was454 no235 fire559 in107 the19 room65 . The19 more348 so281 , I482 say306 , because540 truly530 to261 enjoy173 bodily172 warmth284 , some265 small350 part207 of89 you227 must226 be341 cold330 , for190 there340 is487 no235 quality127 in107 this256 world126 that14 is487 not518 what243 it162 is487 merely57 by406 contrast205 . Nothing324 exists393 in107 itself312 . If141 you227 flatter255 yourself176 that14 you227 are314 all145 over82 comfortable402 , and236 have254 been185 so281 a10 long544 time577 , then45 you227 cannot be341 said252 to261 be341 comfortable402 any501 more348 . But330 if141 , like410 Queequeg and236 me2 in107 the19 bed273 , the19 tip82 of89 your162 nose176 or519 the19 crown463 of89 your162 head219 be341 slightly238 chilled55 , why177 then45 , indeed522 , in107 the19 general37 consciousness539 you227 feel461 most216 delightfully222 and236 unmistakably99 warm178 . For190 this256 reason238 a10 sleeping341 apartment18 should255 never206 be341 furnished201 with449 a10 fire559 , which16 is487 one470 of89 the19 luxurious279 discomforts115 of89 the19 rich531 . For190 the19 height20 of89 this256 sort42 of89 deliciousness4 is487 to261 have254 nothing324 but330 the19 blankets363 between77 you227 and236 your162 snugness253 and236 the19 cold330 of89 the19 outer359 air209 . Then45 there340 you227 lie212 like410 the19 one470 warm178 spark172 in107 the19 heart470 of89 an138 arctic364 crystal344 . We465 had364 been185 sitting136 in107 this256 crouching451 manner153 for190 some265 time577 , when189 all145 at65 once248 I482 thought186 I482 would282 open464 my36 eyes125 ; for190 when189 between77 sheets281 , whether454 by406 day112 or519 by406 night108 , and236 whether454 asleep492 or519 awake255 , I482 have254 a10 way435 of89 always367 keeping482 my36 eyes125 shut59 , in107 order343 the19 more348 to261 concentrate15 the19 snugness253 of89 being264 in107 bed273 . Because540 no235 man17 can450 ever208 feel461 his433 own248 identity124 aright366 except545 his433 eyes125 be341 closed523 ; as113 if141 , darkness493 were324 indeed522 the19 proper249 element38 of89 our234 essences183 , though400 light382 be341 more348 congenial118 to261 our234 clayey155 part207 . Upon419 opening306 my36 eyes125 then45 , and236 coming140 out66 of89 my36 own248 pleasant233 and236 self442 -created37 darkness493 into554 the19 imposed409 and236 coarse261 outer359 gloom7 of89 the19 unilluminated4 twelve293 -o24 'clock489 -at65 -night108 , I482 experienced93 a10 disagreeable392 revulsion24 . Nor137 did444 I482 at65 all145 object100 to261 the19 hint335 from316 Queequeg that14 perhaps75 it162 were324 best315 to261 strike374 a10 light382 , seeing426 that14 we465 were324 so281 wide465 awake255 ; and236 besides465 he362 felt440 a10 strong145 desire241 to261 have254 a10 few49 quiet337 puffs136 from316 his433 Tomahawk279 . Be341 it162 said252 , that14 though400 I482 had364 felt440 such420 a10 strong145 repugnance92 to261 his433 smoking470 in107 the19 bed273 the19 night108 before344 , yet443 see370 how19 elastic370 our234 stiff549 prejudices86 grow163 when189 love391 once248 love391 comes268 to261 bend434 them146 . For190 now20 I482 liked80 nothing324 better34 than77 to261 have254 Queequeg smoking470 by406 me2 , even198 in107 bed273 , because540 he362 seemed132 to261 be341 full414 of89 such420 serene18 household67 joy430 then45 . I482 no235 more348 felt440 unduly8 concerned583 for190 the19 landlord270 's483 policy422 of89 insurance415 . I482 was454 only517 alive298 to261 the19 condensed455 confidential147 comfortableness190 of89 sharing198 a10 pipe124 and236 a10 blanket115 with449 a10 real305 friend179 . With449 our234 shaggy200 jackets140 drawn564 about123 our234 shoulders476 , we465 now20 passed87 the19 Tomahawk279 from316 one470 to261 the19 other282 , till181 slowly149 there340 grew5 over82 us569 a10 blue240 hanging222 tester159 of89 smoke99 , illuminated127 by406 the19 flame113 of89 the19 new36 -lit70 lamp330 . Whether454 it162 was454 that14 this256 undulating521 tester159 rolled226 the19 savage398 away443 to261 far258 distant353 scenes339 , I482 know60 not518 , but330 he362 now20 spoke185 of89 his433 native399 island516 ; and236 , eager516 to261 hear386 his433 history183 , I482 begged345 him248 to261 go20 on392 and236 tell392 it162 . He362 gladly27 complied427 . Though400 at65 the19 time577 I482 but330 ill236 comprehended104 not518 a10 few49 of89 his433 words107 , yet443 subsequent312 disclosures292 , when189 I482 had364 become548 more348 familiar139 with449 his433 broken255 phraseology172 , now20 enable93 me2 to261 present112 the19 whole199 story197 such420 as113 it162 may236 prove396 in107 the19 mere393 skeleton231 I482 give142 . CHAPTER293 12339 Biographical161 Queequeg was454 a10 native399 of89 Kokovoko, an138 island516 far258 away443 to261 the19 West569 and236 South257 . It162 is487 not518 down133 on392 any501 map38 ; true483 places423 never206 are314 . When189 a10 new36 -hatched136 savage398 running296 wild230 about123 his433 native399 woodlands75 in107 a10 grass418 clout450 , followed234 by406 the19 nibbling259 goats451 , as113 if141 he362 were324 a10 green549 sapling356 ; even198 then45 , in107 Queequeg's483 ambitious28 soul428 , lurked453 a10 strong145 desire241 to261 see370 something181 more348 of89 Christendom400 than77 a10 specimen155 whaler91 or519 two527 . His433 father339 was454 a10 High361 Chief156 , a10 King324 ; his433 uncle178 a10 High361 Priest60 ; and236 on392 the19 maternal371 side246 he362 boasted346 aunts460 who319 were324 the19 wives473 of89 unconquerable398 warriors144 . There340 was454 excellent161 blood208 in107 his433 veins395 --royal161 stuff471 ; though400 sadly75 vitiated412 , I482 fear103 , by406 the19 cannibal180 propensity367 he362 nourished69 in107 his433 untutored173 youth327 . A10 Sag83 Harbor289 ship438 visited16 his433 father339 's483 bay279 , and236 Queequeg sought82 a10 passage285 to261 Christian235 lands436 . But330 the19 ship438 , having69 her400 full414 complement142 of89 seamen6 , spurned41 his433 suit373 ; and236 not518 all145 the19 King324 his433 father339 's483 influence299 could375 prevail206 . But330 Queequeg vowed429 a10 vow159 . Alone2 in107 his433 canoe290 , he362 paddled454 off111 to261 a10 distant353 strait324 , which16 he362 knew480 the19 ship438 must226 pass153 through295 when189 she391 quitted137 the19 island516 . On392 one470 side246 was454 a10 coral22 reef265 ; on392 the19 other282 a10 low407 tongue375 of89 land406 , covered452 with449 mangrove206 thickets2 that14 grew5 out66 into554 the19 water520 . Hiding455 his433 canoe290 , still278 afloat2 , among483 these527 thickets2 , with449 its234 prow451 seaward246 , he362 sat77 down133 in107 the19 stern442 , paddle39 low407 in107 hand252 ; and236 when189 the19 ship438 was454 gliding248 by406 , like410 a10 flash424 he362 darted362 out66 ; gained290 her400 side246 ; with449 one470 backward19 dash355 of89 his433 foot467 capsized42 and236 sank310 his433 canoe290 ; climbed242 up405 the19 chains446 ; and236 throwing120 himself282 at65 full414 length202 upon419 the19 deck505 , grappled227 a10 ring579 -bolt156 there340 , and236 swore470 not518 to261 let66 it162 go20 , though400 hacked241 in107 pieces283 . In107 vain216 the19 captain295 threatened110 to261 throw345 him248 overboard247 ; suspended245 a10 cutlass292 over82 his433 naked70 wrists260 ; Queequeg was454 the19 son26 of89 a10 King324 , and236 Queequeg budged552 not518 . Struck441 by406 his433 desperate316 dauntlessness83 , and236 his433 wild230 desire241 to261 visit229 Christendom400 , the19 captain295 at65 last436 relented314 , and236 told82 him248 he362 might496 make175 himself282 at65 home450 . But330 this256 fine333 young389 savage398 -- this256 sea67 Prince63 of89 Wales21 , never206 saw113 the19 Captain295 's483 cabin192 . They382 put190 him248 down133 among483 the19 sailors64 , and236 made563 a10 whaleman98 of89 him248 . But330 like410 Czar427 Peter419 content7 to261 toil89 in107 the19 shipyards31 of89 foreign198 cities346 , Queequeg disdained165 no235 seeming59 ignominy363 , if141 thereby190 he362 might496 happily217 gain101 the19 power145 of89 enlightening10 his433 untutored173 countrymen303 . For190 at65 bottom461 --so281 he362 told82 me2 --he362 was454 actuated305 by406 a10 profound371 desire241 to261 learn341 among483 the19 Christians13 , the19 arts305 whereby358 to261 make175 his433 people482 still278 happier387 than77 they382 were324 ; and236 more348 than77 that14 , still278 better34 than77 they382 were324 . But330 , alas129 ! the19 practices19 of89 whalemen451 soon18 convinced469 him248 that14 even198 Christians13 could375 be341 both558 miserable364 and236 wicked5 ; infinitely70 more348 so281 , than77 all145 his433 father339 's483 heathens210 . Arrived553 at65 last436 in107 old447 Sag83 Harbor289 ; and236 seeing426 what243 the19 sailors64 did444 there340 ; and236 then45 going227 on392 to261 Nantucket283 , and236 seeing426 how19 they382 spent329 their219 wages460 in107 that14 place107 also119 , poor533 Queequeg gave572 it162 up405 for190 lost308 . Thought186 he362 , it162 's483 a10 wicked5 world126 in107 all145 meridians258 ; I482 'll300 die229 a10 pagan118 . And236 thus362 an138 old447 idolator4 at65 heart470 , he362 yet443 lived415 among483 these527 Christians13 , wore92 their219 clothes98 , and236 tried73 to261 talk173 their219 gibberish199 . Hence503 the19 queer156 ways101 about123 him248 , though400 now20 some265 time577 from316 home450 . By406 hints260 I482 asked369 him248 whether454 he362 did444 not518 propose385 going227 back457 , and236 having69 a10 coronation239 ; since374 he362 might496 now20 consider259 his433 father339 dead568 and236 gone190 , he362 being264 very515 old447 and236 feeble266 at65 the19 last436 accounts311 . He362 answered100 no235 , not518 yet443 ; and236 added52 that14 he362 was454 fearful183 Christianity103 , or519 rather178 Christians13 , had364 unfitted133 him248 for190 ascending116 the19 pure61 and236 undefiled417 throne332 of89 thirty521 pagan118 Kings474 before344 him248 . But330 by406 and236 by406 , he362 said252 , he362 would282 return407 ,--as113 soon18 as113 he362 felt440 himself282 baptized225 again52 . For190 the19 nonce251 , however44 , he362 proposed328 to261 sail218 about123 , and236 sow144 his433 wild230 oats501 in107 all145 four175 oceans60 . They382 had364 made563 a10 harpooneer of89 him248 , and236 that14 barbed27 iron169 was454 in107 lieu402 of89 a10 sceptre439 now20 . I482 asked369 him248 what243 might496 be341 his433 immediate388 purpose514 , touching80 his433 future44 movements299 . He362 answered100 , to261 go20 to261 sea67 again52 , in107 his433 old447 vocation408 . Upon419 this256 , I482 told82 him248 that14 whaling155 was454 my36 own248 design31 , and236 informed16 him248 of89 my36 intention272 to261 sail218 out66 of89 Nantucket283 , as113 being264 the19 most216 promising310 port409 for190 an138 adventurous499 whaleman98 to261 embark296 from316 . He362 at65 once248 resolved158 to261 accompany361 me2 to261 that14 island516 , ship438 aboard298 the19 same541 vessel155 , get126 into554 the19 same541 watch89 , the19 same541 boat439 , the19 same541 mess253 with449 me2 , in107 short522 to261 share218 my36 every389 hap224 ; with449 both558 my36 hands87 in107 his433 , boldly445 dip19 into554 the19 Potluck221 of89 both558 worlds388 . To261 all145 this256 I482 joyously315 assented18 ; for190 besides465 the19 affection35 I482 now20 felt440 for190 Queequeg, he362 was454 an138 experienced93 harpooneer, and236 as113 such420 , could375 not518 fail126 to261 be341 of89 great259 usefulness361 to261 one470 , who319 , like410 me2 , was454 wholly497 ignorant136 of89 the19 mysteries445 of89 whaling155 , though400 well263 acquainted78 with449 the19 sea67 , as113 known86 to261 merchant332 seamen6 . His433 story197 being264 ended225 with449 his433 pipe124 's483 last436 dying69 puff82 , Queequeg embraced393 me2 , pressed323 his433 forehead380 against417 mine482 , and236 blowing248 out66 the19 light382 , we465 rolled226 over82 from316 each520 other282 , this256 way435 and236 that14 , and236 very515 soon18 were324 sleeping341 . CHAPTER293 13128 Wheelbarrow29 Next27 morning417 , Monday396 , after358 disposing223 of89 the19 embalmed59 head219 to261 a10 barber19 , for190 a10 block275 , I482 settled540 my36 own248 and236 comrade148 's483 bill338 ; using14 , however44 , my36 comrade148 's483 money383 . The19 grinning424 landlord270 , as113 well263 as113 the19 boarders76 , seemed132 amazingly364 tickled156 at65 the19 sudden309 friendship140 which16 had364 sprung376 up405 between77 me2 and236 Queequeg-- especially371 as113 Peter419 Coffin284 's483 cock519 and236 bull76 stories264 about123 him248 had364 previously250 so281 much61 alarmed344 me2 concerning368 the19 very515 person550 whom324 I482 now20 companied82 with449 . We465 borrowed199 a10 wheelbarrow29 , and236 embarking191 our234 things4 , including123 my36 own248 poor533 carpet446 -bag41 , and236 Queequeg's483 canvas557 sack74 and236 hammock323 , away443 we465 went516 down133 to261 "the19 Moss83 ," the19 little554 Nantucket283 packet339 schooner92 moored379 at65 the19 wharf545 . As113 we465 were324 going227 along423 the19 people482 stared316 ; not518 at65 Queequeg so281 much61 -- for190 they382 were324 used102 to261 seeing426 cannibals27 like410 him248 in107 their219 streets374 ,-- but330 at65 seeing426 him248 and236 me2 upon419 such420 confidential147 terms297 . But330 we465 heeded47 them146 not518 , going227 along423 wheeling434 the19 barrow215 by406 turns136 , and236 Queequeg now20 and236 then45 stopping406 to261 adjust247 the19 sheath188 on392 his433 harpoon67 barbs226 . I482 asked369 him248 why177 he362 carried232 such420 a10 troublesome475 thing309 with449 him248 ashore122 , and236 whether454 all145 whaling155 ships21 did444 not518 find138 their219 own248 harpoons6 . To261 this256 , in107 substance316 , he362 replied163 , that14 though400 what243 I482 hinted253 was454 true483 enough217 , yet443 he362 had364 a10 particular336 affection35 for190 his433 own248 harpoon67 , because540 it162 was454 of89 assured557 stuff471 , well263 tried73 in107 many282 a10 mortal371 combat154 , and236 deeply225 intimate155 with449 the19 hearts431 of89 whales331 . In107 short522 , like410 many282 inland146 reapers292 and236 mowers99 , who319 go20 into554 the19 farmer67 's483 meadows42 armed299 with449 their219 own248 scythes259 --though400 in107 no235 wise16 obliged206 to261 furnish160 them146 -- even198 so281 , Queequeg, for190 his433 own248 private541 reasons186 , preferred107 his433 own248 harpoon67 . Shifting253 the19 barrow215 from316 my36 hand252 to261 his433 , he362 told82 me2 a10 funny96 story197 about123 the19 first13 wheelbarrow29 he362 had364 ever208 seen154 . It162 was454 in107 Sag83 Harbor289 . The19 owners208 of89 his433 ship438 , it162 seems19 , had364 lent97 him248 one470 , in107 which16 to261 carry160 his433 heavy421 chest98 to261 his433 boarding155 house499 . Not518 to261 seem404 ignorant136 about123 the19 thing309 --though400 in107 truth350 he362 was454 entirely148 so281 , concerning368 the19 precise158 way435 in107 which16 to261 manage345 the19 barrow215 --Queequeg puts146 his433 chest98 upon419 it162 ; lashes180 it162 fast208 ; and236 then45 shoulders476 the19 barrow215 and236 marches530 up405 the19 wharf545 . "Why177 ," said252 I482 , "Queequeg, you227 might496 have254 known86 better34 than77 that14 , one470 would282 think424 . Didn't500 the19 people482 laugh559 ?" Upon419 this256 , he362 told82 me2 another269 story197 . The19 people482 of89 his433 island516 of89 Rokovoko, it162 seems19 , at65 their219 wedding377 feasts44 express91 the19 fragrant336 water520 of89 young389 cocoanuts76 into554 a10 large385 stained224 calabash451 like410 a10 punchbowl282 ; and236 this256 punchbowl282 always367 forms48 the19 great259 central229 ornament486 on392 the19 braided261 mat316 where579 the19 feast330 is487 held212 . Now20 a10 certain31 grand229 merchant332 ship438 once248 touched367 at65 Rokovoko, and236 its234 commander108 --from316 all145 accounts311 , a10 very515 stately344 punctilious4 gentleman399 , at65 least453 for190 a10 sea67 captain295 -- this256 commander108 was454 invited230 to261 the19 wedding377 feast330 of89 Queequeg's483 sister126 , a10 pretty252 young389 princess476 just108 turned492 of89 ten198 . Well263 ; when189 all145 the19 wedding377 guests320 were324 assembled170 at65 the19 bride115 's483 bamboo41 cottage29 , this256 Captain295 marches530 in107 , and236 being264 assigned457 the19 post2 of89 honor497 , placed556 himself282 over82 against417 the19 punchbowl282 , and236 between77 the19 High361 Priest60 and236 his433 majesty268 the19 King324 , Queequeg's483 father339 . Grace174 being264 said252 ,--for190 those427 people482 have254 their219 grace174 as113 well263 as113 we465 -- though400 Queequeg told82 me2 that14 unlike406 us569 , who319 at65 such420 times121 look523 downwards468 to261 our234 platters376 , they382 , on392 the19 contrary166 , copying214 the19 ducks557 , glance362 upwards110 to261 the19 great259 Giver170 of89 all145 feasts44 --Grace174 , I482 say306 , being264 said252 , the19 High361 Priest60 opens189 the19 banquet105 by406 the19 immemorial52 ceremony37 of89 the19 island516 ; that14 is487 , dipping199 his433 consecrated257 and236 consecrating144 fingers345 into554 the19 bowl418 before344 the19 blessed473 beverage26 circulates277 . Seeing426 himself282 placed556 next27 the19 Priest60 , and236 noting72 the19 ceremony37 , and236 thinking385 himself282 --being264 Captain295 of89 a10 ship438 --as113 having69 plain28 precedence227 over82 a10 mere393 island516 King324 , especially371 in107 the19 King324 's483 own248 house499 -- the19 Captain295 coolly156 proceeds215 to261 wash160 his433 hands87 in107 the19 punch117 bowl418 ;-- taking146 it162 I482 suppose120 for190 a10 huge132 finger190 -glass27 . "Now20 ," said252 Queequeg, "what243 you227 tink4 now20 ?--Didn't500 our234 people482 laugh559 ?" At65 last436 , passage285 paid490 , and236 luggage172 safe520 , we465 stood1 on392 board540 the19 schooner92 . Hoisting50 sail218 , it162 glided152 down133 the19 Acushnet river201 . On392 one470 side246 , New36 Bedford83 rose449 in107 terraces75 of89 streets374 , their219 ice443 -covered452 trees354 all145 glittering144 in107 the19 clear408 , cold330 air209 . Huge132 hills352 and236 mountains202 of89 casks213 on392 casks213 were324 piled126 upon419 her400 wharves329 , and236 side246 by406 side246 the19 world126 -wandering110 whale422 ships21 lay62 silent382 and236 safely206 moored379 at65 last436 ; while55 from316 others317 came549 a10 sound181 of89 carpenters185 and236 coopers26 , with449 blended366 noises72 of89 fires75 and236 forges102 to261 melt493 the19 pitch115 , all145 betokening350 that14 new36 cruises231 were324 on392 the19 start117 ; that14 one470 most216 perilous141 and236 long544 voyage137 ended225 , only517 begins374 a10 second386 ; and236 a10 second386 ended225 , only517 begins374 a10 third301 , and236 so281 on392 , for190 ever208 and236 for190 aye86 . Such420 is487 the19 endlessness4 , yea204 , the19 intolerableness of89 all145 earthly64 effort314 . Gaining225 the19 more348 open464 water520 , the19 bracing336 breeze227 waxed88 fresh540 ; the19 little554 Moss83 tossed227 the19 quick241 foam160 from316 her400 bows460 , as113 a10 young389 colt230 his433 snortings23 . How19 I482 snuffed250 that14 Tartar21 air209 !--how19 I482 spurned41 that14 turnpike92 earth513 !-- that14 common304 highway249 all145 over82 dented19 with449 the19 marks226 of89 slavish297 heels368 and236 hoofs524 ; and236 turned492 me2 to261 admire399 the19 magnanimity38 of89 the19 sea67 which16 will584 permit256 no235 records11 . At65 the19 same541 foam160 -fountain524 , Queequeg seemed132 to261 drink117 and236 reel315 with449 me2 . His433 dusky98 nostrils42 swelled213 apart526 ; he362 showed507 his433 filed225 and236 pointed413 teeth82 . On392 , on392 we465 flew424 , and236 our234 offing463 gained290 , the19 Moss83 did444 homage92 to261 the19 blast13 ; ducked83 and236 dived149 her400 bows460 as113 a10 slave126 before344 the19 Sultan107 . Sideways496 leaning559 , we465 sideways496 darted362 ; every389 ropeyarn tingling14 like410 a10 wire269 ; the19 two527 tall373 masts212 buckling263 like410 Indian303 canes165 in107 land406 tornadoes451 . So281 full414 of89 this256 reeling17 scene228 were324 we465 , as113 we465 stood1 by406 the19 plunging93 bowsprit120 , that14 for190 some265 time577 we465 did444 not518 notice76 the19 jeering40 glances363 of89 the19 passengers368 , a10 lubber191 -like410 assembly223 , who319 marvelled34 that14 two527 fellow369 beings6 should255 be341 so281 companionable289 ; as113 though400 a10 white82 man17 were324 anything480 more348 dignified339 than77 a10 whitewashed270 negro102 . But330 there340 were324 some265 boobies19 and236 bumpkins260 there340 , who319 , by406 their219 intense89 greenness149 , must226 have254 come420 from316 the19 heart470 and236 centre389 of89 all145 verdure329 . Queequeg caught105 one470 of89 these527 young389 saplings96 mimicking40 him248 behind80 his433 back457 . I482 thought186 the19 bumpkin26 's483 hour384 of89 doom73 was454 come420 . Dropping279 his433 harpoon67 , the19 brawny364 savage398 caught105 him248 in107 his433 arms536 , and236 by406 an138 almost518 miraculous276 dexterity101 and236 strength168 , sent411 him248 high361 up405 bodily172 into554 the19 air209 ; then45 slightly238 tapping202 his433 stern442 in107 mid84 -somerset271 , the19 fellow369 landed451 with449 bursting288 lungs40 upon419 his433 feet349 , while55 Queequeg, turning69 his433 back457 upon419 him248 , lighted422 his433 tomahawk279 pipe124 and236 passed87 it162 to261 me2 for190 a10 puff82 . "Capting331 ! Capting331 ! yelled61 the19 bumpkin26 , running296 toward273 that14 officer70 ; "Capting331 , Capting331 , here135 's483 the19 devil411 ." "Hallo167 , you227 sir271 ," cried506 the19 Captain295 , a10 gaunt62 rib84 of89 the19 sea67 , stalking241 up405 to261 Queequeg, "what243 in107 thunder356 do353 you227 mean504 by406 that14 ? Don280 't500 you227 know60 you227 might496 have254 killed409 that14 chap287 ?" "What243 him248 say306 ?" said252 Queequeg, as113 he362 mildly115 turned492 to261 me2 . "He362 say306 ," said252 I482 , "that14 you227 came549 near70 kill219 -e443 that14 man17 there340 ," pointing295 to261 the19 still278 shivering559 greenhorn41 . "Kill219 -e443 ," cried506 Queequeg, twisting445 his433 tattooed101 face556 into554 an138 unearthly110 expression115 of89 disdain256 , "ah132 ! him248 bevy68 small350 -e443 fish187 -e443 ; Queequeg no235 kill219 -e443 so281 small350 -e443 fish187 -e443 ; Queequeg kill219 -e443 big245 whale422 !" "Look523 you227 ," roared315 the19 Captain295 , "I482 'll300 kill219 -e443 you227 , you227 cannibal180 , if141 you227 try266 any501 more348 of89 your162 tricks110 aboard298 here135 ; so281 mind118 your162 eye220 ." But330 it162 so281 happened156 just108 then45 , that14 it162 was454 high361 time577 for190 the19 Captain295 to261 mind118 his433 own248 eye220 . The19 prodigious223 strain468 upon419 the19 main501 -sail218 had364 parted201 the19 weather405 -sheet327 , and236 the19 tremendous376 boom333 was454 now20 flying354 from316 side246 to261 side246 , completely385 sweeping61 the19 entire230 after358 part207 of89 the19 deck505 . The19 poor533 fellow369 whom324 Queequeg had364 handled241 so281 roughly44 , was454 swept305 overboard247 ; all145 hands87 were324 in107 a10 panic285 ; and236 to261 attempt385 snatching111 at65 the19 boom333 to261 stay238 it162 , seemed132 madness282 . It162 flew424 from316 right499 to261 left159 , and236 back457 again52 , almost518 in107 one470 ticking181 of89 a10 watch89 , and236 every389 instant279 seemed132 on392 the19 point438 of89 snapping88 into554 splinters30 . Nothing324 was454 done135 , and236 nothing324 seemed132 capable424 of89 being264 done135 ; those427 on392 deck505 rushed199 toward273 the19 bows460 , and236 stood1 eyeing49 the19 boom333 as113 if141 it162 were324 the19 lower47 jaw213 of89 an138 exasperated190 whale422 . In107 the19 midst533 of89 this256 consternation52 , Queequeg dropped2 deftly115 to261 his433 knees214 , and236 crawling318 under533 the19 path234 of89 the19 boom333 , whipped531 hold204 of89 a10 rope265 , secured284 one470 end149 to261 the19 bulwarks411 , and236 then45 flinging389 the19 other282 like410 a10 lasso51 , caught105 it162 round287 the19 boom333 as113 it162 swept305 over82 his433 head219 , and236 at65 the19 next27 jerk451 , the19 spar14 was454 that14 way435 trapped31 , and236 all145 was454 safe520 . The19 schooner92 was454 run172 into554 the19 wind262 , and236 while55 the19 hands87 were324 clearing84 away443 the19 stern442 boat439 , Queequeg, stripped301 to261 the19 waist52 , darted362 from316 the19 side246 with449 a10 long544 living117 arc174 of89 a10 leap342 . For190 three329 minutes368 or519 more348 he362 was454 seen154 swimming367 like410 a10 dog322 , throwing120 his433 long544 arms536 straight346 out66 before344 him248 , and236 by406 turns136 revealing451 his433 brawny364 shoulders476 through295 the19 freezing460 foam160 . I482 looked232 at65 the19 grand229 and236 glorious466 fellow369 , but330 saw113 no235 one470 to261 be341 saved446 . The19 greenhorn41 had364 gone190 down133 . Shooting225 himself282 perpendicularly41 from316 the19 water520 , Queequeg, now20 took68 an138 instant279 's483 glance362 around66 him248 , and236 seeming59 to261 see370 just108 how19 matters515 were324 , dived149 down133 and236 disappeared5 . A10 few49 minutes368 more348 , and236 he362 rose449 again52 , one470 arm25 still278 striking22 out66 , and236 with449 the19 other282 dragging248 a10 lifeless19 form238 . The19 boat439 soon18 picked129 them146 up405 . The19 poor533 bumpkin26 was454 restored384 . All145 hands87 voted265 Queequeg a10 noble226 trump25 ; the19 captain295 begged345 his433 pardon143 . From316 that14 hour384 I482 clove330 to261 Queequeg like410 a10 barnacle258 ; yea204 , till181 poor533 Queequeg took68 his433 last436 long544 dive316 . Was454 there340 ever208 such420 unconsciousness292 ? He362 did444 not518 seem404 to261 think424 that14 he362 at65 all145 deserved111 a10 medal279 from316 the19 Humane365 and236 Magnanimous128 Societies403 . He362 only517 asked369 for190 water520 --fresh540 water520 --something181 to261 wipe109 the19 brine488 off111 ; that14 done135 , he362 put190 on392 dry430 clothes98 , lighted422 his433 pipe124 , and236 leaning559 against417 the19 bulwarks411 , and236 mildly115 eyeing49 those427 around66 him248 , seemed132 to261 be341 saying9 to261 himself282 --"It162 's483 a10 mutual35 , joint65 -stock437 world126 , in107 all145 meridians258 . We465 cannibals27 must226 help526 these527 Christians13 ." CHAPTER293 14324 Nantucket283 Nothing324 more348 happened156 on392 the19 passage285 worthy60 the19 mentioning124 ; so281 , after358 a10 fine333 run172 , we465 safely206 arrived553 in107 Nantucket283 . Nantucket283 ! Take279 out66 your162 map38 and236 look523 at65 it162 . See370 what243 a10 real305 corner204 of89 the19 world126 it162 occupies264 ; how19 it162 stands256 there340 , away443 off111 shore280 , more348 lonely137 than77 the19 Eddystone463 lighthouse127 . Look523 at65 it162 -- a10 mere393 hillock296 , and236 elbow60 of89 sand380 ; all145 beach183 , without309 a10 background397 . There340 is487 more348 sand380 there340 than77 you227 would282 use176 in107 twenty433 years116 as113 a10 substitute53 for190 blotting434 paper401 . Some265 gamesome110 wights160 will584 tell392 you227 that14 they382 have254 to261 plant8 weeds524 there340 , they382 don280 't500 grow163 naturally362 ; that14 they382 import188 Canada287 thistles390 ; that14 they382 have254 to261 send536 beyond421 seas350 for190 a10 spile415 to261 stop48 a10 leak41 in107 an138 oil118 cask503 ; that14 pieces283 of89 wood46 in107 Nantucket283 are314 carried232 about123 like410 bits256 of89 the19 true483 cross416 in107 Rome401 ; that14 people482 there340 plant8 toadstools110 before344 their219 houses166 , to261 get126 under533 the19 shade116 in107 summer408 time577 ; that14 one470 blade83 of89 grass418 makes32 an138 oasis236 , three329 blades141 in107 a10 day112 's483 walk405 a10 prairie214 ; that14 they382 wear250 quicksand4 shoes436 , something181 like410 Laplander102 snow498 -shoes436 ; that14 they382 are314 so281 shut59 up405 , belted114 about123 , every389 way435 inclosed88 , surrounded75 , and236 made563 an138 utter270 island516 of89 by406 the19 ocean224 , that14 to261 their219 very515 chairs19 and236 tables13 small350 clams263 will584 sometimes77 be341 found260 adhering163 as113 to261 the19 backs480 of89 sea67 turtles271 . But330 these527 extravaganzas27 only517 show460 that14 Nantucket283 is487 no235 Illinois5 . Look523 now20 at65 the19 wondrous30 traditional94 story197 of89 how19 this256 island516 was454 settled540 by406 the19 red293 -men62 . Thus362 goes205 the19 legend188 . In107 olden427 times121 an138 eagle319 swooped249 down133 upon419 the19 New36 England348 coast287 and236 carried232 off111 an138 infant154 Indian303 in107 his433 talons253 . With449 loud556 lament189 the19 parents195 saw113 their219 child451 borne493 out66 of89 sight365 over82 the19 wide465 waters556 . They382 resolved158 to261 follow408 in107 the19 same541 direction67 . Setting151 out66 in107 their219 canoes471 , after358 a10 perilous141 passage285 they382 discovered36 the19 island516 , and236 there340 they382 found260 an138 empty450 ivory76 casket167 ,-- the19 poor533 little554 Indian303 's483 skeleton231 . What243 wonder76 , then45 , that14 these527 Nantucketers, born236 on392 a10 beach183 , should255 take279 to261 the19 sea67 for190 a10 livelihood189 ! They382 first13 caught105 crabs331 and236 quahogs in107 the19 sand380 ; grown299 bolder285 , they382 waded461 out66 with449 nets517 for190 mackerel243 ; more348 experienced93 , they382 pushed189 off111 in107 boats83 and236 captured126 cod94 ; and236 at65 last436 , launching231 a10 navy83 of89 great259 ships21 on392 the19 sea67 , explored299 this256 watery59 world126 ; put190 an138 incessant91 belt323 of89 circumnavigations135 round287 it162 ; peeped236 in107 at65 Behring227 's483 Straits273 ; and236 in107 all145 seasons192 and236 all145 oceans60 declared29 everlasting249 war169 with449 the19 mightiest395 animated143 mass36 that14 has399 survived77 the19 flood167 ; most216 monstrous395 and236 most216 mountainous273 ! That14 Himmalehan, salt183 -sea67 , Mastodon270 , clothed63 with449 such420 portentousness136 of89 unconscious152 power145 , that14 his433 very515 panics365 are314 more348 to261 be341 dreaded15 than77 his433 most216 fearless132 and236 malicious361 assaults91 ! And236 thus362 have254 these527 naked70 Nantucketers, these527 sea67 hermits428 , issuing309 from316 their219 ant106 -hill219 in107 the19 sea67 , overrun282 and236 conquered140 the19 watery59 world126 like410 so281 many282 Alexanders25 ; parcelling336 out66 among483 them146 the19 Atlantic198 , Pacific294 , and236 Indian303 oceans60 , as113 the19 three329 pirate214 powers140 did444 Poland285 . Let66 America133 add236 Mexico529 to261 Texas561 , and236 pile312 Cuba281 upon419 Canada287 ; let66 the19 English69 overswarm all145 India258 , and236 hang253 out66 their219 blazing232 banner75 from316 the19 sun397 ; two527 thirds141 of89 this256 terraqueous438 globe23 are314 the19 Nantucketer's483 . For190 the19 sea67 is487 his433 ; he362 owns496 it162 , as113 Emperors247 own248 empires83 ; other282 seamen6 having69 but330 a10 right499 of89 way435 through295 it162 . Merchant332 ships21 are314 but330 extension507 bridges270 ; armed299 ones396 but330 floating30 forts216 ; even198 pirates19 and236 privateers367 , though400 following181 the19 sea67 as113 highwaymen270 the19 road533 . they382 but330 plunder59 other282 ships21 , other282 fragments430 of89 the19 land406 like410 themselves510 , without309 seeking427 to261 draw106 their219 living117 from316 the19 bottomless376 deep483 itself312 . The19 Nantucketer, he362 alone2 resides83 and236 riots425 on392 the19 sea67 ; he362 alone2 , in107 Bible253 language322 , goes205 down133 to261 it162 in107 ships21 ; to261 and236 fro183 ploughing140 it162 as113 his433 own248 special326 plantation3 . There340 is487 his433 home450 ; there340 lies27 his433 business168 which16 a10 Noah69 's483 flood167 would282 not518 interrupt322 , though400 it162 overwhelmed224 all145 the19 millions208 in107 China253 . He362 lives245 on392 the19 sea67 , as113 prairie214 cocks42 in107 the19 prairie214 ; he362 hides454 among483 the19 waves443 , he362 climbs157 them146 as113 chamois204 hunters423 climb80 the19 Alps214 . For190 years116 he362 knows286 not518 the19 land406 ; so281 that14 when189 he362 comes268 to261 it162 at65 last436 , it162 smells422 like410 another269 world126 , more348 strangely155 than77 the19 moon45 would282 to261 an138 Earthsman. With449 the19 landless54 gull8 , that14 at65 sunset305 folds367 her400 wings175 and236 is487 rocked157 to261 sleep233 between77 billows295 ; so281 at65 nightfall182 , the19 Nantucketer, out66 of89 sight365 of89 land406 , furls246 his433 sails344 , and236 lays361 him248 to261 his433 rest302 , while55 under533 his433 very515 pillow376 rush6 herds341 of89 walruses111 and236 whales331 . CHAPTER293 15192 Chowder479 It162 was454 quite327 late351 in107 the19 evening581 when189 the19 little554 Moss83 came549 snugly392 to261 anchor141 , and236 Queequeg and236 I482 went516 ashore122 ; so281 we465 could375 attend120 to261 no235 business168 that14 day112 , at65 least453 none365 but330 a10 supper4 and236 a10 bed273 . The19 landlord270 of89 the19 Spouter83 -Inn190 had364 recommended181 us569 to261 his433 cousin50 Hosea150 Hussey192 of89 the19 Try266 Pots184 , whom324 he362 asserted128 to261 be341 the19 proprietor287 of89 one470 of89 the19 best315 kept290 hotels183 in107 all145 Nantucket283 , and236 moreover326 he362 had364 assured557 us569 that14 Cousin50 Hosea150 , as113 he362 called237 him248 , was454 famous254 for190 his433 chowders. In107 short522 , he362 plainly450 hinted253 that14 we465 could375 not518 possibly201 do353 better34 than77 try266 pot209 -luck453 at65 the19 Try266 Pots184 . But330 the19 directions124 he362 had364 given141 us569 about123 keeping482 a10 yellow95 warehouse365 on392 our234 starboard309 hand252 till181 we465 opened461 a10 white82 church317 to261 the19 larboard203 , and236 then45 keeping482 that14 on392 the19 larboard203 hand252 till181 we465 made563 a10 corner204 three329 points245 to261 the19 starboard309 , and236 that14 done135 , then45 ask238 the19 first13 man17 we465 met130 where579 the19 place107 was454 ; these527 crooked236 directions124 of89 his433 very515 much61 puzzled236 us569 at65 first13 , especially371 as113 , at65 the19 outset350 , Queequeg insisted138 that14 the19 yellow95 warehouse365 -- our234 first13 point438 of89 departure46 --must226 be341 left159 on392 the19 larboard203 hand252 , whereas18 I482 had364 understood473 Peter419 Coffin284 to261 say306 it162 was454 on392 the19 starboard309 . However44 , by406 dint75 of89 beating124 about123 a10 little554 in107 the19 dark471 , and236 now20 and236 then45 knocking82 up405 a10 peaceable31 inhabitant4 to261 inquire41 the19 way435 , we465 at65 last436 came549 to261 something181 which16 there340 was454 no235 mistaking243 . Two527 enormous327 wooden35 pots184 painted340 black581 , and236 suspended245 by406 asses526 ' ears560 , swung205 from316 the19 cross416 -trees354 of89 an138 old447 top70 -mast44 , planted82 in107 front196 of89 an138 old447 doorway366 . The19 horns450 of89 the19 cross416 -trees354 were324 sawed337 off111 on392 the19 other282 side246 , so281 that14 this256 old447 top70 -mast44 looked232 not518 a10 little554 like410 a10 gallows486 . Perhaps75 I482 was454 over82 sensitive81 to261 such420 impressions110 at65 the19 time577 , but330 I482 could375 not518 help526 staring523 at65 this256 gallows486 with449 a10 vague70 misgiving102 . A10 sort42 of89 crick369 was454 in107 my36 neck239 as113 I482 gazed13 up405 to261 the19 two527 remaining64 horns450 ; yes143 , two527 of89 them146 , one470 for190 Queequeg, and236 one470 for190 me2 . It162 's483 ominous70 , thinks344 I482 . A10 Coffin284 my36 Innkeeper264 upon419 landing83 in107 my36 first13 whaling155 port409 ; tombstones26 staring523 at65 me2 in107 the19 whalemen451 's483 chapel60 , and236 here135 a10 gallows486 ! and236 a10 pair106 of89 prodigious223 black581 pots184 too11 ! Are314 these527 last436 throwing120 out66 oblique212 hints260 touching80 Tophet210 ? I482 was454 called237 from316 these527 reflections104 by406 the19 sight365 of89 a10 freckled516 woman448 with449 yellow95 hair237 and236 a10 yellow95 gown162 , standing144 in107 the19 porch337 of89 the19 inn190 , under533 a10 dull546 red293 lamp330 swinging379 there340 , that14 looked232 much61 like410 an138 injured298 eye220 , and236 carrying103 on392 a10 brisk142 scolding57 with449 a10 man17 in107 a10 purple167 woollen27 shirt413 . "Get126 along423 with449 ye483 ," said252 she391 to261 the19 man17 , "or519 I482 'll300 be341 combing99 ye483 !" "Come420 on392 , Queequeg," said252 I482 , "all145 right499 . There340 's483 Mrs316 . Hussey192 ." And236 so281 it162 turned492 out66 ; Mr219 . Hosea150 Hussey192 being264 from316 home450 , but330 leaving231 Mrs316 . Hussey192 entirely148 competent348 to261 attend120 to261 all145 his433 affairs492 . Upon419 making415 known86 our234 desires401 for190 a10 supper4 and236 a10 bed273 , Mrs316 . Hussey192 , postponing121 further53 scolding57 for190 the19 present112 , ushered509 us569 into554 a10 little554 room65 , and236 seating122 us569 at65 a10 table572 spread348 with449 the19 relics361 of89 a10 recently128 concluded157 repast192 , turned492 round287 to261 us569 and236 said252 --"Clam152 or519 Cod94 ?" "What243 's483 that14 about123 Cods26 , ma'am470 ?" said252 I482 , with449 much61 politeness147 . "Clam152 or519 Cod94 ?" she391 repeated381 . "A10 clam152 for190 supper4 ? a10 cold330 clam152 ; is487 that14 what243 you227 mean504 , Mrs316 . Hussey192 ?" says424 I482 , "but330 that14 's76 a10 rather178 cold330 and236 clammy331 reception111 in107 the19 winter317 time577 , ain't500 it162 , Mrs316 . Hussey192 ?" But330 being264 in107 a10 great259 hurry183 to261 resume369 scolding57 the19 man17 in107 the19 purple167 shirt413 who319 was454 waiting201 for190 it162 in107 the19 entry282 , and236 seeming59 to261 hear386 nothing324 but330 the19 word486 "clam152 ," Mrs316 . Hussey192 hurried335 towards417 an138 open464 door135 leading59 to261 the19 kitchen152 , and236 bawling350 out66 "clam152 for190 two527 ," disappeared5 . "Queequeg," said252 I482 , "do353 you227 think424 that14 we465 can450 make175 out66 a10 supper4 for190 us569 both558 on392 one470 clam152 ?" However44 , a10 warm178 savory451 steam106 from316 the19 kitchen152 served460 to261 belie119 the19 apparently261 cheerless336 prospect198 before344 us569 . But330 when189 that14 smoking470 chowder479 came549 in107 , the19 mystery254 was454 delightfully222 explained492 . Oh367 ! sweet417 friends169 , hearken297 to261 me2 . It162 was454 made563 of89 small350 juicy374 clams263 , scarcely71 bigger17 than77 hazel247 nuts111 , mixed459 with449 pounded159 ship438 biscuits104 , and236 salted212 pork3 cut310 up405 into554 little554 flakes120 ! the19 whole199 enriched402 with449 butter536 , and236 plentifully540 seasoned4 with449 pepper316 and236 salt183 . Our234 appetites249 being264 sharpened78 by406 the19 frosty58 voyage137 , and236 in107 particular336 , Queequeg seeing426 his433 favourite476 fishing260 food248 before344 him248 , and236 the19 chowder479 being264 surpassingly283 excellent161 , we465 despatched55 it162 with449 great259 expedition308 : when189 leaning559 back457 a10 moment258 and236 bethinking40 me2 of89 Mrs316 . Hussey192 's483 clam152 and236 cod94 announcement457 , I482 thought186 I482 would282 try266 a10 little554 experiment40 . Stepping299 to261 the19 kitchen152 door135 , I482 uttered454 the19 word486 "cod94 " with449 great259 emphasis6 , and236 resumed7 my36 seat88 . In107 a10 few49 moments434 the19 savoury12 steam106 came549 forth152 again52 , but330 with449 a10 different276 flavor69 , and236 in107 good221 time577 a10 fine333 cod94 -chowder479 was454 placed556 before344 us569 . We465 resumed7 business168 ; and236 while55 plying78 our234 spoons188 in107 the19 bowl418 , thinks344 I482 to261 myself99 , I482 wonder76 now20 if141 this256 here135 has399 any501 effect215 on392 the19 head219 ? What243 's483 that14 stultifying22 saying9 about123 chowder479 -headed124 people482 ? "But330 look523 , Queequeg, ain't500 that14 a10 live554 eel86 in107 your162 bowl418 ? Where579 's483 your162 harpoon67 ?" Fishiest2 of89 all145 fishy369 places423 was454 the19 Try266 Pots184 , which16 well263 deserved111 its234 name477 ; for190 the19 pots184 there340 were324 always367 boiling99 chowders. Chowder479 for190 breakfast408 , and236 chowder479 for190 dinner322 , and236 chowder479 for190 supper4 , till181 you227 began132 to261 look523 for190 fish187 -bones5 coming140 through295 your162 clothes98 . The19 area472 before344 the19 house499 was454 paved97 with449 clam152 -shells398 . Mrs316 . Hussey192 wore92 a10 polished370 necklace327 of89 codfish415 vertebra55 ; and236 Hosea150 Hussey192 had364 his433 account102 books525 bound108 in107 superior479 old447 shark4 -skin428 . There340 was454 a10 fishy369 flavor69 to261 the19 milk362 , too11 , which16 I482 could375 not518 at65 all145 account102 for190 , till181 one470 morning417 happening106 to261 take279 a10 stroll115 along423 the19 beach183 among483 some265 fishermen24 's483 boats83 , I482 saw113 Hosea150 's483 brindled280 cow327 feeding367 on392 fish187 remnants157 , and236 marching57 along423 the19 sand380 with449 each520 foot467 in107 a10 cod94 's483 decapitated18 head219 , looking318 very515 slipshod44 , I482 assure511 ye483 . Supper4 concluded157 , we465 received12 a10 lamp330 , and236 directions124 from316 Mrs316 . Hussey192 concerning368 the19 nearest26 way435 to261 bed273 ; but330 , as113 Queequeg was454 about123 to261 precede243 me2 up405 the19 stairs330 , the19 lady14 reached386 forth152 her400 arm25 , and236 demanded223 his433 harpoon67 ; she391 allowed339 no235 harpoon67 in107 her400 chambers125 . "Why177 not518 ? said252 I482 ; "every389 true483 whaleman98 sleeps136 with449 his433 harpoon67 -- but330 why177 not518 ?" "Because540 it162 's483 dangerous2 ," says424 she391 . "Ever208 since374 young389 Stiggs coming140 from316 that14 unfort'nt v303 'y'ge of89 his433 , when189 he362 was454 gone190 four175 years116 and236 a10 half119 , with449 only517 three329 barrels368 of89 ile223 , was454 found260 dead568 in107 my36 first13 floor418 back457 , with449 his433 harpoon67 in107 his433 side246 ; ever208 since374 then45 I482 allow368 no235 boarders76 to261 take279 sich86 dangerous2 weepons17 in107 their219 rooms133 at65 night108 . So281 , Mr219 . Queequeg" (for190 she391 had364 learned277 his433 name477 ), "I482 will584 just108 take279 this256 here135 iron169 , and236 keep381 it162 for190 you227 till181 morning417 . But330 the19 chowder479 ; clam152 or519 cod94 to261 -morrow376 for190 breakfast408 , men62 ?" "Both558 ," says424 I482 ; "and236 let66 's483 have254 a10 couple261 of89 smoked60 herring26 by406 way435 of89 variety78 ." CHAPTER293 16160 The19 Ship438 In107 bed273 we465 concocted95 our234 plans49 for190 the19 morrow376 . But330 to261 my36 surprise125 and236 no235 small350 concern180 , Queequeg now20 gave572 me2 to261 understand111 , that14 he362 had364 been185 diligently344 consulting251 Yojo--the19 name477 of89 his433 black581 little554 god185 -- and236 Yojo had364 told82 him248 two527 or519 three329 times121 over82 , and236 strongly168 insisted138 upon419 it162 everyway174 , that14 instead398 of89 our234 going227 together440 among483 the19 whaling155 -fleet206 in107 harbor289 , and236 in107 concert159 selecting489 our234 craft187 ; instead398 of89 this256 , I482 say306 , Yojo earnestly98 enjoined196 that14 the19 selection143 of89 the19 ship438 should255 rest302 wholly497 with449 me2 , inasmuch110 as113 Yojo purposed82 befriending136 us569 ; and236 , in107 order343 to261 do353 so281 , had364 already93 pitched101 upon419 a10 vessel155 , which16 , if141 left159 to261 myself99 , I482 , Ishmael196 , should255 infallibly426 light382 upon419 , for190 all145 the19 world126 as113 though400 it162 had364 turned492 out66 by406 chance292 ; and236 in107 that14 vessel155 I482 must226 immediately172 ship438 myself99 , for190 the19 present112 irrespective218 of89 Queequeg. I482 have254 forgotten170 to261 mention510 that14 , in107 many282 things4 , Queequeg placed556 great259 confidence46 in107 the19 excellence27 of89 Yojo's483 judgment83 and236 surprising359 forecast375 of89 things4 ; and236 cherished117 Yojo with449 considerable75 esteem304 , as113 a10 rather178 good221 sort42 of89 god185 , who319 perhaps75 meant157 well263 enough217 upon419 the19 whole199 , but330 in107 all145 cases108 did444 not518 succeed441 in107 his433 benevolent67 designs18 . Now20 , this256 plan99 of89 Queequeg's483 or519 rather178 Yojo's483 , touching80 the19 selection143 of89 our234 craft187 ; I482 did444 not518 like410 that14 plan99 at65 all145 . I482 had364 not518 a10 little554 relied332 on392 Queequeg's483 sagacity10 to261 point438 out66 the19 whaler91 best315 fitted200 to261 carry160 us569 and236 our234 fortunes322 securely342 . But330 as113 all145 my36 remonstrances420 produced258 no235 effect215 upon419 Queequeg, I482 was454 obliged206 to261 acquiesce59 ; and236 accordingly249 prepared59 to261 set422 about123 this256 business168 with449 a10 determined339 rushing344 sort42 of89 energy182 and236 vigor178 , that14 should255 quickly183 settle92 that14 trifling255 little554 affair388 . Next27 morning417 early92 , leaving231 Queequeg shut59 up405 with449 Yojo in107 our234 little554 bedroom259 --for190 it162 seemed132 that14 it162 was454 some265 sort42 of89 Lent97 or519 Ramadan69 , or519 day112 of89 fasting65 , humiliation92 , and236 prayer377 with449 Queequeg and236 Yojo that14 day112 ; how19 it162 was454 I482 never206 could375 find138 out66 , for190 , though400 I482 applied122 myself99 to261 it162 several479 times121 , I482 never206 could375 master131 his433 liturgies128 and236 XXXIX25 Articles259 -- leaving231 Queequeg, then45 , fasting65 on392 his433 tomahawk279 pipe124 , and236 Yojo warming250 himself282 at65 his433 sacrificial37 fire559 of89 shavings117 , I482 sallied183 out66 among483 the19 shipping319 . After358 much61 prolonged246 sauntering107 , and236 many282 random439 inquiries64 , I482 learnt473 that14 there340 were324 three329 ships21 up405 for190 three329 -years92 ' voyages368 --The19 Devil411 -Dam434 the19 Tit-bit72 , and236 the19 Pequod288 . Devil411 -dam434 , I482 do353 not518 know60 the19 origin233 of89 ; Tit-bit72 is487 obvious147 ; Pequod288 you227 will584 no235 doubt71 remember499 , was454 the19 name477 of89 a10 celebrated27 tribe273 of89 Massachusetts376 Indians99 ; now20 extinct105 as113 the19 ancient463 Medes160 . I482 peered446 and236 pryed107 about123 the19 Devil411 -Dam434 ; from316 her400 , hopped127 over82 to261 the19 Tit-bit72 ; and236 finally69 , going227 on392 board540 the19 Pequod288 , looked232 around66 her400 for190 a10 moment258 , and236 then45 decided74 that14 this256 was454 the19 very515 ship438 for190 us569 . You227 may236 have254 seen154 many282 a10 quaint315 craft187 in107 your162 day112 , for190 aught26 I482 know60 ;-- square302 -toed luggers; mountainous273 Japanese364 junks300 ; butter536 -box226 galliots83 , and236 what243 not518 ; but330 take279 my36 word486 for190 it162 , you227 never206 saw113 such420 a10 rare296 old447 craft187 as113 this256 same541 rare296 old447 Pequod288 . She391 was454 a10 ship438 of89 the19 old447 school315 , rather178 small350 if141 anything480 ; with449 an138 old447 -fashioned432 claw58 -footed449 look523 about123 her400 . Long544 seasoned4 and236 weather405 -stained224 in107 the19 typhoons445 and236 calms98 of89 all145 four175 oceans60 , her400 old447 hull323 's483 complexion243 was454 darkened21 like410 a10 French491 grenadier4 's483 , who319 has399 alike122 fought66 in107 Egypt116 and236 Siberia239 . Her400 venerable57 bows460 looked232 bearded364 . Her400 masts212 --cut310 somewhere201 on392 the19 coast287 of89 Japan53 , where579 her400 original463 ones396 were324 lost308 overboard247 in107 a10 gale440 --her400 masts212 stood1 stiffly292 up405 like410 the19 spines516 of89 the19 three329 old447 kings474 of89 Cologne427 . Her400 ancient463 decks386 were324 worn174 and236 wrinkled259 , like410 the19 pilgrim253 -worshipped499 flag270 -stone398 in107 Canterbury282 Cathedral231 where579 Beckett444 bled52 . But330 to261 all145 these527 her400 old447 antiquities166 , were324 added52 new36 and236 marvellous35 features150 , pertaining375 to261 the19 wild230 business168 that14 for190 more348 than77 half119 a10 century149 she391 had364 followed234 . Old447 Captain295 Peleg375 , many282 years116 her400 chief156 -mate508 , before344 he362 commanded571 another269 vessel155 of89 his433 own248 , and236 now20 a10 retired158 seaman166 , and236 one470 of89 the19 principal550 owners208 of89 the19 Pequod288 ,--this256 old447 Peleg375 , during309 the19 term416 of89 his433 chief156 -mateship, had364 built20 upon419 her400 original463 grotesqueness371 , and236 inlaid6 it162 , all145 over82 , with449 a10 quaintness363 both558 of89 material161 and236 device191 , unmatched133 by406 anything480 except545 it162 be341 Thorkill-Hake's483 carved455 buckler215 or519 bedstead127 . She391 was454 apparelled398 like410 any501 barbaric559 Ethiopian305 emperor262 , his433 neck239 heavy421 with449 pendants454 of89 polished370 ivory76 . She391 was454 a10 thing309 of89 trophies197 . A10 cannibal180 of89 a10 craft187 , tricking5 herself263 forth152 in107 the19 chased389 bones5 of89 her400 enemies62 . All145 round287 , her400 unpanelled, open464 bulwarks411 were324 garnished364 like410 one470 continuous447 jaw213 , with449 the19 long544 sharp427 teeth82 of89 the19 sperm26 whale422 , inserted102 there340 for190 pins290 , to261 fasten476 her400 old447 hempen451 thews132 and236 tendons454 to261 . Those427 thews132 ran391 not518 through295 base258 blocks6 of89 land406 wood46 , but330 deftly115 travelled452 over82 sheaves149 of89 sea67 -ivory76 . Scorning485 a10 turnstile86 wheel135 at65 her400 reverend11 helm285 , she391 sported355 there340 a10 tiller445 ; and236 that14 tiller445 was454 in107 one470 mass36 , curiously261 carved455 from316 the19 long544 narrow140 lower47 jaw213 of89 her400 hereditary125 foe479 . The19 helmsman457 who319 steered106 by406 that14 tiller445 in107 a10 tempest125 , felt440 like410 the19 Tartar21 , when189 he362 holds92 back457 his433 fiery42 steed249 by406 clutching248 its234 jaw213 . A10 noble226 craft187 , but330 somehow425 a10 most216 melancholy398 ! All145 noble226 things4 are314 touched367 with449 that14 . Now20 when189 I482 looked232 about123 the19 quarter6 -deck505 , for190 some265 one470 having69 authority146 , in107 order343 to261 propose385 myself99 as113 a10 candidate368 for190 the19 voyage137 , at65 first13 I482 saw113 nobody41 ; but330 I482 could375 not518 well263 overlook117 a10 strange440 sort42 of89 tent359 , or519 rather178 wigwam318 , pitched101 a10 little554 behind80 the19 main501 -mast44 . It162 seemed132 only517 a10 temporary235 erection247 used102 in107 port409 . It162 was454 of89 a10 conical398 shape99 , some265 ten198 feet349 high361 ; consisting399 of89 the19 long544 , huge132 slabs231 of89 limber227 black581 bone184 taken222 from316 the19 middle39 and236 highest575 part207 of89 the19 jaws341 of89 the19 right499 -whale422 . Planted82 with449 their219 broad267 ends301 on392 the19 deck505 , a10 circle282 of89 these527 slabs231 laced26 together440 , mutually250 sloped19 towards417 each520 other282 , and236 at65 the19 apex43 united419 in107 a10 tufted272 point438 , where579 the19 loose159 hairy284 fibres45 waved366 to261 and236 fro183 like410 a10 top70 -knot445 on392 some265 old447 Pottowotamie Sachem279 's483 head219 . A10 triangular498 opening306 faced115 towards417 the19 bows460 of89 the19 ship438 , so281 that14 the19 insider150 commanded571 a10 complete191 view370 forward364 . And236 half119 concealed97 in107 this256 queer156 tenement330 , I482 at65 length202 found260 one470 who319 by406 his433 aspect147 seemed132 to261 have254 authority146 ; and236 who319 , it162 being264 noon445 , and236 the19 ship438 's483 work385 suspended245 , was454 now20 enjoying261 respite124 from316 the19 burden382 of89 command190 . He362 was454 seated158 on392 an138 old447 -fashioned432 oaken492 chair253 , wriggling305 all145 over82 with449 curious264 carving54 ; and236 the19 bottom461 of89 which16 was454 formed294 of89 a10 stout29 interlacing193 of89 the19 same541 elastic370 stuff471 of89 which16 the19 wigwam318 was454 constructed126 . There340 was454 nothing324 so281 very515 particular336 , perhaps75 , about123 the19 appearance138 of89 the19 elderly170 man17 I482 saw113 ; he362 was454 brown446 and236 brawny364 , like410 most216 old447 seamen6 , and236 heavily227 rolled226 up405 in107 blue240 pilot559 -cloth285 , cut310 in107 the19 Quaker388 style303 ; only517 there340 was454 a10 fine333 and236 almost518 microscopic385 net23 -work208 of89 the19 minutest332 wrinkles318 interlacing193 round287 his433 eyes125 , which16 must226 have254 arisen497 from316 his433 continual222 sailings31 in107 many282 hard337 gales42 , and236 always367 looking318 to261 windward170 ;-- for190 this256 causes427 the19 muscles101 about123 the19 eyes125 to261 become548 pursed434 together440 . Such420 eye220 -wrinkles318 are314 very515 effectual337 in107 a10 scowl292 . "Is487 this256 the19 Captain295 of89 the19 Pequod288 ?" said252 I482 , advancing444 to261 the19 door135 of89 the19 tent359 . "Supposing247 it162 be341 the19 Captain295 of89 the19 Pequod288 , what243 dost306 thou173 want350 of89 him248 ?" he362 demanded223 . "I482 was454 thinking385 of89 shipping319 ." "Thou173 wast485 , wast485 thou173 ? I482 see370 thou173 art462 no235 Nantucketer-- ever208 been185 in107 a10 stove373 boat439 ?" "No235 , Sir271 , I482 never206 have254 ." "Dost306 know60 nothing324 at65 all145 about123 whaling155 , I482 dare11 say306 --eh76 ? "Nothing324 , Sir271 ; but330 I482 have254 no235 doubt71 I482 shall66 soon18 learn341 . I482 've149 been185 several479 voyages368 in107 the19 merchant332 service343 , and236 I482 think424 that14 -" "Merchant332 service343 be341 damned572 . Talk173 not518 that14 lingo320 to261 me2 . Dost306 see370 that14 leg331 ?--I482 'll300 take279 that14 leg331 away443 from316 thy43 stern442 , if141 ever208 thou173 talkest292 of89 the19 merchant332 service343 to261 me2 again52 . Marchant500 service343 indeed522 ! I482 suppose120 now20 ye483 feel461 considerable75 proud108 of89 having69 served460 in107 those427 marchant500 ships21 . But330 flukes155 ! man17 , what243 makes32 thee15 want350 to261 go20 a10 whaling155 , eh76 ?--it162 looks150 a10 little554 suspicious312 , don280 't500 it162 , eh76 ?--Hast174 not518 been185 a10 pirate214 , hast174 thou173 ?-- Didst317 not518 rob533 thy43 last436 Captain295 , didst317 thou173 ?--Dost306 not518 think424 of89 murdering141 the19 officers439 when189 thou173 gettest461 to261 sea67 ?" I482 protested75 my36 innocence236 of89 these527 things4 . I482 saw113 that14 under533 the19 mask86 of89 these527 half119 humorous7 innuendoes247 , this256 old447 seaman166 , as113 an138 insulated350 Quakerish22 Nantucketer, was454 full414 of89 his433 insular129 prejudices86 , and236 rather178 distrustful46 of89 all145 aliens92 , unless54 they382 hailed411 from316 Cape23 Cod94 or519 the19 Vineyard92 . "But330 what243 takes362 thee15 a10 -whaling155 ? I482 want350 to261 know60 that14 before344 I482 think424 of89 shipping319 ye483 ." "Well263 , sir271 , I482 want350 to261 see370 what243 whaling155 is487 . I482 want350 to261 see370 the19 world126 ." "Want350 to261 see370 what243 whaling155 is487 , eh76 ? Have254 ye483 clapped423 eye220 on392 Captain295 Ahab232 ?" "Who319 is487 Captain295 Ahab232 , sir271 ?" "Aye86 , aye86 , I482 thought186 so281 . Captain295 Ahab232 is487 the19 Captain295 of89 this256 ship438 ." "I482 am375 mistaken49 then45 . I482 thought186 I482 was454 speaking22 to261 the19 Captain295 himself282 ." "Thou173 art462 speaking22 to261 Captain295 Peleg375 --that14 's76 who319 ye483 are314 speaking22 to261 , young389 man17 . It162 belongs402 to261 me2 and236 Captain295 Bildad492 to261 see370 the19 Pequod288 fitted200 out66 for190 the19 voyage137 , and236 supplied338 with449 all145 her400 needs41 , including123 crew126 . We465 are314 part207 owners208 and236 agents242 . But330 as113 I482 was454 going227 to261 say306 , if141 thou173 wantest280 to261 know60 what243 whaling155 is487 , as113 thou173 tellest280 ye483 do353 , I482 can450 put190 ye483 in107 a10 way435 of89 finding350 it162 out66 before344 ye483 bind316 yourself176 to261 it162 , past111 backing223 out66 . Clap225 eye220 on392 Captain295 Ahab232 , young389 man17 , and236 thou173 wilt401 find138 that14 he362 has399 only517 one470 leg331 ." "What243 do353 you227 mean504 , sir271 ? Was454 the19 other282 one470 lost308 by406 a10 whale422 ?" "Lost308 by406 a10 whale422 ! Young389 man17 , come420 nearer303 to261 me2 : it162 was454 devoured161 , chewed225 up405 , crunched315 by406 the19 monstrousest parmacetty that14 ever208 chipped17 a10 boat439 !--ah132 , ah132 !" I482 was454 a10 little554 alarmed344 by406 his433 energy182 , perhaps75 also119 a10 little554 touched367 at65 the19 hearty140 grief318 in107 his433 concluding84 exclamation156 , but330 said252 as113 calmly170 as113 I482 could375 , "What243 you227 say306 is487 no235 doubt71 true483 enough217 , sir271 ; but330 how19 could375 I482 know60 there340 was454 any501 peculiar291 ferocity424 in107 that14 particular336 whale422 , though400 indeed522 I482 might496 have254 inferred165 as113 much61 from316 the19 simple271 fact12 of89 the19 accident210 ." "Look523 ye483 now20 , young389 man17 , thy43 lungs40 are314 a10 sort42 of89 soft226 , d67 'ye163 see370 ; thou173 dost306 not518 talk173 shark4 a10 bit72 . Sure41 , ye483 've477 been185 to261 sea67 before344 now20 ; sure41 of89 that14 ?" "Sir271 ," said252 I482 , "I482 thought186 I482 told82 you227 that14 I482 had364 been185 four175 voyages368 in107 the19 merchant332 -" "Hard337 down133 out66 of89 that14 ! Mind118 what243 I482 said252 about123 the19 marchant500 service343 -- don280 't500 aggravate25 me2 --I482 won't500 have254 it162 . But330 let66 us569 understand111 each520 other282 . I482 have254 given141 thee15 a10 hint335 about123 what243 whaling155 is487 ! do353 ye483 yet443 feel461 inclined76 for190 it162 ?" "I482 do353 , sir271 ." "Very515 good221 . Now20 , art462 thou173 the19 man17 to261 pitch115 a10 harpoon67 down133 a10 live554 whale422 's483 throat461 , and236 then45 jump50 after358 it162 ? Answer164 , quick241 !" "I482 am375 , sir271 , if141 it162 should255 be341 positively121 indispensable470 to261 do353 so281 ; not518 to261 be341 got286 rid367 of89 , that14 is487 ; which16 I482 don280 't500 take279 to261 be341 the19 fact12 ." "Good221 again52 . Now20 then45 , thou173 not518 only517 wantest280 to261 go20 a10 -whaling155 , to261 find138 out66 by406 experience127 what243 whaling155 is487 , but330 ye483 also119 want350 to261 go20 in107 order343 to261 see370 the19 world126 ? Was454 not518 that14 what243 ye483 said252 ? I482 thought186 so281 . Well263 then45 , just108 step204 forward364 there340 , and236 take279 a10 peep222 over82 the19 weather405 bow146 , and236 then45 back457 to261 me2 and236 tell392 me2 what243 ye483 see370 there340 ." For190 a10 moment258 I482 stood1 a10 little554 puzzled236 by406 this256 curious264 request116 , not518 knowing240 exactly315 how19 to261 take279 it162 , whether454 humorously265 or519 in107 earnest495 . But330 concentrating348 all145 his433 crow151 's483 feet349 into554 one470 scowl292 , Captain295 Peleg375 started492 me2 on392 the19 errand264 . Going227 forward364 and236 glancing18 over82 the19 weather405 bow146 , I482 perceived76 that14 the19 ship438 swinging379 to261 her400 anchor141 with449 the19 flood167 -tide395 , was454 now20 obliquely122 pointing295 towards417 the19 open464 ocean224 . The19 prospect198 was454 unlimited101 , but330 exceedingly257 monotonous209 and236 forbidding147 ; not518 the19 slightest44 variety78 that14 I482 could375 see370 . "Well263 , what243 's483 the19 report238 ?" said252 Peleg375 when189 I482 came549 back457 ; "what243 did444 ye483 see370 ?" "Not518 much61 ," I482 replied163 --"nothing324 but330 water520 ; considerable75 horizon516 though400 , and236 there340 's483 a10 squall467 coming140 up405 , I482 think424 ." "Well263 , what243 dost306 thou173 think424 then45 of89 seeing426 the19 world126 ? Do353 ye483 wish95 to261 go20 round287 Cape23 Horn139 to261 see370 any501 more348 of89 it162 , eh76 ? Can450 't500 ye483 see370 the19 world126 where579 you227 stand530 ?" I482 was454 a10 little554 staggered259 , but330 go20 a10 -whaling155 I482 must226 , and236 I482 would282 ; and236 the19 Pequod288 was454 as113 good221 a10 ship438 as113 any501 --I482 thought186 the19 best315 -- and236 all145 this256 I482 now20 repeated381 to261 Peleg375 . Seeing426 me2 so281 determined339 , he362 expressed21 his433 willingness325 to261 ship438 me2 . "And236 thou173 mayest75 as113 well263 sign8 the19 papers434 right499 off111 ," he362 added52 --"come420 along423 with449 ye483 ." And236 so281 saying9 , he362 led46 the19 way435 below397 deck505 into554 the19 cabin192 . Seated158 on392 the19 transom379 was454 what243 seemed132 to261 me2 a10 most216 uncommon88 and236 surprising359 figure55 . It162 turned492 out66 to261 be341 Captain295 Bildad492 who319 along423 with449 Captain295 Peleg375 was454 one470 of89 the19 largest139 owners208 of89 the19 vessel155 ; the19 other282 shares29 , as113 is487 sometimes77 the19 case346 in107 these527 ports92 , being264 held212 by406 a10 crowd16 of89 old447 annuitants287 ; widows342 , fatherless80 children374 , and236 chancery95 wards65 ; each520 owning136 about123 the19 value567 of89 a10 timber59 head219 , or519 a10 foot467 of89 plank243 , or519 a10 nail367 or519 two527 in107 the19 ship438 . People482 in107 Nantucket283 invest308 their219 money383 in107 whaling155 vessels150 , the19 same541 way435 that14 you227 do353 yours256 in107 approved392 state135 stocks425 bringing9 in107 good221 interest323 . Now20 , Bildad492 , like410 Peleg375 , and236 indeed522 many282 other282 Nantucketers, was454 a10 Quaker388 , the19 island516 having69 been185 originally367 settled540 by406 that14 sect165 ; and236 to261 this256 day112 its234 inhabitants110 in107 general37 retain153 in107 an138 uncommon88 measure520 the19 peculiarities38 of89 the19 Quaker388 , only517 variously215 and236 anomalously modified564 by406 things4 altogether31 alien8 and236 heterogeneous506 . For190 some265 of89 these527 same541 Quakers499 are314 the19 most216 sanguinary229 of89 all145 sailors64 and236 whale422 -hunters423 . They382 are314 fighting292 Quakers499 ; they382 are314 Quakers499 with449 a10 vengeance72 . So281 that14 there340 are314 instances252 among483 them146 of89 men62 , who319 , named312 with449 Scripture27 names360 --a10 singularly389 common304 fashion467 on392 the19 island516 -- and236 in107 childhood379 naturally362 imbibing122 the19 stately344 dramatic317 thee15 and236 thou173 of89 the19 Quaker388 idiom191 ; still278 , from316 the19 audacious142 , daring322 , and236 boundless386 adventure44 of89 their219 subsequent312 lives245 , strangely155 blend22 with449 these527 unoutgrown peculiarities38 , a10 thousand586 bold356 dashes453 of89 character239 , not518 unworthy280 a10 Scandinavian69 sea67 -king324 , or519 a10 poetical93 Pagan118 Roman333 . And236 when189 these527 things4 unite475 in107 a10 man17 of89 greatly460 superior479 natural298 force406 , with449 a10 globular203 brain158 and236 a10 ponderous213 heart470 ; who319 has399 also119 by406 the19 stillness516 and236 seclusion124 of89 many282 long544 night108 -watches192 in107 the19 remotest95 waters556 , and236 beneath320 constellations224 never206 seen154 here135 at65 the19 north174 , been185 led46 to261 think424 untraditionally and236 independently263 ; receiving124 all145 nature159 's483 sweet417 or519 savage398 impressions110 fresh540 from316 her400 own248 virgin317 voluntary142 and236 confiding295 breast272 , and236 thereby190 chiefly90 , but330 with449 some265 help526 from316 accidental46 advantages392 , to261 learn341 a10 bold356 and236 nervous154 lofty161 language322 --that14 man17 makes32 one470 in107 a10 whole199 nation466 's483 census198 -- a10 mighty2 pageant125 creature82 , formed294 for190 noble226 tragedies225 . Nor137 will584 it162 at65 all145 detract138 from316 him248 , dramatically443 regarded393 , if141 either45 by406 birth215 or519 other282 circumstances267 , he362 have254 what243 seems19 a10 half119 wilful160 overruling165 morbidness25 at65 the19 bottom461 of89 his433 nature159 . For190 all145 men62 tragically364 great259 are314 made563 so281 through295 a10 certain31 morbidness25 . Be341 sure41 of89 this256 , O24 young389 ambition90 , all145 mortal371 greatness309 is487 but330 disease261 . But330 , as113 yet443 we465 have254 not518 to261 do353 with449 such420 an138 one470 , but330 with449 quite327 another269 ; and236 still278 a10 man17 , who319 , if141 indeed522 peculiar291 , it162 only517 results229 again52 from316 another269 phase278 of89 the19 Quaker388 , modified564 by406 individual233 circumstances267 . Like410 Captain295 Peleg375 , Captain295 Bildad492 was454 a10 well263 -to261 -do498 , retired158 whaleman98 . But330 unlike406 Captain295 Peleg375 --who319 cared95 not518 a10 rush6 for190 what243 are314 called237 serious97 things4 , and236 indeed522 deemed17 those427 self442 -same541 serious97 things4 the19 veriest192 of89 all145 trifles78 --Captain295 Bildad492 had364 not518 only517 been185 originally367 educated25 according281 to261 the19 strictest154 sect165 of89 Nantucket283 Quakerism136 , but330 all145 his433 subsequent312 ocean224 life71 , and236 the19 sight365 of89 many282 unclad202 , lovely126 island516 creatures5 , round287 the19 Horn139 --all145 that14 had364 not518 moved492 this256 native399 born236 Quaker388 one470 single77 jot9 , had364 not518 so281 much61 as113 altered124 one470 angle205 of89 his433 vest315 . Still278 , for190 all145 this256 immutableness, was454 there340 some265 lack92 of89 common304 consistency138 about123 worthy60 Captain295 Bildad492 . Though400 refusing275 , from316 conscientious196 scruples298 , to261 bear48 arms536 against417 land406 invaders208 , yet443 himself282 had364 illimitably202 invaded309 the19 Atlantic198 and236 Pacific294 ; and236 though400 a10 sworn376 foe479 to261 human43 bloodshed32 , yet443 had364 he362 in107 his433 straight346 -bodied coat7 , spilled434 tuns129 upon419 tuns129 of89 leviathan384 gore551 . How19 now20 in107 the19 contemplative44 evening581 of89 his433 days351 , the19 pious237 Bildad492 reconciled190 these527 things4 in107 the19 reminiscence453 , I482 do353 not518 know60 ; but330 it162 did444 not518 seem404 to261 concern180 him248 much61 , and236 very515 probably244 he362 had364 long544 since374 come420 to261 the19 sage500 and236 sensible154 conclusion330 that14 a10 man17 's415 religion354 is487 one470 thing309 , and236 this256 practical74 world126 quite327 another269 . This256 world126 pays86 dividends550 . Rising464 from316 a10 little554 cabin192 boy110 in107 short522 clothes98 of89 the19 drabbest drab49 , to261 a10 harpooneer in107 a10 broad267 shad8 -bellied waistcoat498 ; from316 that14 becoming460 boat439 -header, chief156 mate508 , and236 captain295 , and236 finally69 a10 shipowner117 ; Bildad492 , as113 I482 hinted253 before344 , had364 concluded157 his433 adventurous499 career165 by406 wholly497 retiring251 from316 active54 life71 at65 the19 goodly151 age157 of89 sixty332 , and236 dedicating330 his433 remaining64 days351 to261 the19 quiet337 receiving124 of89 his433 well263 -earned523 income358 . Now20 , Bildad492 , I482 am375 sorry147 to261 say306 , had364 the19 reputation193 of89 being264 an138 incorrigible141 old447 hunks110 , and236 in107 his433 sea67 -going227 days351 , a10 bitter236 , hard337 task482 -master413 . They382 told82 me2 in107 Nantucket283 , though400 it162 certainly124 seems19 a10 curious264 story197 , that14 when189 he362 sailed248 the19 old447 Categut whaleman98 , his433 crew126 , upon419 arriving102 home450 , were324 mostly190 all145 carried232 ashore122 to261 the19 hospital143 , sore446 exhausted552 and236 worn174 out66 . For190 a10 pious237 man17 , especially371 for190 a10 Quaker388 , he362 was454 certainly124 rather178 hard337 -hearted157 , to261 say306 the19 least453 . He362 never206 used102 to261 swear322 , though400 , at65 his433 men62 , they382 said252 ; but330 somehow425 he362 got286 an138 inordinate4 quantity316 of89 cruel529 , unmitigated413 hard337 work385 out66 of89 them146 . When189 Bildad492 was454 a10 chief156 -mate508 , to261 have254 his433 drab49 -colored213 eye220 intently258 looking318 at65 you227 , made563 you227 feel461 completely385 nervous154 , till181 you227 could375 clutch14 something181 --a10 hammer364 or519 a10 marling-spike445 , and236 go20 to261 work385 like410 mad235 , at65 something181 or519 other282 , never206 mind118 what243 . Indolence84 and236 idleness191 perished264 from316 before344 him248 . His433 own248 person550 was454 the19 exact408 embodiment87 of89 his433 utilitarian67 character239 . On392 his433 long544 , gaunt62 body348 , he362 carried232 no235 spare295 flesh331 , no235 superfluous152 beard23 , his433 chin49 having69 a10 soft226 , economical115 nap484 to261 it162 , like410 the19 worn174 nap484 of89 his433 broad267 -brimmed156 hat107 . Such420 , then45 , was454 the19 person550 that14 I482 saw113 seated158 on392 the19 transom379 when189 I482 followed234 Captain295 Peleg375 down133 into554 the19 cabin192 . The19 space468 between77 the19 decks386 was454 small350 ; and236 there340 , bolt156 upright145 , sat77 old447 Bildad492 , who319 always367 sat77 so281 , and236 never206 leaned265 , and236 this256 to261 save556 his433 coat7 -tails490 . His433 broad267 -brim84 was454 placed556 beside276 him248 ; his433 legs108 were324 stiffly292 crossed202 ; his433 drab49 vesture20 was454 buttoned235 up405 to261 his433 chin49 ; and236 spectacles410 on392 nose176 , he362 seemed132 absorbed116 in107 reading210 from316 a10 ponderous213 volume295 . "Bildad492 ," cried506 Captain295 Peleg375 , "at65 it162 again52 , Bildad492 , eh76 ? Ye483 have254 been185 studying67 those427 Scriptures134 , now20 , for190 the19 last436 thirty521 years116 , to261 my36 certain31 knowledge270 . How19 far258 ye483 got286 , Bildad492 ?" As113 if141 long544 habituated389 to261 such420 profane535 talk173 from316 his433 old447 shipmate283 , Bildad492 , without309 noticing332 his433 present112 irreverence170 , quietly380 looked232 up405 , and236 seeing426 me2 , glanced411 again52 inquiringly547 towards417 Peleg375 . "He362 says424 he362 's483 our234 man17 , Bildad492 ," said252 Peleg375 , "he362 wants418 to261 ship438 ." "Dost306 thee15 ?" said252 Bildad492 , in107 a10 hollow511 tone13 , and236 turning69 round287 to261 me2 . "I482 dost306 ," said252 I482 unconsciously59 , he362 was454 so281 intense89 a10 Quaker388 . "What243 do353 ye483 think424 of89 him248 , Bildad492 ?" said252 Peleg375 . "He362 'll300 do353 ," said252 Bildad492 , eyeing49 me2 , and236 then45 went516 on392 spelling481 away443 at65 his433 book230 in107 a10 mumbling278 tone13 quite327 audible367 . I482 thought186 him248 the19 queerest452 old447 Quaker388 I482 ever208 saw113 , especially371 as113 Peleg375 , his433 friend179 and236 old447 shipmate283 , seemed132 such420 a10 blusterer350 . But330 I482 said252 nothing324 , only517 looking318 round287 me2 sharply135 . Peleg375 now20 threw459 open464 a10 chest98 , and236 drawing407 forth152 the19 ship438 's483 articles259 , placed556 pen105 and236 ink442 before344 him248 , and236 seated158 himself282 at65 a10 little554 table572 . I482 began132 to261 think424 it162 was454 high361 time577 to261 settle92 with449 myself99 at65 what243 terms297 I482 would282 be341 willing514 to261 engage134 for190 the19 voyage137 . I482 was454 already93 aware174 that14 in107 the19 whaling155 business168 they382 paid490 no235 wages460 ; but330 all145 hands87 , including123 the19 captain295 , received12 certain31 shares29 of89 the19 profits14 called237 lays361 , and236 that14 these527 lays361 were324 proportioned310 to261 the19 degree209 of89 importance579 pertaining375 to261 the19 respective348 duties137 of89 the19 ship438 's483 company280 . I482 was454 also119 aware174 that14 being264 a10 green549 hand252 at65 whaling155 , my36 own248 lay62 would282 not518 be341 very515 large385 ; but330 considering115 that14 I482 was454 used102 to261 the19 sea67 , could375 steer426 a10 ship438 , splice4 a10 rope265 , and236 all145 that14 , I482 made563 no235 doubt71 that14 from316 all145 I482 had364 heard444 I482 should255 be341 offered336 at65 least453 the19 275th lay62 --that14 is487 , the19 275th part207 of89 the19 clear408 net23 proceeds215 of89 the19 voyage137 , whatever38 that14 might496 eventually163 amount11 to261 . And236 though400 the19 275th lay62 was454 what243 they382 call259 a10 rather178 long544 lay62 , yet443 it162 was454 better34 than77 nothing324 ; and236 if141 we465 had364 a10 lucky439 voyage137 , might496 pretty252 nearly575 pay496 for190 the19 clothing217 I482 would282 wear250 out66 on392 it162 , not518 to261 speak337 of89 my36 three329 years116 ' beef303 and236 board540 , for190 which16 I482 would282 not518 have254 to261 pay496 one470 stiver43 . It162 might496 be341 thought186 that14 this256 was454 a10 poor533 way435 to261 accumulate427 a10 princely509 fortune256 --and236 so281 it162 was454 , a10 very515 poor533 way435 indeed522 . But330 I482 am375 one470 of89 those427 that14 never206 take279 on392 about123 princely509 fortunes322 , and236 am375 quite327 content7 if141 the19 world126 is487 ready464 to261 board540 and236 lodge272 me2 , while55 I482 am375 putting243 up405 at65 this256 grim19 sign8 of89 the19 Thunder356 Cloud218 . Upon419 the19 whole199 , I482 thought186 that14 the19 275th lay62 would282 be341 about123 the19 fair320 thing309 , but330 would282 not518 have254 been185 surprised55 had364 I482 been185 offered336 the19 200th31 , considering115 I482 was454 of89 a10 broad267 -shouldered6 make175 . But330 one470 thing309 , nevertheless104 , that14 made563 me2 a10 little554 distrustful46 about123 receiving124 a10 generous355 share218 of89 the19 profits14 was454 this256 : Ashore122 , I482 had364 heard444 something181 of89 both558 Captain295 Peleg375 and236 his433 unaccountable316 old447 crony83 Bildad492 ; how19 that14 they382 being264 the19 principal550 proprietors506 of89 the19 Pequod288 , therefore94 the19 other282 and236 more348 inconsiderable568 and236 scattered17 owners208 , left159 nearly575 the19 whole199 management97 of89 the19 ship438 's483 affairs492 to261 these527 two527 . And236 I482 did444 not518 know60 but330 what243 the19 stingy97 old447 Bildad492 might496 have254 a10 mighty2 deal543 to261 say306 about123 shipping319 hands87 , especially371 as113 I482 now20 found260 him248 on392 board540 the19 Pequod288 , quite327 at65 home450 there340 in107 the19 cabin192 , and236 reading210 his433 Bible253 as113 if141 at65 his433 own248 fireside21 . Now20 while55 Peleg375 was454 vainly116 trying83 to261 mend220 a10 pen105 with449 his433 jack299 -knife60 , old447 Bildad492 , to261 my36 no235 small350 surprise125 , considering115 that14 he362 was454 such420 an138 interested42 party314 in107 these527 proceedings121 ; Bildad492 never206 heeded47 us569 , but330 went516 on392 mumbling278 to261 himself282 out66 of89 his433 book230 , "Lay62 not518 up405 for190 yourselves192 treasures202 upon419 earth513 , where579 moth67 -" "Well263 , Captain295 Bildad492 ," interrupted34 Peleg375 , "what243 d67 'ye163 say306 , what243 lay62 shall66 we465 give142 this256 young389 man17 ?" "Thou173 knowest82 best315 ," was454 the19 sepulchral15 reply271 , "the19 seven188 hundred93 and236 seventy156 -seventh280 wouldn't500 be341 too11 much61 , would282 it162 ?--'where579 moth67 and236 rust19 do353 corrupt501 , but330 lay62 -'" Lay62 , indeed522 , thought186 I482 , and236 such420 a10 lay62 ! the19 seven188 hundred93 and236 seventy156 -seventh280 ! Well263 , old447 Bildad492 , you227 are314 determined339 that14 I482 , for190 one470 , shall66 not518 lay62 up405 many282 lays361 here135 below397 , where579 moth67 and236 rust19 do353 corrupt501 . It162 was454 an138 exceedingly257 long544 lay62 that14 , indeed522 ; and236 though400 from316 the19 magnitude203 of89 the19 figure55 it162 might496 at65 first13 deceive446 a10 landsman331 , yet443 the19 slightest44 consideration196 will584 show460 that14 though400 seven188 hundred93 and236 seventy156 -seven188 is487 a10 pretty252 large385 number196 , yet443 , when189 you227 come420 to261 make175 a10 teenth226 of89 it162 , you227 will584 then45 see370 , I482 say306 , that14 the19 seven188 hundred93 and236 seventy156 -seventh280 part207 of89 a10 farthing5 is487 a10 good221 deal543 less261 than77 seven188 hundred93 and236 seventy156 -seven188 gold231 doubloons292 ; and236 so281 I482 thought186 at65 the19 time577 . "Why177 , blast13 your162 eyes125 , Bildad492 ," cried506 Peleg375 , Thou173 dost306 not518 want350 to261 swindle104 this256 young389 man17 ! he362 must226 have254 more348 than77 that14 ." "Seven188 hundred93 and236 seventy156 -seventh280 ," again52 said252 Bildad492 , without309 lifting100 his433 eyes125 ; and236 then45 went516 on392 mumbling278 --"for190 where579 your162 treasure31 is487 , there340 will584 your162 heart470 be341 also119 ." "I482 am375 going227 to261 put190 him248 down133 for190 the19 three329 hundredth387 ," said252 Peleg375 , "do353 ye483 hear386 that14 , Bildad492 ! The19 three329 hundredth387 lay62 , I482 say306 ." Bildad492 laid181 down133 his433 book230 , and236 turning69 solemnly200 towards417 him248 said252 , "Captain295 Peleg375 , thou173 hast174 a10 generous355 heart470 ; but330 thou173 must226 consider259 the19 duty468 thou173 owest142 to261 the19 other282 owners208 of89 this256 ship438 --widows342 and236 orphans27 , many282 of89 them146 -- and236 that14 if141 we465 too11 abundantly76 reward116 the19 labors426 of89 this256 young389 man17 , we465 may236 be341 taking146 the19 bread387 from316 those427 widows342 and236 those427 orphans27 . The19 seven188 hundred93 and236 seventy156 -seventh280 lay62 , Captain295 Peleg375 ." "Thou173 Bildad492 !" roared315 Peleg375 , starting423 up405 and236 clattering406 about123 the19 cabin192 . "Blast13 ye483 , Captain295 Bildad492 , if141 I482 had364 followed234 thy43 advice481 in107 these527 matters515 , I482 would282 afore462 now20 had364 a10 conscience75 to261 lug455 about123 that14 would282 be341 heavy421 enough217 to261 founder120 the19 largest139 ship438 that14 ever208 sailed248 round287 Cape23 Horn139 ." "Captain295 Peleg375 ," said252 Bildad492 steadily379 , "thy43 conscience75 may236 be341 drawing407 ten198 inches301 of89 water520 , or519 ten198 fathoms375 , I482 can450 't500 tell392 ; but330 as113 thou173 art462 still278 an138 impenitent375 man17 , Captain295 Peleg375 , I482 greatly460 fear103 lest499 thy43 conscience75 be341 but330 a10 leaky299 one470 ; and236 will584 in107 the19 end149 sink190 thee15 foundering283 down133 to261 the19 fiery42 pit223 , Captain295 Peleg375 ." "Fiery42 pit223 ! fiery42 pit223 ! ye483 insult38 me2 , man17 ; past111 all145 natural298 bearing354 , ye483 insult38 me2 . It162 's483 an138 all145 -fired31 outrage16 to261 tell392 any501 human43 creature82 that14 he362 's483 bound108 to261 hell169 . Flukes155 and236 flames74 ! Bildad492 , say306 that14 again52 to261 me2 , and236 start117 my36 soulbolts, but330 I482 'll300 --I482 'll300 --yes143 , I482 'll300 swallow195 a10 live554 goat113 with449 all145 his433 hair237 and236 horns450 on392 . Out66 of89 the19 cabin192 , ye483 canting21 , drab49 -colored213 son26 of89 a10 wooden35 gun152 --a10 straight346 wake205 with449 ye483 !" As113 he362 thundered253 out66 this256 he362 made563 a10 rush6 at65 Bildad492 , but330 with449 a10 marvellous35 oblique212 , sliding540 celerity69 , Bildad492 for190 that14 time577 eluded40 him248 . Alarmed344 at65 this256 terrible132 outburst235 between77 the19 two527 principal550 and236 responsible364 owners208 of89 the19 ship438 , and236 feeling384 half119 a10 mind118 to261 give142 up405 all145 idea250 of89 sailing232 in107 a10 vessel155 so281 questionably261 owned196 and236 temporarily22 commanded571 , I482 stepped306 aside408 from316 the19 door135 to261 give142 egress213 to261 Bildad492 , who319 , I482 made563 no235 doubt71 , was454 all145 eagerness275 to261 vanish479 from316 before344 the19 awakened390 wrath450 of89 Peleg375 . But330 to261 my36 astonishment5 , he362 sat77 down133 again52 on392 the19 transom379 very515 quietly380 , and236 seemed132 to261 have254 not518 the19 slightest44 intention272 of89 withdrawing152 . He362 seemed132 quite327 used102 to261 impenitent375 Peleg375 and236 his433 ways101 . As113 for190 Peleg375 , after358 letting122 off111 his433 rage293 as113 he362 had364 , there340 seemed132 no235 more348 left159 in107 him248 , and236 he362 , too11 , sat77 down133 like410 a10 lamb89 , though400 he362 twitched364 a10 little554 as113 if141 still278 nervously547 agitated140 . "Whew26 !" he362 whistled247 at65 last436 --"the19 squall467 's483 gone190 off111 to261 leeward265 , I482 think424 . Bildad492 , thou173 used102 to261 be341 good221 at65 sharpening46 a10 lance76 , mend220 that14 pen105 , will584 ye483 . My36 jack299 -knife60 here135 needs41 the19 grindstone83 . That14 's76 he362 ; thank166 ye483 , Bildad492 . Now20 then45 , my36 young389 man17 , Ishmael196 's483 thy43 name477 , didn't500 ye483 say306 ? Well263 then45 , down133 ye483 go20 here135 , Ishmael196 , for190 the19 three329 hundredth387 lay62 ." "Captain295 Peleg375 ," said252 I482 , "I482 have254 a10 friend179 with449 me2 who319 wants418 to261 ship438 too11 -- shall66 I482 bring173 him248 down133 to261 -morrow376 ?" "To261 be341 sure41 ," said252 Peleg375 . "Fetch261 him248 along423 , and236 we465 'll300 look523 at65 him248 ." "What243 lay62 does565 he362 want350 ?" groaned233 Bildad492 , glancing18 up405 from316 the19 Book230 in107 which16 he362 had364 again52 been185 burying435 himself282 . "Oh367 ! never206 thee15 mind118 about123 that14 , Bildad492 ," said252 Peleg375 . "Has399 he362 ever208 whaled303 it162 any501 ?" turning69 to261 me2 . "Killed409 more348 whales331 than77 I482 can450 count332 , Captain295 Peleg375 ." "Well263 , bring173 him248 along423 then45 ." And236 , after358 signing271 the19 papers434 , off111 I482 went516 ; nothing324 doubting16 but330 that14 I482 had364 done135 a10 good221 morning417 's483 work385 , and236 that14 the19 Pequod288 was454 the19 identical351 ship438 that14 Yojo had364 provided100 to261 carry160 Queequeg and236 me2 round287 the19 Cape23 . But330 I482 had364 not518 proceeded121 far258 , when189 I482 began132 to261 bethink51 me2 that14 the19 Captain295 with449 whom324 I482 was454 to261 sail218 yet443 remained72 unseen173 by406 me2 ; though400 , indeed522 , in107 many282 cases108 , a10 whale422 -ship98 will584 be341 completely385 fitted200 out66 , and236 receive327 all145 her400 crew126 on392 board540 , ere83 the19 captain295 makes32 himself282 visible94 by406 arriving102 to261 take279 command190 ; for190 sometimes77 these527 voyages368 are314 so281 prolonged246 , and236 the19 shore280 intervals295 at65 home450 so281 exceedingly257 brief59 , that14 if141 the19 captain295 have254 a10 family347 , or519 any501 absorbing263 concernment217 of89 that14 sort42 , he362 does565 not518 trouble328 himself282 much61 about123 his433 ship438 in107 port409 , but330 leaves441 her400 to261 the19 owners208 till181 all145 is487 ready464 for190 sea67 . However44 , it162 is487 always367 as113 well263 to261 have254 a10 look523 at65 him248 before344 irrevocably83 committing24 yourself176 into554 his433 hands87 . Turning69 back457 I482 accosted137 Captain295 Peleg375 , inquiring24 where579 Captain295 Ahab232 was454 to261 be341 found260 . "And236 what243 dost306 thou173 want350 of89 Captain295 Ahab232 ? It162 's483 all145 right499 enough217 ; thou173 art462 shipped26 ." "Yes143 , but330 I482 should255 like410 to261 see370 him248 ." "But330 I482 don280 't500 think424 thou173 wilt401 be341 able362 to261 at65 present112 . I482 don280 't500 know60 exactly315 what243 's483 the19 matter176 with449 him248 ; but330 he362 keeps20 close65 inside438 the19 house499 ; a10 sort42 of89 sick250 , and236 yet443 he362 don280 't500 look523 so281 . In107 fact12 , he362 ain't500 sick250 ; but330 no235 , he362 isn't500 well263 either45 . Any501 how19 , young389 man17 , he362 won't500 always367 see370 me2 , so281 I482 don280 't500 suppose120 he362 will584 thee15 . He362 's483 a10 queer156 man17 , Captain295 Ahab232 -- so281 some265 think424 --but330 a10 good221 one470 . Oh367 , thou173 'lt80 like410 him248 well263 enough217 ; no235 fear103 , no235 fear103 . He362 's483 a10 grand229 , ungodly144 , god185 -like410 man17 , Captain295 Ahab232 ; doesn't500 speak337 much61 ; but330 , when189 he362 does565 speak337 , then45 you227 may236 well263 listen417 . Mark169 ye483 , be341 forewarned31 ; Ahab232 's483 above502 the19 common304 ; Ahab232 's483 been185 in107 colleges144 , as113 well263 as113 'mong the19 cannibals27 ; been185 used102 to261 deeper253 wonders115 than77 the19 waves443 ; fixed564 his433 fiery42 lance76 in107 mightier403 , stranger233 foes247 than77 whales331 . His433 lance76 ! aye86 , the19 keenest347 and236 the19 surest206 that14 out66 of89 all145 our234 isle41 ! Oh367 ! he362 ain't500 Captain295 Bildad492 ; no235 , and236 he362 ain't500 Captain295 Peleg375 ; he362 's483 Ahab232 , boy110 ; and236 Ahab232 of89 old447 , thou173 knowest82 , was454 a10 crowned527 king324 !" "And236 a10 very515 vile221 one470 . When189 that14 wicked5 king324 was454 slain268 , the19 dogs393 , did444 they382 not518 lick526 his433 blood208 ?" "Come420 hither342 to261 me2 --hither342 , hither342 ," said252 Peleg375 , with449 a10 significance330 in107 his433 eye220 that14 almost518 startled475 me2 . "Look523 ye483 , lad342 ; never206 say306 that14 on392 board540 the19 Pequod288 . Never206 say306 it162 anywhere436 . Captain295 Ahab232 did444 not518 name477 himself282 .'Twas a10 foolish509 , ignorant136 whim44 of89 his433 crazy418 , widowed301 mother276 , who319 died575 when189 he362 was454 only517 a10 twelvemonth160 old447 . And236 yet443 the19 old447 squaw193 Tistig, at65 Gayhead, said252 that14 the19 name477 would282 somehow425 prove396 prophetic183 . And236 , perhaps75 , other282 fools379 like410 her400 may236 tell392 thee15 the19 same541 . I482 wish95 to261 warn453 thee15 . It162 's483 a10 lie212 . I482 know60 Captain295 Ahab232 well263 ; I482 've149 sailed248 with449 him248 as113 mate508 years116 ago141 ; I482 know60 what243 he362 is487 -- a10 good221 man17 --not518 a10 pious237 , good221 man17 , like410 Bildad492 , but330 a10 swearing40 good221 man17 --something181 like410 me2 --only517 there340 's483 a10 good221 deal543 more348 of89 him248 . Aye86 , aye86 , I482 know60 that14 he362 was454 never206 very515 jolly50 ; and236 I482 know60 that14 on392 the19 passage285 home450 he362 was454 a10 little554 out66 of89 his433 mind118 for190 a10 spell416 ; but330 it162 was454 the19 sharp427 shooting225 pains97 in107 his433 bleeding230 stump277 that14 brought85 that14 about123 , as113 any501 one470 might496 see370 . I482 know60 , too11 , that14 ever208 since374 he362 lost308 his433 leg331 last436 voyage137 by406 that14 accursed203 whale422 , he362 's483 been185 a10 kind451 of89 moody447 -- desperate316 moody447 , and236 savage398 sometimes77 ; but330 that14 will584 all145 pass153 off111 . And236 once248 for190 all145 , let66 me2 tell392 thee15 and236 assure511 thee15 , young389 man17 , it162 's483 better34 to261 sail218 with449 a10 moody447 good221 captain295 than77 a10 laughing83 bad458 one470 . So281 good221 -bye356 to261 thee15 --and236 wrong70 not518 Captain295 Ahab232 , because540 he362 happens143 to261 have254 a10 wicked5 name477 . Besides465 , my36 boy110 , he362 has399 a10 wife37 --not518 three329 voyages368 wedded489 --a10 sweet417 , resigned410 girl30 . Think424 of89 that14 ; by406 that14 sweet417 girl30 that14 old447 man17 had364 a10 child451 : hold204 ye483 then45 there340 can450 be341 any501 utter270 , hopeless189 harm191 in107 Ahab232 ? No235 , no235 , my36 lad342 ; stricken328 , blasted253 , if141 he362 be341 , Ahab232 has399 his433 humanities253 !" As113 I482 walked92 away443 , I482 was454 full414 of89 thoughtfulness392 ; what243 had364 been185 incidentally261 revealed530 to261 me2 of89 Captain295 Ahab232 , filled232 me2 with449 a10 certain31 wild230 vagueness4 of89 painfulness198 concerning368 him248 . And236 somehow425 , at65 the19 time577 , I482 felt440 a10 sympathy242 and236 a10 sorrow174 for190 him248 , but330 for190 I482 don280 't500 know60 what243 , unless54 it162 was454 the19 cruel529 loss223 of89 his433 leg331 . And236 yet443 I482 also119 felt440 a10 strange440 awe305 of89 him248 ; but330 that14 sort42 of89 awe305 , which16 I482 cannot at65 all145 describe54 , was454 not518 exactly315 awe305 ; I482 do353 not518 know60 what243 it162 was454 . But330 I482 felt440 it162 ; and236 it162 did444 not518 disincline4 me2 towards417 him248 ; though400 I482 felt440 impatience153 at65 what243 seemed132 like410 mystery254 in107 him248 , so281 imperfectly413 as113 he362 was454 known86 to261 me2 then45 . However44 , my36 thoughts26 were324 at65 length202 carried232 in107 other282 directions124 , so281 that14 for190 the19 present112 dark471 Ahab232 slipped227 my36 mind118 . CHAPTER293 17572 The19 Ramadan69 As113 Queequeg's483 Ramadan69 , or519 Fasting65 and236 Humiliation92 , was454 to261 continue225 all145 day112 , I482 did444 not518 choose147 to261 disturb340 him248 till181 towards417 night108 -fall90 ; for190 I482 cherish181 the19 greatest479 respect441 towards417 everybody77 's483 religious572 obligations462 , never206 mind118 how19 comical135 , and236 could375 not518 find138 it162 in107 my36 heart470 to261 undervalue332 even198 a10 congregation23 of89 ants85 worshipping186 a10 toad-stool350 ; or519 those427 other282 creatures5 in107 certain31 parts470 of89 our234 earth513 , who319 with449 a10 degree209 of89 footmanism quite327 unprecedented54 in107 other282 planets110 , bow146 down133 before344 the19 torso198 of89 a10 deceased259 landed451 proprietor287 merely57 on392 account102 of89 the19 inordinate4 possessions38 yet443 owned196 and236 rented166 in107 his433 name477 . I482 say306 , we465 good221 Presbyterian90 Christians13 should255 be341 charitable495 in107 these527 things4 , and236 not518 fancy396 ourselves15 so281 vastly31 superior479 to261 other282 mortals72 , pagans295 and236 what243 not518 , because540 of89 their219 half119 -crazy243 conceits217 on392 these527 subjects122 . There340 was454 Queequeg, now20 , certainly124 entertaining41 the19 most216 absurd142 notions1 about123 Yojo and236 his433 Ramadan69 ;-- but330 what243 of89 that14 ? Queequeg thought186 he362 knew480 what243 he362 was454 about123 , I482 suppose120 ; he362 seemed132 to261 be341 content7 ; and236 there340 let66 him248 rest302 . All145 our234 arguing447 with449 him248 would282 not518 avail337 ; let66 him248 be341 , I482 say306 : and236 Heaven163 have254 mercy378 on392 us569 all145 --Presbyterians161 and236 Pagans295 alike122 -- for190 we465 are314 all145 somehow425 dreadfully98 cracked423 about123 the19 head219 , and236 sadly75 need32 mending271 . Towards417 evening581 , when189 I482 felt440 assured557 that14 all145 his433 performances11 and236 rituals43 must226 be341 over82 , I482 went516 up405 to261 his433 room65 and236 knocked49 at65 the19 door135 ; but330 no235 answer164 . I482 tried73 to261 open464 it162 , but330 it162 was454 fastened426 inside438 . "Queequeg," said252 I482 softly461 through295 the19 key140 -hole73 :--all145 silent382 . "I482 say306 , Queequeg! why177 don280 't500 you227 speak337 ? It162 's483 I482 --Ishmael196 ." But330 all145 remained72 still278 as113 before344 . I482 began132 to261 grow163 alarmed344 . I482 had364 allowed339 him248 such420 abundant17 time577 ; I482 thought186 he362 might496 have254 had364 an138 apoplectic2 fit12 . I482 looked232 through295 the19 key140 -hole73 ; but330 the19 door135 opening306 into554 an138 odd19 corner204 of89 the19 room65 , the19 key140 -hole73 prospect198 was454 but330 a10 crooked236 and236 sinister412 one470 . I482 could375 only517 see370 part207 of89 the19 foot467 -board540 of89 the19 bed273 and236 a10 line25 of89 the19 wall509 , but330 nothing324 more348 . I482 was454 surprised55 to261 behold525 resting455 against417 the19 wall509 the19 wooden35 shaft56 of89 Queequeg's483 harpoon67 , which16 the19 landlady29 the19 evening581 previous376 had364 taken222 from316 him248 , before344 our234 mounting473 to261 the19 chamber330 . That14 's76 strange440 , thought186 I482 ; but330 at65 any501 rate515 , since374 the19 harpoon67 stands256 yonder41 , and236 he362 seldom140 or519 never206 goes205 abroad504 without309 it162 , therefore94 he362 must226 be341 inside438 here135 , and236 no235 possible277 mistake471 . "Queequeg!--Queequeg!"--all145 still278 . Something181 must226 have254 happened156 . Apoplexy111 ! I482 tried73 to261 burst174 open464 the19 door135 ; but330 it162 stubbornly12 resisted253 . Running296 down133 stairs330 , I482 quickly183 stated543 my36 suspicions220 to261 the19 first13 person550 I482 met130 --the19 chamber330 -maid5 . "La417 ! la417 !" she391 cried506 , "I482 thought186 something181 must226 be341 the19 matter176 . I482 went516 to261 make175 the19 bed273 after358 breakfast408 , and236 the19 door135 was454 locked105 ; and236 not518 a10 mouse86 to261 be341 heard444 ; and236 it162 's483 been185 just108 so281 silent382 ever208 since374 . But330 I482 thought186 , may236 be341 , you227 had364 both558 gone190 off111 and236 locked105 your162 baggage80 in107 for190 safe520 keeping482 . La417 ! La417 , ma'am470 !--Mistress380 ! murder448 ! Mrs316 . Hussey192 ! apoplexy111 !"--and236 with449 these527 cries104 she391 ran391 towards417 the19 kitchen152 , I482 following181 . Mrs316 . Hussey192 soon18 appeared88 , with449 a10 mustard-pot209 in107 one470 hand252 and236 a10 vinegar-cruet in107 the19 other282 , having69 just108 broken255 away443 from316 the19 occupation83 of89 attending416 to261 the19 castors264 , and236 scolding57 her400 little554 black581 boy110 meantime210 . "Wood46 -house499 !" cried506 I482 , "which16 way435 to261 it162 ? Run172 for190 God185 's483 sake523 , and236 fetch261 something181 to261 pry505 open464 the19 door135 --the19 axe288 !--the19 axe288 ! he362 's483 had364 a10 stroke436 ; depend236 upon419 it162 !"--and236 so281 saying9 I482 was454 unmethodically rushing344 up405 stairs330 again52 empty450 -handed189 , when189 Mrs316 . Hussey192 interposed478 the19 mustard-pot209 and236 vinegar-cruet, and236 the19 entire230 castor110 of89 her400 countenance553 . "What243 's483 the19 matter176 with449 you227 , young389 man17 ?" "Get126 the19 axe288 ! For190 God185 's483 sake523 , run172 for190 the19 doctor81 , some265 one470 , while55 I482 pry505 it162 open464 !" "Look523 here135 ," said252 the19 landlady29 , quickly183 putting243 down133 the19 vinegar-cruet, so281 as113 to261 have254 one470 hand252 free483 ; "look523 here135 ; are314 you227 talking513 about123 prying513 open464 any501 of89 my36 doors77 ?"-- and236 with449 that14 she391 seized337 my36 arm25 . "What243 's483 the19 matter176 with449 you227 ? What243 's483 the19 matter176 with449 you227 , shipmate283 ?" In107 as113 calm39 , but330 rapid321 a10 manner153 as113 possible277 , I482 gave572 her400 to261 understand111 the19 whole199 case346 . Unconsciously59 clapping152 the19 vinegar-cruet to261 one470 side246 of89 her400 nose176 , she391 ruminated315 for190 an138 instant279 ; then45 exclaimed281 --"No235 ! I482 haven432 't500 seen154 it162 since374 I482 put190 it162 there340 ." Running296 to261 a10 little554 closet437 under533 the19 landing83 of89 the19 stairs330 , she391 glanced411 in107 , and236 returning53 , told82 me2 that14 Queequeg's483 harpoon67 was454 missing210 . "He362 's483 killed409 himself282 ," she391 cried506 . "It162 's483 unfort'nate2 Stiggs done135 over82 again52 there340 goes205 another269 counterpane65 --God185 pity270 his433 poor533 mother276 !-- it162 will584 be341 the19 ruin462 of89 my36 house499 . Has399 the19 poor533 lad342 a10 sister126 ? Where579 's483 that14 girl30 ?--there340 , Betty60 , go20 to261 Snarles the19 Painter270 , and236 tell392 him248 to261 paint94 me2 a10 sign8 , with449 --"no235 suicides83 permitted120 here135 , and236 no235 smoking470 in107 the19 parlor522 ;"--might496 as113 well263 kill219 both558 birds332 at65 once248 . Kill219 ? The19 Lord106 be341 merciful22 to261 his433 ghost246 ! What243 's483 that14 noise254 there340 ? You227 , young389 man17 , avast279 there340 !" And236 running296 up405 after358 me2 , she391 caught105 me2 as113 I482 was454 again52 trying83 to261 force406 open464 the19 door135 . "I482 won't500 allow368 it162 ; I482 won't500 have254 my36 premises143 spoiled282 . Go20 for190 the19 locksmith205 , there340 's483 one470 about123 a10 mile295 from316 here135 . But330 avast279 !" putting243 her400 hand252 in107 her400 side246 pocket461 , "here135 's483 a10 key140 that14 'll300 fit12 , I482 guess304 ; let66 's483 see370 ." And236 with449 that14 , she391 turned492 it162 in107 the19 lock297 ; but330 alas129 ! Queequeg's483 supplemental154 bolt156 remained72 unwithdrawn within503 . "Have254 to261 burst174 it162 open464 ," said252 I482 , and236 was454 running296 down133 the19 entry282 a10 little554 , for190 a10 good221 start117 , when189 the19 landlady29 caught105 at65 me2 , again52 vowing181 I482 should255 not518 break483 down133 her400 premises143 ; but330 I482 tore493 from316 her400 , and236 with449 a10 sudden309 bodily172 rush6 dashed304 myself99 full414 against417 the19 mark169 . With449 a10 prodigious223 noise254 the19 door135 flew424 open464 , and236 the19 knob522 slamming479 against417 the19 wall509 , sent411 the19 plaster113 to261 the19 ceiling30 ; and236 there340 , good221 heavens494 ! there340 sat77 Queequeg, altogether31 cool102 and236 self442 -collected472 ; right499 in107 the19 middle39 of89 the19 room65 ; squatting42 on392 his433 hams65 , and236 holding311 Yojo on392 top70 of89 his433 head219 . He362 looked232 neither74 one470 way435 nor137 the19 other282 way435 but330 sat77 like410 a10 carved455 image74 with449 scarce462 a10 sign8 of89 active54 life71 . "Queequeg," said252 I482 , going227 up405 to261 him248 , "Queequeg, what243 's483 the19 matter176 with449 you227 ?" "He362 hain't500 been185 a10 sittin455 ' so281 all145 day112 , has399 he362 ?" said252 the19 landlady29 . But330 all145 we465 said252 , not518 a10 word486 could375 we465 drag426 out66 of89 him248 ; I482 almost518 felt440 like410 pushing39 him248 over82 , so281 as113 to261 change386 his433 position383 , for190 it162 was454 almost518 intolerable304 , it162 seemed132 so281 painfully547 and236 unnaturally222 constrained471 ; especially371 , as113 in107 all145 probability377 he362 had364 been185 sitting136 so281 for190 upwards110 of89 eight316 or519 ten198 hours127 , going227 too11 without309 his433 regular400 meals419 . "Mrs316 . Hussey192 ," said252 I482 , "he362 's483 alive298 at65 all145 events390 ; so281 leave450 us569 , if141 you227 please153 , and236 I482 will584 see370 to261 this256 strange440 affair388 myself99 ." Closing533 the19 door135 upon419 the19 landlady29 , I482 endeavored69 to261 prevail206 upon419 Queequeg to261 take279 a10 chair253 ; but330 in107 vain216 . There340 he362 sat77 ; and236 all145 he362 could375 do353 --for190 all145 my36 polite499 arts305 and236 blandishments125 -- he362 would282 not518 move361 a10 peg223 , nor137 say306 a10 single77 word486 , nor137 even198 look523 at65 me2 , nor137 notice76 my36 presence492 in107 any501 the19 slightest44 way435 . I482 wonder76 , thought186 I482 , if141 this256 can450 possibly201 be341 a10 part207 of89 his433 Ramadan69 ; do353 they382 fast208 on392 their219 hams65 that14 way435 in107 his433 native399 island516 . It162 must226 be341 so281 ; yes143 , it162 's483 a10 part207 of89 his433 creed61 , I482 suppose120 ; well263 , then45 , let66 him248 rest302 ; he362 'll300 get126 up405 sooner338 or519 later87 , no235 doubt71 . It162 can450 't500 last436 for190 ever208 , thank166 God185 , and236 his433 Ramadan69 only517 comes268 once248 a10 year347 ; and236 I482 don280 't500 believe191 it162 's483 very515 punctual364 then45 . I482 went516 down133 to261 supper4 . After358 sitting136 a10 long544 time577 listening19 to261 the19 long544 stories264 of89 some265 sailors64 who319 had364 just108 come420 from316 a10 plum-pudding176 voyage137 , as113 they382 called237 it162 (that14 is487 , a10 short522 whaling155 -voyage137 in107 a10 schooner92 or519 brig98 , confined185 to261 the19 north174 of89 the19 line25 , in107 the19 Atlantic198 Ocean224 only517 ); after358 listening19 to261 these527 plum-puddingers till181 nearly575 eleven556 o24 'clock489 , I482 went516 up405 stairs330 to261 go20 to261 bed273 , feeling384 quite327 sure41 by406 this256 time577 Queequeg must226 certainly124 have254 brought85 his433 Ramadan69 to261 a10 termination87 . But330 no235 ; there340 he362 was454 just108 where579 I482 had364 left159 him248 ; he362 had364 not518 stirred101 an138 inch65 . I482 began132 to261 grow163 vexed340 with449 him248 ; it162 seemed132 so281 downright402 senseless245 and236 insane416 to261 be341 sitting136 there340 all145 day112 and236 half119 the19 night108 on392 his433 hams65 in107 a10 cold330 room65 , holding311 a10 piece121 of89 wood46 on392 his433 head219 . "For190 heaven163 's483 sake523 , Queequeg, get126 up405 and236 shake180 yourself176 ; get126 up405 and236 have254 some265 supper4 . You227 'll300 starve353 ; you227 'll300 kill219 yourself176 , Queequeg." But330 not518 a10 word486 did444 he362 reply271 . Despairing341 of89 him248 , therefore94 , I482 determined339 to261 go20 to261 bed273 and236 to261 sleep233 ; and236 no235 doubt71 , before344 a10 great259 while55 , he362 would282 follow408 me2 . But330 previous376 to261 turning69 in107 , I482 took68 my36 heavy421 bearskin445 jacket481 , and236 threw459 it162 over82 him248 , as113 it162 promised466 to261 be341 a10 very515 cold330 night108 ; and236 he362 had364 nothing324 but330 his433 ordinary225 round287 jacket481 on392 . For190 some265 time577 , do353 all145 I482 would282 , I482 could375 not518 get126 into554 the19 faintest302 doze260 . I482 had364 blown147 out66 the19 candle248 ; and236 the19 mere393 thought186 of89 Queequeg-- not518 four175 feet349 off111 --sitting136 there340 in107 that14 uneasy137 position383 , stark376 alone2 in107 the19 cold330 and236 dark471 ; this256 made563 me2 really406 wretched294 . Think424 of89 it162 ; sleeping341 all145 night108 in107 the19 same541 room65 with449 a10 wide465 awake255 pagan118 on392 his433 hams65 in107 this256 dreary445 , unaccountable316 Ramadan69 ! But330 somehow425 I482 dropped2 off111 at65 last436 , and236 knew480 nothing324 more348 till181 break483 of89 day112 ; when189 , looking318 over82 the19 bedside221 , there340 squatted455 Queequeg, as113 if141 he362 had364 been185 screwed453 down133 to261 the19 floor418 . But330 as113 soon18 as113 the19 first13 glimpse12 of89 sun397 entered447 the19 window8 , up405 he362 got286 , with449 stiff549 and236 grating451 joints401 , but330 with449 a10 cheerful391 look523 ; limped253 towards417 me2 where579 I482 lay62 ; pressed323 his433 forehead380 again52 against417 mine482 ; and236 said252 his433 Ramadan69 was454 over82 . Now20 , as113 I482 before344 hinted253 , I482 have254 no235 objection431 to261 any501 person550 's483 religion354 , be341 it162 what243 it162 may236 , so281 long544 as113 that14 person550 does565 not518 kill219 or519 insult38 any501 other282 person550 , because540 that14 other282 person550 don280 't500 believe191 it162 also119 . But330 when189 a10 man17 's415 religion354 becomes314 really406 frantic211 ; when189 it162 is487 a10 positive31 torment275 to261 him248 ; and236 , in107 fine333 , makes32 this256 earth513 of89 ours94 an138 uncomfortable72 inn190 to261 lodge272 in107 ; then45 I482 think424 it162 high361 time577 to261 take279 that14 individual233 aside408 and236 argue69 the19 point438 with449 him248 . And236 just108 so281 I482 now20 did444 with449 Queequeg. "Queequeg," said252 I482 , "get126 into554 bed273 now20 , and236 lie212 and236 listen417 to261 me2 ." I482 then45 went516 on392 , beginning188 with449 the19 rise251 and236 progress538 of89 the19 primitive489 religions206 , and236 coming140 down133 to261 the19 various183 religions206 of89 the19 present112 time577 , during309 which16 time577 I482 labored198 to261 show460 Queequeg that14 all145 these527 Lents125 , Ramadans, and236 prolonged246 ham-squattings in107 cold330 , cheerless336 rooms133 were324 stark376 nonsense581 ; bad458 for190 the19 health231 ; useless327 for190 the19 soul428 ; opposed213 , in107 short522 , to261 the19 obvious147 laws68 of89 Hygiene270 and236 common304 sense85 . I482 told82 him248 , too11 , that14 he362 being264 in107 other282 things4 such420 an138 extremely330 sensible154 and236 sagacious10 savage398 , it162 pained232 me2 , very515 badly36 pained232 me2 , to261 see370 him248 now20 so281 deplorably295 foolish509 about123 this256 ridiculous92 Ramadan69 of89 his433 . Besides465 , argued19 I482 , fasting65 makes32 the19 body348 cave84 in107 ; hence503 the19 spirit227 caves203 in107 ; and236 all145 thoughts26 born236 of89 a10 fast208 must226 necessarily136 be341 half119 -starved. This256 is487 the19 reason238 why177 most216 dyspeptic156 religionists152 cherish181 such420 melancholy398 notions1 about123 their219 hereafters. In107 one470 word486 , Queequeg, said252 I482 , rather178 digressively; hell169 is487 an138 idea250 first13 born236 on392 an138 undigested58 apple501 -dumpling; and236 since374 then45 perpetuated214 through295 the19 hereditary125 dyspepsias nurtured31 by406 Ramadans. I482 then45 asked369 Queequeg whether454 he362 himself282 was454 ever208 troubled327 with449 dyspepsia83 ; expressing469 the19 idea250 very515 plainly450 , so281 that14 he362 could375 take279 it162 in107 . He362 said252 no235 ; only517 upon419 one470 memorable154 occasion211 . It162 was454 after358 a10 great259 feast330 given141 by406 his433 father339 the19 king324 on392 the19 gaining225 of89 a10 great259 battle105 wherein396 fifty406 of89 the19 enemy431 had364 been185 killed409 by406 about123 two527 o24 'clock489 in107 the19 afternoon128 , and236 all145 cooked191 and236 eaten172 that14 very515 evening581 . "No235 more348 , Queequeg," said252 I482 , shuddering143 ; "that14 will584 do353 ;" for190 I482 knew480 the19 inferences400 without309 his433 further53 hinting73 them146 . I482 had364 seen154 a10 sailor561 who319 had364 visited16 that14 very515 island516 , and236 he362 told82 me2 that14 it162 was454 the19 custom544 , when189 a10 great259 battle105 had364 been185 gained290 there340 , to261 barbecue4 all145 the19 slain268 in107 the19 yard258 or519 garden121 of89 the19 victor310 ; and236 then45 , one470 by406 one470 , they382 were324 placed556 in107 great259 wooden35 trenchers12 , and236 garnished364 round287 like410 a10 pilau269 , with449 breadfruit4 and236 cocoanuts76 ; and236 with449 some265 parsley231 in107 their219 mouths26 , were324 sent411 round287 with449 the19 victor310 's483 compliments11 to261 all145 his433 friends169 , just108 as113 though400 these527 presents256 were324 so281 many282 Christmas206 turkeys279 . After358 all145 , I482 do353 not518 think424 that14 my36 remarks512 about123 religion354 made563 much61 impression219 upon419 Queequeg. Because540 , in107 the19 first13 place107 , he362 somehow425 seemed132 dull546 of89 hearing325 on392 that14 important104 subject382 , unless54 considered484 from316 his433 own248 point438 of89 view370 ; and236 , in107 the19 second386 place107 , he362 did444 not518 more348 than77 one470 third301 understand111 me2 , couch19 my36 ideas264 simply142 as113 I482 would282 ; and236 , finally69 , he362 no235 doubt71 thought186 he362 knew480 a10 good221 deal543 more348 about123 the19 true483 religion354 than77 I482 did444 . He362 looked232 at65 me2 with449 a10 sort42 of89 condescending138 concern180 and236 compassion537 , as113 though400 he362 thought186 it162 a10 great259 pity270 that14 such420 a10 sensible154 young389 man17 should255 be341 so281 hopelessly367 lost308 to261 evangelical26 pagan118 piety389 . At65 last436 we465 rose449 and236 dressed321 ; and236 Queequeg, taking146 a10 prodigiously83 hearty140 breakfast408 of89 chowders of89 all145 sorts354 , so281 that14 the19 landlady29 should255 not518 make175 much61 profit498 by406 reason238 of89 his433 Ramadan69 , we465 sallied183 out66 to261 board540 the19 Pequod288 , sauntering107 along423 , and236 picking331 our234 teeth82 with449 halibut152 bones5 . CHAPTER293 18376 His433 Mark169 As113 we465 were324 walking523 down133 the19 end149 of89 the19 wharf545 towards417 the19 ship438 , Queequeg carrying103 his433 harpoon67 , Captain295 Peleg375 in107 his433 gruff156 voice233 loudly275 hailed411 us569 from316 his433 wigwam318 , saying9 he362 had364 not518 suspected189 my36 friend179 was454 a10 cannibal180 , and236 furthermore181 announcing337 that14 he362 let66 no235 cannibals27 on392 board540 that14 craft187 , unless54 they382 previously250 produced258 their219 papers434 . "What243 do353 you227 mean504 by406 that14 , Captain295 Peleg375 ?" said252 I482 , now20 jumping286 on392 the19 bulwarks411 , and236 leaving231 my36 comrade148 standing144 on392 the19 wharf545 . "I482 mean504 ," he362 replied163 , "he362 must226 show460 his433 papers434 ." "Yes143 ," said252 Captain295 Bildad492 in107 his433 hollow511 voice233 , sticking457 his433 head219 from316 behind80 Peleg375 's483 , out66 of89 the19 wigwam318 . "He362 must226 show460 that14 he362 's483 converted260 . Son26 of89 darkness493 ," he362 added52 , turning69 to261 Queequeg, "art462 thou173 at65 present112 in107 communion192 with449 any501 Christian235 church317 ?" "Why177 ," said252 I482 , "he362 's483 a10 member333 of89 the19 first13 Congregational25 Church317 ." Here135 be341 it162 said252 , that14 many282 tattooed101 savages247 sailing232 in107 Nantucket283 ships21 at65 last436 come420 to261 be341 converted260 into554 the19 churches44 . "First13 Congregational25 Church317 ," cried506 Bildad492 , "what243 ! that14 worships332 in107 Deacon497 Deuteronomy112 Coleman117 's483 meeting183 -house499 ?" and236 so281 saying9 , taking146 out66 his433 spectacles410 , he362 rubbed14 them146 with449 his433 great259 yellow95 bandana221 handkerchief286 , and236 putting243 them146 on392 very515 carefully374 , came549 out66 of89 the19 wigwam318 , and236 leaning559 stiffly292 over82 the19 bulwarks411 , took68 a10 good221 long544 look523 at65 Queequeg. "How19 long544 hath585 he362 been185 a10 member333 ?" he362 then45 said252 , turning69 to261 me2 ; "not518 very515 long544 , I482 rather178 guess304 , young389 man17 ." "No235 ," said252 Peleg375 , "and236 he362 hasn't500 been185 baptized225 right499 either45 , or519 it162 would282 have254 washed479 some265 of89 that14 devil411 's483 blue240 off111 his433 face556 ." "Do353 tell392 , now20 ," cried506 Bildad492 , "is487 this256 Philistine97 a10 regular400 member333 of89 Deacon497 Deuteronomy112 's483 meeting183 ? I482 never206 saw113 him248 going227 there340 , and236 I482 pass153 it162 every389 Lord106 's483 day112 ." "I482 don280 't500 know60 anything480 about123 Deacon497 Deuteronomy112 or519 his433 meeting183 ," said252 I482 ; "all145 I482 know60 is487 , that14 Queequeg here135 is487 a10 born236 member333 of89 the19 First13 Congregational25 Church317 . He362 is487 a10 deacon497 himself282 , Queequeg is487 ." "Young389 man17 ," said252 Bildad492 sternly247 , "thou173 art462 skylarking364 with449 me2 -- explain349 thyself402 , thou173 young389 Hittite25 . What243 church317 dost306 thee15 mean504 ? answer164 me2 ." Finding350 myself99 thus362 hard337 pushed189 , I482 replied163 , "I482 mean504 , sir271 , the19 same541 ancient463 Catholic197 Church317 to261 which16 you227 and236 I482 , and236 Captain295 Peleg375 there340 , and236 Queequeg here135 , and236 all145 of89 us569 , and236 every389 mother276 's483 son26 and236 soul428 of89 us569 belong243 ; the19 great259 and236 everlasting249 First13 Congregation23 of89 this256 whole199 worshipping186 world126 ; we465 all145 belong243 to261 that14 ; only517 some265 of89 us569 cherish181 some265 queer156 crotchets142 no235 ways101 touching80 the19 grand229 belief85 ; in107 that14 we465 all145 join61 hands87 ." "Splice4 , thou173 mean504 'st193 splice4 hands87 ," cried506 Peleg375 , drawing407 nearer303 . "Young389 man17 , you227 'd67 better34 ship438 for190 a10 missionary170 , instead398 of89 a10 fore259 -mast98 hand252 ; I482 never206 heard444 a10 better34 sermon167 . Deacon497 Deuteronomy112 --why177 Father339 Mapple himself282 couldn't500 beat449 it162 , and236 he362 's483 reckoned356 something181 . Come420 aboard298 , come420 aboard298 : never206 mind118 about123 the19 papers434 . I482 say306 , tell392 Quohog there340 -- what243 's483 that14 you227 call259 him248 ? tell392 Quohog to261 step204 along423 . By406 the19 great259 anchor141 , what243 a10 harpoon67 he362 's483 got286 there340 ! looks150 like410 good221 stuff471 that14 ; and236 he362 handles314 it162 about123 right499 . I482 say306 , Quohog, or519 whatever38 your162 name477 is487 , did444 you227 ever208 stand530 in107 the19 head219 of89 a10 whale422 -boat439 ? did444 you227 ever208 strike374 a10 fish187 ?" Without309 saying9 a10 word486 , Queequeg, in107 his433 wild230 sort42 of89 way435 , jumped499 upon419 the19 bulwarks411 , from316 thence158 into554 the19 bows460 of89 one470 of89 the19 whale422 -boats83 hanging222 to261 the19 side246 ; and236 then45 bracing336 his433 left159 knee235 , and236 poising218 his433 harpoon67 , cried506 out66 in107 some265 such420 way435 as113 this256 :-- "Cap328 'ain, you227 see370 him248 small350 drop22 tar59 on392 water520 dere44 ? You227 see370 him248 ? well263 , spose50 him248 one470 whale422 eye220 , well263 , den299 !" and236 taking146 sharp427 aim176 at65 it162 , he362 darted362 the19 iron169 right499 over82 old447 Bildad492 's483 broad267 brim84 , clean26 across129 the19 ship438 's483 decks386 , and236 struck441 the19 glistening24 tar59 spot46 out66 of89 sight365 . "Now20 ," said252 Queequeg, quietly380 , hauling149 in107 the19 line25 , "spos-ee him248 whale422 -e443 eye220 ; why177 , dad18 whale422 dead568 ." "Quick241 , Bildad492 ," said252 Peleg375 , his433 partner284 , who319 , aghast331 at65 the19 close65 vicinity208 of89 the19 flying354 harpoon67 , had364 retreated173 towards417 the19 cabin192 gangway240 . "Quick241 , I482 say306 , you227 Bildad492 , and236 get126 the19 ship438 's483 papers434 . We465 must226 have254 Hedgehog233 there340 , I482 mean504 Quohog, in107 one470 of89 our234 boats83 . Look523 ye483 , Quohog, we465 'll300 give142 ye483 the19 ninetieth97 lay62 , and236 that14 's76 more348 than77 ever208 was454 given141 a10 harpooneer yet443 out66 of89 Nantucket283 ." So281 down133 we465 went516 into554 the19 cabin192 , and236 to261 my36 great259 joy430 Queequeg was454 soon18 enrolled13 among483 the19 same541 ship438 's483 company280 to261 which16 I482 myself99 belonged455 . When189 all145 preliminaries133 were324 over82 and236 Peleg375 had364 got286 everything233 ready464 for190 signing271 , he362 turned492 to261 me2 and236 said252 , "I482 guess304 , Quohog there340 don280 't500 know60 how19 to261 write570 , does565 he362 ? I482 say306 , Quohog, blast13 ye483 ! dost306 thou173 sign8 thy43 name477 or519 make175 thy43 mark169 ? But330 at65 this256 question562 , Queequeg, who319 had364 twice366 or519 thrice282 before344 taken222 part207 in107 similar101 ceremonies181 , looked232 no235 ways101 abashed497 ; but330 taking146 the19 offered336 pen105 , copied129 upon419 the19 paper401 , in107 the19 proper249 place107 , an138 exact408 counterpart350 of89 a10 queer156 round287 figure55 which16 was454 tattooed101 upon419 his433 arm25 ; so281 that14 through295 Captain295 Peleg375 's483 obstinate64 mistake471 touching80 his433 appellative160 , it162 stood1 something181 like410 this256 :-- Quohog. his433 X148 mark169 . Meanwhile282 Captain295 Bildad492 sat77 earnestly98 and236 steadfastly106 eyeing49 Queequeg, and236 at65 last436 rising464 solemnly200 and236 fumbling14 in107 the19 huge132 pockets240 of89 his433 broadskirted drab49 coat7 took68 out66 a10 bundle57 of89 tracts136 , and236 selecting489 one470 entitled189 "The19 Latter497 Day112 Coming140 ; or519 No235 Time577 to261 Lose247 ," placed556 it162 in107 Queequeg's483 hands87 , and236 then45 grasping427 them146 and236 the19 book230 with449 both558 his433 , looked232 earnestly98 into554 his433 eyes125 , and236 said252 , "Son26 of89 darkness493 , I482 must226 do353 my36 duty468 by406 thee15 ; I482 am375 part207 owner260 of89 this256 ship438 , and236 feel461 concerned583 for190 the19 souls82 of89 all145 its234 crew126 ; if141 thou173 still278 clingest to261 thy43 Pagan118 ways101 , which16 I482 sadly75 fear103 , I482 beseech532 thee15 , remain326 not518 for190 aye86 a10 Belial107 bondsman83 . Spurn225 the19 idol191 Bell28 , and236 the19 hideous298 dragon225 ; turn17 from316 the19 wrath450 to261 come420 ; mind118 thine72 eye220 , I482 say306 ; oh367 ! goodness64 gracious375 ! steer426 clear408 of89 the19 fiery42 pit223 !" Something181 of89 the19 salt183 sea67 yet443 lingered127 in107 old447 Bildad492 's483 language322 , heterogeneously mixed459 with449 Scriptural196 and236 domestic303 phrases291 . "Avast279 there340 , avast279 there340 , Bildad492 , avast279 now20 spoiling188 our234 harpooneer, cried506 Peleg375 . "Pious237 harpooneers never206 make175 good221 voyagers306 -- it162 takes362 the19 shark4 out66 of89 'em; no235 harpooneer is487 worth84 a10 straw152 who319 aint142 pretty252 sharkish51 . There340 was454 young389 Nat13 Swaine325 , once248 the19 bravest175 boat439 -header out66 of89 all145 Nantucket283 and236 the19 Vineyard92 ; he362 joined210 the19 meeting183 , and236 never206 came549 to261 good221 . He362 got286 so281 frightened172 about123 his433 plaguy415 soul428 , that14 he362 shrinked and236 sheered323 away443 from316 whales331 , for190 fear103 of89 after358 -claps468 , in107 case346 he362 got286 stove373 and236 went516 to261 Davy136 Jones573 ." "Peleg375 ! Peleg375 !" said252 Bildad492 , lifting100 his433 eyes125 and236 hands87 , "thou173 thyself402 , as113 I482 myself99 , hast174 seen154 many282 a10 perilous141 time577 ; thou173 knowest82 , Peleg375 , what243 it162 is487 to261 have254 the19 fear103 of89 death543 ; how19 , then45 , can450 'st193 thou173 prate377 in107 this256 ungodly144 guise110 . Thou173 beliest131 thine72 own248 heart470 , Peleg375 . Tell392 me2 , when189 this256 same541 Pequod288 here135 had364 her400 three329 masts212 overboard247 in107 that14 typhoon364 on392 Japan53 , that14 same541 voyage137 when189 thou173 went516 mate508 with449 Captain295 Ahab232 , did444 'st193 thou173 not518 think424 of89 Death543 and236 the19 Judgment83 then45 ?" "Hear386 him248 , hear386 him248 now20 ," cried506 Peleg375 , marching57 across129 the19 cabin192 , and236 thrusting100 his433 hands87 far258 down133 into554 his433 pockets240 ,--"hear386 him248 , all145 of89 ye483 . Think424 of89 that14 ! When189 every389 moment258 we465 thought186 the19 ship438 would282 sink190 ! Death543 and236 the19 Judgment83 then45 ? What243 ? With449 all145 three329 masts212 making415 such420 an138 everlasting249 thundering136 against417 the19 side246 ; and236 every389 sea67 breaking6 over82 us569 , fore259 and236 aft2 . Think424 of89 Death543 and236 the19 Judgment83 then45 ? No235 ! no235 time577 to261 think424 about123 Death543 then45 . Life71 was454 what243 Captain295 Ahab232 and236 I482 was454 thinking385 of89 ; and236 how19 to261 save556 all145 hands87 how19 to261 rig415 jury294 -masts212 how19 to261 get126 into554 the19 nearest26 port409 ; that14 was454 what243 I482 was454 thinking385 of89 ." Bildad492 said252 no235 more348 , but330 buttoning181 up405 his433 coat7 , stalked279 on392 deck505 , where579 we465 followed234 him248 . There340 he362 stood1 , very515 quietly380 overlooking253 some265 sailmakers25 who319 were324 mending271 a10 top70 -sail218 in107 the19 waist52 . Now20 and236 then45 he362 stooped14 to261 pick447 up405 a10 patch445 , or519 save556 an138 end149 of89 tarred489 twine104 , which16 otherwise542 might496 have254 been185 wasted465 . CHAPTER293 19150 The19 Prophet25 "Shipmates98 , have254 ye483 shipped26 in107 that14 ship438 ?" Queequeg and236 I482 had364 just108 left159 the19 Pequod288 , and236 were324 sauntering107 away443 from316 the19 water520 , for190 the19 moment258 each520 occupied262 with449 his433 own248 thoughts26 , when189 the19 above502 words107 were324 put190 to261 us569 by406 a10 stranger233 , who319 , pausing19 before344 us569 , levelled126 his433 massive232 forefinger43 at65 the19 vessel155 in107 question562 . He362 was454 but330 shabbily149 apparelled398 in107 faded69 jacket481 and236 patched435 trowsers206 ; a10 rag479 of89 a10 black581 handkerchief286 investing69 his433 neck239 . A10 confluent25 smallpox183 had364 in107 all145 directions124 flowed261 over82 his433 face556 , and236 left159 it162 like410 the19 complicated64 ribbed246 bed273 of89 a10 torrent529 , when189 the19 rushing344 waters556 have254 been185 dried331 up405 . "Have254 ye483 shipped26 in107 her400 ?" he362 repeated381 . "You227 mean504 the19 ship438 Pequod288 , I482 suppose120 ," said252 I482 , trying83 to261 gain101 a10 little554 more348 time577 for190 an138 uninterrupted165 look523 at65 him248 . "Aye86 , the19 Pequod288 --that14 ship438 there340 ," he362 said252 , drawing407 back457 his433 whole199 arm25 and236 then45 rapidly116 shoving331 it162 straight346 out66 from316 him248 -, with449 the19 fixed564 bayonet364 of89 his433 pointed413 finger190 darted362 full414 at65 the19 object100 . "Yes143 ," said252 I482 , "we465 have254 just108 signed181 the19 articles259 ." "Anything480 down133 there340 about123 your162 souls82 ?" "About123 what243 ?" "Oh367 , perhaps75 you227 hav367 'n422 't500 got286 any501 ," he362 said252 quickly183 . "No235 matter176 though400 , I482 know60 many282 chaps280 that14 hav367 'n422 't500 got286 any501 ,-- good221 luck453 to261 'em; and236 they382 are314 all145 the19 better34 off111 for190 it162 . A10 soul428 's483 a10 sort42 of89 a10 fifth403 wheel135 to261 a10 wagon69 ." "What243 are314 you227 jabbering101 about123 , shipmate283 ?" said252 I482 . "He362 's483 got286 enough217 , though400 , to261 make175 up405 for190 all145 deficiencies305 of89 that14 sort42 in107 other282 chaps280 ," abruptly506 said252 the19 stranger233 , placing287 a10 nervous154 emphasis6 upon419 the19 word486 he362 . "Queequeg," said252 I482 , "let66 's483 go20 ; this256 fellow369 has399 broken255 loose159 from316 somewhere201 ; he362 's483 talking513 about123 something181 and236 somebody387 we465 don280 't500 know60 ." "Stop48 !" cried506 the19 stranger233 . "Ye483 said252 true483 --ye483 hav367 'n422 't500 seen154 Old447 Thunder356 yet443 , have254 ye483 ?" "Who319 's483 Old447 Thunder356 ?" said252 I482 , again52 riveted264 with449 the19 insane416 earnestness256 of89 his433 manner153 . "Captain295 Ahab232 ." "What243 ! the19 captain295 of89 our234 ship438 , the19 Pequod288 ?" "Aye86 , among483 some265 of89 us569 old447 sailor561 chaps280 , he362 goes205 by406 that14 name477 . Ye483 hav367 'n422 't500 seen154 him248 yet443 , have254 ye483 ?" "No235 , we465 hav367 'n422 't500 . He362 's483 sick250 they382 say306 , but330 is487 getting369 better34 , and236 will584 be341 all145 right499 again52 before344 long544 ." "All145 right499 again52 before344 long544 !" laughed166 the19 stranger233 , with449 a10 solemnly200 derisive204 sort42 of89 laugh559 . "Look523 ye483 ; when189 Captain295 Ahab232 is487 all145 right499 , then45 this256 left159 arm25 of89 mine482 will584 be341 all145 right499 ; not518 before344 ." "What243 do353 you227 know60 about123 him248 ?" "What243 did444 they382 tell392 you227 about123 him248 ? Say306 that14 !" "They382 didn't500 tell392 much61 of89 anything480 about123 him248 ; only517 I482 've149 heard444 that14 he362 's483 a10 good221 whale422 -hunter287 , and236 a10 good221 captain295 to261 his433 crew126 ." "That14 's76 true483 , that14 's76 true483 --yes143 , both558 true483 enough217 . But330 you227 must226 jump50 when189 he362 gives529 an138 order343 . Step204 and236 growl275 ; growl275 and236 go20 --that14 's76 the19 word486 with449 Captain295 Ahab232 . But330 nothing324 about123 that14 thing309 that14 happened156 to261 him248 off111 Cape23 Horn139 , long544 ago141 , when189 he362 lay62 like410 dead568 for190 three329 days351 and236 nights224 ; nothing324 about123 that14 deadly49 skrimmage with449 the19 Spaniard336 afore462 the19 altar273 in107 Santa494 ?-- heard444 nothing324 about123 that14 , eh76 ? Nothing324 about123 the19 silver205 calabash451 he362 spat115 into554 ? And236 nothing324 about123 his433 losing205 his433 leg331 last436 voyage137 , according281 to261 the19 prophecy147 . Didn't500 ye483 hear386 a10 word486 about123 them146 matters515 and236 something181 more348 , eh76 ? No235 , I482 don280 't500 think424 ye483 did444 ; how19 could375 ye483 ? Who319 knows286 it162 ? Not518 all145 Nantucket283 , I482 guess304 . But330 hows'ever208 , mayhap421 , ye483 've477 heard444 tell392 about123 the19 leg331 , and236 how19 he362 lost308 it162 ; aye86 , ye483 have254 heard444 of89 that14 , I482 dare11 say306 . Oh367 , yes143 , that14 every389 one470 knows286 a10 'most221 --I482 mean504 they382 know60 he362 's483 only517 one470 leg331 ; and236 that14 a10 parmacetti took68 the19 other282 off111 ." "My36 friend179 ," said252 I482 , "what243 all145 this256 gibberish199 of89 yours256 is487 about123 , I482 don280 't500 know60 , and236 I482 don280 't500 much61 care307 ; for190 it162 seems19 to261 me2 that14 you227 must226 be341 a10 little554 damaged416 in107 the19 head219 . But330 if141 you227 are314 speaking22 of89 Captain295 Ahab232 , of89 that14 ship438 there340 , the19 Pequod288 , then45 let66 me2 tell392 you227 , that14 I482 know60 all145 about123 the19 loss223 of89 his433 leg331 ." "All145 about123 it162 , eh76 --sure41 you227 do353 ? all145 ? "Pretty252 sure41 ." With449 finger190 pointed413 and236 eye220 levelled126 at65 the19 Pequod288 , the19 beggar327 -like410 stranger233 stood1 a10 moment258 , as113 if141 in107 a10 troubled327 reverie70 ; then45 starting423 a10 little554 , turned492 and236 said252 :--"Ye483 've477 shipped26 , have254 ye483 ? Names360 down133 on392 the19 papers434 ? Well263 , well263 , what243 's483 signed181 , is487 signed181 ; and236 what243 's483 to261 be341 , will584 be341 ; and236 then45 again52 , perhaps75 it162 won't500 be341 , after358 all145 . Any501 how19 , it162 's483 all145 fixed564 and236 arranged198 a10 'ready464 ; and236 some265 sailors64 or519 other282 must226 go20 with449 him248 , I482 suppose120 ; as113 well263 these527 as113 any501 other282 men62 , God185 pity270 'em! Morning417 to261 ye483 , shipmates98 , morning417 ; the19 ineffable285 heavens494 bless128 ye483 ; I482 'm250 sorry147 I482 stopped564 ye483 ." "Look523 here135 , friend179 ," said252 I482 , "if141 you227 have254 anything480 important104 to261 tell392 us569 , out66 with449 it162 ; but330 if141 you227 are314 only517 trying83 to261 bamboozle102 us569 , you227 are314 mistaken49 in107 your162 game233 ; that14 's76 all145 I482 have254 to261 say306 ." "And236 it162 's483 said252 very515 well263 , and236 I482 like410 to261 hear386 a10 chap287 talk173 up405 that14 way435 ; you227 are314 just108 the19 man17 for190 him248 --the19 likes93 of89 ye483 . Morning417 to261 ye483 , shipmates98 , morning417 ! Oh367 ! when189 ye483 get126 there340 , tell392 'em I482 've149 concluded157 not518 to261 make175 one470 of89 'em." "Ah132 , my36 dear333 fellow369 , you227 can450 't500 fool5 us569 that14 way435 --you227 can450 't500 fool5 us569 . It162 is487 the19 easiest396 thing309 in107 the19 world126 for190 a10 man17 to261 look523 as113 if141 he362 had364 a10 great259 secret409 in107 him248 ." "Morning417 to261 ye483 , shipmates98 , morning417 ." "Morning417 it162 is487 ," said252 I482 . "Come420 along423 , Queequeg, let66 's483 leave450 this256 crazy418 man17 . But330 stop48 , tell392 me2 your162 name477 , will584 you227 ?" "Elijah160 ." Elijah160 ! thought186 I482 , and236 we465 walked92 away443 , both558 commenting368 , after358 each520 other282 's483 fashion467 , upon419 this256 ragged244 old447 sailor561 ; and236 agreed481 that14 he362 was454 nothing324 but330 a10 humbug223 , trying83 to261 be341 a10 bugbear468 . But330 we465 had364 not518 gone190 perhaps75 above502 a10 hundred93 yards386 , when189 chancing40 to261 turn17 a10 corner204 , and236 looking318 back457 as113 I482 did444 so281 , who319 should255 be341 seen154 but330 Elijah160 following181 us569 , though400 at65 a10 distance264 . Somehow425 , the19 sight365 of89 him248 struck441 me2 so281 , that14 I482 said252 nothing324 to261 Queequeg of89 his433 being264 behind80 , but330 passed87 on392 with449 my36 comrade148 , anxious256 to261 see370 whether454 the19 stranger233 would282 turn17 the19 same541 corner204 that14 we465 did444 . He362 did444 ; and236 then45 it162 seemed132 to261 me2 that14 he362 was454 dogging523 us569 , but330 with449 what243 intent359 I482 could375 not518 for190 the19 life71 of89 me2 imagine385 . This256 circumstance407 , coupled83 with449 his433 ambiguous46 , half119 -hinting73 , half119 -revealing451 , shrouded465 sort42 of89 talk173 , now20 begat217 in107 me2 all145 kinds200 of89 vague70 wonderments83 and236 half119 -apprehensions361 , and236 all145 connected202 with449 the19 Pequod288 ; and236 Captain295 Ahab232 ; and236 the19 leg331 he362 had364 lost308 ; and236 the19 Cape23 Horn139 fit12 ; and236 the19 silver205 calabash451 ; and236 what243 Captain295 Peleg375 had364 said252 of89 him248 , when189 I482 left159 the19 ship438 the19 day112 previous376 ; and236 the19 prediction94 of89 the19 squaw193 Tistig; and236 the19 voyage137 we465 had364 bound108 ourselves15 to261 sail218 ; and236 a10 hundred93 other282 shadowy203 things4 . I482 was454 resolved158 to261 satisfy75 myself99 whether454 this256 ragged244 Elijah160 was454 really406 dogging523 us569 or519 not518 , and236 with449 that14 intent359 crossed202 the19 way435 with449 Queequeg, and236 on392 that14 side246 of89 it162 retraced398 our234 steps392 . But330 Elijah160 passed87 on392 , without309 seeming59 to261 notice76 us569 . This256 relieved158 me2 ; and236 once248 more348 , and236 finally69 as113 it162 seemed132 to261 me2 , I482 pronounced429 him248 in107 my36 heart470 , a10 humbug223 . CHAPTER293 20406 All145 Astir506 A10 day112 or519 two527 passed87 , and236 there340 was454 great259 activity293 aboard298 the19 Pequod288 . Not518 only517 were324 the19 old447 sails344 being264 mended88 , but330 new36 sails344 were324 coming140 on392 board540 , and236 bolts147 of89 canvas557 , and236 coils259 of89 rigging516 ; in107 short522 , everything233 betokened205 that14 the19 ship438 's483 preparations3 were324 hurrying339 to261 a10 close65 . Captain295 Peleg375 seldom140 or519 never206 went516 ashore122 , but330 sat77 in107 his433 wigwam318 keeping482 a10 sharp427 look523 -out66 upon419 the19 hands87 : Bildad492 did444 all145 the19 purchasing213 and236 providing7 at65 the19 stores292 ; and236 the19 men62 employed263 in107 the19 hold204 and236 on392 the19 rigging516 were324 working113 till181 long544 after358 night108 -fall90 . On392 the19 day112 following181 Queequeg's483 signing271 the19 articles259 , word486 was454 given141 at65 all145 the19 inns281 where579 the19 ship438 's483 company280 were324 stopping406 , that14 their219 chests340 must226 be341 on392 board540 before344 night108 , for190 there340 was454 no235 telling196 how19 soon18 the19 vessel155 might496 be341 sailing232 . So281 Queequeg and236 I482 got286 down133 our234 traps336 , resolving295 , however44 , to261 sleep233 ashore122 till181 the19 last436 . But330 it162 seems19 they382 always367 give142 very515 long544 notice76 in107 these527 cases108 , and236 the19 ship438 did444 not518 sail218 for190 several479 days351 . But330 no235 wonder76 ; there340 was454 a10 good221 deal543 to261 be341 done135 , and236 there340 is487 no235 telling196 how19 many282 things4 to261 be341 thought186 of89 , before344 the19 Pequod288 was454 fully530 equipped104 . Every389 one470 knows286 what243 a10 multitude170 of89 things4 --beds41 , sauce510 -pans330 , knives140 and236 forks282 , shovels39 and236 tongs127 , napkins261 , nut142 -crackers, and236 what243 not518 , are314 indispensable470 to261 the19 business168 of89 housekeeping71 . Just108 so281 with449 whaling155 , which16 necessitates425 a10 three329 -years92 ' housekeeping71 upon419 the19 wide465 ocean224 , far258 from316 all145 grocers117 , costermongers399 , doctors407 , bakers119 , and236 bankers41 . And236 though400 this256 also119 holds92 true483 of89 merchant332 vessels150 , yet443 not518 by406 any501 means502 to261 the19 same541 extent144 as113 with449 whalemen451 . For190 besides465 the19 great259 length202 of89 the19 whaling155 voyage137 , the19 numerous558 articles259 peculiar291 to261 the19 prosecution480 of89 the19 fishery136 , and236 the19 impossibility430 of89 replacing78 them146 at65 the19 remote141 harbors348 usually211 frequented359 , it162 must226 be341 remembered66 , that14 of89 all145 ships21 , whaling155 vessels150 are314 the19 most216 exposed356 to261 accidents122 of89 all145 kinds200 , and236 especially371 to261 the19 destruction423 and236 loss223 of89 the19 very515 things4 upon419 which16 the19 success197 of89 the19 voyage137 most216 depends568 . Hence503 , the19 spare295 boats83 , spare295 spars15 , and236 spare295 lines241 and236 harpoons6 , and236 spare295 everythings, almost518 , but330 a10 spare295 Captain295 and236 duplicate294 ship438 . At65 the19 period196 of89 our234 arrival274 at65 the19 Island516 , the19 heaviest280 storage205 of89 the19 Pequod288 had364 been185 almost518 completed102 ; comprising243 her400 beef303 , bread387 , water520 , fuel84 , and236 iron169 hoops170 and236 staves203 . But330 , as113 before344 hinted253 , for190 some265 time577 there340 was454 a10 continual222 fetching320 and236 carrying103 on392 board540 of89 divers213 odds250 and236 ends301 of89 things4 , both558 large385 and236 small350 . Chief156 among483 those427 who319 did444 this256 fetching320 and236 carrying103 was454 Captain295 Bildad492 's483 sister126 , a10 lean279 old447 lady14 of89 a10 most216 determined339 and236 indefatigable117 spirit227 , but330 withal157 very515 kindhearted410 , who319 seemed132 resolved158 that14 , if141 she391 could375 help526 it162 , nothing324 should255 be341 found260 wanting361 in107 the19 Pequod288 , after358 once248 fairly211 getting369 to261 sea67 . At65 one470 time577 she391 would282 come420 on392 board540 with449 a10 jar408 of89 pickles364 for190 the19 steward82 's483 pantry26 ; another269 time577 with449 a10 bunch100 of89 quills508 for190 the19 chief156 mate508 's483 desk294 , where579 he362 kept290 his433 log127 ; a10 third301 time577 with449 a10 roll473 of89 flannel364 for190 the19 small350 of89 some265 one470 's483 rheumatic238 back457 . Never206 did444 any501 woman448 better34 deserve391 her400 name477 , which16 was454 Charity221 --Aunt272 Charity221 , as113 everybody77 called237 her400 . And236 like410 a10 sister126 of89 charity221 did444 this256 charitable495 Aunt272 Charity221 bustle26 about123 hither342 and236 thither118 , ready464 to261 turn17 her400 hand252 and236 heart470 to261 anything480 that14 promised466 to261 yield39 safety388 , comfort364 , and236 consolation292 to261 all145 on392 board540 a10 ship438 in107 which16 her400 beloved169 brother46 Bildad492 was454 concerned583 , and236 in107 which16 she391 herself263 owned196 a10 score124 or519 two527 of89 well263 -saved104 dollars201 . But330 it162 was454 startling221 to261 see370 this256 excellent161 hearted83 Quakeress253 coming140 on392 board540 , as113 she391 did444 the19 last436 day112 , with449 a10 long544 oil118 -ladle377 in107 one470 hand252 , and236 a10 still278 longer559 whaling155 lance76 in107 the19 other282 . Nor137 was454 Bildad492 himself282 nor137 Captain295 Peleg375 at65 all145 backward19 . As113 for190 Bildad492 , he362 carried232 about123 with449 him248 a10 long544 list576 of89 the19 articles259 needed133 , and236 at65 every389 fresh540 arrival274 , down133 went516 his433 mark169 opposite107 that14 article58 upon419 the19 paper401 . Every389 once248 in107 a10 while55 Peleg375 came549 hobbling402 out66 of89 his433 whalebone290 den299 , roaring182 at65 the19 men62 down133 the19 hatchways379 , roaring182 up405 to261 the19 riggers2 at65 the19 mast44 -head116 , and236 then45 concluded157 by406 roaring182 back457 into554 his433 wigwam318 . During309 these527 days351 of89 preparation40 , Queequeg and236 I482 often227 visited16 the19 craft187 , and236 as113 often227 I482 asked369 about123 Captain295 Ahab232 , and236 how19 he362 was454 , and236 when189 he362 was454 going227 to261 come420 on392 board540 his433 ship438 . To261 these527 questions300 they382 would282 answer164 , that14 he362 was454 getting369 better34 and236 better34 , and236 was454 expected96 aboard298 every389 day112 ; meantime210 , the19 two527 Captains124 , Peleg375 and236 Bildad492 , could375 attend120 to261 everything233 necessary145 to261 fit12 the19 vessel155 for190 the19 voyage137 . If141 I482 had364 been185 downright402 honest287 with449 myself99 , I482 would282 have254 seen154 very515 plainly450 in107 my36 heart470 that14 I482 did444 but330 half119 fancy396 being264 committed327 this256 way435 to261 so281 long544 a10 voyage137 , without309 once248 laying116 my36 eyes125 on392 the19 man17 who319 was454 to261 be341 the19 absolute105 dictator388 of89 it162 , so281 soon18 as113 the19 ship438 sailed248 out66 upon419 the19 open464 sea67 . But330 when189 a10 man17 suspects117 any501 wrong70 , it162 sometimes77 happens143 that14 if141 he362 be341 already93 involved149 in107 the19 matter176 , he362 insensibly433 strives83 to261 cover172 up405 his433 suspicions220 even198 from316 himself282 . And236 much61 this256 way435 it162 was454 with449 me2 . I482 said252 nothing324 , and236 tried73 to261 think424 nothing324 . At65 last436 it162 was454 given141 out66 that14 some265 time577 next27 day112 the19 ship438 would282 certainly124 sail218 . So281 next27 morning417 , Queequeg and236 I482 took68 a10 very515 early92 start117 . CHAPTER293 21165 Going227 Aboard298 It162 was454 nearly575 six415 o24 'clock489 , but330 only517 grey491 imperfect30 misty350 dawn72 , when189 we465 drew175 nigh254 the19 wharf545 . "There340 are314 some265 sailors64 running296 ahead5 there340 , if141 I482 see370 right499 ," said252 I482 to261 Queequeg, "it162 can450 't500 be341 shadows480 ; she391 's483 off111 by406 sunrise445 , I482 guess304 ; come420 on392 !" "Avast279 !" cried506 a10 voice233 , whose286 owner260 at65 the19 same541 time577 coming140 close65 behind80 us569 , laid181 a10 hand252 upon419 both558 our234 shoulders476 , and236 then45 insinuating384 himself282 between77 us569 , stood1 stooping492 forward364 a10 little554 , in107 the19 uncertain396 twilight158 , strangely155 peering446 from316 Queequeg to261 me2 . It162 was454 Elijah160 . "Going227 aboard298 ?" "Hands87 off111 , will584 you227 ," said252 I482 . "Lookee320 here135 ," said252 Queequeg, shaking206 himself282 , "go20 'way435 !" "Aint142 going227 aboard298 , then45 ?" "Yes143 , we465 are314 ," said252 I482 , "but330 what243 business168 is487 that14 of89 yours256 ? Do353 you227 know60 , Mr219 . Elijah160 , that14 I482 consider259 you227 a10 little554 impertinent241 ?" "No235 , no235 , no235 ; I482 wasn't500 aware174 of89 that14 ," said252 Elijah160 , slowly149 and236 wonderingly259 looking318 from316 me2 to261 Queequeg, with449 the19 most216 unaccountable316 glances363 . "Elijah160 ," said252 I482 , "you227 will584 oblige144 my36 friend179 and236 me2 by406 withdrawing152 . We465 are314 going227 to261 the19 Indian303 and236 Pacific294 Oceans60 , and236 would282 prefer473 not518 to261 be341 detained57 ." "Ye483 be341 , be341 ye483 ? Coming140 back457 afore462 breakfast408 ?" "He362 's483 cracked423 , Queequeg," said252 I482 , "come420 on392 ." "Holloa243 !" cried506 stationary360 Elijah160 , hailing400 us569 when189 we465 had364 removed447 a10 few49 paces212 . "Never206 mind118 him248 ," said252 I482 , "Queequeg, come420 on392 ." But330 he362 stole135 up405 to261 us569 again52 , and236 suddenly193 clapping152 his433 hand252 on392 my36 shoulder168 , said252 --"Did444 ye483 see370 anything480 looking318 like410 men62 going227 towards417 that14 ship438 a10 while55 ago141 ?" Struck441 by406 this256 plain28 matter176 -of89 -fact12 question562 , I482 answered100 , saying9 , "Yes143 , I482 thought186 I482 did444 see370 four175 or519 five103 men62 ; but330 it162 was454 too11 dim14 to261 be341 sure41 ." "Very515 dim14 , very515 dim14 ," said252 Elijah160 . "Morning417 to261 ye483 ." Once248 more348 we465 quitted137 him248 ; but330 once248 more348 he362 came549 softly461 after358 us569 ; and236 touching80 my36 shoulder168 again52 , said252 , "See370 if141 you227 can450 find138 'em now20 , will584 ye483 ? "Find138 who319 ?" "Morning417 to261 ye483 ! morning417 to261 ye483 !" he362 rejoined147 , again52 moving316 off111 . "Oh367 ! I482 was454 going227 to261 warn453 ye483 against417 --but330 never206 mind118 , never206 mind118 -- it162 's483 all145 one470 , all145 in107 the19 family347 too11 ;--sharp427 frost113 this256 morning417 , ain't500 it162 ? Good221 -bye356 to261 ye483 . Shan't500 see370 ye483 again52 very515 soon18 , I482 guess304 ; unless54 it162 's483 before344 the19 Grand229 Jury294 ." And236 with449 these527 cracked423 words107 he362 finally69 departed467 , leaving231 me2 , for190 the19 moment258 , in107 no235 small350 wonderment183 at65 his433 frantic211 impudence167 . At65 last436 , stepping299 on392 board540 the19 Pequod288 , we465 found260 everything233 in107 profound371 quiet337 , not518 a10 soul428 moving316 . The19 cabin192 entrance237 was454 locked105 within503 ; the19 hatches4 were324 all145 on392 , and236 lumbered443 with449 coils259 of89 rigging516 . Going227 forward364 to261 the19 forecastle367 , we465 found260 the19 slide118 of89 the19 scuttle27 open464 . Seeing426 a10 light382 , we465 went516 down133 , and236 found260 only517 an138 old447 rigger39 there340 , wrapped99 in107 a10 tattered203 pea212 -jacket481 . He362 was454 thrown359 at65 whole199 length202 upon419 two527 chests340 , his433 face556 downwards468 and236 inclosed88 in107 his433 folded305 arms536 . The19 profoundest320 slumber428 slept172 upon419 him248 . "Those427 sailors64 we465 saw113 , Queequeg, where579 can450 they382 have254 gone190 to261 ?" said252 I482 , looking318 dubiously3 at65 the19 sleeper136 . But330 it162 seemed132 that14 , when189 on392 the19 wharf545 , Queequeg had364 not518 at65 all145 noticed157 what243 I482 now20 alluded231 to261 ; hence503 I482 would282 have254 thought186 myself99 to261 have254 been185 optically83 deceived241 in107 that14 matter176 , were324 it162 not518 for190 Elijah160 's483 otherwise542 inexplicable367 question562 . But330 I482 beat449 the19 thing309 down133 ; and236 again52 marking279 the19 sleeper136 , jocularly81 hinted253 to261 Queequeg that14 perhaps75 we465 had364 best315 sit215 up405 with449 the19 body348 ; telling196 him248 to261 establish426 himself282 accordingly249 . He362 put190 his433 hand252 upon419 the19 sleeper136 's483 rear252 , as113 though400 feeling384 if141 it162 was454 soft226 enough217 ; and236 then45 , without309 more348 ado124 , sat77 quietly380 down133 there340 . "Gracious375 ! Queequeg, don280 't500 sit215 there340 ," said252 I482 . "Oh367 ; perry479 dood576 seat88 ," said252 Queequeg, "my36 country362 way435 ; won't500 hurt145 him248 face556 ." "Face556 !" said252 I482 , "call259 that14 his433 face556 ? very515 benevolent67 countenance553 then45 ; but330 how19 hard337 he362 breathes410 , he362 's483 heaving174 himself282 ; get126 off111 , Queequeg, you227 are314 heavy421 , it162 's483 grinding98 the19 face556 of89 the19 poor533 . Get126 off111 , Queequeg! Look523 , he362 'll300 twitch127 you227 off111 soon18 . I482 wonder76 he362 don280 't500 wake205 ." Queequeg removed447 himself282 to261 just108 beyond421 the19 head219 of89 the19 sleeper136 , and236 lighted422 his433 tomahawk279 pipe124 . I482 sat77 at65 the19 feet349 . We465 kept290 the19 pipe124 passing147 over82 the19 sleeper136 , from316 one470 to261 the19 other282 . Meanwhile282 , upon419 questioning165 him248 in107 his433 broken255 fashion467 , Queequeg gave572 me2 to261 understand111 that14 , in107 his433 land406 , owing98 to261 the19 absence484 of89 settees455 and236 sofas217 of89 all145 sorts354 , the19 king324 , chiefs61 , and236 great259 people482 generally402 , were324 in107 the19 custom544 of89 fattening27 some265 of89 the19 lower47 orders199 for190 ottomans25 ; and236 to261 furnish160 a10 house499 comfortably147 in107 that14 respect441 , you227 had364 only517 to261 buy105 up405 eight316 or519 ten198 lazy182 fellows131 , and236 lay62 them146 round287 in107 the19 piers78 and236 alcoves445 . Besides465 , it162 was454 very515 convenient470 on392 an138 excursion227 ; much61 better34 than77 those427 garden121 -chairs19 which16 are314 convertible181 into554 walking523 sticks335 ; upon419 occasion211 , a10 chief156 calling56 his433 attendant13 , and236 desiring251 him248 to261 make175 a10 settee294 of89 himself282 under533 a10 spreading85 tree482 , perhaps75 in107 some265 damp264 marshy308 place107 . While55 narrating170 these527 things4 , every389 time577 Queequeg received12 the19 tomahawk279 from316 me2 , he362 flourished102 the19 hatchet273 -side246 of89 it162 over82 the19 sleeper136 's483 head219 . "What243 's483 that14 for190 , Queequeg?" "Perry479 easy281 , kill219 -e443 ; oh367 ! perry479 easy281 ! He362 was454 going227 on392 with449 some265 wild230 reminiscences252 about123 his433 tomahawk279 -pipe124 which16 , it162 seemed132 , had364 in107 its234 two527 uses282 both558 brained110 his433 foes247 and236 soothed436 his433 soul428 , when189 we465 were324 directly58 attracted36 to261 the19 sleeping341 rigger39 . The19 strong145 vapor85 now20 completely385 filling330 the19 contracted355 hole73 , it162 began132 to261 tell392 upon419 him248 . He362 breathed89 with449 a10 sort42 of89 muffledness; then45 seemed132 troubled327 in107 the19 nose176 ; then45 revolved75 over82 once248 or519 twice366 ; then45 sat77 up405 and236 rubbed14 his433 eyes125 . "Holloa243 !" he362 breathed89 at65 last436 , "who319 be341 ye483 smokers92 ?" "Shipped26 men62 ," answered100 I482 , "when189 does565 she391 sail218 ?" "Aye86 , aye86 , ye483 are314 going227 in107 her400 , be341 ye483 ? She391 sails344 to261 -day112 . The19 Captain295 came549 aboard298 last436 night108 ." "What243 Captain295 ?--Ahab232 ?" "Who319 but330 him248 indeed522 ?" I482 was454 going227 to261 ask238 him248 some265 further53 questions300 concerning368 Ahab232 , when189 we465 heard444 a10 noise254 on392 deck505 . "Holloa243 ! Starbuck's483 astir506 ," said252 the19 rigger39 . "He362 's483 a10 lively272 chief156 mate508 that14 ; good221 man17 , and236 a10 pious237 ; but330 all145 alive298 now20 , I482 must226 turn17 to261 ." And236 so281 saying9 he362 went516 on392 deck505 , and236 we465 followed234 . It162 was454 now20 clear408 sunrise445 . Soon18 the19 crew126 came549 on392 board540 in107 twos18 and236 threes169 ; the19 riggers2 bestirred275 themselves510 ; the19 mates264 were324 actively434 engaged479 ; and236 several479 of89 the19 shore280 people482 were324 busy130 in107 bringing9 various183 last436 things4 on392 board540 . Meanwhile282 Captain295 Ahab232 remained72 invisibly552 enshrined282 within503 his433 cabin192 . CHAPTER293 22127 Merry486 Christmas206 At65 length202 , towards417 noon445 , upon419 the19 final357 dismissal282 of89 the19 ship438 's483 riggers2 , and236 after358 the19 Pequod288 had364 been185 hauled80 out66 from316 the19 wharf545 , and236 after358 the19 ever208 -thoughtful46 Charity221 had364 come420 off111 in107 a10 whale422 -boat439 , with449 her400 last436 gift213 -- a10 nightcap156 for190 Stubb, the19 second386 mate508 , her400 brother46 -in107 -law231 , and236 a10 spare295 Bible253 for190 the19 steward82 --after358 all145 this256 , the19 two527 Captains124 , Peleg375 and236 Bildad492 , issued146 from316 the19 cabin192 , and236 turning69 to261 the19 chief156 mate508 , Peleg375 said252 : "Now20 , Mr219 . Starbuck, are314 you227 sure41 everything233 is487 right499 ? Captain295 Ahab232 is487 all145 ready464 --just108 spoke185 to261 him248 --nothing324 more348 to261 be341 got286 from316 shore280 , eh76 ? Well263 , call259 all145 hands87 , then45 . Muster209 'em aft2 here135 --blast13 'em!" "No235 need32 of89 profane535 words107 , however44 great259 the19 hurry183 , Peleg375 ," said252 Bildad492 , "but330 away443 with449 thee15 , friend179 Starbuck, and236 do353 our234 bidding340 ." How19 now20 ! Here135 upon419 the19 very515 point438 of89 starting423 for190 the19 voyage137 , Captain295 Peleg375 and236 Captain295 Bildad492 were324 going227 it162 with449 a10 high361 hand252 on392 the19 quarter6 -deck505 , just108 as113 if141 they382 were324 to261 be341 joint65 -commanders117 at65 sea67 , as113 well263 as113 to261 all145 appearances14 in107 port409 . And236 , as113 for190 Captain295 Ahab232 , no235 sign8 of89 him248 was454 yet443 to261 be341 seen154 ; Only517 , they382 said252 he362 was454 in107 the19 cabin192 . But330 then45 , the19 idea250 was454 , that14 his433 presence492 was454 by406 no235 means502 necessary145 in107 getting369 the19 ship438 under533 weigh8 , and236 steering252 her400 well263 out66 to261 sea67 . Indeed522 , as113 that14 was454 not518 at65 all145 his433 proper249 business168 , but330 the19 pilot559 's483 ; and236 as113 he362 was454 not518 yet443 completely385 recovered234 --so281 they382 said252 --therefore94 , Captain295 Ahab232 stayed117 below397 . And236 all145 this256 seemed132 natural298 enough217 ; especially371 as113 in107 the19 merchant332 service343 many282 captains124 never206 show460 themselves510 on392 deck505 for190 a10 considerable75 time577 after358 heaving174 up405 the19 anchor141 , but330 remain326 over82 the19 cabin192 table572 , having69 a10 farewell283 merry486 -making415 with449 their219 shore280 friends169 , before344 they382 quit295 the19 ship438 for190 good221 with449 the19 pilot559 . But330 there340 was454 not518 much61 chance292 to261 think424 over82 the19 matter176 , for190 Captain295 Peleg375 was454 now20 all145 alive298 . He362 seemed132 to261 do353 most216 of89 the19 talking513 and236 commanding76 , and236 not518 Bildad492 . "Aft2 here135 , ye483 sons250 of89 bachelors271 ," he362 cried506 , as113 the19 sailors64 lingered127 at65 the19 main501 -mast44 . "Mr219 . Starbuck, drive548 aft2 ." "Strike374 the19 tent359 there340 !"--was454 the19 next27 order343 . As113 I482 hinted253 before344 , this256 whalebone290 marquee97 was454 never206 pitched101 except545 in107 port409 ; and236 on392 board540 the19 Pequod288 , for190 thirty521 years116 , the19 order343 to261 strike374 the19 tent359 was454 well263 known86 to261 be341 the19 next27 thing309 to261 heaving174 up405 the19 anchor141 . "Man17 the19 capstan241 ! Blood208 and236 thunder356 !--jump50 !"--was454 the19 next27 command190 , and236 the19 crew126 sprang253 for190 the19 handspikes209 . Now20 in107 getting369 under533 weigh8 , the19 station80 generally402 occupied262 by406 the19 pilot559 is487 the19 forward364 part207 of89 the19 ship438 . And236 here135 Bildad492 , who319 , with449 Peleg375 , be341 it162 known86 , in107 addition187 to261 his433 other282 offices257 , was454 one470 of89 the19 licensed552 pilots493 of89 the19 port409 --he362 being264 suspected189 to261 have254 got286 himself282 made563 a10 pilot559 in107 order343 to261 save556 the19 Nantucket283 pilot559 -fee to261 all145 the19 ships21 he362 was454 concerned583 in107 , for190 he362 never206 piloted481 any501 other282 craft187 --Bildad492 , I482 say306 , might496 now20 be341 seen154 actively434 engaged479 in107 looking318 over82 the19 bows460 for190 the19 approaching271 anchor141 , and236 at65 intervals295 singing288 what243 seemed132 a10 dismal110 stave416 of89 psalmody402 , to261 cheer337 the19 hands87 at65 the19 windlass231 , who319 roared315 forth152 some265 sort42 of89 a10 chorus98 about123 the19 girls388 in107 Booble Alley88 , with449 hearty140 good221 will584 . Nevertheless104 , not518 three329 days351 previous376 , Bildad492 had364 told82 them146 that14 no235 profane535 songs78 would282 be341 allowed339 on392 board540 the19 Pequod288 , particularly106 in107 getting369 under533 weigh8 ; and236 Charity221 , his433 sister126 , had364 placed556 a10 small350 choice340 copy380 of89 Watts367 in107 each520 seaman166 's483 berth283 . Meantime210 , overseeing12 the19 other282 part207 of89 the19 ship438 , Captain295 Peleg375 ripped279 and236 swore470 astern39 in107 the19 most216 frightful190 manner153 . I482 almost518 thought186 he362 would282 sink190 the19 ship438 before344 the19 anchor141 could375 be341 got286 up405 ; involuntarily124 I482 paused390 on392 my36 handspike301 , and236 told82 Queequeg to261 do353 the19 same541 , thinking385 of89 the19 perils140 we465 both558 ran391 , in107 starting423 on392 the19 voyage137 with449 such420 a10 devil411 for190 a10 pilot559 . I482 was454 comforting462 myself99 , however44 , with449 the19 thought186 that14 in107 pious237 Bildad492 might496 be341 found260 some265 salvation346 , spite431 of89 his433 seven188 hundred93 and236 seventy156 -seventh280 lay62 ; when189 I482 felt440 a10 sudden309 sharp427 poke213 in107 my36 rear252 , and236 turning69 round287 , was454 horrified21 at65 the19 apparition143 of89 Captain295 Peleg375 in107 the19 act10 of89 withdrawing152 his433 leg331 from316 my36 immediate388 vicinity208 . That14 was454 my36 first13 kick16 . "Is487 that14 the19 way435 they382 heave308 in107 the19 marchant500 service343 ?" he362 roared315 . "Spring148 , thou173 sheep45 -head219 ; spring148 , and236 break483 thy43 backbone25 ! Why177 don280 't500 ye483 spring148 , I482 say306 , all145 of89 ye483 --spring148 ! Quohog! spring148 , thou173 chap287 with449 the19 red293 whiskers42 ; spring148 there340 , Scotch481 -cap328 ; spring148 , thou173 green549 pants60 . Spring148 , I482 say306 , all145 of89 ye483 , and236 spring148 your162 eyes125 out66 !" And236 so281 saying9 , he362 moved492 along423 the19 windlass231 , here135 and236 there340 using14 his433 leg331 very515 freely386 , while55 imperturbable363 Bildad492 kept290 leading59 off111 with449 his433 psalmody402 . Thinks344 I482 , Captain295 Peleg375 must226 have254 been185 drinking453 something181 to261 -day112 . At65 last436 the19 anchor141 was454 up405 , the19 sails344 were324 set422 , and236 off111 we465 glided152 . It162 was454 a10 short522 , cold330 Christmas206 ; and236 as113 the19 short522 northern252 day112 merged210 into554 night108 , we465 found260 ourselves15 almost518 broad267 upon419 the19 wintry41 ocean224 , whose286 freezing460 spray76 cased249 us569 in107 ice443 , as113 in107 polished370 armor127 . The19 long544 rows375 of89 teeth82 on392 the19 bulwarks411 glistened424 in107 the19 moonlight122 ; and236 like410 the19 white82 ivory76 tusks85 of89 some265 huge132 elephant72 , vast43 curving23 icicles374 depended178 from316 the19 bows460 . Lank1 Bildad492 , as113 pilot559 , headed124 the19 first13 watch89 , and236 ever208 and236 anon88 , as113 the19 old447 craft187 deep483 dived149 into554 the19 green549 seas350 , and236 sent411 the19 shivering559 frost113 all145 over82 her400 , and236 the19 winds399 howled333 , and236 the19 cordage218 rang418 , his433 steady21 notes45 were324 heard444 ,-- "Sweet417 fields64 beyond421 the19 swelling414 flood167 , Stand530 dressed321 in107 living117 green549 . So281 to261 the19 Jews147 old447 Canaan492 stood1 , While55 Jordan107 rolled226 between77 ." Never206 did444 those427 sweet417 words107 sound181 more348 sweetly92 to261 me2 than77 then45 . They382 were324 full414 of89 hope211 and236 fruition211 . Spite431 of89 this256 frigid499 winter317 night108 in107 the19 boisterous439 Atlantic198 , spite431 of89 my36 wet299 feet349 and236 wetter574 jacket481 , there340 was454 yet443 , it162 then45 seemed132 to261 me2 , many282 a10 pleasant233 haven432 in107 store420 ; and236 meads18 and236 glades83 so281 eternally86 vernal29 , that14 the19 grass418 shot443 up405 by406 the19 spring148 , untrodden341 , unwilted, remains324 at65 midsummer285 . At65 last436 we465 gained290 such420 an138 offing463 , that14 the19 two527 pilots493 were324 needed133 no235 longer559 . The19 stout29 sail218 -boat28 that14 had364 accompanied26 us569 began132 ranging261 alongside540 . It162 was454 curious264 and236 not518 unpleasing95 , how19 Peleg375 and236 Bildad492 were324 affected283 at65 this256 juncture53 , especially371 Captain295 Bildad492 . For190 loath473 to261 depart297 , yet443 ; very515 loath473 to261 leave450 , for190 good221 , a10 ship438 bound108 on392 so281 long544 and236 perilous141 a10 voyage137 --beyond421 both558 stormy115 Capes259 ; a10 ship438 in107 which16 some265 thousands7 of89 his433 hardearned26 dollars201 were324 invested60 ; a10 ship438 , in107 which16 an138 old447 shipmate283 sailed248 as113 captain295 ; a10 man17 almost518 as113 old447 as113 he362 , once248 more348 starting423 to261 encounter250 all145 the19 terrors192 of89 the19 pitiless76 jaw213 ; loath473 to261 say306 good221 -bye356 to261 a10 thing309 so281 every389 way435 brimful262 of89 every389 interest323 to261 him248 ,-- poor533 old447 Bildad492 lingered127 long544 ; paced145 the19 deck505 with449 anxious256 strides423 ; ran391 down133 into554 the19 cabin192 to261 speak337 another269 farewell283 word486 there340 ; again52 came549 on392 deck505 , and236 looked232 to261 windward170 ; looked232 towards417 the19 wide465 and236 endless489 waters556 , only517 bounded239 by406 the19 far258 -off111 unseen173 Eastern86 Continents155 ; looked232 towards417 the19 land406 ; looked232 aloft276 ; looked232 right499 and236 left159 ; looked232 everywhere469 and236 nowhere209 ; and236 at65 last436 , mechanically143 coiling105 a10 rope265 upon419 its234 pin486 , convulsively19 grasped101 stout29 Peleg375 by406 the19 hand252 , and236 holding311 up405 a10 lantern220 , for190 a10 moment258 stood1 gazing117 heroically41 in107 his433 face556 , as113 much61 as113 to261 say306 , "Nevertheless104 , friend179 Peleg375 , I482 can450 stand530 it162 ; yes143 , I482 can450 ." As113 for190 Peleg375 himself282 , he362 took68 it162 more348 like410 a10 philosopher19 ; but330 for190 all145 his433 philosophy14 , there340 was454 a10 tear146 twinkling335 in107 his433 eye220 , when189 the19 lantern220 came549 too11 near70 . And236 he362 , too11 , did444 not518 a10 little554 run172 from316 the19 cabin192 to261 deck505 --now20 a10 word486 below397 , and236 now20 a10 word486 with449 Starbuck, the19 chief156 mate508 . But330 , at65 last436 , he362 turned492 to261 his433 comrade148 , with449 a10 final357 sort42 of89 look523 about123 him248 ,--"Captain295 Bildad492 --come420 , old447 shipmate283 , we465 must226 go20 . Back457 the19 mainyard191 there340 ! Boat439 ahoy26 ! Stand530 by406 to261 come420 close65 alongside540 , now20 ! Careful252 , careful252 !--come420 , Bildad492 , boy110 -- say306 your162 last436 . Luck453 to261 ye483 , Starbuck--luck453 to261 ye483 , Mr219 . Stubb-- luck453 to261 ye483 , Mr219 . Flask199 --good221 -bye356 and236 good221 luck453 to261 ye483 all145 -- and236 this256 day112 three329 years116 I482 'll300 have254 a10 hot424 supper4 smoking470 for190 ye483 in107 old447 Nantucket283 . Hurrah277 and236 away443 !" "God185 bless128 ye483 , and236 have254 ye483 in107 His433 holy61 keeping482 , men62 ," murmured238 old447 Bildad492 , almost518 incoherently27 . "I482 hope211 ye483 'll300 have254 fine333 weather405 now20 , so281 that14 Captain295 Ahab232 may236 soon18 be341 moving316 among483 ye483 --a10 pleasant233 sun397 is487 all145 he362 needs41 , and236 ye483 'll300 have254 plenty406 of89 them146 in107 the19 tropic303 voyage137 ye483 go20 . Be341 careful252 in107 the19 hunt418 , ye483 mates264 . Don280 't500 stave416 the19 boats83 needlessly147 , ye483 harpooneers; good221 white82 cedar330 plank243 is487 raised493 full414 three329 per47 cent443 within503 the19 year347 . Don280 't500 forget426 your162 prayers173 , either45 . Mr219 . Starbuck, mind118 that14 cooper35 don280 't500 waste232 the19 spare295 staves203 . Oh367 ! the19 sail218 -needles379 are314 in107 the19 green549 locker26 . Don280 't500 whale422 it162 too11 much61 a10 ' Lord106 's483 days351 , men62 ; but330 don280 't500 miss89 a10 fair320 chance292 either45 , that14 's76 rejecting388 Heaven163 's483 good221 gifts219 . Have254 an138 eye220 to261 the19 molasses541 tierce384 , Mr219 . Stubb; it162 was454 a10 little554 leaky299 , I482 thought186 . If141 ye483 touch486 at65 the19 islands59 , Mr219 . Flask199 , beware255 of89 fornication4 . Good221 -bye356 , good221 -bye356 ! Don280 't500 keep381 that14 cheese10 too11 long544 down133 in107 the19 hold204 , Mr219 . Starbuck; it162 'll300 spoil181 . Be341 careful252 with449 the19 butter536 --twenty433 cents250 the19 pound77 it162 was454 , and236 mind118 ye483 , if141 --" "Come420 , come420 , Captain295 Bildad492 ; stop48 palavering315 ,--away443 !" and236 with449 that14 , Peleg375 hurried335 him248 over82 the19 side246 , and236 both558 dropt174 into554 the19 boat439 . Ship438 and236 boat439 diverged10 ; the19 cold330 , damp264 night108 breeze227 blew234 between77 ; a10 screaming64 gull8 flew424 overhead7 ; the19 two527 hulls133 wildly356 rolled226 ; we465 gave572 three329 heavy421 -hearted141 cheers416 , and236 blindly219 plunged340 like410 fate74 into554 the19 lone19 Atlantic198 . CHAPTER293 23270 The19 Lee472 Shore280 Some265 chapters185 back457 , one470 Bulkington was454 spoken507 of89 , a10 tall373 , newlanded mariner265 , encountered102 in107 New36 Bedford83 at65 the19 inn190 . When189 on392 that14 shivering559 winter317 's483 night108 , the19 Pequod288 thrust379 her400 vindictive35 bows460 into554 the19 cold330 malicious361 waves443 , who319 should255 I482 see370 standing144 at65 her400 helm285 but330 Bulkington! I482 looked232 with449 sympathetic129 awe305 and236 fearfulness177 upon419 the19 man17 , who319 in107 mid84 -winter317 just108 landed451 from316 a10 four175 years116 ' dangerous2 voyage137 , could375 so281 unrestingly136 push278 off111 again52 for190 still278 another269 tempestuous431 term416 . The19 land406 seemed132 scorching251 to261 his433 feet349 . Wonderfullest things4 are314 ever208 the19 unmentionable83 ; deep483 memories347 yield39 no235 epitaphs329 ; this256 six415 -inch386 chapter293 is487 the19 stoneless336 grave344 of89 Bulkington. Let66 me2 only517 say306 that14 it162 fared499 with449 him248 as113 with449 the19 storm218 -tossed227 ship438 , that14 miserably233 drives269 along423 the19 leeward265 land406 . The19 port409 would282 fain264 give142 succor243 ; the19 port409 is487 pitiful12 ; in107 the19 port409 is487 safety388 , comfort364 , hearthstone157 , supper4 , warm178 blankets363 , friends169 , all145 that14 's76 kind451 to261 our234 mortalities129 . But330 in107 that14 gale440 , the19 port409 , the19 land406 , is487 that14 ship438 's483 direst122 jeopardy95 ; she391 must226 fly324 all145 hospitality137 ; one470 touch486 of89 land406 , though400 it162 but330 graze154 the19 keel39 , would282 make175 her400 shudder17 through295 and236 through295 . With449 all145 her400 might496 she391 crowds451 all145 sail218 off111 shore280 ; in107 so281 doing227 , fights295 'gainst the19 very515 winds399 that14 fain264 would282 blow230 her400 homeward282 ; seeks168 all145 the19 lashed97 sea67 's483 landlessness again52 ; for190 refuge154 's483 sake523 forlornly286 rushing344 into554 peril565 ; her400 only517 friend179 her400 bitterest197 foe479 ! Know60 ye483 now20 , Bulkington? Glimpses446 do353 ye483 seem404 to261 see370 of89 that14 mortally261 intolerable304 truth350 ; that14 all145 deep483 , earnest495 thinking385 is487 but330 the19 intrepid127 effort314 of89 the19 soul428 to261 keep381 the19 open464 independence7 of89 her400 sea67 ; while55 the19 wildest356 winds399 of89 heaven163 and236 earth513 conspire181 to261 cast99 her400 on392 the19 treacherous166 , slavish297 shore280 ? But330 as113 in107 landlessness alone2 resides83 the19 highest575 truth350 , shoreless4 , indefinite376 as113 God185 --so281 better34 is487 it162 to261 perish441 in107 that14 howling204 infinite503 , than77 be341 ingloriously218 dashed304 upon419 the19 lee472 , even198 if141 that14 were324 safety388 ! For190 worm128 -like410 , then45 , oh367 ! who319 would282 craven429 crawl445 to261 land406 ! Terrors192 of89 the19 terrible132 ! is487 all145 this256 agony242 so281 vain216 ? Take279 heart470 , take279 heart470 , O24 Bulkington! Bear48 thee15 grimly226 , demigod266 ! Up405 from316 the19 spray76 of89 thy43 ocean224 -perishing60 --straight346 up405 , leaps575 thy43 apotheosis229 ! CHAPTER293 24475 The19 Advocate147 As113 Queequeg and236 I482 are314 now20 fairly211 embarked262 in107 this256 business168 of89 whaling155 ; and236 as113 this256 business168 of89 whaling155 has399 somehow425 come420 to261 be341 regarded393 among483 landsmen117 as113 a10 rather178 unpoetical161 and236 disreputable55 pursuit305 ; therefore94 , I482 am375 all145 anxiety221 to261 convince154 ye483 , ye483 landsmen117 , of89 the19 injustice380 hereby196 done135 to261 us569 hunters423 of89 whales331 . In107 the19 first13 place107 , it162 may236 be341 deemed17 almost518 superfluous152 to261 establish426 the19 fact12 , that14 among483 people482 at65 large385 , the19 business168 of89 whaling155 is487 not518 accounted480 on392 a10 level378 with449 what243 are314 called237 the19 liberal125 professions295 . If141 a10 stranger233 were324 introduced265 into554 any501 miscellaneous557 metropolitan169 society520 , it162 would282 but330 slightly238 advance70 the19 general37 opinion316 of89 his433 merits446 , were324 he362 presented320 to261 the19 company280 as113 a10 harpooneer, say306 ; and236 if141 in107 emulation221 of89 the19 naval152 officers439 he362 should255 append507 the19 initials426 S483 .W.F. (Sperm26 Whale422 Fishery136 ) to261 his433 visiting402 card351 , such420 a10 procedure276 would282 be341 deemed17 preeminently93 presuming216 and236 ridiculous92 . Doubtless101 one470 leading59 reason238 why177 the19 world126 declines422 honoring23 us569 whalemen451 , is487 this256 : they382 think424 that14 , at65 best315 , our234 vocation408 amounts203 to261 a10 butchering134 sort42 of89 business168 ; and236 that14 when189 actively434 engaged479 therein68 , we465 are314 surrounded75 by406 all145 manner153 of89 defilements395 . Butchers102 we465 are314 , that14 is487 true483 . But330 butchers102 , also119 , and236 butchers102 of89 the19 bloodiest218 badge361 have254 been185 all145 Martial43 Commanders117 whom324 the19 world126 invariably55 delights274 to261 honor497 . And236 as113 for190 the19 matter176 of89 the19 alleged163 uncleanliness25 of89 our234 business168 , ye483 shall66 soon18 be341 initiated161 into554 certain31 facts484 hitherto533 pretty252 generally402 unknown10 , and236 which16 , upon419 the19 whole199 , will584 triumphantly388 plant8 the19 sperm26 whale422 -ship98 at65 least453 among483 the19 cleanliest511 things4 of89 this256 tidy225 earth513 . But330 even198 granting235 the19 charge308 in107 question562 to261 be341 true483 ; what243 disordered181 slippery204 decks386 of89 a10 whale422 -ship98 are314 comparable173 to261 the19 unspeakable4 carrion111 of89 those427 battle105 -fields64 from316 which16 so281 many282 soldiers416 return407 to261 drink117 in107 all145 ladies66 ' plaudits110 ? And236 if141 the19 idea250 of89 peril565 so281 much61 enhances69 the19 popular229 conceit58 of89 the19 soldier274 's483 profession202 ; let66 me2 assure511 ye483 that14 many282 a10 veteran122 who319 has399 freely386 marched158 up405 to261 a10 battery451 , would282 quickly183 recoil516 at65 the19 apparition143 of89 the19 sperm26 whale422 's483 vast43 tail102 , fanning363 into554 eddies354 the19 air209 over82 his433 head219 . For190 what243 are314 the19 comprehensible255 terrors192 of89 man17 compared357 with449 the19 interlinked83 terrors192 and236 wonders115 of89 God185 ! But330 , though400 the19 world126 scouts252 at65 us569 whale422 hunters423 , yet443 does565 it162 unwittingly413 pay496 us569 the19 profoundest320 homage92 ; yea204 , an138 all145 -abounding143 adoration225 ! for190 almost518 all145 the19 tapers362 , lamps310 , and236 candles457 that14 burn118 round287 the19 globe23 , burn118 , as113 before344 so281 many282 shrines292 , to261 our234 glory173 ! But330 look523 at65 this256 matter176 in107 other282 lights59 ; weigh8 it162 in107 all145 sorts354 of89 scales543 ; see370 what243 we465 whalemen451 are314 , and236 have254 been185 . Why177 did444 the19 Dutch325 in107 De404 Witt416 's483 time577 have254 admirals572 of89 their219 whaling155 fleets29 ? Why177 did444 Louis264 XVI8 of89 France54 , at65 his433 own248 personal492 expense465 , fit12 out66 whaling155 ships21 from316 Dunkirk102 , and236 politely322 invite78 to261 that14 town172 some265 score124 or519 two527 of89 families197 from316 our234 own248 island516 of89 Nantucket283 ? Why177 did444 Britain199 between77 the19 years116 1750444 and236 1788201 pay496 to261 her400 whalemen451 in107 bounties83 upwards110 of89 153 ,000,000447 pounds74 ? And236 lastly265 , how19 comes268 it162 that14 we465 whalemen451 of89 America133 now20 outnumber403 all145 the19 rest302 of89 the19 banded9 whalemen451 in107 the19 world126 ; sail218 a10 navy83 of89 upwards110 of89 seven188 hundred93 vessels150 ; manned282 by406 eighteen387 thousand586 men62 ; yearly424 consuming246 00824,000,000 of89 dollars201 ; the19 ships21 worth84 , at65 the19 time577 of89 sailing232 , 20406 ,000,000 dollars201 ; and236 every389 year347 importing92 into554 our234 harbors348 a10 well263 reaped19 harvest38 of89 00847,000,000 dollars201 . How19 comes268 all145 this256 , if141 there340 be341 not518 something181 puissant500 in107 whaling155 ? But330 this256 is487 not518 the19 half119 ; look523 again52 . I482 freely386 assert354 , that14 the19 cosmopolite83 philosopher19 cannot, for190 his433 life71 , point438 out66 one470 single77 peaceful319 influence299 , which16 within503 the19 last436 sixty332 years116 has399 operated201 more348 potentially112 upon419 the19 whole199 broad267 world126 , taken222 in107 one470 aggregate136 , than77 the19 high361 and236 mighty2 business168 of89 whaling155 . One470 way435 and236 another269 , it162 has399 begotten22 events390 so281 remarkable381 in107 themselves510 , and236 so281 continuously410 momentous150 in107 their219 sequential193 issues364 , that14 whaling155 may236 well263 be341 regarded393 as113 that14 Egyptian358 mother276 , who319 bore27 offspring32 themselves510 pregnant182 from316 her400 womb355 . It162 would282 be341 a10 hopeless189 , endless489 task482 to261 catalogue29 all145 these527 things4 . Let66 a10 handful330 suffice137 . For190 many282 years116 past111 the19 whale422 -ship98 has399 been185 the19 pioneer165 in107 ferreting506 out66 the19 remotest95 and236 least453 known86 parts470 of89 the19 earth513 . She391 has399 explored299 seas350 and236 archipelagoes83 which16 had364 no235 chart102 , where579 no235 Cooke454 or519 Vancouver31 had364 ever208 sailed248 . If141 American272 and236 European15 men62 -of89 -war169 now20 peacefully121 ride197 in107 once248 savage398 harbors348 , let66 them146 fire559 salutes240 to261 the19 honor497 and236 glory173 of89 the19 whale422 -ship98 , which16 originally367 showed507 them146 the19 way435 , and236 first13 interpreted386 between77 them146 and236 the19 savages247 . They382 may236 celebrate41 as113 they382 will584 the19 heroes295 of89 Exploring451 Expeditions356 , your162 Cookes142 , Your162 Krusensterns; but330 I482 say306 that14 scores316 of89 anonymous474 Captains124 have254 sailed248 out66 of89 Nantucket283 , that14 were324 as113 great259 , and236 greater505 , than77 your162 Cooke454 and236 your162 Krusenstern. For190 in107 their219 succorless empty450 -handedness, they382 , in107 the19 heathenish320 sharked waters556 , and236 by406 the19 beaches364 of89 unrecorded337 , javelin161 islands59 , battled359 with449 virgin317 wonders115 and236 terrors192 that14 Cooke454 with449 all145 his433 marines294 and236 muskets399 would282 not518 willingly390 have254 willingly390 dared294 . All145 that14 is487 made563 such420 a10 flourish473 of89 in107 the19 old447 South257 Sea67 Voyages368 , those427 things4 were324 but330 the19 life71 -time54 commonplaces95 of89 our234 heroic402 Nantucketers. Often227 , adventures266 which16 Vancouver31 dedicates31 three329 chapters185 to261 , these527 men62 accounted480 unworthy280 of89 being264 set422 down133 in107 the19 ship438 's483 common304 log127 . Ah132 , the19 world126 ! Oh367 , the19 world126 ! Until316 the19 whale422 fishery136 rounded23 Cape23 Horn139 , no235 commerce292 but330 colonial262 , scarcely71 any501 intercourse31 but330 colonial262 , was454 carried232 on392 between77 Europe153 and236 the19 long544 line25 of89 the19 opulent137 Spanish124 provinces415 on392 the19 Pacific294 coast287 . It162 was454 the19 whalemen451 who319 first13 broke356 through295 the19 jealous125 policy422 of89 the19 Spanish124 crown463 , touching80 those427 colonies323 ; and236 , if141 space468 permitted120 , it162 might496 be341 distinctly26 shown446 how19 from316 those427 whalemen451 at65 last436 eventuated117 the19 liberation41 of89 Peru19 , Chili399 , and236 Bolivia107 from316 the19 yoke29 of89 Old447 Spain20 , and236 the19 establishment205 of89 the19 eternal155 democracy386 in107 those427 parts470 . That14 great259 America133 on392 the19 other282 side246 of89 the19 sphere329 , Australia254 , was454 given141 to261 the19 enlightened29 world126 by406 the19 whaleman98 . After358 its234 first13 blunder12 -born236 discovery416 by406 a10 Dutchman26 , all145 other282 ships21 , long544 shunned46 those427 shores116 as113 pestiferously barbarous38 ; but330 the19 whale422 -ship98 touched367 there340 . The19 whale422 -ship98 is487 the19 true483 mother276 of89 that14 now20 mighty2 colony267 . Moreover326 , in107 the19 infancy371 of89 the19 first13 Australian52 settlement323 , the19 emigrants498 were324 several479 times121 saved446 from316 starvation251 by406 the19 benevolent67 biscuit369 of89 the19 whale422 -ship98 luckily443 dropping279 an138 anchor141 in107 their219 waters556 . The19 uncounted391 isles425 of89 all145 Polynesia210 confess315 the19 same541 truth350 , and236 do353 commercial551 homage92 to261 the19 whale422 -ship98 , that14 cleared241 the19 way435 for190 the19 missionary170 and236 the19 merchant332 , and236 in107 many282 cases108 carried232 the19 primitive489 missionaries208 to261 their219 first13 destinations240 . If141 that14 double20 -bolted74 land406 , Japan53 , is487 ever208 to261 become548 hospitable468 , it162 is487 the19 whale422 -ship98 alone2 to261 whom324 the19 credit78 will584 be341 due266 ; for190 already93 she391 is487 on392 the19 threshold21 . But330 if141 , in107 the19 face556 of89 all145 this256 , you227 still278 declare167 that14 whaling155 has399 no235 aesthetically25 noble226 associations212 connected202 with449 it162 , then45 am375 I482 ready464 to261 shiver452 fifty406 lances8 with449 you227 there340 , and236 unhorse23 you227 with449 a10 split148 helmet159 every389 time577 . The19 whale422 has399 no235 famous254 author470 , and236 whaling155 no235 famous254 chronicler13 , you227 will584 say306 . The19 whale422 no235 famous254 author470 , and236 whaling155 no235 famous254 chronicler13 ? Who319 wrote69 the19 first13 account102 of89 our234 Leviathan384 ? Who319 but330 mighty2 Job269 ? And236 who319 composed339 the19 first13 narrative81 of89 a10 whaling155 -voyage137 ? Who319 , but330 no235 less261 a10 prince63 than77 Alfred41 the19 Great259 , who319 , with449 his433 own248 royal161 pen105 , took68 down133 the19 words107 from316 Other282 , the19 Norwegian55 whale422 -hunter287 of89 those427 times121 ! And236 who319 pronounced429 our234 glowing160 eulogy282 in107 Parliament221 ? Who319 , but330 Edmund492 Burke544 ! True483 enough217 , but330 then45 whalemen451 themselves510 are314 poor533 devils377 ; they382 have254 no235 good221 blood208 in107 their219 veins395 . No235 good221 blood208 in107 their219 veins395 ? They382 have254 something181 better34 than77 royal161 blood208 there340 . The19 grandmother519 of89 Benjamin448 Franklin66 was454 Mary221 Morrel19 ; afterwards418 , by406 marriage361 , Mary221 Folger471 , one470 of89 the19 old447 settlers80 of89 Nantucket283 , and236 the19 ancestress59 to261 a10 long544 line25 of89 Folgers and236 harpooneers--all145 kith377 and236 kin197 to261 noble226 Benjamin448 -- this256 day112 darting147 the19 barbed27 iron169 from316 one470 side246 of89 the19 world126 to261 the19 other282 . Good221 again52 ; but330 then45 all145 confess315 that14 somehow425 whaling155 is487 not518 respectable376 . Whaling155 not518 respectable376 ? Whaling155 is487 imperial249 ! By406 old447 English69 statutory360 law231 , the19 whale422 is487 declared29 "a10 royal161 fish187 ." Oh367 , that14 's76 only517 nominal336 ! The19 whale422 himself282 has399 never206 figured201 in107 any501 grand229 imposing365 way435 . The19 whale422 never206 figured201 in107 any501 grand229 imposing365 way435 ? In107 one470 of89 the19 mighty2 triumphs116 given141 to261 a10 Roman333 general37 upon419 his433 entering423 the19 world126 's483 capital154 , the19 bones5 of89 a10 whale422 , brought85 all145 the19 way435 from316 the19 Syrian314 coast287 , were324 the19 most216 conspicuous460 object100 in107 the19 cymballed procession116 .* *See370 subsequent312 chapters185 for190 something181 more348 on392 this256 head219 . Grant328 it162 , since374 you227 cite426 it162 ; but330 say306 what243 you227 will584 , there340 is487 no235 real305 dignity338 in107 whaling155 . No235 dignity338 in107 whaling155 ? The19 dignity338 of89 our234 calling56 the19 very515 heavens494 attest410 . Cetus225 is487 a10 constellation246 in107 the19 South257 ! No235 more348 ! Drive548 down133 your162 hat107 in107 presence492 of89 the19 Czar427 , and236 take279 it162 off111 to261 Queequeg! No235 more348 ! I482 know60 a10 man17 that14 , in107 his433 lifetime3 has399 taken222 three329 hundred93 and236 fifty406 whales331 . I482 account102 that14 man17 more348 honorable15 than77 that14 great259 captain295 of89 antiquity354 who319 boasted346 of89 taking146 as113 many282 walled8 towns120 . And236 , as113 for190 me2 , if141 , by406 any501 possibility237 , there340 be341 any501 as113 yet443 undiscovered136 prime425 thing309 in107 me2 ; if141 I482 shall66 ever208 deserve391 any501 real305 repute174 in107 that14 small350 but330 high361 hushed305 world126 which16 I482 might496 not518 be341 unreasonably213 ambitious28 of89 ; if141 hereafter479 I482 shall66 do353 anything480 that14 , upon419 the19 whole199 , a10 man17 might496 rather178 have254 done135 than77 to261 have254 left159 undone421 ; if141 , at65 my36 death543 , my36 executors14 , or519 more348 properly93 my36 creditors322 , find138 any501 precious234 MSS359 . in107 my36 desk294 , then45 here135 I482 prospectively285 ascribe1 all145 the19 honor497 and236 the19 glory173 to261 whaling155 ; for190 a10 whale422 -ship98 was454 my36 Yale564 College400 and236 my36 Harvard395 . CHAPTER293 25413 Postscript2 In107 behalf189 of89 the19 dignity338 of89 whaling155 , I482 would282 fain264 advance70 naught80 but330 substantiated484 facts484 . But330 after358 embattling his433 facts484 , an138 advocate147 who319 should255 wholly497 suppress208 a10 not518 unreasonable70 surmise159 , which16 might496 tell392 eloquently396 upon419 his433 cause220 --such420 an138 advocate147 , would282 he362 not518 be341 blame337 -worthy60 ? It162 is487 well263 known86 that14 at65 the19 coronation239 of89 kings474 and236 queens431 , even198 modern446 ones396 , a10 certain31 curious264 process29 of89 seasoning249 them146 for190 their219 functions82 is487 gone190 through295 . There340 is487 a10 saltcellar13 of89 state135 , so281 called237 , and236 there340 may236 be341 a10 caster51 of89 state135 . How19 they382 use176 the19 salt183 , precisely217 --who319 knows286 ? Certain31 I482 am375 , however44 , that14 a10 king324 's483 head219 is487 solemnly200 oiled134 at65 his433 coronation239 , even198 as113 a10 head219 of89 salad455 . Can450 it162 be341 , though400 , that14 they382 anoint257 it162 with449 a10 view370 of89 making415 its234 interior163 run172 well263 , as113 they382 anoint257 machinery196 ? Much61 might496 be341 ruminated315 here135 , concerning368 the19 essential124 dignity338 of89 this256 regal203 process29 , because540 in107 common304 life71 we465 esteem304 but330 meanly499 and236 contemptibly38 a10 fellow369 who319 anoints282 his433 hair237 , and236 palpably95 smells422 of89 that14 anointing144 . In107 truth350 , a10 mature368 man17 who319 uses282 hairoil26 , unless54 medicinally147 , that14 man17 has399 probably244 got286 a10 quoggy spot46 in107 him248 somewhere201 . As113 a10 general37 rule393 , he362 can450 't500 amount11 to261 much61 in107 his433 totality160 . But330 the19 only517 thing309 to261 be341 considered484 here135 is487 this256 --what243 kind451 of89 oil118 is487 used102 at65 coronations7 ? Certainly124 it162 cannot be341 olive75 oil118 , nor137 macassar83 oil118 , nor137 castor110 oil118 , nor137 bear48 's483 oil118 , nor137 train127 oil118 , nor137 cod94 -liver442 oil118 . What243 then45 can450 it162 possibly201 be341 , but330 the19 sperm26 oil118 in107 its234 unmanufactured386 , unpolluted273 state135 , the19 sweetest115 of89 all145 oils115 ? Think424 of89 that14 , ye483 loyal146 Britons136 ! we465 whalemen451 supply283 your162 kings474 and236 queens431 with449 coronation239 stuff471 ! CHAPTER293 26425 Knights468 and236 Squires10 The19 chief156 mate508 of89 the19 Pequod288 was454 Starbuck, a10 native399 of89 Nantucket283 , and236 a10 Quaker388 by406 descent181 . He362 was454 a10 long544 , earnest495 man17 , and236 though400 born236 on392 an138 icy155 coast287 , seemed132 well263 adapted263 to261 endure161 hot424 latitudes267 , his433 flesh331 being264 hard337 as113 twice366 -baked115 biscuit369 . Transported546 to261 the19 Indies181 , his433 live554 blood208 would282 not518 spoil181 like410 bottled320 ale213 . He362 must226 have254 been185 born236 in107 some265 time577 of89 general37 drought36 and236 famine460 , or519 upon419 one470 of89 those427 fast208 days351 for190 which16 his433 state135 is487 famous254 . Only517 some265 thirty521 arid11 summers392 had364 he362 seen154 ; those427 summers392 had364 dried331 up405 all145 his433 physical43 superfluousness83 . But330 this256 , his433 thinness217 , so281 to261 speak337 , seemed132 no235 more348 the19 token502 of89 wasting291 anxieties316 and236 cares40 , than77 it162 seemed132 the19 indication557 of89 any501 bodily172 blight303 . It162 was454 merely57 the19 condensation165 of89 the19 man17 . He362 was454 by406 no235 means502 ill236 -looking318 ; quite327 the19 contrary166 . His433 pure61 tight369 skin428 was454 an138 excellent161 fit12 ; and236 closely218 wrapped99 up405 in107 it162 , and236 embalmed59 with449 inner204 health231 and236 strength168 , like410 a10 revivified199 Egyptian358 , this256 Starbuck seemed132 prepared59 to261 endure161 for190 long544 ages146 to261 come420 , and236 to261 endure161 always367 , as113 now20 ; for190 be341 it162 Polar25 snow498 or519 torrid42 sun397 , like410 a10 patent69 chronometer4 , his433 interior163 vitality204 was454 warranted367 to261 do353 well263 in107 all145 climates181 . Looking318 into554 his433 eyes125 , you227 seemed132 to261 see370 there340 the19 yet443 lingering186 images87 of89 those427 thousand586 -fold142 perils140 he362 had364 calmly170 confronted250 through295 life71 . A10 staid419 , steadfast246 man17 , whose286 life71 for190 the19 most216 part207 was454 a10 telling196 pantomime410 of89 action102 , and236 not518 a10 tame13 chapter293 of89 sounds394 . Yet443 , for190 all145 his433 hardy241 sobriety59 and236 fortitude14 , there340 were324 certain31 qualities21 in107 him248 which16 at65 times121 affected283 , and236 in107 some265 cases108 seemed132 well263 nigh254 to261 overbalance413 all145 the19 rest302 . Uncommonly194 conscientious196 for190 a10 seaman166 , and236 endued314 with449 a10 deep483 natural298 reverence255 , the19 wild230 watery59 loneliness75 of89 his433 life71 did444 therefore94 strongly168 incline204 him248 to261 superstition268 ; but330 to261 that14 sort42 of89 superstition268 , which16 in107 some265 organizations549 seems19 rather178 to261 spring148 , somehow425 , from316 intelligence30 than77 from316 ignorance211 . Outward393 portents306 and236 inward337 presentiments88 were324 his433 . And236 if141 at65 times121 these527 things4 bent406 the19 welded102 iron169 of89 his433 soul428 , much61 more348 did444 his433 far258 -away443 domestic303 memories347 of89 his433 young389 Cape23 wife37 and236 child451 , tend151 to261 bend434 him248 still278 more348 from316 the19 original463 ruggedness29 of89 his433 nature159 , and236 open464 him248 still278 further53 to261 those427 latent70 influences232 which16 , in107 some265 honest287 -hearted83 men62 , restrain357 the19 gush203 of89 dare11 -devil41 daring322 , so281 often227 evinced94 by406 others317 in107 the19 more348 perilous141 vicissitudes124 of89 the19 fishery136 . "I482 will584 have254 no235 man17 in107 my36 boat439 ," said252 Starbuck, "who319 is487 not518 afraid248 of89 a10 whale422 ." By406 this256 , he362 seemed132 to261 mean504 , not518 only517 that14 the19 most216 reliable111 and236 useful212 courage48 was454 that14 which16 arises262 from316 the19 fair320 estimation287 of89 the19 encountered102 peril565 , but330 that14 an138 utterly46 fearless132 man17 is487 a10 far258 more348 dangerous2 comrade148 than77 a10 coward92 . "Aye86 , aye86 ," said252 Stubb, the19 second386 mate508 , "Starbuck, there340 , is487 as113 careful252 a10 man17 as113 you227 'll300 find138 anywhere436 in107 this256 fishery136 ." But330 we465 shall66 ere83 long544 see370 what243 that14 word486 "careful252 " precisely217 means502 when189 used102 by406 a10 man17 like410 Stubb, or519 almost518 any501 other282 whale422 hunter287 . Starbuck was454 no235 crusader97 after358 perils140 ; in107 him248 courage48 was454 not518 a10 sentiment44 ; but330 a10 thing309 simply142 useful212 to261 him248 , and236 always367 at65 hand252 upon419 all145 mortally261 practical74 occasions115 . Besides465 , he362 thought186 , perhaps75 , that14 in107 this256 business168 of89 whaling155 , courage48 was454 one470 of89 the19 great259 staple41 outfits88 of89 the19 ship438 , like410 her400 beef303 and236 her400 bread387 , and236 not518 to261 be341 foolishly104 wasted465 . Wherefore220 he362 had364 no235 fancy396 for190 lowering240 for190 whales331 after358 sun397 -down133 ; nor137 for190 persisting301 in107 fighting292 a10 fish187 that14 too11 much61 persisted248 in107 fighting292 him248 . For190 , thought186 Starbuck, I482 am375 here135 in107 this256 critical38 ocean224 to261 kill219 whales331 for190 my36 living117 , and236 not518 to261 be341 killed409 by406 them146 for190 theirs137 ; and236 that14 hundreds458 of89 men62 had364 been185 so281 killed409 Starbuck well263 knew480 . What243 doom73 was454 his433 own248 father339 's483 ? Where579 , in107 the19 bottomless376 deeps192 , could375 he362 find138 the19 torn237 limbs315 of89 his433 brother46 ? With449 memories347 like410 these527 in107 him248 , and236 , moreover326 , given141 to261 a10 certain31 superstitiousness261 , as113 has399 been185 said252 ; the19 courage48 of89 this256 Starbuck, which16 could375 , nevertheless104 , still278 flourish473 , must226 indeed522 have254 been185 extreme31 . But330 it162 was454 not518 in107 reasonable88 nature159 that14 a10 man17 so281 organized95 , and236 with449 such420 terrible132 experiences93 and236 remembrances122 as113 he362 had364 ; it162 was454 not518 in107 nature159 that14 these527 things4 should255 fail126 in107 latently engendering419 an138 element38 in107 him248 , which16 , under533 suitable116 circumstances267 , would282 break483 out66 from316 its234 confinement223 , and236 burn118 all145 his433 courage48 up405 . And236 brave218 as113 he362 might496 be341 , it162 was454 that14 sort42 of89 bravery288 chiefly90 , visible94 in107 some265 intrepid127 men62 , which16 , while55 generally402 abiding217 firm415 in107 the19 conflict13 with449 seas350 , or519 winds399 , or519 whales331 , or519 any501 of89 the19 ordinary225 irrational229 horrors403 of89 the19 world126 , yet443 cannot withstand263 those427 more348 terrific315 , because540 more348 spiritual467 terrors192 , which16 sometimes77 menace11 you227 from316 the19 concentrating348 brow474 of89 an138 enraged19 and236 mighty2 man17 . But330 were324 the19 coming140 narrative81 to261 reveal25 in107 any501 instance141 , the19 complete191 abasement27 of89 poor533 Starbuck's483 fortitude14 , scarce462 might496 I482 have254 the19 heart470 to261 write570 it162 ; for190 it162 is487 a10 thing309 most216 sorrowful323 , nay358 shocking270 , to261 expose58 the19 fall90 of89 valor138 in107 the19 soul428 . Men62 may236 seem404 detestable95 as113 joint65 stock437 -companies201 and236 nations274 ; knaves495 , fools379 , and236 murderers205 there340 may236 be341 ; men62 may236 have254 mean504 and236 meagre438 faces97 ; but330 , man17 , in107 the19 ideal229 , is487 so281 noble226 and236 so281 sparkling42 , such420 a10 grand229 and236 glowing160 creature82 , that14 over82 any501 ignominious70 blemish404 in107 him248 all145 his433 fellows131 should255 run172 to261 throw345 their219 costliest301 robes463 . That14 immaculate129 manliness323 we465 feel461 within503 ourselves15 , so281 far258 within503 us569 , that14 it162 remains324 intact86 though400 all145 the19 outer359 character239 seem404 gone190 ; bleeds180 with449 keenest347 anguish75 at65 the19 undraped8 spectacle250 of89 a10 valor138 -ruined man17 . Nor137 can450 piety389 itself312 , at65 such420 a10 shameful442 sight365 , completely385 stifle10 her400 upbraidings92 against417 the19 permitting66 stars286 . But330 this256 august29 dignity338 I482 treat270 of89 , is487 not518 the19 dignity338 of89 kings474 and236 robes463 , but330 that14 abounding143 dignity338 which16 has399 no235 robed28 investiture256 . Thou173 shalt510 see370 it162 shining40 in107 the19 arm25 that14 wields80 a10 pick447 or519 drives269 a10 spike445 ; that14 democratic122 dignity338 which16 , on392 all145 hands87 , radiates430 without309 end149 from316 God185 ; Himself282 ! The19 great259 God185 absolute105 ! The19 centre389 and236 circumference417 of89 all145 democracy386 ! His433 omnipresence16 , our234 divine216 equality518 ! If141 , then45 , to261 meanest486 mariners347 , and236 renegades20 and236 castaways6 , I482 shall66 hereafter479 ascribe1 high361 qualities21 , though400 dark471 ; weave46 round287 them146 tragic140 graces493 ; if141 even198 the19 most216 mournful113 , perchance306 the19 most216 abased364 , among483 them146 all145 , shall66 at65 times121 lift229 himself282 to261 the19 exalted13 mounts280 ; if141 I482 shall66 touch486 that14 workman94 's483 arm25 with449 some265 ethereal410 light382 ; if141 I482 shall66 spread348 a10 rainbow174 over82 his433 disastrous311 set422 of89 sun397 ; then45 against417 all145 mortal371 critics322 bear48 me2 out66 in107 it162 , thou173 just108 Spirit227 of89 Equality518 , which16 hast174 spread348 one470 royal161 mantle409 of89 humanity95 over82 all145 my36 kind451 ! Bear48 me2 out66 in107 it162 , thou173 great259 democratic122 God185 ! who319 didst317 not518 refuse337 to261 the19 swart32 convict130 , Bunyan22 , the19 pale292 , poetic314 pearl357 ; Thou173 who319 didst317 clothe258 with449 doubly346 hammered193 leaves441 of89 finest66 gold231 , the19 stumped335 and236 paupered306 arm25 of89 old447 Cervantes191 ; Thou173 who319 didst317 pick447 up405 Andrew199 Jackson117 from316 the19 pebbles122 ; who319 didst317 hurl36 him248 upon419 a10 war169 -horse366 ; who319 didst317 thunder356 him248 higher574 than77 a10 throne332 ! Thou173 who319 , in107 all145 Thy43 mighty2 , earthly64 marchings229 , ever208 cullest Thy43 selectest224 champions132 from316 the19 kingly110 commoners83 ; bear48 me2 out66 in107 it162 , O24 God185 ! CHAPTER293 2784 Knights468 and236 Squires10 Stubb was454 the19 second386 mate508 . He362 was454 a10 native399 of89 Cape23 Cod94 ; and236 hence503 , according281 to261 local10 usage454 , was454 called237 a10 Cape23 -Cod94 -man17 . A10 happy416 -go20 -lucky439 ; neither74 craven429 nor137 valiant359 ; taking146 perils140 as113 they382 came549 with449 an138 indifferent255 air209 ; and236 while55 engaged479 in107 the19 most216 imminent22 crisis350 of89 the19 chase89 , toiling371 away443 , calm39 and236 collected472 as113 a10 journeyman59 joiner7 engaged479 for190 the19 year347 . Good221 -humored, easy281 , and236 careless27 , he362 presided88 over82 his433 whaleboat39 as113 if141 the19 most216 deadly49 encounter250 were324 but330 a10 dinner322 , and236 his433 crew126 all145 invited230 guests320 . He362 was454 as113 particular336 about123 the19 comfortable402 arrangements116 of89 his433 part207 of89 the19 boat439 , as113 an138 old447 stage22 -driver49 is487 about123 the19 snugness253 of89 his433 box226 . When189 close65 to261 the19 whale422 , in107 the19 very515 death543 -lock297 of89 the19 fight330 , he362 handled241 his433 unpitying132 lance76 coolly156 and236 off111 -handedly, as113 a10 whistling28 tinker44 his433 hammer364 . He362 would282 hum345 over82 his433 old447 rigadig tunes484 while55 flank434 and236 flank434 with449 the19 most216 exasperated190 monster480 . Long544 usage454 had364 , for190 this256 Stubb, converted260 the19 jaws341 of89 death543 into554 an138 easy281 chair253 . What243 he362 thought186 of89 death543 itself312 , there340 is487 no235 telling196 . Whether454 he362 ever208 thought186 of89 it162 at65 all145 , might496 be341 a10 question562 ; but330 , if141 he362 ever208 did444 chance292 to261 cast99 his433 mind118 that14 way435 after358 a10 comfortable402 dinner322 , no235 doubt71 , like410 a10 good221 sailor561 , he362 took68 it162 to261 be341 a10 sort42 of89 call259 of89 the19 watch89 to261 tumble553 aloft276 , and236 bestir320 themselves510 there340 , about123 something181 which16 he362 would282 find138 out66 when189 he362 obeyed311 the19 order343 , and236 not518 sooner338 . What243 , perhaps75 , with449 other282 things4 , made563 Stubb such420 an138 easy281 -going227 , unfearing454 man17 , so281 cheerily282 trudging241 off111 with449 the19 burden382 of89 life71 in107 a10 world126 full414 of89 grave344 peddlers102 , all145 bowed26 to261 the19 ground127 with449 their219 packs92 ; what243 helped204 to261 bring173 about123 that14 almost518 impious15 good221 -humor368 of89 his433 ; that14 thing309 must226 have254 been185 his433 pipe124 . For190 , like410 his433 nose176 , his433 short522 , black581 little554 pipe124 was454 one470 of89 the19 regular400 features150 of89 his433 face556 . You227 would282 almost518 as113 soon18 have254 expected96 him248 to261 turn17 out66 of89 his433 bunk305 without309 his433 nose176 as113 without309 his433 pipe124 . He362 kept290 a10 whole199 row328 of89 pipes17 there340 ready464 loaded55 , stuck120 in107 a10 rack415 , within503 easy281 reach43 of89 his433 hand252 ; and236 , whenever15 he362 turned492 in107 , he362 smoked60 them146 all145 out66 in107 succession17 , lighting31 one470 from316 the19 other282 to261 the19 end149 of89 the19 chapter293 ; then45 loading23 them146 again52 to261 be341 in107 readiness420 anew262 . For190 , when189 Stubb dressed321 , instead398 of89 first13 putting243 his433 legs108 into554 his433 trowsers206 , he362 put190 his433 pipe124 into554 his433 mouth414 . I482 say306 this256 continual222 smoking470 must226 have254 been185 one470 cause220 , at65 least453 of89 his433 peculiar291 disposition131 ; for190 every389 one470 knows286 that14 this256 earthly64 air209 , whether454 ashore122 or519 afloat2 , is487 terribly356 infected410 with449 the19 nameless427 miseries237 of89 the19 numberless4 mortals72 who319 have254 died575 exhaling21 it162 ; and236 as113 in107 time577 of89 the19 cholera41 , some265 people482 go20 about123 with449 a10 camphorated26 handkerchief286 to261 their219 mouths26 ; so281 , likewise193 , against417 all145 mortal371 tribulations160 , Stubb's483 tobacco331 smoke99 might496 have254 operated201 as113 a10 sort42 of89 disinfecting25 agent360 . The19 third301 mate508 was454 Flask199 , a10 native399 of89 Tisbury, in107 Martha253 's483 Vineyard92 . A10 short522 , stout29 , ruddy359 young389 fellow369 , very515 pugnacious201 concerning368 whales331 , who319 somehow425 seemed132 to261 think424 that14 the19 great259 Leviathans336 had364 personally64 and236 hereditarily203 affronted320 him248 ; and236 therefore94 it162 was454 a10 sort42 of89 point438 of89 honor497 with449 him248 , to261 destroy387 them146 whenever15 encountered102 . So281 utterly46 lost308 was454 he362 to261 all145 sense85 of89 reverence255 for190 the19 many282 marvels25 of89 their219 majestic13 bulk181 and236 mystic455 ways101 ; and236 so281 dead568 to261 anything480 like410 an138 apprehension26 of89 any501 possible277 danger383 from316 encountering332 them146 ; that14 in107 his433 poor533 opinion316 , the19 wondrous30 whale422 was454 but330 a10 species69 of89 magnified140 mouse86 , or519 at65 least453 water520 -rat170 , requiring94 only517 a10 little554 circumvention43 and236 some265 small350 application258 of89 time577 and236 trouble328 in107 order343 to261 kill219 and236 boil217 . This256 ignorant136 , unconscious152 fearlessness359 of89 his433 made563 him248 a10 little554 waggish21 in107 the19 matter176 of89 whales331 ; he362 followed234 these527 fish187 for190 the19 fun347 of89 it162 ; and236 a10 three329 years116 ' voyage137 round287 Cape23 Horn139 was454 only517 a10 jolly50 joke568 that14 lasted135 that14 length202 of89 time577 . As113 a10 carpenter262 's483 nails174 are314 divided469 into554 wrought22 nails174 and236 cut310 nails174 ; so281 mankind40 may236 be341 similarly143 divided469 . Little554 Flask199 was454 one470 of89 the19 wrought22 ones396 ; made563 to261 clinch66 tight369 and236 last436 long544 . They382 called237 him248 King324 -Post2 on392 board540 of89 the19 Pequod288 ; because540 , in107 form238 , he362 could375 be341 well263 likened356 to261 the19 short522 , square302 timber59 known86 by406 that14 name477 in107 Arctic364 whalers116 ; and236 which16 by406 the19 means502 of89 many282 radiating41 side246 timbers125 inserted102 into554 it162 , serves294 to261 brace403 the19 ship438 against417 the19 icy155 concussions21 of89 those427 battering193 seas350 . Now20 these527 three329 mates264 --Starbuck, Stubb and236 Flask199 , were324 momentous150 men62 . They382 it162 was454 who319 by406 universal397 prescription107 commanded571 three329 of89 the19 Pequod288 's483 boats83 as113 headsmen51 . In107 that14 grand229 order343 of89 battle105 in107 which16 Captain295 Ahab232 would282 probably244 marshal192 his433 forces292 to261 descend252 on392 the19 whales331 , these527 three329 headsmen51 were324 as113 captains124 of89 companies13 . Or519 , being264 armed299 with449 their219 long544 keen202 whaling155 spears450 , they382 were324 as113 a10 picked129 trio322 of89 lancers129 ; even198 as113 the19 harpooneers were324 flingers141 of89 javelins245 . And236 since374 in107 this256 famous254 fishery136 , each520 mate508 or519 headsman143 , like410 a10 Gothic157 Knight176 of89 old447 , is487 always367 accompanied26 by406 his433 boat439 -steerer217 or519 harpooneer, who319 in107 certain31 conjunctures211 provides166 him248 with449 a10 fresh540 lance76 , when189 the19 former157 one470 has399 been185 badly36 twisted279 , or519 elbowed41 in107 the19 assault223 ; and236 moreover326 , as113 there340 generally402 subsists480 between77 the19 two527 , a10 close65 intimacy46 and236 friendliness299 ; it162 is487 therefore94 but330 meet16 , that14 in107 this256 place107 we465 set422 down133 who319 the19 Pequod288 's483 harpooneers were324 , and236 to261 what243 headsman143 each520 of89 them146 belonged455 . First13 of89 all145 was454 Queequeg, whom324 Starbuck, the19 chief156 mate508 , had364 selected286 for190 his433 squire527 . But330 Queequeg is487 already93 known86 . Next27 was454 Tashtego, an138 unmixed246 Indian303 from316 Gay323 Head219 , the19 most216 westerly342 promontory273 of89 Martha253 's483 Vineyard92 , where579 there340 still278 exists393 the19 last436 remnant42 of89 a10 village218 of89 red293 men62 , which16 has399 long544 supplied338 the19 neighboring399 island516 of89 Nantucket283 with449 many282 of89 her400 most216 daring322 harpooneers. In107 the19 fishery136 , they382 usually211 go20 by406 the19 generic152 name477 of89 Gay323 -Headers. Tashtego's483 long544 , lean279 , sable275 hair237 , his433 high361 cheek327 bones5 , and236 black581 rounding314 eyes125 --for190 an138 Indian303 , Oriental147 in107 their219 largeness73 , but330 Antarctic141 in107 their219 glittering144 expression115 --all145 this256 sufficiently12 proclaimed473 him248 an138 inheritor110 of89 the19 unvitiated110 blood208 of89 those427 proud108 warrior140 hunters423 , who319 , in107 quest36 of89 the19 great259 New36 England348 moose415 , had364 scoured23 , bow146 in107 hand252 , the19 aboriginal15 forests238 of89 the19 main501 . But330 no235 longer559 snuffing107 in107 the19 trail3 of89 the19 wild230 beasts359 of89 the19 woodland83 , Tashtego now20 hunted439 in107 the19 wake205 of89 the19 great259 whales331 of89 the19 sea67 ; the19 unerring110 harpoon67 of89 the19 son26 fitly104 replacing78 the19 infallible59 arrow44 of89 the19 sires246 . To261 look523 at65 the19 tawny398 brawn359 of89 his433 lithe275 snaky110 limbs315 , you227 would282 almost518 have254 credited66 the19 superstitions128 of89 some265 of89 the19 earlier56 Puritans243 and236 half119 -believed214 this256 wild230 Indian303 to261 be341 a10 son26 of89 the19 Prince63 of89 the19 Powers140 of89 the19 Air209 . Tashtego was454 Stubb the19 second386 mate508 's483 squire527 . Third301 among483 the19 harpooneers was454 Daggoo, a10 gigantic157 , coal127 -black581 negro102 -savage398 , with449 a10 lion84 -like410 tread252 --an138 Ahasuerus196 to261 behold525 . Suspended245 from316 his433 ears560 were324 two527 golden508 hoops170 , so281 large385 that14 the19 sailors64 called237 them146 ringbolts282 , and236 would282 talk173 of89 securing93 the19 top70 -sail218 halyards145 to261 them146 . In107 his433 youth327 Daggoo had364 voluntarily64 shipped26 on392 board540 of89 a10 whaler91 , lying204 in107 a10 lonely137 bay279 on392 his433 native399 coast287 . And236 never206 having69 been185 anywhere436 in107 the19 world126 but330 in107 Africa269 , Nantucket283 , and236 the19 pagan118 harbors348 most216 frequented359 by406 the19 whalemen451 ; and236 having69 now20 led46 for190 many282 years116 the19 bold356 life71 of89 the19 fishery136 in107 the19 ships21 of89 owners208 uncommonly194 heedful133 of89 what243 manner153 of89 men62 they382 shipped26 ; Daggoo retained155 all145 his433 barbaric559 virtues325 , and236 erect245 as113 a10 giraffe173 , moved492 about123 the19 decks386 in107 all145 the19 pomp134 of89 six415 feet349 five103 in107 his433 socks479 . There340 was454 a10 corporeal355 humility165 in107 looking318 up405 at65 him248 ; and236 a10 white82 man17 standing144 before344 him248 seemed132 a10 white82 flag270 come420 to261 beg399 truce328 of89 a10 fortress149 . Curious264 to261 tell392 , this256 imperial249 negro102 , Ahasuerus196 Daggoo, was454 the19 Squire527 of89 little554 Flask199 , who319 looked232 like410 a10 chess-man17 beside276 him248 . As113 for190 the19 residue77 of89 the19 Pequod288 's483 company280 , be341 it162 said252 , that14 at65 the19 present112 day112 not518 one470 in107 two527 of89 the19 many282 thousand586 men62 before344 the19 mast44 employed263 in107 the19 American272 whale422 fishery136 , are314 Americans81 born236 , though400 pretty252 nearly575 all145 the19 officers439 are314 . Herein264 it162 is487 the19 same541 with449 the19 American272 whale422 fishery136 as113 with449 the19 American272 army32 and236 military317 and236 merchant332 navies27 , and236 the19 engineering29 forces292 employed263 in107 the19 construction22 of89 the19 American272 Canals87 and236 Railroads322 . The19 same541 , I482 say306 , because540 in107 all145 these527 cases108 the19 native399 American272 literally37 provides166 the19 brains279 , the19 rest302 of89 the19 world126 as113 generously403 supplying447 the19 muscles101 . No235 small350 number196 of89 these527 whaling155 seamen6 belong243 to261 the19 Azores273 , where579 the19 outward393 bound108 Nantucket283 whalers116 frequently475 touch486 to261 augment41 their219 crews559 from316 the19 hardy241 peasants89 of89 those427 rocky218 shores116 . In107 like410 manner153 , the19 Greenland110 whalers116 sailing232 out66 of89 Hull323 or519 London41 , put190 in107 at65 the19 Shetland155 Islands59 , to261 receive327 the19 full414 complement142 of89 their219 crew126 . Upon419 the19 passage285 homewards290 , they382 drop22 them146 there340 again52 . How19 it162 is487 , there340 is487 no235 telling196 , but330 Islanders279 seem404 to261 make175 the19 best315 whalemen451 . They382 were324 nearly575 all145 Islanders279 in107 the19 Pequod288 , Isolatoes too11 , I482 call259 such420 , not518 acknowledging117 the19 common304 continent120 of89 men62 , but330 each520 Isolato living117 on392 a10 separate495 continent120 of89 his433 own248 . Yet443 now20 , federated44 along423 one470 keel39 , what243 a10 set422 these527 Isolatoes were324 ! An138 Anacharsis25 Clootz29 deputation121 from316 all145 the19 isles425 of89 the19 sea67 , and236 all145 the19 ends301 of89 the19 earth513 , accompanying371 Old447 Ahab232 in107 the19 Pequod288 to261 lay62 the19 world126 's483 grievances143 before344 that14 bar144 from316 which16 not518 very515 many282 of89 them146 ever208 come420 back457 . Black581 Little554 Pip238 -- he362 never206 did444 --oh367 , no235 ! he362 went516 before344 . Poor533 Alabama175 boy110 ! On392 the19 grim19 Pequod288 's483 forecastle367 , ye483 shall66 ere83 long544 see370 him248 , beating124 his433 tambourine197 ; prelusive140 of89 the19 eternal155 time577 , when189 sent411 for190 , to261 the19 great259 quarter6 -deck505 on392 high361 , he362 was454 bid171 strike374 in107 with449 angels29 , and236 beat449 his433 tambourine197 in107 glory173 ; called237 a10 coward92 here135 , hailed411 a10 hero213 there340 ! CHAPTER293 2867 Ahab232 For190 several479 days351 after358 leaving231 Nantucket283 , nothing324 above502 hatches4 was454 seen154 of89 Captain295 Ahab232 . The19 mates264 regularly37 relieved158 each520 other282 at65 the19 watches458 , and236 for190 aught26 that14 could375 be341 seen154 to261 the19 contrary166 , they382 seemed132 to261 be341 the19 only517 commanders117 of89 the19 ship438 ; only517 they382 sometimes77 issued146 from316 the19 cabin192 with449 orders199 so281 sudden309 and236 peremptory212 , that14 after358 all145 it162 was454 plain28 they382 but330 commanded571 vicariously356 . Yes143 , their219 supreme160 lord106 and236 dictator388 was454 there340 , though400 hitherto533 unseen173 by406 any501 eyes125 not518 permitted120 to261 penetrate140 into554 the19 now20 sacred32 retreat506 of89 the19 cabin192 . Every389 time577 I482 ascended302 to261 the19 deck505 from316 my36 watches458 below397 , I482 instantly186 gazed13 aft2 to261 mark169 if141 any501 strange440 face556 were324 visible94 ; for190 my36 first13 vague70 disquietude340 touching80 the19 unknown10 captain295 , now20 in107 the19 seclusion124 of89 the19 sea67 became70 almost518 a10 perturbation261 . This256 was454 strangely155 heightened53 at65 times121 by406 the19 ragged244 Elijah160 's483 diabolical340 incoherences41 uninvitedly recurring252 to261 me2 , with449 a10 subtle143 energy182 I482 could375 not518 have254 before344 conceived276 of89 . But330 poorly128 could375 I482 withstand263 them146 , much61 as113 in107 other282 moods4 I482 was454 almost518 ready464 to261 smile265 at65 the19 solemn303 whimsicalities336 of89 that14 outlandish292 prophet25 of89 the19 wharves329 . But330 whatever38 it162 was454 of89 apprehensiveness4 or519 uneasiness307 --to261 call259 it162 so281 -- which16 I482 felt440 , yet443 whenever15 I482 came549 to261 look523 about123 me2 in107 the19 ship438 , it162 seemed132 against417 all145 warranty347 to261 cherish181 such420 emotions205 . For190 though400 the19 harpooneers, with449 the19 great259 body348 of89 the19 crew126 , were324 a10 far258 more348 barbaric559 , heathenish320 , and236 motley122 set422 than77 any501 of89 the19 tame13 merchant332 -ship438 companies13 which16 my36 previous376 experiences93 had364 made563 me2 acquainted78 with449 , still278 I482 ascribed344 this256 --and236 rightly90 ascribed344 it162 --to261 the19 fierce394 uniqueness31 of89 the19 very515 nature159 of89 that14 wild230 Scandinavian69 vocation408 in107 which16 I482 had364 so281 abandonedly186 embarked262 . But330 it162 was454 especially371 the19 aspect147 of89 the19 three329 chief156 officers439 of89 the19 ship438 , the19 mates264 , which16 was454 most216 forcibly252 calculated321 to261 allay84 these527 colorless305 misgivings217 , and236 induce237 confidence46 and236 cheerfulness42 in107 every389 presentment534 of89 the19 voyage137 . Three329 better34 , more348 likely181 sea67 -officers439 and236 men62 , each520 in107 his433 own248 different276 way435 , could375 not518 readily467 be341 found260 , and236 they382 were324 every389 one470 of89 them146 Americans81 ; a10 Nantucketer, a10 Vineyarder, a10 Cape23 man17 . Now20 , it162 being264 Christmas206 when189 the19 ship438 shot443 from316 out66 her400 harbor289 , for190 a10 space468 we465 had364 biting29 Polar25 weather405 , though400 all145 the19 time577 running296 away443 from316 it162 to261 the19 southward161 ; and236 by406 every389 degree209 and236 minute236 of89 latitude258 which16 we465 sailed248 , gradually355 leaving231 that14 merciless439 winter317 , and236 all145 its234 intolerable304 weather405 behind80 us569 . It162 was454 one470 of89 those427 less261 lowering240 , but330 still278 grey491 and236 gloomy340 enough217 mornings144 of89 the19 transition59 , when189 with449 a10 fair320 wind262 the19 ship438 was454 rushing344 through295 the19 water520 with449 a10 vindictive35 sort42 of89 leaping397 and236 melancholy398 rapidity266 , that14 as113 I482 mounted191 to261 the19 deck505 at65 the19 call259 of89 the19 forenoon92 watch89 , so281 soon18 as113 I482 levelled126 my36 glance362 towards417 the19 taffrail83 , foreboding243 shivers127 ran391 over82 me2 . Reality214 outran266 apprehension26 ; Captain295 Ahab232 stood1 upon419 his433 quarter6 -deck505 . There340 seemed132 no235 sign8 of89 common304 bodily172 illness219 about123 him248 , nor137 of89 the19 recovery405 from316 any501 . He362 looked232 like410 a10 man17 cut310 away443 from316 the19 stake156 , when189 the19 fire559 has399 overrunningly wasted465 all145 the19 limbs315 without309 consuming246 them146 , or519 taking146 away443 one470 particle26 from316 their219 compacted137 aged361 robustness9 . His433 whole199 high361 , broad267 form238 , seemed132 made563 of89 solid494 bronze25 , and236 shaped151 in107 an138 unalterable27 mould208 , like410 Cellini35 's483 cast99 Perseus170 . Threading143 its234 way435 out66 from316 among483 his433 grey491 hairs47 , and236 continuing215 right499 down133 one470 side246 of89 his433 tawny398 scorched253 face556 and236 neck239 , till181 it162 disappeared5 in107 his433 clothing217 , you227 saw113 a10 slender122 rod216 -like410 mark169 , lividly41 whitish362 . It162 resembled172 that14 perpendicular83 seam414 sometimes77 made563 in107 the19 straight346 , lofty161 trunk389 of89 a10 great259 tree482 , when189 the19 upper403 lightning171 tearingly darts337 down133 it162 , and236 without309 wrenching361 a10 single77 twig25 , peels143 and236 grooves189 out66 the19 bark223 from316 top70 to261 bottom461 ere83 running296 off111 into554 the19 soil430 , leaving231 the19 tree482 still278 greenly422 alive298 , but330 branded474 . Whether454 that14 mark169 was454 born236 with449 him248 , or519 whether454 it162 was454 the19 scar101 left159 by406 some265 desperate316 wound342 , no235 one470 could375 certainly124 say306 . By406 some265 tacit180 consent55 , throughout159 the19 voyage137 little554 or519 no235 allusion88 was454 made563 to261 it162 , especially371 by406 the19 mates264 . But330 once248 Tashtego's483 senior52 , an138 old447 Gay323 -Head219 Indian303 among483 the19 crew126 , superstitiously253 asserted128 that14 not518 till181 he362 was454 full414 forty525 years116 old447 did444 Ahab232 become548 that14 way435 branded474 , and236 then45 it162 came549 upon419 him248 , not518 in107 the19 fury30 of89 any501 mortal371 fray92 , but330 in107 an138 elemental419 strife557 at65 sea67 . Yet443 , this256 wild230 hint335 seemed132 inferentially444 negatived210 , by406 what243 a10 grey491 Manxman insinuated471 , an138 old447 sepulchral15 man17 , who319 , having69 never206 before344 sailed248 out66 of89 Nantucket283 , had364 never206 ere83 this256 laid181 eye220 upon419 wild230 Ahab232 . Nevertheless104 , the19 old447 sea67 -traditions489 , the19 immemorial52 credulities83 , popularly301 invested60 this256 old447 Manxman with449 preternatural385 powers140 of89 discernment273 . So281 that14 no235 white82 sailor561 seriously378 contradicted142 him248 when189 he362 said252 that14 if141 ever208 Captain295 Ahab232 should255 be341 tranquilly83 laid181 out66 -- which16 might496 hardly182 come420 to261 pass153 , so281 he362 muttered180 --then45 , whoever23 should255 do353 that14 last436 office256 for190 the19 dead568 , would282 find138 a10 birth215 -mark202 on392 him248 from316 crown463 to261 sole462 . So281 powerfully83 did444 the19 whole199 grim19 aspect147 of89 Ahab232 affect298 me2 , and236 the19 livid283 brand441 which16 streaked389 it162 , that14 for190 the19 first13 few49 moments434 I482 hardly182 noted414 that14 not518 a10 little554 of89 this256 overbearing285 grimness70 was454 owing98 to261 the19 barbaric559 white82 leg331 upon419 which16 he362 partly311 stood1 . It162 had364 previously250 come420 to261 me2 that14 this256 ivory76 leg331 had364 at65 sea67 been185 fashioned432 from316 the19 polished370 bone184 of89 the19 sperm26 whale422 's483 jaw213 . "Aye86 , he362 was454 dismasted331 off111 Japan53 ," said252 the19 old447 Gay323 -Head219 Indian303 once248 ; "but330 like410 his433 dismasted331 craft187 , he362 shipped26 another269 mast44 without309 coming140 home450 for190 it162 . He362 has399 a10 quiver38 of89 'em." I482 was454 struck441 with449 the19 singular216 posture347 he362 maintained345 . Upon419 each520 side246 of89 the19 Pequod288 's483 quarter6 deck505 , and236 pretty252 close65 to261 the19 mizzen4 shrouds264 , there340 was454 an138 auger327 hole73 , bored480 about123 half119 an138 inch65 or519 so281 , into554 the19 plank243 . His433 bone184 leg331 steadied26 in107 that14 hole73 ; one470 arm25 elevated541 , and236 holding311 by406 a10 shroud260 ; Captain295 Ahab232 stood1 erect245 , looking318 straight346 out66 beyond421 the19 ship438 's483 ever208 -pitching143 prow451 . There340 was454 an138 infinity259 of89 firmest57 fortitude14 , a10 determinate102 , unsurrenderable wilfulness460 , in107 the19 fixed564 and236 fearless132 , forward364 dedication503 of89 that14 glance362 . Not518 a10 word486 he362 spoke185 ; nor137 did444 his433 officers439 say306 aught26 to261 him248 ; though400 by406 all145 their219 minutest332 gestures258 and236 expressions292 , they382 plainly450 showed507 the19 uneasy137 , if141 not518 painful355 , consciousness539 of89 being264 under533 a10 troubled327 master131 -eye220 . And236 not518 only517 that14 , but330 moody447 stricken328 Ahab232 stood1 before344 them146 with449 a10 crucifixion460 in107 his433 face556 ; in107 all145 the19 nameless427 regal203 overbearing285 dignity338 of89 some265 mighty2 woe295 . Ere83 long544 , from316 his433 first13 visit229 in107 the19 air209 , he362 withdrew400 into554 his433 cabin192 . But330 after358 that14 morning417 , he362 was454 every389 day112 visible94 to261 the19 crew126 ; either45 standing144 in107 his433 pivot-hole73 , or519 seated158 upon419 an138 ivory76 stool144 he362 had364 ; or519 heavily227 walking523 the19 deck505 . As113 the19 sky331 grew5 less261 gloomy340 ; indeed522 , began132 to261 grow163 a10 little554 genial173 , he362 became70 still278 less261 and236 less261 a10 recluse180 ; as113 if141 , when189 the19 ship438 had364 sailed248 from316 home450 , nothing324 but330 the19 dead568 wintry41 bleakness341 of89 the19 sea67 had364 then45 kept290 him248 so281 secluded332 . And236 , by406 and236 by406 , it162 came549 to261 pass153 , that14 he362 was454 almost518 continually303 in107 the19 air209 ; but330 , as113 yet443 , for190 all145 that14 he362 said252 , or519 perceptibly266 did444 , on392 the19 at65 last436 sunny200 deck505 , he362 seemed132 as113 unnecessary444 there340 as113 another269 mast44 . But330 the19 Pequod288 was454 only517 making415 a10 passage285 now20 ; not518 regularly37 cruising298 ; nearly575 all145 whaling155 preparatives57 needing143 supervision18 the19 mates264 were324 fully530 competent348 to261 , so281 that14 there340 was454 little554 or519 nothing324 , out66 of89 himself282 , to261 employ161 or519 excite292 Ahab232 , now20 ; and236 thus362 chase89 away443 , for190 that14 one470 interval114 , the19 clouds342 that14 layer296 upon419 layer296 were324 piled126 upon419 his433 brow474 , as113 ever208 all145 clouds342 choose147 the19 loftiest460 peaks19 to261 pile312 themselves510 upon419 . Nevertheless104 , ere83 long544 , the19 warm178 , warbling41 persuasiveness249 of89 the19 pleasant233 , holiday57 weather405 we465 came549 to261 , seemed132 gradually355 to261 charm251 him248 from316 his433 mood547 . For190 , as113 when189 the19 red293 -cheeked, dancing192 girls388 , April431 and236 May236 , trip345 home450 to261 the19 wintry41 , misanthropic5 woods29 ; even198 the19 barest258 , ruggedest, most216 thunder356 -cloven26 old447 oak170 will584 at65 least453 send536 forth152 some265 few49 green549 sprouts350 , to261 welcome2 such420 gladhearted visitants128 ; so281 Ahab232 did444 , in107 the19 end149 , a10 little554 respond243 to261 the19 playful85 allurings of89 that14 girlish182 air209 . More348 than77 once248 did444 he362 put190 forth152 the19 faint316 blossom98 of89 a10 look523 , which16 , in107 any501 other282 man17 , would282 have254 soon18 flowered306 out66 in107 a10 smile265 . CHAPTER293 2918 Enter204 Ahab232 ; to261 Him248 , Stubb Some265 days351 elapsed172 , and236 ice443 and236 icebergs210 all145 astern39 , the19 Pequod288 now20 went516 rolling253 through295 the19 bright205 Quito25 spring148 , which16 at65 sea67 , almost518 perpetually292 reigns388 on392 the19 threshold21 of89 the19 eternal155 August29 of89 the19 Tropic303 . The19 warmly129 cool102 , clear408 , ringing461 perfumed451 , overflowing49 , redundant172 days351 , were324 as113 crystal344 goblets402 of89 Persian23 sherbet280 , heaped211 up405 -- flaked290 up405 , with449 rose449 -water16 snow498 . The19 starred311 and236 stately344 nights224 seemed132 haughty459 dames244 in107 jewelled10 velvets15 , nursing439 at65 home450 in107 lonely137 pride279 , the19 memory333 of89 their219 absent122 conquering261 Earls237 , the19 golden508 helmeted85 suns350 ! For190 sleeping341 man17 , 'twas hard337 to261 choose147 between77 such420 winsome237 days351 and236 such420 seducing137 nights224 . But330 all145 the19 witcheries102 of89 that14 unwaning weather405 did444 not518 merely57 lend31 new36 spells38 and236 potencies356 to261 the19 outward393 world126 . Inward337 they382 turned492 upon419 the19 soul428 , especially371 when189 the19 still278 mild117 hours127 of89 eve245 came549 on392 ; then45 , memory333 shot443 her400 crystals429 as113 the19 clear408 ice443 most216 forms48 of89 noiseless21 twilights364 . And236 all145 these527 subtle143 agencies23 , more348 and236 more348 they382 wrought22 on392 Ahab232 's483 texture506 . Old447 age157 is487 always367 wakeful264 ; as113 if141 , the19 longer559 linked155 with449 life71 , the19 less261 man17 has399 to261 do353 with449 aught26 that14 looks150 like410 death543 . Among483 sea67 -commanders117 , the19 old447 greybeards249 will584 oftenest303 leave450 their219 berths83 to261 visit229 the19 night108 -cloaked deck505 . It162 was454 so281 with449 Ahab232 ; only517 that14 now20 , of89 late351 , he362 seemed132 so281 much61 to261 live554 in107 the19 open464 air209 , that14 truly530 speaking22 , his433 visits444 were324 more348 to261 the19 cabin192 , than77 from316 the19 cabin192 to261 the19 planks284 . "It162 feels450 like410 going227 down133 into554 one470 's483 tomb122 ,"--he362 would282 mutter125 to261 himself282 --"for190 an138 old447 captain295 like410 me2 to261 be341 descending181 this256 narrow140 scuttle27 , to261 go20 to261 my36 grave344 -dug165 berth283 ." So281 , almost518 every389 twenty433 -four175 hours127 , when189 the19 watches458 of89 the19 night108 were324 set422 , and236 the19 band541 on392 deck505 sentinelled359 the19 slumbers18 of89 the19 band541 below397 ; and236 when189 if141 a10 rope265 was454 to261 be341 hauled80 upon419 the19 forecastle367 , the19 sailors64 flung255 it162 not518 rudely442 down133 , as113 by406 day112 , but330 with449 some265 cautiousness568 dropt174 it162 to261 its234 place107 for190 fear103 of89 disturbing236 their219 slumbering107 shipmates98 ; when189 this256 sort42 of89 steady21 quietude171 would282 begin183 to261 prevail206 , habitually336 , the19 silent382 steersman290 would282 watch89 the19 cabin192 -scuttle27 ; and236 ere83 long544 the19 old447 man17 would282 emerge369 , gripping516 at65 the19 iron169 banister25 , to261 help526 his433 crippled480 way435 . Some265 considering115 touch486 of89 humanity95 was454 in107 him248 ; for190 at65 times121 like410 these527 , he362 usually211 abstained353 from316 patrolling303 the19 quarter6 -deck505 ; because540 to261 his433 wearied229 mates264 , seeking427 repose463 within503 six415 inches301 of89 his433 ivory76 heel105 , such420 would282 have254 been185 the19 reverberating445 crack83 and236 din190 of89 that14 bony23 step204 , that14 their219 dreams299 would282 have254 been185 of89 the19 crunching48 teeth82 of89 sharks206 . But330 once248 , the19 mood547 was454 on392 him248 too11 deep483 for190 common304 regardings; and236 as113 with449 heavy421 , lumber314 -like410 pace384 he362 was454 measuring446 the19 ship438 from316 taffrail83 to261 mainmast323 , Stubb, the19 old447 second386 mate508 , came549 up405 from316 below397 , and236 with449 a10 certain31 unassured315 , deprecating436 humorousness210 , hinted253 that14 if141 Captain295 Ahab232 was454 pleased282 to261 walk405 the19 planks284 , then45 , no235 one470 could375 say306 nay358 ; but330 there340 might496 be341 some265 way435 of89 muffling379 the19 noise254 ; hinting73 something181 indistinctly70 and236 hesitatingly407 about123 a10 globe23 of89 tow160 , and236 the19 insertion86 into554 it162 , of89 the19 ivory76 heel105 . Ah132 ! Stubb, thou173 didst317 not518 know60 Ahab232 then45 . "Am375 I482 a10 cannon515 -ball141 , Stubb," said252 Ahab232 , "that14 thou173 wouldst30 wad352 me2 that14 fashion467 ? But330 go20 thy43 ways101 ; I482 had364 forgot526 . Below397 to261 thy43 nightly322 grave344 ; where579 such420 as113 ye483 sleep233 between77 shrouds264 , to261 use176 ye483 to261 the19 filling330 one470 at65 last436 .--Down133 , dog322 , and236 kennel325 !" Starting423 at65 the19 unforeseen249 concluding84 exclamation156 of89 the19 so281 suddenly193 scornful34 old447 man17 , Stubb was454 speechless225 a10 moment258 ; then45 said252 excitedly536 , "I482 am375 not518 used102 to261 be341 spoken507 to261 that14 way435 , sir271 ; I482 do353 but330 less261 than77 half119 like410 it162 , sir271 ." "Avast279 ! gritted367 Ahab232 between77 his433 set422 teeth82 , and236 violently340 moving316 away443 , as113 if141 to261 avoid444 some265 passionate480 temptation518 . "No235 , sir271 ; not518 yet443 ," said252 Stubb, emboldened29 , "I482 will584 not518 tamely43 be341 called237 a10 dog322 , sir271 ." "Then45 be341 called237 ten198 times121 a10 donkey16 , and236 a10 mule461 , and236 an138 ass448 , and236 begone52 , or519 I482 'll300 clear408 the19 world126 of89 thee15 !" As113 he362 said252 this256 , Ahab232 advanced55 upon419 him248 with449 such420 overbearing285 terrors192 in107 his433 aspect147 , that14 Stubb involuntarily124 retreated173 . "I482 was454 never206 served460 so281 before344 without309 giving207 a10 hard337 blow230 for190 it162 ," muttered180 Stubb, as113 he362 found260 himself282 descending181 the19 cabin192 -scuttle27 . "It162 's483 very515 queer156 . Stop48 , Stubb; somehow425 , now20 , I482 don280 't500 well263 know60 whether454 to261 go20 back457 and236 strike374 him248 , or519 --what243 's483 that14 ?-- down133 here135 on392 my36 knees214 and236 pray311 for190 him248 ? Yes143 , that14 was454 the19 thought186 coming140 up405 in107 me2 ; but330 it162 would282 be341 the19 first13 time577 I482 ever208 did444 pray311 . It162 's483 queer156 ; very515 queer156 ; and236 he362 's483 queer156 too11 ; aye86 , take279 him248 fore259 and236 aft2 , he362 's483 about123 the19 queerest452 old447 man17 Stubb ever208 sailed248 with449 . How19 he362 flashed479 at65 me2 !--his433 eyes125 like410 powder5 -pans330 ! is487 he362 mad235 ! Anyway368 there340 's483 something181 's483 on392 his433 mind118 , as113 sure41 as113 there340 must226 be341 something181 on392 a10 deck505 when189 it162 cracks292 . He362 aint142 in107 his433 bed273 now20 , either45 , more348 than77 three329 hours127 out66 of89 the19 twenty433 -four175 ; and236 he362 don280 't500 sleep233 then45 . Didn't500 that14 Dough-Boy110 , the19 steward82 , tell392 me2 that14 of89 a10 morning417 he362 always367 finds455 the19 old447 man17 's415 hammock323 clothes98 all145 rumpled26 and236 tumbled494 , and236 the19 sheets281 down133 at65 the19 foot467 , and236 the19 coverlid110 almost518 tied101 into554 knots438 , and236 the19 pillow376 a10 sort42 of89 frightful190 hot424 , as113 though400 a10 baked115 brick335 had364 been185 on392 it162 ? A10 hot424 old447 man17 ! I482 guess304 he362 's483 got286 what243 some265 folks6 ashore122 call259 a10 conscience75 ; it162 's483 a10 kind451 of89 Tic-Dolly-row328 they382 say306 -- worse561 nor137 a10 toothache191 . Well263 , well263 ; I482 don280 't500 know60 what243 it162 is487 , but330 the19 Lord106 keep381 me2 from316 catching263 it162 . He362 's483 full414 of89 riddles322 ; I482 wonder76 what243 he362 goes205 into554 the19 after358 hold204 for190 , every389 night108 , as113 Dough-Boy110 tells449 me2 he362 suspects117 ; what243 's483 that14 for190 , I482 should255 like410 to261 know60 ? Who319 's483 made563 appointments480 with449 him248 in107 the19 hold204 ? Ain't500 that14 queer156 , now20 ? But330 there340 's483 no235 telling196 , it162 's483 the19 old447 game233 -- Here135 goes205 for190 a10 snooze83 . Damn468 me2 , it162 's483 worth84 a10 fellow369 's483 while55 to261 be341 born236 into554 the19 world126 , if141 only517 to261 fall90 right499 asleep492 . And236 now20 that14 I482 think424 of89 it162 , that14 's76 about123 the19 first13 thing309 babies181 do353 , and236 that14 's76 a10 sort42 of89 queer156 , too11 . Damn468 me2 , but330 all145 things4 are314 queer156 , come420 to261 think424 of89 'em. But330 that14 's76 against417 my36 principles420 . Think424 not518 , is487 my36 eleventh185 commandment422 ; and236 sleep233 when189 you227 can450 , is487 my36 twelfth359 --So281 here135 goes205 again52 . But330 how19 's483 that14 ? didn't500 he362 call259 me2 a10 dog322 ? blazes541 ! he362 called237 me2 ten198 times121 a10 donkey16 , and236 piled126 a10 lot167 of89 jackasses80 on392 top70 of89 that14 ! He362 might496 as113 well263 have254 kicked153 me2 , and236 done135 with449 it162 . Maybe92 he362 did444 kick16 me2 , and236 I482 didn't500 observe213 it162 , I482 was454 so281 taken222 all145 aback23 with449 his433 brow474 , somehow425 . It162 flashed479 like410 a10 bleached80 bone184 . What243 the19 devil411 's483 the19 matter176 with449 me2 ? I482 don280 't500 stand530 right499 on392 my36 legs108 . Coming140 afoul55 of89 that14 old447 man17 has399 a10 sort42 of89 turned492 me2 wrong70 side246 out66 . By406 the19 Lord106 , I482 must226 have254 been185 dreaming47 , though400 --How19 ? how19 ? how19 ?-- but330 the19 only517 way435 's483 to261 stash it162 ; so281 here135 goes205 to261 hammock323 again52 ; and236 in107 the19 morning417 , I482 'll300 see370 how19 this256 plaguey280 juggling259 thinks344 over82 by406 daylight155 ." CHAPTER293 30292 The19 Pipe124 When189 Stubb had364 departed467 , Ahab232 stood1 for190 a10 while55 leaning559 over82 the19 bulwarks411 ; and236 then45 , as113 had364 been185 usual278 with449 him248 of89 late351 , calling56 a10 sailor561 of89 the19 watch89 , he362 sent411 him248 below397 for190 his433 ivory76 stool144 , and236 also119 his433 pipe124 . Lighting31 the19 pipe124 at65 the19 binnacle98 lamp330 and236 planting362 the19 stool144 on392 the19 weather405 side246 of89 the19 deck505 , he362 sat77 and236 smoked60 . In107 old447 Norse162 times121 , the19 thrones15 of89 the19 sea67 -loving309 Danish208 kings474 were324 fabricated433 , saith419 tradition400 , of89 the19 tusks85 of89 the19 narwhale362 . How19 could375 one470 look523 at65 Ahab232 then45 , seated158 on392 that14 tripod337 of89 bones5 , without309 bethinking40 him248 of89 the19 royalty283 it162 symbolized261 ? For190 a10 Khan38 of89 the19 plank243 , and236 a10 king324 of89 the19 sea67 and236 a10 great259 lord106 of89 Leviathans336 was454 Ahab232 . Some265 moments434 passed87 , during309 which16 the19 thick502 vapor85 came549 from316 his433 mouth414 in107 quick241 and236 constant149 puffs136 , which16 blew234 back457 again52 into554 his433 face556 . "How19 now20 ," he362 soliloquized336 at65 last436 , withdrawing152 the19 tube295 , "this256 smoking470 no235 longer559 soothes111 . Oh367 , my36 pipe124 ! hard337 must226 it162 go20 with449 me2 if141 thy43 charm251 be341 gone190 ! Here135 have254 I482 been185 unconsciously59 toiling371 , not518 pleasuring105 -- aye86 , and236 ignorantly136 smoking470 to261 windward170 all145 the19 while55 ; to261 windward170 , and236 with449 such420 nervous154 whiffs260 , as113 if141 , like410 the19 dying69 whale422 , my36 final357 jets6 were324 the19 strongest426 and236 fullest82 of89 trouble328 . What243 business168 have254 I482 with449 this256 pipe124 ? This256 thing309 that14 is487 meant157 for190 sereneness83 , to261 send536 up405 mild117 white82 vapors99 among483 mild117 white82 hairs47 , not518 among483 torn237 iron169 -grey491 locks445 like410 mine482 . I482 'll300 smoke99 no235 more348 -" He362 tossed227 the19 still278 lighted422 pipe124 into554 the19 sea67 . The19 fire559 hissed29 in107 the19 waves443 ; the19 same541 instant279 the19 ship438 shot443 by406 the19 bubble81 the19 sinking60 pipe124 made563 . With449 slouched364 hat107 , Ahab232 lurchingly paced145 the19 planks284 . CHAPTER293 31313 Queen443 Mab43 Next27 morning417 Stubb accosted137 Flask199 . "Such420 a10 queer156 dream86 , King324 -Post2 , I482 never206 had364 . You227 know60 the19 old447 man17 's415 ivory76 leg331 , well263 I482 dreamed44 he362 kicked153 me2 with449 it162 ; and236 when189 I482 tried73 to261 kick16 back457 , upon419 my36 soul428 , my36 little554 man17 , I482 kicked153 my36 leg331 right499 off111 ! And236 then45 , presto204 ! Ahab232 seemed132 a10 pyramid310 , and236 I482 like410 a10 blazing232 fool5 , kept290 kicking116 at65 it162 . But330 what243 was454 still278 more348 curious264 , Flask199 --you227 know60 how19 curious264 all145 dreams299 are314 --through295 all145 this256 rage293 that14 I482 was454 in107 , I482 somehow425 seemed132 to261 be341 thinking385 to261 myself99 , that14 after358 all145 , it162 was454 not518 much61 of89 an138 insult38 , that14 kick16 from316 Ahab232 . 'Why177 ,' thinks344 I482 , 'what243 's483 the19 row328 ? It162 's483 not518 a10 real305 leg331 , only517 a10 false490 one470 .' And236 there340 's483 a10 mighty2 difference3 between77 a10 living117 thump421 and236 a10 dead568 thump421 . That14 's76 what243 makes32 a10 blow230 from316 the19 hand252 , Flask199 , fifty406 times121 more348 savage398 to261 bear48 than77 a10 blow230 from316 a10 cane69 . The19 living117 member333 -- that14 makes32 the19 living117 insult38 , my36 little554 man17 . And236 thinks344 I482 to261 myself99 all145 the19 while55 , mind118 , while55 I482 was454 stubbing43 my36 silly314 toes557 against417 that14 cursed441 pyramid310 --so281 confoundedly479 contradictory189 was454 it162 all145 , all145 the19 while55 , I482 say306 , I482 was454 thinking385 to261 myself99 , 'what243 's483 his433 leg331 now20 , but330 a10 cane69 -. a10 whale422 -bone184 cane69 . Yes143 ,' thinks344 I482 , 'it162 was454 only517 a10 playful85 cudgelling316 --in107 fact12 , only517 a10 whaleboning that14 he362 gave572 me2 -- not518 a10 base258 kick16 . Besides465 ,' thinks344 I482 , 'look523 at65 it162 once248 ; why177 , the19 end149 of89 it162 --the19 foot467 part207 --what243 a10 small350 sort42 of89 end149 it162 is487 ; whereas18 , if141 a10 broad267 footed83 farmer67 kicked153 me2 , there340 's483 a10 devilish181 broad267 insult38 . But330 this256 insult38 is487 whittled4 down133 to261 a10 point438 only517 .' But330 now20 comes268 the19 greatest479 joke568 of89 the19 dream86 , Flask199 . While55 I482 was454 battering193 away443 at65 the19 pyramid310 , a10 sort42 of89 badger-haired old447 merman289 , with449 a10 hump20 on392 his433 back457 , takes362 me2 by406 the19 shoulders476 , and236 slews26 me2 round287 . 'What243 are314 you227 'bout?' says424 he362 . Slid132 ! man17 , but330 I482 was454 frightened172 . Such420 a10 phiz41 ! But330 , somehow425 , next27 moment258 I482 was454 over82 the19 fright18 . 'What243 am375 I482 about123 ?' says424 I482 at65 last436 . 'And236 what243 business168 is487 that14 of89 yours256 , I482 should255 like410 to261 know60 , Mr219 . Humpback295 ? Do353 you227 want350 a10 kick16 ?' By406 the19 lord106 , Flask199 , I482 had364 no235 sooner338 said252 that14 , than77 he362 turned492 round287 his433 stern442 to261 me2 , bent406 over82 , and236 dragging248 up405 a10 lot167 of89 seaweed60 he362 had364 for190 a10 clout450 --what243 do353 you227 think424 , I482 saw113 ?--why177 thunder356 alive298 , man17 , his433 stern442 was454 stuck120 full414 of89 marlinspikes, with449 the19 points245 out66 . Says424 I482 on392 second386 thought186 , 'I482 guess304 I482 won't500 kick16 you227 , old447 fellow369 .' 'Wise16 Stubb,' said252 he362 , 'wise16 Stubb;' and236 kept290 muttering403 it162 all145 the19 time577 , a10 sort42 of89 eating22 of89 his433 own248 gums172 like410 a10 chimney94 hag141 . Seeing426 he362 wasn't500 going227 to261 stop48 saying9 over82 his433 'wise16 Stubb, wise16 Stubb,' I482 thought186 I482 might496 as113 well263 fall90 to261 kicking116 the19 pyramid310 again52 . But330 I482 had364 only517 just108 lifted448 my36 foot467 for190 it162 , when189 he362 roared315 out66 , 'Stop48 that14 kicking116 !' 'Halloa83 ,' says424 I482 , 'what243 's483 the19 matter176 now20 , old447 fellow369 ?' 'Look523 ye483 here135 ,' says424 he362 ; 'let66 's483 argue69 the19 insult38 . Captain295 Ahab232 kicked153 ye483 , didn't500 he362 ?' 'Yes143 , he362 did444 ,' says424 I482 --'right499 here135 it162 was454 .' 'Very515 good221 ,' says424 he362 --'he362 used102 his433 ivory76 leg331 , didn't500 he362 ?' 'Yes143 , he362 did444 ,' says424 I482 . 'Well263 then45 ,' says424 he362 , 'wise16 Stubb, what243 have254 you227 to261 complain185 of89 ? Didn't500 he362 kick16 with449 right499 good221 will584 ? it162 wasn't500 a10 common304 pitch115 pine54 leg331 he362 kicked153 with449 , was454 it162 ? No235 , you227 were324 kicked153 by406 a10 great259 man17 , and236 with449 a10 beautiful239 ivory76 leg331 , Stubb. It162 's483 an138 honor497 ; I482 consider259 it162 an138 honor497 . Listen417 , wise16 Stubb. In107 old447 England348 the19 greatest479 lords410 think424 it162 great259 glory173 to261 be341 slapped105 by406 a10 queen443 , and236 made563 garter-knights468 of89 ; but330 , be341 your162 boast335 , Stubb, that14 ye483 were324 kicked153 by406 old447 Ahab232 , and236 made563 a10 wise16 man17 of89 . Remember499 what243 I482 say306 ; be341 kicked153 by406 him248 ; account102 his433 kicks370 honors251 ; and236 on392 no235 account102 kick16 back457 ; for190 you227 can450 't500 help526 yourself176 , wise16 Stubb. Don280 't500 you227 see370 that14 pyramid310 ?' With449 that14 , he362 all145 of89 a10 sudden309 seemed132 somehow425 , in107 some265 queer156 fashion467 , to261 swim226 off111 into554 the19 air209 . I482 snored85 ; rolled226 over82 ; and236 there340 I482 was454 in107 my36 hammock323 ! Now20 , what243 do353 you227 think424 of89 that14 dream86 , Flask199 ?" "I482 don280 't500 know60 ; it162 seems19 a10 sort42 of89 foolish509 to261 me2 , tho84 .'" "May236 be341 ; may236 be341 . But330 it162 's483 made563 a10 wise16 man17 of89 me2 , Flask199 . D67 'ye163 see370 Ahab232 standing144 there340 , sideways496 looking318 over82 the19 stern442 ? Well263 , the19 best315 thing309 you227 can450 do353 , Flask199 , is487 to261 let66 the19 old447 man17 alone2 ; never206 speak337 to261 him248 , whatever38 he362 says424 . Halloa83 ! What243 's483 that14 he362 shouts240 ? Hark313 !" "Mast44 -head116 , there340 ! Look523 sharp427 , all145 of89 ye483 ! There340 are314 whales331 hereabouts116 ! If141 ye483 see370 a10 white82 one470 , split148 your162 lungs40 for190 him248 ! "What243 do353 you227 think424 of89 that14 now20 , Flask199 ? ain't500 there340 a10 small350 drop22 of89 something181 queer156 about123 that14 , eh76 ? A10 white82 whale422 --did444 ye483 mark169 that14 , man17 ? Look523 ye483 --there340 's483 something181 special326 in107 the19 wind262 . Stand530 by406 for190 it162 , Flask199 . Ahab232 has399 that14 that14 's76 bloody357 on392 his433 mind118 . But330 , mum17 ; he362 comes268 this256 way435 ." CHAPTER293 32182 Cetology Already93 we465 are314 boldly445 launched336 upon419 the19 deep483 ; but330 soon18 we465 shall66 be341 lost308 in107 its234 unshored harborless4 immensities402 . Ere83 that14 come420 to261 pass153 ; ere83 the19 Pequod288 's483 weedy513 hull323 rolls475 side246 by406 side246 with449 the19 barnacled hulls133 of89 the19 leviathan384 ; at65 the19 outset350 it162 is487 but330 well263 to261 attend120 to261 a10 matter176 almost518 indispensable470 to261 a10 thorough98 appreciative117 understanding523 of89 the19 more348 special326 leviathanic revelations103 and236 allusions117 of89 all145 sorts354 which16 are314 to261 follow408 . It162 is487 some265 systematized210 exhibition77 of89 the19 whale422 in107 his433 broad267 genera6 , that14 I482 would282 now20 fain264 put190 before344 you227 . Yet443 is487 it162 no235 easy281 task482 . The19 classification425 of89 the19 constituents277 of89 a10 chaos133 , nothing324 less261 is487 here135 essayed25 . Listen417 to261 what243 the19 best315 and236 latest523 authorities322 have254 laid181 down133 . "No235 branch384 of89 Zoology40 is487 so281 much61 involved149 as113 that14 which16 is487 entitled189 Cetology," says424 Captain295 Scoresby, A10 .D236 . 1820209 . "It162 is487 not518 my36 intention272 , were324 it162 in107 my36 power145 , to261 enter204 into554 the19 inquiry339 as113 to261 the19 true483 method146 of89 dividing306 the19 cetacea6 into554 groups92 and236 families197 .... Utter270 confusion495 exists393 among483 the19 historians162 of89 this256 animal22 " (sperm26 whale422 ), says424 Surgeon135 Beale27 , A10 .D236 . 1839386 . "Unfitness348 to261 pursue426 our234 research51 in107 the19 unfathomable420 waters556 ." "Impenetrable219 veil69 covering24 our234 knowledge270 of89 the19 cetacea6 ." "A10 field275 strewn9 with449 thorns63 ." "All145 these527 incomplete222 indications180 but330 serve269 to261 torture59 us569 naturalists140 ." Thus362 speak337 of89 the19 whale422 , the19 great259 Cuvier158 , and236 John416 Hunter287 , and236 Lesson147 , those427 lights59 of89 zoology40 and236 anatomy334 . Nevertheless104 , though400 of89 real305 knowledge270 there340 be341 little554 , yet443 of89 books525 there340 are314 a10 plenty406 ; and236 so281 in107 some265 small350 degree209 , with449 cetology, or519 the19 science317 of89 whales331 . Many282 are314 the19 men62 , small350 and236 great259 , old447 and236 new36 , landsmen117 and236 seamen6 , who319 have254 at65 large385 or519 in107 little554 , written388 of89 the19 whale422 . Run172 over82 a10 few49 :-- The19 Authors244 of89 the19 Bible253 ; Aristotle107 ; Pliny159 ; Aldrovandi25 ; Sir271 Thomas116 Browne400 ; Gesner161 ; Ray105 ; Linnaeus161 ; Rondeletius; Willoughby136 ; Green549 ; Artedi; Sibbald76 ; Brisson27 ; Marten25 ; Lacepede155 ; Bonneterre; Desmarest111 ; Baron361 Cuvier158 ; Frederick107 Cuvier158 ; John416 Hunter287 ; Owen129 ; Scoresby; Beale27 ; Bennett39 ; J115 . Ross386 Browne400 ; the19 Author470 of89 Miriam251 Coffin284 ; Olmstead80 ; and236 the19 Rev51 . T500 . Cheever152 . But330 to261 what243 ultimate221 generalizing22 purpose514 all145 these527 have254 written388 , the19 above502 cited102 extracts173 will584 show460 . Of89 the19 names360 in107 this256 list576 of89 whale422 authors244 only517 those427 following181 Owen129 ever208 saw113 living117 whales331 ; and236 but330 one470 of89 them146 was454 a10 real305 professional357 harpooneer and236 whaleman98 . I482 mean504 Captain295 Scoresby. On392 the19 separate495 subject382 of89 the19 Greenland110 or519 right499 -whale422 , he362 is487 the19 best315 existing15 authority146 . But330 Scoresby knew480 nothing324 and236 says424 nothing324 of89 the19 great259 sperm26 whale422 , compared357 with449 which16 the19 Greenland110 whale422 is487 almost518 unworthy280 mentioning124 . And236 here135 be341 it162 said252 , that14 the19 Greenland110 whale422 is487 an138 usurper224 upon419 the19 throne332 of89 the19 seas350 . He362 is487 not518 even198 by406 any501 means502 the19 largest139 of89 the19 whales331 . Yet443 , owing98 to261 the19 long544 priority165 of89 his433 claims273 , and236 the19 profound371 ignorance211 which16 till181 some265 seventy156 years116 back457 , invested60 the19 then45 fabulous335 and236 utterly46 unknown10 sperm26 -whale422 , and236 which16 ignorance211 to261 this256 present112 day112 still278 reigns388 in107 all145 but330 some265 few49 scientific435 retreats431 and236 whale422 -ports92 ; this256 usurpation110 has399 been185 every389 way435 complete191 . Reference116 to261 nearly575 all145 the19 leviathanic allusions117 in107 the19 great259 poets5 of89 past111 days351 , will584 satisfy75 you227 that14 the19 Greenland110 whale422 , without309 one470 rival315 , was454 to261 them146 the19 monarch410 of89 the19 seas350 . But330 the19 time577 has399 at65 last436 come420 for190 a10 new36 proclamation531 . This256 is487 Charing468 Cross416 ; hear386 ye483 ! good221 people482 all145 ,--the19 Greenland110 whale422 is487 deposed105 ,-- the19 great259 sperm26 whale422 now20 reigneth203 ! There340 are314 only517 two527 books525 in107 being264 which16 at65 all145 pretend493 to261 put190 the19 living117 sperm26 whale422 before344 you227 , and236 at65 the19 same541 time577 , in107 the19 remotest95 degree209 succeed441 in107 the19 attempt385 . Those427 books525 are314 Beale27 's483 and236 Bennett39 's483 ; both558 in107 their219 time577 surgeons101 to261 the19 English69 South257 -Sea67 whale422 -ships21 , and236 both558 exact408 and236 reliable111 men62 . The19 original463 matter176 touching80 the19 sperm26 whale422 to261 be341 found260 in107 their219 volumes158 is487 necessarily136 small350 ; but330 so281 far258 as113 it162 goes205 , it162 is487 of89 excellent161 quality127 , though400 mostly190 confined185 to261 scientific435 description396 . As113 yet443 , however44 , the19 sperm26 whale422 , scientific435 or519 poetic314 , lives245 not518 complete191 in107 any501 literature529 . Far258 above502 all145 other282 hunted439 whales331 , his433 is487 an138 unwritten223 life71 . Now20 the19 various183 species69 of89 whales331 need32 some265 sort42 of89 popular229 comprehensive152 classification425 , if141 only517 an138 easy281 outline242 one470 for190 the19 present112 , hereafter479 to261 be341 filled232 in107 all145 -outward393 its234 departments53 by406 subsequent312 laborers247 . As113 no235 better34 man17 advances510 to261 take279 this256 matter176 in107 hand252 , I482 hereupon163 offer422 my36 own248 poor533 endeavors212 . I482 promise461 nothing324 complete191 ; because540 any501 human43 thing309 supposed423 to261 be341 complete191 must226 for190 that14 very515 reason238 infallibly426 be341 faulty84 . I482 shall66 not518 pretend493 to261 a10 minute236 anatomical68 description396 of89 the19 various183 species69 , or519 --in107 this256 space468 at65 least453 -- to261 much61 of89 any501 description396 . My36 object100 here135 is487 simply142 to261 project158 the19 draught246 of89 a10 systematization362 of89 cetology. I482 am375 the19 architect557 , not518 the19 builder377 . But330 it162 is487 a10 ponderous213 task482 ; no235 ordinary225 letter539 -sorter in107 the19 Post2 -Office256 is487 equal261 to261 it162 . To261 grope65 down133 into554 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 sea67 after358 them146 ; to261 have254 one470 's483 hands87 among483 the19 unspeakable4 foundations499 , ribs92 , and236 very515 pelvis258 of89 the19 world126 ; this256 is487 a10 fearful183 thing309 . What243 am375 I482 that14 I482 should255 essay355 to261 hook157 the19 nose176 of89 this256 leviathan384 ! The19 awful539 tauntings102 in107 Job269 might496 well263 appal180 me2 . "Will584 he362 (the19 leviathan384 ) make175 a10 covenant356 with449 thee15 ? Behold525 the19 hope211 of89 him248 is487 vain216 ! But330 I482 have254 swam111 through295 libraries413 and236 sailed248 through295 oceans60 ; I482 have254 had364 to261 do353 with449 whales331 with449 these527 visible94 hands87 ; I482 am375 in107 earnest495 ; and236 I482 will584 try266 . There340 are314 some265 preliminaries133 to261 settle92 . First13 : The19 uncertain396 , unsettled222 condition62 of89 this256 science317 of89 Cetology is487 in107 the19 very515 vestibule183 attested83 by406 the19 fact12 , that14 in107 some265 quarters336 it162 still278 remains324 a10 moot267 point438 whether454 a10 whale422 be341 a10 fish187 . In107 his433 System480 of89 Nature159 , A10 .D236 . 1776117 , Linnaeus161 declares242 , "I482 hereby196 separate495 the19 whales331 from316 the19 fish187 ." But330 of89 my36 own248 knowledge270 , I482 know60 that14 down133 to261 the19 year347 1850451 , sharks206 and236 shad8 , alewives and236 herring26 , against417 Linnaeus161 's483 express91 edict165 , were324 still278 found260 dividing306 the19 possession379 of89 the19 same541 seas350 with449 the19 Leviathan384 . The19 grounds448 upon419 which16 Linnaeus161 would282 fain264 have254 banished50 the19 whales331 from316 the19 waters556 , he362 states443 as113 follows195 : "On392 account102 of89 their219 warm178 bilocular heart470 , their219 lungs40 , their219 movable261 eyelids302 , their219 hollow511 ears560 , penem362 intrantem555 feminam26 mammis555 lactantem," and236 finally69 , "ex144 lege494 naturae454 jure234 meritoque499 ." I482 submitted52 all145 this256 to261 my36 friends169 Simeon9 Macey315 and236 Charley466 Coffin284 , of89 Nantucket283 , both558 messmates20 of89 mine482 in107 a10 certain31 voyage137 , and236 they382 united419 in107 the19 opinion316 that14 the19 reasons186 set422 forth152 were324 altogether31 insufficient120 . Charley466 profanely125 hinted253 they382 were324 humbug223 . Be341 it162 known86 that14 , waiving199 all145 argument195 , I482 take279 the19 good221 old447 fashioned432 ground127 that14 the19 whale422 is487 a10 fish187 , and236 call259 upon419 holy61 Jonah41 to261 back457 me2 . This256 fundamental399 thing309 settled540 , the19 next27 point438 is487 , in107 what243 internal241 respect441 does565 the19 whale422 differ22 from316 other282 fish187 . Above502 , Linnaeus161 has399 given141 you227 those427 items18 . But330 in107 brief59 they382 are314 these527 : lungs40 and236 warm178 blood208 ; whereas18 , all145 other282 fish187 are314 lungless and236 cold330 blooded466 . Next27 : how19 shall66 we465 define79 the19 whale422 , by406 his433 obvious147 externals202 , so281 as113 conspicuously303 to261 label23 him248 for190 all145 time577 to261 come420 . To261 be341 short522 , then45 , a10 whale422 is487 a10 spouting81 fish187 with449 a10 horizontal252 tail102 . There340 you227 have254 him248 . However44 contracted355 , that14 definition1 is487 the19 result115 of89 expanded507 meditation21 . A10 walrus111 spouts75 much61 like410 a10 whale422 , but330 the19 walrus111 is487 not518 a10 fish187 , because540 he362 is487 amphibious423 . But330 the19 last436 term416 of89 the19 definition1 is487 still278 more348 cogent222 , as113 coupled83 with449 the19 first13 . Almost518 any501 one470 must226 have254 noticed157 that14 all145 the19 fish187 familiar139 to261 landsmen117 have254 not518 a10 flat445 , but330 a10 vertical397 , or519 up405 -and236 -down71 tail102 . Whereas18 , among483 spouting81 fish187 the19 tail102 , though400 it162 may236 be341 similarly143 shaped151 , invariably55 assumes88 a10 horizontal252 position383 . By406 the19 above502 definition1 of89 what243 a10 whale422 is487 , I482 do353 by406 no235 means502 exclude221 from316 the19 leviathanic brotherhood138 any501 sea67 creature82 hitherto533 identified168 with449 the19 whale422 by406 the19 best315 informed16 Nantucketers; nor137 , on392 the19 other282 hand252 , link389 with449 it162 any501 fish187 hitherto533 authoritatively235 regarded393 as113 alien8 .* Hence503 , all145 the19 smaller236 , spouting81 and236 horizontal252 tailed141 fish187 must226 be341 included559 in107 this256 ground127 -plan99 of89 Cetology. Now20 , then45 , come420 the19 grand229 divisions239 of89 the19 entire230 whale422 host5 . *I482 am375 aware174 that14 down133 to261 the19 present112 time577 , the19 fish187 styled154 Lamatins and236 Dugongs111 (Pig241 -fish187 and236 Sow144 -fish187 of89 the19 Coffins259 of89 Nantucket283 ) are314 included559 by406 many282 naturalists140 among483 the19 whales331 . But330 as113 these527 pig241 -fish187 are314 a10 noisy122 , contemptible178 set422 , mostly190 lurking89 in107 the19 mouths26 of89 rivers320 , and236 feeding367 on392 wet299 hay515 , and236 especially371 as113 they382 do353 not518 spout224 , I482 deny346 their219 credentials102 as113 whales331 ; and236 have254 presented320 them146 with449 their219 passports191 to261 quit295 the19 Kingdom221 of89 Cetology. First13 : According281 to261 magnitude203 I482 divide80 the19 whales331 into554 three329 primary27 BOOKS525 (subdivisible into554 CHAPTERS185 ), and236 these527 shall66 comprehend301 them146 all145 , both558 small350 and236 large385 . I482 . THE19 FOLIO172 WHALE422 ; II38 . the19 OCTAVO244 WHALE422 ; III167 . the19 DUODECIMO221 WHALE422 . As113 the19 type271 of89 the19 FOLIO172 I482 present112 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 ; of89 the19 OCTAVO244 , the19 Grampus31 ; of89 the19 DUODECIMO221 , the19 Porpoise487 . FOLIOS335 . Among483 these527 I482 here135 include38 the19 following181 chapters185 :-- I482 . The19 Sperm26 Whale422 ; II38 . the19 Right499 Whale422 ; III167 . the19 Fin286 Back457 Whale422 ; IV299 . the19 Humpbacked417 Whale422 ; V303 . the19 Razor471 Back457 Whale422 ; VI481 . the19 Sulphur155 Bottom461 Whale422 . BOOK230 I482 . (Folio172 ), CHAPTER293 I482 . (Sperm26 Whale422 ).--This256 whale422 , among483 the19 English69 of89 old447 vaguely230 known86 as113 the19 Trumpa whale422 and236 the19 Physeter314 whale422 , and236 the19 Anvil314 Headed124 whale422 , is487 the19 present112 Cachalot4 of89 the19 French491 , and236 the19 Pottsfich of89 the19 Germans190 , and236 the19 Macrocephalus25 of89 the19 Long544 Words107 . He362 is487 , without309 doubt71 , the19 largest139 inhabitant4 of89 the19 globe23 ; the19 most216 formidable150 of89 all145 whales331 to261 encounter250 ; the19 most216 majestic13 in107 aspect147 ; and236 lastly265 , by406 far258 the19 most216 valuable72 in107 commerce292 ; he362 being264 the19 only517 creature82 from316 which16 that14 valuable72 substance316 , spermaceti283 , is487 obtained186 . All145 his433 peculiarities38 will584 , in107 many282 other282 places423 , be341 enlarged2 upon419 . It162 is487 chiefly90 with449 his433 name477 that14 I482 now20 have254 to261 do353 . Philologically306 considered484 , it162 is487 absurd142 . Some265 centuries168 ago141 , when189 the19 Sperm26 whale422 was454 almost518 wholly497 unknown10 in107 his433 own248 proper249 individuality15 , and236 when189 his433 oil118 was454 only517 accidentally166 obtained186 from316 the19 stranded299 fish187 ; in107 those427 days351 spermaceti283 , it162 would282 seem404 , was454 popularly301 supposed423 to261 be341 derived494 from316 a10 creature82 identical351 with449 the19 one470 then45 known86 in107 England348 as113 the19 Greenland110 or519 Right499 Whale422 . It162 was454 the19 idea250 also119 , that14 this256 same541 spermaceti283 was454 that14 quickening60 humor368 of89 the19 Greenland110 Whale422 which16 the19 first13 syllable374 of89 the19 word486 literally37 expresses79 . In107 those427 times121 , also119 , spermaceti283 was454 exceedingly257 scarce462 , not518 being264 used102 for190 light382 , but330 only517 as113 an138 ointment63 and236 medicament88 . It162 was454 only517 to261 be341 had364 from316 the19 druggists454 as113 you227 nowadays444 buy105 an138 ounce275 of89 rhubarb42 . When189 , as113 I482 opine27 , in107 the19 course171 of89 time577 , the19 true483 nature159 of89 spermaceti283 became70 known86 , its234 original463 name477 was454 still278 retained155 by406 the19 dealers93 ; no235 doubt71 to261 enhance262 its234 value567 by406 a10 notion266 so281 strangely155 significant143 of89 its234 scarcity284 . And236 so281 the19 appellation84 must226 at65 last436 have254 come420 to261 be341 bestowed157 upon419 the19 whale422 from316 which16 this256 spermaceti283 was454 really406 derived494 . BOOK230 I482 . (Folio172 ), CHAPTER293 II38 . (Right499 Whale422 ).--In107 one470 respect441 this256 is487 the19 most216 venerable57 of89 the19 leviathans336 , being264 the19 one470 first13 regularly37 hunted439 by406 man17 . It162 yields124 the19 article58 commonly431 known86 as113 whalebone290 or519 baleen25 ; and236 the19 oil118 specially87 known86 as113 "whale422 oil118 ," an138 inferior84 article58 in107 commerce292 . Among483 the19 fishermen24 , he362 is487 indiscriminately398 designated41 by406 all145 the19 following181 titles363 : The19 Whale422 ; the19 Greenland110 Whale422 ; the19 Black581 Whale422 ; the19 Great259 Whale422 ; the19 True483 Whale422 ; the19 Right499 Whale422 . There340 is487 a10 deal543 of89 obscurity413 concerning368 the19 Identity124 of89 the19 species69 thus362 multitudinously22 baptized225 . What243 then45 is487 the19 whale422 , which16 I482 include38 in107 the19 second386 species69 of89 my36 Folios335 ? It162 is487 the19 Great259 Mysticetus of89 the19 English69 naturalists140 ; the19 Greenland110 Whale422 of89 the19 English69 Whalemen451 ; the19 Baliene Ordinaire25 of89 the19 French491 whalemen451 ; the19 Growlands Walfish25 of89 the19 Swedes157 . It162 is487 the19 whale422 which16 for190 more348 than77 two527 centuries168 past111 has399 been185 hunted439 by406 the19 Dutch325 and236 English69 in107 the19 Arctic364 seas350 ; it162 is487 the19 whale422 which16 the19 American272 fishermen24 have254 long544 pursued460 in107 the19 Indian303 ocean224 , on392 the19 Brazil36 Banks145 , on392 the19 Nor137 ' West569 Coast287 , and236 various183 other282 parts470 of89 the19 world126 , designated41 by406 them146 Right499 Whale422 Cruising298 Grounds448 . Some265 pretend493 to261 see370 a10 difference3 between77 the19 Greenland110 whale422 of89 the19 English69 and236 the19 right499 whale422 of89 the19 Americans81 . But330 they382 precisely217 agree578 in107 all145 their219 grand229 features150 ; nor137 has399 there340 yet443 been185 presented320 a10 single77 determinate102 fact12 upon419 which16 to261 ground127 a10 radical292 distinction301 . It162 is487 by406 endless489 subdivisions189 based391 upon419 the19 most216 inconclusive426 differences248 , that14 some265 departments53 of89 natural298 history183 become548 so281 repellingly180 intricate227 . The19 right499 whale422 will584 be341 elsewhere154 treated277 of89 at65 some265 length202 , with449 reference116 to261 elucidating296 the19 sperm26 whale422 . BOOK230 I482 . (Folio172 ), CHAPTER293 III167 . (Fin286 -Back457 ).--Under533 this256 head219 I482 reckon270 a10 monster480 which16 , by406 the19 various183 names360 of89 Fin286 -Back457 , Tall373 -Spout224 , and236 Long544 -John416 , has399 been185 seen154 almost518 in107 every389 sea67 and236 is487 commonly431 the19 whale422 whose286 distant353 jet423 is487 so281 often227 descried313 by406 passengers368 crossing402 the19 Atlantic198 , in107 the19 New36 York523 packet339 -tracks. In107 the19 length202 he362 attains106 , and236 in107 his433 baleen25 , the19 Fin286 -back457 resembles215 the19 right499 whale422 , but330 is487 of89 a10 less261 portly149 girth106 , and236 a10 lighter415 color13 , approaching271 to261 olive75 . His433 great259 lips585 present112 a10 cable41 -like410 aspect147 , formed294 by406 the19 intertwisting83 , slanting522 folds367 of89 large385 wrinkles318 . His433 grand229 distinguishing306 feature400 , the19 fin286 , from316 which16 he362 derives306 his433 name477 , is487 often227 a10 conspicuous460 object100 . This256 fin286 is487 some265 three329 or519 four175 feet349 long544 , growing66 vertically39 from316 the19 hinder35 part207 of89 the19 back457 , of89 an138 angular120 shape99 , and236 with449 a10 very515 sharp427 pointed413 end149 . Even198 if141 not518 the19 slightest44 other282 part207 of89 the19 creature82 be341 visible94 , this256 isolated93 fin286 will584 , at65 times121 , be341 seen154 plainly450 projecting336 from316 the19 surface328 . When189 the19 sea67 is487 moderately70 calm39 , and236 slightly238 marked67 with449 spherical25 ripples434 , and236 this256 gnomon-like410 fin286 stands256 up405 and236 casts468 shadows480 upon419 the19 wrinkled259 surface328 , it162 may236 well263 be341 supposed423 that14 the19 watery59 circle282 surrounding398 it162 somewhat77 resembles215 a10 dial100 , with449 its234 style303 and236 wavy367 hour384 -lines241 graved292 on392 it162 . On392 that14 Ahaz-dial100 the19 shadow438 often227 goes205 back457 . The19 Fin286 -Back457 is487 not518 gregarious204 . He362 seems19 a10 whale422 -hater, as113 some265 men62 are314 man17 -haters. Very515 shy411 ; always367 going227 solitary407 ; unexpectedly25 rising464 to261 the19 surface328 in107 the19 remotest95 and236 most216 sullen335 waters556 ; his433 straight346 and236 single77 lofty161 jet423 rising464 like410 a10 tall373 misanthropic5 spear188 upon419 a10 barren415 plain28 ; gifted19 with449 such420 wondrous30 power145 and236 velocity397 in107 swimming367 , as113 to261 defy214 all145 present112 pursuit305 from316 man17 ; this256 leviathan384 seems19 the19 banished50 and236 unconquerable398 Cain460 of89 his433 race392 , bearing354 for190 his433 mark169 that14 style303 upon419 his433 back457 . From316 having69 the19 baleen25 in107 his433 mouth414 , the19 Fin286 -Back457 is487 sometimes77 included559 with449 the19 right499 whale422 , among483 a10 theoretic25 species69 denominated122 Whalebone290 whales331 , that14 is487 , whales331 with449 baleen25 . Of89 these527 so281 -called237 Whalebone290 whales331 , there340 would282 seem404 to261 be341 several479 varieties23 , most216 of89 which16 , however44 , are314 little554 known86 . Broad267 -nosed550 whales331 and236 beaked290 whales331 ; pike412 -headed124 whales331 ; bunched83 whales331 ; under533 -jawed whales331 and236 rostrated whales331 , are314 the19 fisherman18 's483 names360 for190 a10 few49 sorts354 . In107 connexion400 with449 this256 appellative160 of89 "Whalebone290 whales331 ," it162 is487 of89 great259 importance579 to261 mention510 , that14 however44 such420 a10 nomenclature20 may236 be341 convenient470 in107 facilitating170 allusions117 to261 some265 kind451 of89 whales331 , yet443 it162 is487 in107 vain216 to261 attempt385 a10 clear408 classification425 of89 the19 Leviathan384 , founded113 upon419 either45 his433 baleen25 , or519 hump20 , or519 fin286 , or519 teeth82 ; notwithstanding387 that14 those427 marked67 parts470 or519 features150 very515 obviously477 seem404 better34 adapted263 to261 afford282 the19 basis15 for190 a10 regular400 system480 of89 Cetology than77 any501 other282 detached5 bodily172 distinctions137 , which16 the19 whale422 , in107 his433 kinds200 , presents256 . How19 then45 ? The19 baleen25 , hump20 , back457 -fin286 , and236 teeth82 ; these527 are314 things4 whose286 peculiarities38 are314 indiscriminately398 dispersed417 among483 all145 sorts354 of89 whales331 , without309 any501 regard448 to261 what243 may236 be341 the19 nature159 of89 their219 structure235 in107 other282 and236 more348 essential124 particulars230 . Thus362 , the19 sperm26 whale422 and236 the19 humpbacked417 whale422 , each520 has399 a10 hump20 ; but330 there340 the19 similitude375 ceases273 . Then45 this256 same541 humpbacked417 whale422 and236 the19 Greenland110 whale422 , each520 of89 these527 has399 baleen25 ; but330 there340 again52 the19 similitude375 ceases273 . And236 it162 is487 just108 the19 same541 with449 the19 other282 parts470 above502 mentioned149 . In107 various183 sorts354 of89 whales331 , they382 form238 such420 irregular430 combinations336 ; or519 , in107 the19 case346 of89 any501 one470 of89 them146 detached5 , such420 an138 irregular430 isolation354 ; as113 utterly46 to261 defy214 all145 general37 methodization formed294 upon419 such420 a10 basis15 . On392 this256 rock264 every389 one470 of89 the19 whale422 -naturalists140 has399 split148 . But330 it162 may236 possibly201 be341 conceived276 that14 , in107 the19 internal241 parts470 of89 the19 whale422 , in107 his433 anatomy334 --there340 , at65 least453 , we465 shall66 be341 able362 to261 hit322 the19 right499 classification425 . Nay358 ; what243 thing309 , for190 example479 , is487 there340 in107 the19 Greenland110 whale422 's483 anatomy334 more348 striking22 than77 his433 baleen25 ? Yet443 we465 have254 seen154 that14 by406 his433 baleen25 it162 is487 impossible305 correctly444 to261 classify127 the19 Greenland110 whale422 . And236 if141 you227 descend252 into554 the19 bowels499 of89 the19 various183 leviathans336 , why177 there340 you227 will584 not518 find138 distinctions137 a10 fiftieth19 part207 as113 available538 to261 the19 systematizer as113 those427 external386 ones396 already93 enumerated350 . What243 then45 remains324 ? nothing324 but330 to261 take279 hold204 of89 the19 whales331 bodily172 , in107 their219 entire230 liberal125 volume295 , and236 boldly445 sort42 them146 that14 way435 . And236 this256 is487 the19 Bibliographical20 system480 here135 adopted13 ; and236 it162 is487 the19 only517 one470 that14 can450 possibly201 succeed441 , for190 it162 alone2 is487 practicable292 . To261 proceed367 . BOOK230 I482 . (Folio172 ) CHAPTER293 IV299 . (Hump20 Back457 ).--This256 whale422 is487 often227 seen154 on392 the19 northern252 American272 coast287 . He362 has399 been185 frequently475 captured126 there340 , and236 towed376 into554 harbor289 . He362 has399 a10 great259 pack294 on392 him248 like410 a10 peddler279 ; or519 you227 might496 call259 him248 the19 Elephant72 and236 Castle271 whale422 . At65 any501 rate515 , the19 popular229 name477 for190 him248 does565 not518 sufficiently12 distinguish76 him248 , since374 the19 sperm26 whale422 also119 has399 a10 hump20 though400 a10 smaller236 one470 . His433 oil118 is487 not518 very515 valuable72 . He362 has399 baleen25 . He362 is487 the19 most216 gamesome110 and236 light382 -hearted83 of89 all145 the19 whales331 , making415 more348 gay323 foam160 and236 white82 water520 generally402 than77 any501 other282 of89 them146 . BOOK230 I482 . (Folio172 ), CHAPTER293 V303 . ( Razor471 Back457 ).--Of89 this256 whale422 little554 is487 known86 but330 his433 name477 . I482 have254 seen154 him248 at65 a10 distance264 off111 Cape23 Horn139 . Of89 a10 retiring251 nature159 , he362 eludes197 both558 hunters423 and236 philosophers529 . Though400 no235 coward92 , he362 has399 never206 yet443 shown446 any501 part207 of89 him248 but330 his433 back457 , which16 rises215 in107 a10 long544 sharp427 ridge435 . Let66 him248 go20 . I482 know60 little554 more348 of89 him248 , nor137 does565 anybody58 else212 . BOOK230 I482 . (Folio172 ), CHAPTER293 VI481 . (Sulphur155 Bottom461 ).--Another269 retiring251 gentleman399 , with449 a10 brimstone206 belly511 , doubtless101 got286 by406 scraping276 along423 the19 Tartarian110 tiles143 in107 some265 of89 his433 profounder217 divings83 . He362 is487 seldom140 seen154 ; at65 least453 I482 have254 never206 seen154 him248 except545 in107 the19 remoter20 southern187 seas350 , and236 then45 always367 at65 too11 great259 a10 distance264 to261 study252 his433 countenance553 . He362 is487 never206 chased389 ; he362 would282 run172 away443 with449 rope265 -walks461 of89 line25 . Prodigies112 are314 told82 of89 him248 . Adieu116 , Sulphur155 Bottom461 ! I482 can450 say306 nothing324 more348 that14 is487 true483 of89 ye483 , nor137 can450 the19 oldest248 Nantucketer. Thus362 ends301 BOOK230 I482 . (Folio172 ), and236 now20 begins374 BOOK230 II38 . (Octavo244 ). OCTAVOES.* These527 embrace281 the19 whales331 of89 middling231 magnitude203 , among483 which16 at65 present112 may236 be341 numbered280 :--I482 ., the19 Grampus31 ; II38 ., the19 Black581 Fish187 ; III167 ., the19 Narwhale362 ; IV299 ., the19 Thrasher109 ; V303 ., the19 Killer429 . *Why177 this256 book230 of89 whales331 is487 not518 denominated122 the19 Quarto292 is487 very515 plain28 . Because540 , while55 the19 whales331 of89 this256 order343 , though400 smaller236 than77 those427 of89 the19 former157 order343 , nevertheless104 retain153 a10 proportionate181 likeness460 to261 them146 in107 figure55 , yet443 the19 bookbinder117 's483 Quarto292 volume295 in107 its234 dimensioned form238 does565 not518 preserve192 the19 shape99 of89 the19 Folio172 volume295 , but330 the19 Octavo244 volume295 does565 . BOOK230 II38 . (Octavo244 ), CHAPTER293 I482 . (Grampus31 ).--Though400 this256 fish187 , whose286 loud556 sonorous149 breathing403 , or519 rather178 blowing248 , has399 furnished201 a10 proverb204 to261 landsmen117 , is487 so281 well263 known86 a10 denizen8 of89 the19 deep483 , yet443 is487 he362 not518 popularly301 classed110 among483 whales331 . But330 possessing507 all145 the19 grand229 distinctive19 features150 of89 the19 leviathan384 , most216 naturalists140 have254 recognised133 him248 for190 one470 . He362 is487 of89 moderate57 octavo244 size503 , varying303 from316 fifteen289 to261 twenty433 -five103 feet349 in107 length202 , and236 of89 corresponding427 dimensions400 round287 the19 waist52 . He362 swims403 in107 herds341 ; he362 is487 never206 regularly37 hunted439 , though400 his433 oil118 is487 considerable75 in107 quantity316 , and236 pretty252 good221 for190 light382 . By406 some265 fishermen24 his433 approach23 is487 regarded393 as113 premonitory285 of89 the19 advance70 of89 the19 great259 sperm26 whale422 . BOOK230 II38 . (Octavo244 ), CHAPTER293 II38 . (Black581 Fish187 ).--I482 give142 the19 popular229 fishermen24 's483 names360 for190 all145 these527 fish187 , for190 generally402 they382 are314 the19 best315 . Where579 any501 name477 happens143 to261 be341 vague70 or519 inexpressive86 , I482 shall66 say306 so281 , and236 suggest1 another269 . I482 do353 so281 now20 touching80 the19 Black581 Fish187 , so281 called237 because540 blackness448 is487 the19 rule393 among483 almost518 all145 whales331 . So281 , call259 him248 the19 Hyena451 Whale422 , if141 you227 please153 . His433 voracity92 is487 well263 known86 and236 from316 the19 circumstance407 that14 the19 inner204 angles198 of89 his433 lips585 are314 curved331 upwards110 , he362 carries440 an138 everlasting249 Mephistophelean204 grin401 on392 his433 face556 . This256 whale422 averages445 some265 sixteen68 or519 eighteen387 feet349 in107 length202 . He362 is487 found260 in107 almost518 all145 latitudes267 . He362 has399 a10 peculiar291 way435 of89 showing445 his433 dorsal377 hooked91 fin286 in107 swimming367 , which16 looks150 something181 like410 a10 Roman333 nose176 . When189 not518 more348 profitably270 employed263 , the19 sperm26 whale422 hunters423 sometimes77 capture361 the19 Hyena451 whale422 , to261 keep381 up405 the19 supply283 of89 cheap208 oil118 for190 domestic303 employment322 -- as113 some265 frugal212 housekeepers374 , in107 the19 absence484 of89 company280 , and236 quite327 alone2 by406 themselves510 , burn118 unsavory201 tallow157 instead398 of89 odorous485 wax245 . Though400 their219 blubber232 is487 very515 thin445 , some265 of89 these527 whales331 will584 yield39 you227 upwards110 of89 thirty521 gallons141 of89 oil118 . BOOK230 II38 . (Octavo244 ), CHAPTER293 III167 . (Narwhale362 ), that14 is487 , Nostril406 whale422 .-- Another269 instance141 of89 a10 curiously261 named312 whale422 , so281 named312 I482 suppose120 from316 his433 peculiar291 horn139 being264 originally367 mistaken49 for190 a10 peaked111 nose176 . The19 creature82 is487 some265 sixteen68 feet349 in107 length202 , while55 its234 horn139 averages445 five103 feet349 , though400 some265 exceed534 ten198 , and236 even198 attain324 to261 fifteen289 feet349 . Strictly303 speaking22 , this256 horn139 is487 but330 a10 lengthened238 tusk159 , growing66 out66 from316 the19 jaw213 in107 a10 line25 a10 little554 depressed92 from316 the19 horizontal252 . But330 it162 is487 only517 found260 on392 the19 sinister412 side246 , which16 has399 an138 ill236 effect215 , giving207 its234 owner260 something181 analogous185 to261 the19 aspect147 of89 a10 clumsy394 left159 -handed189 man17 . What243 precise158 purpose514 this256 ivory76 horn139 or519 lance76 answers369 , it162 would282 be341 hard337 to261 say306 . It162 does565 not518 seem404 to261 be341 used102 like410 the19 blade83 of89 the19 sword273 -fish187 and236 bill338 -fish187 ; though400 some265 sailors64 tell392 me2 that14 the19 Narwhale362 employs102 it162 for190 a10 rake191 in107 turning69 over82 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 sea67 for190 food248 . Charley466 Coffin284 said252 it162 was454 used102 for190 an138 ice443 -piercer; for190 the19 Narwhale362 , rising464 to261 the19 surface328 of89 the19 Polar25 Sea67 , and236 finding350 it162 sheeted99 with449 ice443 , thrusts506 his433 horn139 up405 , and236 so281 breaks522 through295 . But330 you227 cannot prove396 either45 of89 these527 surmises280 to261 be341 correct414 . My36 own248 opinion316 is487 , that14 however44 this256 one470 -sided303 horn139 may236 really406 be341 used102 by406 the19 Narwhale362 --however44 that14 may236 be341 --it162 would282 certainly124 be341 very515 convenient470 to261 him248 for190 a10 folder203 in107 reading210 pamphlets427 . The19 Narwhale362 I482 have254 heard444 called237 the19 Tusked244 whale422 , the19 Horned204 whale422 , and236 the19 Unicorn375 whale422 . He362 is487 certainly124 a10 curious264 example479 of89 the19 Unicornism to261 be341 found260 in107 almost518 every389 kingdom221 of89 animated143 nature159 . From316 certain31 cloistered41 old447 authors244 I482 have254 gathered165 that14 this256 same541 sea67 -unicorn375 's483 horn139 was454 in107 ancient463 days351 regarded393 as113 the19 great259 antidote367 against417 poison24 , and236 as113 such420 , preparations3 of89 it162 brought85 immense301 prices367 . It162 was454 also119 distilled184 to261 a10 volatile125 salts181 for190 fainting69 ladies66 the19 same541 way435 that14 the19 horns450 of89 the19 male447 deer465 are314 manufactured139 into554 hartshorn320 . Originally367 it162 was454 in107 itself312 accounted480 an138 object100 of89 great259 curiosity501 . Black581 Letter539 tells449 me2 that14 Sir271 Martin127 Frobisher273 on392 his433 return407 from316 that14 voyage137 , when189 Queen443 Bess247 did444 gallantly96 wave556 her400 jewelled10 hand252 to261 him248 from316 a10 window8 of89 Greenwich294 Palace17 , as113 his433 bold356 ship438 sailed248 down133 the19 Thames328 ; "when189 Sir271 Martin127 returned214 from316 that14 voyage137 ," saith419 Black581 Letter539 , "on392 bended422 knees214 he362 presented320 to261 her400 highness36 a10 prodigious223 long544 horn139 of89 the19 Narwhale362 , which16 for190 a10 long544 period196 after358 hung479 in107 the19 castle271 at65 Windsor484 ." An138 Irish117 author470 avers419 that14 the19 Earl264 of89 Leicester38 , on392 bended422 knees214 , did444 likewise193 present112 to261 her400 highness36 another269 horn139 , pertaining375 to261 a10 land406 beast136 of89 the19 unicorn375 nature159 . The19 Narwhale362 has399 a10 very515 picturesque453 , leopard-like410 look523 , being264 of89 a10 milk362 -white82 ground127 color13 , dotted399 with449 round287 and236 oblong111 spots8 of89 black581 . His433 oil118 is487 very515 superior479 , clear408 and236 fine333 ; but330 there340 is487 little554 of89 it162 , and236 he362 is487 seldom140 hunted439 . He362 is487 mostly190 found260 in107 the19 circumpolar6 seas350 . BOOK230 II38 . (Octavo244 ), CHAPTER293 IV299 . (Killer429 ).--Of89 this256 whale422 little554 is487 precisely217 known86 to261 the19 Nantucketer, and236 nothing324 at65 all145 to261 the19 professed68 naturalists140 . From316 what243 I482 have254 seen154 of89 him248 at65 a10 distance264 , I482 should255 say306 that14 he362 was454 about123 the19 bigness330 of89 a10 grampus31 . He362 is487 very515 savage398 --a10 sort42 of89 Feegee fish187 . He362 sometimes77 takes362 the19 great259 Folio172 whales331 by406 the19 lip318 , and236 hangs170 there340 like410 a10 leech465 , till181 the19 mighty2 brute73 is487 worried356 to261 death543 . The19 Killer429 is487 never206 hunted439 . I482 never206 heard444 what243 sort42 of89 oil118 he362 has399 . Exception219 might496 be341 taken222 to261 the19 name477 bestowed157 upon419 this256 whale422 , on392 the19 ground127 of89 its234 indistinctness161 . For190 we465 are314 all145 killers136 , on392 land406 and236 on392 sea67 ; Bonapartes124 and236 Sharks206 included559 . BOOK230 II38 . (Octavo244 ), CHAPTER293 V303 . (Thrasher109 ).--This256 gentleman399 is487 famous254 for190 his433 tail102 which16 he362 uses282 for190 a10 ferule7 in107 thrashing247 his433 foes247 . He362 mounts280 the19 Folio172 whale422 's483 back457 , and236 as113 he362 swims403 , he362 works64 his433 passage285 by406 flogging60 him248 ; as113 some265 schoolmasters21 get126 along423 in107 the19 world126 by406 a10 similar101 process29 . Still278 less261 is487 known86 of89 the19 Thrasher109 than77 of89 the19 Killer429 . Both558 are314 outlaws125 , even198 in107 the19 lawless461 seas350 . Thus362 ends301 BOOK230 II38 . (Octavo244 ), and236 begins374 BOOK230 III167 , (Duodecimo221 .) DUODECIMOES.--These527 include38 the19 smaller236 whales331 . I482 . The19 Huzza191 Porpoise487 . II38 . The19 Algerine52 Porpoise487 . III167 . The19 Mealy292 -mouthed234 Porpoise487 . To261 those427 who319 have254 not518 chanced424 specially87 to261 study252 the19 subject382 , it162 may236 possibly201 seem404 strange440 , that14 fishes13 not518 commonly431 exceeding320 four175 or519 five103 feet349 should255 be341 marshalled237 among483 WHALES331 --a10 word486 , which16 , in107 the19 popular229 sense85 , always367 conveys303 an138 idea250 of89 hugeness27 . But330 the19 creatures5 set422 down133 above502 as113 Duodecimoes are314 infallibly426 whales331 , by406 the19 terms297 of89 my36 definition1 of89 what243 a10 whale422 is487 --i482 .e443 . a10 spouting81 fish187 , with449 a10 horizontal252 tail102 . BOOK230 III167 . (Duodecimo221 ), CHAPTER293 153 . (Huzza191 Porpoise487 ).--This256 is487 the19 common304 porpoise487 found260 almost518 all145 over82 the19 globe23 . The19 name477 is487 of89 my36 own248 bestowal446 ; for190 there340 are314 more348 than77 one470 sort42 of89 porpoises298 , and236 something181 must226 be341 done135 to261 distinguish76 them146 . I482 call259 him248 thus362 , because540 he362 always367 swims403 in107 hilarious336 shoals340 , which16 upon419 the19 broad267 sea67 keep381 tossing213 themselves510 to261 heaven163 like410 caps214 in107 a10 Fourth399 -of89 -July crowd16 . Their219 appearance138 is487 generally402 hailed411 with449 delight25 by406 the19 mariner265 . Full414 of89 fine333 spirits471 , they382 invariably55 come420 from316 the19 breezy70 billows295 to261 windward170 . They382 are314 the19 lads252 that14 always367 live554 before344 the19 wind262 . They382 are314 accounted480 a10 lucky439 omen7 . If141 you227 yourself176 can450 withstand263 three329 cheers416 at65 beholding248 these527 vivacious347 fish187 , then45 heaven163 help526 ye483 ; the19 spirit227 of89 godly186 gamesomeness285 is487 not518 in107 ye483 . A10 well263 -fed366 , plump105 Huzza191 Porpoise487 will584 yield39 you227 one470 good221 gallon290 of89 good221 oil118 . But330 the19 fine333 and236 delicate34 fluid212 extracted69 from316 his433 jaws341 is487 exceedingly257 valuable72 . It162 is487 in107 request116 among483 jewellers253 and236 watchmakers111 . Sailors64 put190 it162 on392 their219 hones316 . Porpoise487 meat160 is487 good221 eating22 , you227 know60 . It162 may236 never206 have254 occurred205 to261 you227 that14 a10 porpoise487 spouts75 . Indeed522 , his433 spout224 is487 so281 small350 that14 it162 is487 not518 very515 readily467 discernible136 . But330 the19 next27 time577 you227 have254 a10 chance292 , watch89 him248 ; and236 you227 will584 then45 see370 the19 great259 Sperm26 whale422 himself282 in107 miniature124 . BOOK230 III167 . (Duodecimo221 ), CHAPTER293 II38 . (Algerine52 Porpoise487 ).--A10 pirate214 . Very515 savage398 . He362 is487 only517 found260 , I482 think424 , in107 the19 Pacific294 . He362 is487 somewhat77 larger50 than77 the19 Huzza191 Porpoise487 , but330 much61 of89 the19 same541 general37 make175 . Provoke355 him248 , and236 he362 will584 buckle65 to261 a10 shark4 . I482 have254 lowered279 for190 him248 many282 times121 , but330 never206 yet443 saw113 him248 captured126 . BOOK230 III167 . (Duodecimo221 ), CHAPTER293 III167 . (Mealy292 -mouthed234 Porpoise487 ).--The19 largest139 kind451 of89 Porpoise487 ; and236 only517 found260 in107 the19 Pacific294 , so281 far258 as113 it162 is487 known86 . The19 only517 English69 name477 , by406 which16 he362 has399 hitherto533 been185 designated41 , is487 that14 of89 the19 fisher290 --Right499 -Whale422 Porpoise487 , from316 the19 circumstance407 that14 he362 is487 chiefly90 found260 in107 the19 vicinity208 of89 that14 Folio172 . In107 shape99 , he362 differs296 in107 some265 degree209 from316 the19 Huzza191 Porpoise487 , being264 of89 a10 less261 rotund4 and236 jolly50 girth106 ; indeed522 , he362 is487 of89 quite327 a10 neat163 and236 gentleman399 -like392 figure55 . He362 has399 no235 fins556 on392 his433 back457 (most216 other282 porpoises298 have254 ), he362 has399 a10 lovely126 tail102 , and236 sentimental31 Indian303 eyes125 of89 a10 hazel247 hue296 . But330 his433 mealy292 -mouth414 spoils499 all145 . Though400 his433 entire230 back457 down133 to261 his433 side246 fins556 is487 of89 a10 deep483 sable275 , yet443 a10 boundary11 line25 , distinct259 as113 the19 mark169 in107 a10 ship438 's483 hull323 , called237 the19 "bright205 waist52 ," that14 line25 streaks522 him248 from316 stem493 to261 stern442 , with449 two527 separate495 colors24 , black581 above502 and236 white82 below397 . The19 white82 comprises234 part207 of89 his433 head219 , and236 the19 whole199 of89 his433 mouth414 , which16 makes32 him248 look523 as113 if141 he362 had364 just108 escaped197 from316 a10 felonious226 visit229 to261 a10 meal246 -bag233 . A10 most216 mean504 and236 mealy292 aspect147 ! His433 oil118 is487 much61 like410 that14 of89 the19 common304 porpoise487 . Beyond421 the19 DUODECIMO221 , this256 system480 does565 not518 proceed367 , inasmuch110 as113 the19 Porpoise487 is487 the19 smallest443 of89 the19 whales331 . Above502 , you227 have254 all145 the19 Leviathans336 of89 note59 . But330 there340 are314 a10 rabble285 of89 uncertain396 , fugitive332 , half119 -fabulous335 whales331 , which16 , as113 an138 American272 whaleman98 , I482 know60 by406 reputation193 , but330 not518 personally64 . I482 shall66 enumerate257 them146 by406 their219 fore259 -castle271 appellations25 ; for190 possibly201 such420 a10 list576 may236 be341 valuable72 to261 future44 investigators464 , who319 may236 complete191 what243 I482 have254 here135 but330 begun243 . If141 any501 of89 the19 following181 whales331 , shall66 hereafter479 be341 caught105 and236 marked67 , then45 he362 can450 readily467 be341 incorporated129 into554 this256 System480 , according281 to261 his433 Folio172 , Octavo244 , or519 Duodecimo221 magnitude203 :-- The19 Bottle42 -Nose290 Whale422 ; the19 Junk92 Whale422 ; the19 Pudding176 -Headed147 Whale422 ; the19 Cape23 Whale422 ; the19 Leading59 Whale422 ; the19 Cannon515 Whale422 ; the19 Scragg Whale422 ; the19 Coppered31 Whale422 ; the19 Elephant72 Whale422 ; the19 Iceberg279 Whale422 ; the19 Quog Whale422 ; the19 Blue240 Whale422 ; &c62 . From316 Icelandic340 , Dutch325 , and236 old447 English69 authorities322 , there340 might496 be341 quoted280 other282 lists140 of89 uncertain396 whales331 , blessed473 with449 all145 manner153 of89 uncouth136 names360 . But330 I482 omit296 them146 as113 altogether31 obsolete280 ; and236 can450 hardly182 help526 suspecting427 them146 for190 mere393 sounds394 , full414 of89 Leviathanism, but330 signifying191 nothing324 . Finally69 : It162 was454 stated543 at65 the19 outset350 , that14 this256 system480 would282 not518 be341 here135 , and236 at65 once248 , perfected247 . You227 cannot but330 plainly450 see370 that14 I482 have254 kept290 my36 word486 . But330 I482 now20 leave450 my36 cetological System480 standing144 thus362 unfinished249 , even198 as113 the19 great259 Cathedral231 of89 Cologne427 was454 left159 , with449 the19 cranes377 still278 standing144 upon419 the19 top70 of89 the19 uncompleted31 tower36 . For190 small350 erections87 may236 be341 finished218 by406 their219 first13 architects173 ; grand229 ones396 , true483 ones396 , ever208 leave450 the19 copestone296 to261 posterity447 . God185 keep381 me2 from316 ever208 completing265 anything480 . This256 whole199 book230 is487 but330 a10 draught246 --nay358 , but330 the19 draught246 of89 a10 draught246 . Oh367 , Time577 , Strength168 , Cash290 , and236 Patience295 ! CHAPTER293 33197 The19 Specksynder Concerning368 the19 officers439 of89 the19 whale422 -craft187 , this256 seems19 as113 good221 a10 place107 as113 any501 to261 set422 down133 a10 little554 domestic303 peculiarity211 on392 ship438 -board540 , arising303 from316 the19 existence187 of89 the19 harpooneer class410 of89 officers439 , a10 class410 unknown10 of89 course171 in107 any501 other282 marine333 than77 the19 whale422 -fleet206 . The19 large385 importance579 attached211 to261 the19 harpooneer's483 vocation408 is487 evinced94 by406 the19 fact12 , that14 originally367 in107 the19 old447 Dutch325 Fishery136 , two527 centuries168 and236 more348 ago141 , the19 command190 of89 a10 whale422 -ship98 was454 not518 wholly497 lodged238 in107 the19 person550 now20 called237 the19 captain295 , but330 was454 divided469 between77 him248 and236 an138 officer70 called237 the19 Specksynder. Literally37 this256 word486 means502 Fat351 -Cutter; usage454 , however44 , in107 time577 made563 it162 equivalent54 to261 Chief156 Harpooneer. In107 those427 days351 , the19 captain295 's483 authority146 was454 restricted292 to261 the19 navigation36 and236 general37 management97 of89 the19 vessel155 ; while55 over82 the19 whale422 -hunting45 department104 and236 all145 its234 concerns221 , the19 Specksynder or519 Chief156 Harpooneer reigned208 supreme160 . In107 the19 British81 Greenland110 Fishery136 , under533 the19 corrupted102 title168 of89 Specksioneer, this256 old447 Dutch325 official283 is487 still278 retained155 , but330 his433 former157 dignity338 is487 sadly75 abridged69 . At65 present112 he362 ranks189 simply142 as113 senior52 Harpooneer; and236 as113 such420 , is487 but330 one470 of89 the19 captain295 's483 more348 inferior84 subalterns92 . Nevertheless104 , as113 upon419 the19 good221 conduct161 of89 the19 harpooneers the19 success197 of89 a10 whaling155 voyage137 largely211 depends568 , and236 since374 in107 the19 American272 Fishery136 he362 is487 not518 only517 an138 important104 officer70 in107 the19 boat439 , but330 under533 certain31 circumstances267 (night108 watches458 on392 a10 whaling155 ground127 ) the19 command190 of89 the19 ship438 's483 deck505 is487 also119 his433 ; therefore94 the19 grand229 political343 maxim499 of89 the19 sea67 demands217 , that14 he362 should255 nominally159 live554 apart526 from316 the19 men62 before344 the19 mast44 , and236 be341 in107 some265 way435 distinguished365 as113 their219 professional357 superior479 ; though400 always367 , by406 them146 , familiarly31 regarded393 as113 their219 social149 equal261 . Now20 , the19 grand229 distinction301 drawn564 between77 officer70 and236 man17 at65 sea67 , is487 this256 --the19 first13 lives245 aft2 , the19 last436 forward364 . Hence503 , in107 whale422 -ships21 and236 merchantmen52 alike122 , the19 mates264 have254 their219 quarters336 with449 the19 captain295 ; and236 so281 , too11 , in107 most216 of89 the19 American272 whalers116 the19 harpooneers are314 lodged238 in107 the19 after358 part207 of89 the19 ship438 . That14 is487 to261 say306 , they382 take279 their219 meals419 in107 the19 captain295 's483 cabin192 , and236 sleep233 in107 a10 place107 indirectly155 communicating21 with449 it162 . Though400 the19 long544 period196 of89 a10 Southern187 whaling155 voyage137 (by406 far258 the19 longest14 of89 all145 voyages368 now20 or519 ever208 made563 by406 man17 ), the19 peculiar291 perils140 of89 it162 , and236 the19 community279 of89 interest323 prevailing8 among483 a10 company280 , all145 of89 whom324 , high361 or519 low407 , depend236 for190 their219 profits14 , not518 upon419 fixed564 wages460 , but330 upon419 their219 common304 luck453 , together440 with449 their219 common304 vigilance124 , intrepidity161 , and236 hard337 work385 ; though400 all145 these527 things4 do353 in107 some265 cases108 tend151 to261 beget415 a10 less261 rigorous136 discipline77 than77 in107 merchantmen52 generally402 ; yet443 , never206 mind118 how19 much61 like410 an138 old447 Mesopotamian105 family347 these527 whalemen451 may236 , in107 some265 primitive489 instances252 , live554 together440 ; for190 all145 that14 , the19 punctilious4 externals202 , at65 least453 , of89 the19 quarter6 -deck505 are314 seldom140 materially125 relaxed2 , and236 in107 no235 instance141 done135 away443 . Indeed522 , many282 are314 the19 Nantucket283 ships21 in107 which16 you227 will584 see370 the19 skipper149 parading1 his433 quarter6 -deck505 with449 an138 elated362 grandeur436 not518 surpassed282 in107 any501 military317 navy83 ; nay358 , extorting181 almost518 as113 much61 outward393 homage92 as113 if141 he362 wore92 the19 imperial249 purple167 , and236 not518 the19 shabbiest296 of89 pilot559 -cloth285 . And236 though400 of89 all145 men62 the19 moody447 captain295 of89 the19 Pequod288 was454 the19 least453 given141 to261 that14 sort42 of89 shallowest25 assumption368 ; and236 though400 the19 only517 homage92 he362 ever208 exacted102 , was454 implicit125 , instantaneous322 obedience74 ; though400 he362 required566 no235 man17 to261 remove306 the19 shoes436 from316 his433 feet349 ere83 stepping299 upon419 the19 quarter6 -deck505 ; and236 though400 there340 were324 times121 when189 , owing98 to261 peculiar291 circumstances267 connected202 with449 events390 hereafter479 to261 be341 detailed117 , he362 addressed169 them146 in107 unusual322 terms297 , whether454 of89 condescension83 or519 in107 terrorem83 , or519 otherwise542 ; yet443 even198 Captain295 Ahab232 was454 by406 no235 means502 unobservant4 of89 the19 paramount197 forms48 and236 usages262 of89 the19 sea67 . Nor137 , perhaps75 , will584 it162 fail126 to261 be341 eventually163 perceived76 , that14 behind80 those427 forms48 and236 usages262 , as113 it162 were324 , he362 sometimes77 masked234 himself282 ; incidentally261 making415 use176 of89 them146 for190 other282 and236 more348 private541 ends301 than77 they382 were324 legitimately93 intended495 to261 subserve350 . That14 certain31 sultanism of89 his433 brain158 , which16 had364 otherwise542 in107 a10 good221 degree209 remained72 unmanifested177 ; through295 those427 forms48 that14 same541 sultanism became70 incarnate163 in107 an138 irresistible214 dictatorship24 . For190 be341 a10 man17 's415 intellectual243 superiority507 what243 it162 will584 , it162 can450 never206 assume191 the19 practical74 , available538 supremacy506 over82 other282 men62 , without309 the19 aid236 of89 some265 sort42 of89 external386 arts305 and236 entrenchments24 , always367 , in107 themselves510 , more348 or519 less261 paltry147 and236 base258 . This256 it162 is487 , that14 for190 ever208 keeps20 God185 's483 true483 princes183 of89 the19 Empire390 from316 the19 world126 's483 hustings214 ; and236 leaves441 the19 highest575 honors251 that14 this256 air209 can450 give142 , to261 those427 men62 who319 become548 famous254 more348 through295 their219 infinite503 inferiority116 to261 the19 choice340 hidden78 handful330 of89 the19 Divine216 Inert155 , than77 through295 their219 undoubted214 superiority507 over82 the19 dead568 level378 of89 the19 mass36 . Such420 large385 virtue16 lurks115 in107 these527 small350 things4 when189 extreme31 political343 superstitions128 invest308 them146 , that14 in107 some265 royal161 instances252 even198 to261 idiot475 imbecility444 they382 have254 imparted189 potency26 . But330 when189 , as113 in107 the19 case346 of89 Nicholas143 the19 Czar427 , the19 ringed379 crown463 of89 geographical227 empire390 encircles275 an138 imperial249 brain158 ; then45 , the19 plebeian415 herds341 crouch169 abased364 before344 the19 tremendous376 centralization229 . Nor137 , will584 the19 tragic140 dramatist170 who319 would282 depict95 mortal371 indomitableness25 in107 its234 fullest82 sweep471 and236 direct314 swing311 , ever208 forget426 a10 hint335 , incidentally261 so281 important104 in107 his433 art462 , as113 the19 one470 now20 alluded231 to261 . But330 Ahab232 , my36 Captain295 , still278 moves115 before344 me2 in107 all145 his433 Nantucket283 grimness70 and236 shagginess366 ; and236 in107 this256 episode6 touching80 Emperors247 and236 Kings474 , I482 must226 not518 conceal118 that14 I482 have254 only517 to261 do353 with449 a10 poor533 old447 whale422 -hunter287 like410 him248 ; and236 , therefore94 , all145 outward393 majestical473 trappings1 and236 housings454 are314 denied40 me2 . Oh367 , Ahab232 ! what243 shall66 be341 grand229 in107 thee15 , it162 must226 needs41 be341 plucked181 at65 from316 the19 skies30 , and236 dived149 for190 in107 the19 deep483 , and236 featured292 in107 the19 unbodied414 air209 ! CHAPTER293 34166 The19 Cabin192 -Table379 It162 is487 noon445 ; and236 Dough-Boy110 , the19 steward82 , thrusting100 his433 pale292 loaf-of89 -bread387 face556 from316 the19 cabin192 -scuttle27 , announces69 dinner322 to261 his433 lord106 and236 master131 who319 , sitting136 in107 the19 lee472 quarter6 -boat439 , has399 just108 been185 taking146 an138 observation102 of89 the19 sun397 ; and236 is487 now20 mutely102 reckoning541 the19 latitude258 on392 the19 smooth388 , medallion-shaped151 tablet260 , reserved234 for190 that14 daily201 purpose514 on392 the19 upper403 part207 of89 his433 ivory76 leg331 . From316 his433 complete191 inattention235 to261 the19 tidings395 , you227 would282 think424 that14 moody447 Ahab232 had364 not518 heard444 his433 menial287 . But330 presently166 , catching263 hold204 of89 the19 mizen117 shrouds264 , he362 swings31 himself282 to261 the19 deck505 , and236 in107 an138 even198 , unexhilarated voice233 , saying9 , "Dinner322 , Mr219 . Starbuck," disappears293 into554 the19 cabin192 . When189 the19 last436 echo25 of89 his433 sultan107 's483 step204 has399 died575 away443 , and236 Starbuck, the19 first13 Emir64 , has399 every389 reason238 to261 suppose120 that14 he362 is487 seated158 , then45 Starbuck rouses127 from316 his433 quietude171 , takes362 a10 few49 turns136 along423 the19 planks284 , and236 , after358 a10 grave344 peep222 into554 the19 binnacle98 , says424 , with449 some265 touch486 of89 pleasantness25 , "Dinner322 , Mr219 . Stubb," and236 descends255 the19 scuttle27 . The19 second386 Emir64 lounges41 about123 the19 rigging516 awhile16 , and236 then45 slightly238 shaking206 the19 main501 brace403 , to261 see370 whether454 it162 will584 be341 all145 right499 with449 that14 important104 rope265 , he362 likewise193 takes362 up405 the19 old447 burden382 , and236 with449 a10 rapid321 "Dinner322 , Mr219 . Flask199 ," follows195 after358 his433 predecessors44 . But330 the19 third301 Emir64 , now20 seeing426 himself282 all145 alone2 on392 the19 quarter6 -deck505 , seems19 to261 feel461 relieved158 from316 some265 curious264 restraint163 ; for190 , tipping78 all145 sorts354 of89 knowing240 winks422 in107 all145 sorts354 of89 directions124 , and236 kicking116 off111 his433 shoes436 , he362 strikes323 into554 a10 sharp427 but330 noiseless21 squall467 of89 a10 hornpipe497 right499 over82 the19 Grand229 Turk291 's483 head219 ; and236 then45 , by406 a10 dexterous25 sleight367 , pitching143 his433 cap328 up405 into554 the19 mizentop for190 a10 shelf3 , he362 goes205 down133 rollicking158 so281 far258 at65 least453 as113 he362 remains324 visible94 from316 the19 deck505 , reversing6 all145 other282 processions161 , by406 bringing9 up405 the19 rear252 with449 music91 . But330 ere83 stepping299 into554 the19 cabin192 doorway366 below397 , he362 pauses379 , ships21 a10 new36 face556 altogether31 , and236 , then45 , independent330 , hilarious336 little554 Flask199 enters157 King324 Ahab232 's483 presence492 , in107 the19 character239 of89 Abjectus, or519 the19 Slave126 . It162 is487 not518 the19 least453 among483 the19 strange440 things4 bred128 by406 the19 intense89 artificialness of89 sea67 -usages262 , that14 while55 in107 the19 open464 air209 of89 the19 deck505 some265 officers439 will584 , upon419 provocation125 , bear48 themselves510 boldly445 and236 defyingly180 enough217 towards417 their219 commander108 ; yet443 , ten198 to261 one470 , let66 those427 very515 officers439 the19 next27 moment258 go20 down133 to261 their219 customary79 dinner322 in107 that14 same541 commander108 's483 cabin192 , and236 straightway210 their219 inoffensive181 , not518 to261 say306 deprecatory53 and236 humble105 air209 towards417 him248 , as113 he362 sits105 at65 the19 head219 of89 the19 table572 ; this256 is487 marvellous35 , sometimes77 most216 comical135 . Wherefore220 this256 difference3 ? A10 problem28 ? Perhaps75 not518 . To261 have254 been185 Belshazzar19 , King324 of89 Babylon364 ; and236 to261 have254 been185 Belshazzar19 , not518 haughtily311 but330 courteously219 , therein68 certainly124 must226 have254 been185 some265 touch486 of89 mundane242 grandeur436 . But330 he362 who319 in107 the19 rightly90 regal203 and236 intelligent346 spirit227 presides350 over82 his433 own248 private541 dinner322 -table572 of89 invited230 guests320 , that14 man17 's415 unchallenged246 power145 and236 dominion57 of89 individual233 influence299 for190 the19 time577 ; that14 man17 's415 royalty283 of89 state135 transcends150 Belshazzar19 's483 , for190 Belshazzar19 was454 not518 the19 greatest479 . Who319 has399 but330 once248 dined30 his433 friends169 , has399 tasted356 what243 it162 is487 to261 be341 Caesar24 . It162 is487 a10 witchery188 of89 social149 czarship which16 there340 is487 no235 withstanding142 . Now20 , if141 to261 this256 consideration196 you227 super-add236 the19 official283 supremacy506 of89 a10 ship438 -master131 , then45 , by406 inference292 , you227 will584 derive414 the19 cause220 of89 that14 peculiarity211 of89 sea67 -life71 just108 mentioned149 . Over82 his433 ivory76 -inlaid6 table572 , Ahab232 presided88 like410 a10 mute122 , maned192 sea67 -lion84 on392 the19 white82 coral22 beach183 , surrounded75 by406 his433 war169 -like506 but330 still278 deferential98 cubs399 . In107 his433 own248 proper249 turn17 , each520 officer70 waited523 to261 be341 served460 . They382 were324 as113 little554 children374 before344 Ahab232 ; and236 yet443 , in107 Ahab232 , there340 seemed132 not518 to261 lurk246 the19 smallest443 social149 arrogance188 . With449 one470 mind118 , their219 intent359 eyes125 all145 fastened426 upon419 the19 old447 man17 's415 knife503 , as113 he362 carved455 the19 chief156 dish278 before344 him248 . I482 do353 not518 suppose120 that14 for190 the19 world126 they382 would282 have254 profaned192 that14 moment258 with449 the19 slightest44 observation102 , even198 upon419 so281 neutral434 a10 topic325 as113 the19 weather405 . No235 ! And236 when189 reaching141 out66 his433 knife503 and236 fork342 , between77 which16 the19 slice127 of89 beef303 was454 locked105 , Ahab232 thereby190 motioned347 Starbuck's483 plate396 towards417 him248 , the19 mate508 received12 his433 meat160 as113 though400 receiving124 alms314 ; and236 cut310 it162 tenderly452 ; and236 a10 little554 started492 if141 , perchance306 , the19 knife503 grazed39 against417 the19 plate396 ; and236 chewed225 it162 noiselessly18 ; and236 swallowed104 it162 , not518 without309 circumspection31 . For190 , like410 the19 Coronation239 banquet105 at65 Frankfort444 , where579 the19 German264 Emperor262 profoundly261 dines86 with449 the19 seven188 Imperial249 Electors368 , so281 these527 cabin192 meals419 were324 somehow425 solemn303 meals419 , eaten172 in107 awful539 silence309 ; and236 yet443 at65 table572 old447 Ahab232 forbade202 not518 conversation222 ; only517 he362 himself282 was454 dumb371 . What243 a10 relief60 it162 was454 to261 choking243 Stubb, when189 a10 rat170 made563 a10 sudden309 racket4 in107 the19 hold204 below397 . And236 poor533 little554 Flask199 , he362 was454 the19 youngest300 son26 , and236 little554 boy110 of89 this256 weary306 family347 party314 . His433 were324 the19 shin379 -bones306 of89 the19 saline279 beef303 ; his433 would282 have254 been185 the19 drumsticks156 . For190 Flask199 to261 have254 presumed300 to261 help526 himself282 , this256 must226 have254 seemed132 to261 him248 tantamount133 to261 larceny303 in107 the19 first13 degree209 . Had364 he362 helped204 himself282 at65 that14 table572 , doubtless101 , never206 more348 would282 he362 have254 been185 able362 to261 hold204 his433 head219 up405 in107 this256 honest287 world126 ; nevertheless104 , strange440 to261 say306 , Ahab232 never206 forbade202 him248 . And236 had364 Flask199 helped204 himself282 , the19 chances400 were324 Ahab232 had364 never206 so281 much61 as113 noticed157 it162 . Least453 of89 all145 , did444 Flask199 presume212 to261 help526 himself282 to261 butter536 . Whether454 he362 thought186 the19 owners208 of89 the19 ship438 denied40 it162 to261 him248 , on392 account102 of89 its234 clotting331 his433 clear408 , sunny200 complexion243 ; or519 whether454 he362 deemed17 that14 , on392 so281 long544 a10 voyage137 in107 such420 marketless waters556 , butter536 was454 at65 a10 premium25 , and236 therefore94 was454 not518 for190 him248 , a10 subaltern78 ; however44 it162 was454 , Flask199 , alas129 ! was454 a10 butterless29 man17 ! Another269 thing309 . Flask199 was454 the19 last436 person550 down133 at65 the19 dinner322 , and236 Flask199 is487 the19 first13 man17 up405 . Consider259 ! For190 hereby196 Flask199 's483 dinner322 was454 badly36 jammed241 in107 point438 of89 time577 . Starbuck and236 Stubb both558 had364 the19 start117 of89 him248 ; and236 yet443 they382 also119 have254 the19 privilege414 of89 lounging325 in107 the19 rear252 . If141 Stubb even198 , who319 is487 but330 a10 peg223 higher574 than77 Flask199 , happens143 to261 have254 but330 a10 small350 appetite97 , and236 soon18 shows364 symptoms128 of89 concluding84 his433 repast192 , then45 Flask199 must226 bestir320 himself282 , he362 will584 not518 get126 more348 than77 three329 mouthfuls35 that14 day112 ; for190 it162 is487 against417 holy61 usage454 for190 Stubb to261 precede243 Flask199 to261 the19 deck505 . Therefore94 it162 was454 that14 Flask199 once248 admitted434 in107 private541 , that14 ever208 since374 he362 had364 arisen497 to261 the19 dignity338 of89 an138 officer70 , from316 that14 moment258 he362 had364 never206 known86 what243 it162 was454 to261 be341 otherwise542 than77 hungry235 , more348 or519 less261 . For190 what243 he362 ate367 did444 not518 so281 much61 relieve83 his433 hunger498 , as113 keep381 it162 immortal15 in107 him248 . Peace216 and236 satisfaction500 , thought186 Flask199 , have254 for190 ever208 departed467 from316 my36 stomach274 . I482 am375 an138 officer70 ; but330 , how19 I482 wish95 I482 could375 fist414 a10 bit72 of89 old447 -fashioned432 beef303 in107 the19 fore259 -castle271 , as113 I482 used102 to261 when189 I482 was454 before344 the19 mast44 . There340 's483 the19 fruits482 of89 promotion282 now20 ; there340 's483 the19 vanity44 of89 glory173 : there340 's483 the19 insanity115 of89 life71 ! Besides465 , if141 it162 were324 so281 that14 any501 mere393 sailor561 of89 the19 Pequod288 had364 a10 grudge446 against417 Flask199 in107 Flask199 's483 official283 capacity23 , all145 that14 sailor561 had364 to261 do353 , in107 order343 to261 obtain238 ample264 vengeance72 , was454 to261 go20 aft2 at65 dinnertime117 , and236 get126 a10 peep222 at65 Flask199 through295 the19 cabin192 sky331 -light382 , sitting136 silly314 and236 dumfoundered253 before344 awful539 Ahab232 . Now20 , Ahab232 and236 his433 three329 mates264 formed294 what243 may236 be341 called237 the19 first13 table572 in107 the19 Pequod288 's483 cabin192 . After358 their219 departure46 , taking146 place107 in107 inverted93 order343 to261 their219 arrival274 , the19 canvas557 cloth102 was454 cleared241 , or519 rather178 was454 restored384 to261 some265 hurried335 order343 by406 the19 pallid22 steward82 . And236 then45 the19 three329 harpooneers were324 bidden124 to261 the19 feast330 , they382 being264 its234 residuary25 legatees86 . They382 made563 a10 sort42 of89 temporary235 servants529 ' hall165 of89 the19 high361 and236 mighty2 cabin192 . In107 strange440 contrast205 to261 the19 hardly182 tolerable198 constraint24 and236 nameless427 invisible186 domineerings of89 the19 captain295 's483 table572 , was454 the19 entire230 care307 -free72 license13 and236 ease387 , the19 almost518 frantic211 democracy386 of89 those427 inferior84 fellows131 the19 harpooneers. While55 their219 masters259 , the19 mates264 , seemed132 afraid248 of89 the19 sound181 of89 the19 hinges339 of89 their219 own248 jaws341 , the19 harpooneers chewed225 their219 food248 with449 such420 a10 relish22 that14 there340 was454 a10 report238 to261 it162 . They382 dined30 like410 lords410 ; they382 filled232 their219 bellies192 like410 Indian303 ships21 all145 day112 loading23 with449 spices320 . Such420 portentous125 appetites249 had364 Queequeg and236 Tashtego, that14 to261 fill380 out66 the19 vacancies156 made563 by406 the19 previous376 repast192 , often227 the19 pale292 Dough-Boy110 was454 fain264 to261 bring173 on392 a10 great259 baron361 of89 salt183 -junk92 , seemingly261 quarried165 out66 of89 the19 solid494 ox413 . And236 if141 he362 were324 not518 lively272 about123 it162 , if141 he362 did444 not518 go20 with449 a10 nimble169 hop559 -skip-and236 -jump50 , then45 Tashtego had364 an138 ungentlemanly115 way435 of89 accelerating357 him248 by406 darting147 a10 fork342 at65 his433 back457 , harpoon67 -wise16 . And236 once248 Daggoo, seized337 with449 a10 sudden309 humor368 , assisted84 Dough-Boy110 's483 memory333 by406 snatching111 him248 up405 bodily172 , and236 thrusting100 his433 head219 into554 a10 great259 empty450 wooden35 trencher65 , while55 Tashtego, knife503 in107 hand252 , began132 laying116 out66 the19 circle282 preliminary32 to261 scalping99 him248 . He362 was454 naturally362 a10 very515 nervous154 , shuddering143 sort42 of89 little554 fellow369 , this256 bread387 -faced115 steward82 ; the19 progeny196 of89 a10 bankrupt285 baker223 and236 a10 hospital143 nurse210 . And236 what243 with449 the19 standing144 spectacle250 of89 the19 black581 terrific315 Ahab232 , and236 the19 periodical358 tumultuous355 visitations113 of89 these527 three329 savages247 , Dough-Boy110 's483 whole199 life71 was454 one470 continual222 lip318 -quiver38 . Commonly431 , after358 seeing426 the19 harpooneers furnished201 with449 all145 things4 they382 demanded223 , he362 would282 escape565 from316 their219 clutches25 into554 his433 little554 pantry26 adjoining59 , and236 fearfully345 peep222 out66 at65 them146 through295 the19 blinds34 of89 its234 door135 , till181 all145 was454 over82 . It162 was454 a10 sight365 to261 see370 Queequeg seated158 over82 against417 Tashtego, opposing402 his433 filed225 teeth82 to261 the19 Indian303 's483 ; crosswise350 to261 them146 , Daggoo seated158 on392 the19 floor418 , for190 a10 bench80 would282 have254 brought85 his433 hearse34 -plumed409 head219 to261 the19 low407 carlines27 ; at65 every389 motion544 of89 his433 colossal396 limbs315 , making415 the19 low407 cabin192 framework36 to261 shake180 , as113 when189 an138 African117 elephant72 goes205 passenger403 in107 a10 ship438 . But330 for190 all145 this256 , the19 great259 negro102 was454 wonderfully12 abstemious392 , not518 to261 say306 dainty338 . It162 seemed132 hardly182 possible277 that14 by406 such420 comparatively203 small350 mouthfuls35 he362 could375 keep381 up405 the19 vitality204 diffused321 through295 so281 broad267 , baronial215 , and236 superb44 a10 person550 . But330 , doubtless101 , this256 noble226 savage398 fed491 strong145 and236 drank82 deep483 of89 the19 abounding143 element38 of89 air209 ; and236 through295 his433 dilated230 nostrils42 snuffed250 in107 the19 sublime76 life71 of89 the19 worlds388 . Not518 by406 beef303 or519 by406 bread387 , are314 giants321 made563 or519 nourished69 . But330 Queequeg, he362 had364 a10 mortal371 , barbaric559 smack264 of89 the19 lip318 in107 eating22 -- an138 ugly101 sound181 enough217 --so281 much61 so281 , that14 the19 trembling280 Dough-Boy110 almost518 looked232 to261 see370 whether454 any501 marks226 of89 teeth82 lurked453 in107 his433 own248 lean279 arms536 . And236 when189 he362 would282 hear386 Tashtego singing288 out66 for190 him248 to261 produce494 himself282 , that14 his433 bones5 might496 be341 picked129 , the19 simple271 -witted Steward82 all145 but330 shattered205 the19 crockery27 hanging222 round287 him248 in107 the19 pantry26 , by406 his433 sudden309 fits369 of89 the19 palsy392 . Nor137 did444 the19 whetstone159 which16 the19 harpooneers carried232 in107 their219 pockets240 , for190 their219 lances8 and236 other282 weapons489 ; and236 with449 which16 whetstones157 , at65 dinner322 , they382 would282 ostentatiously173 sharpen249 their219 knives140 ; that14 grating451 sound181 did444 not518 at65 all145 tend151 to261 tranquillize19 poor533 Dough-Boy110 . How19 could375 he362 forget426 that14 in107 his433 Island516 days351 , Queequeg, for190 one470 , must226 certainly124 have254 been185 guilty290 of89 some265 murderous86 , convivial355 indiscretion166 . Alas129 ! Dough-Boy110 ! hard337 fares159 the19 white82 waiter139 who319 waits298 upon419 cannibals27 . Not518 a10 napkin470 should255 he362 carry160 on392 his433 arm25 , but330 a10 buckler215 . In107 good221 time577 , though400 , to261 his433 great259 delight25 , the19 three329 salt183 -sea67 warriors144 would282 rise251 and236 depart297 ; to261 his433 credulous74 , fable18 -mongering ears560 , all145 their219 martial43 bones5 jingling182 in107 them146 at65 every389 step204 , like410 Moorish83 scimetars273 in107 scabbards366 . But330 , though400 these527 barbarians15 dined30 in107 the19 cabin192 , and236 nominally159 lived415 there340 ; still278 , being264 anything480 but330 sedentary7 in107 their219 habits272 , they382 were324 scarcely71 ever208 in107 it162 except545 at65 mealtimes78 , and236 just108 before344 sleeping341 -time577 , when189 they382 passed87 through295 it162 to261 their219 own248 peculiar291 quarters336 . In107 this256 one470 matter176 , Ahab232 seemed132 no235 exception219 to261 most216 American272 whale422 captains124 , who319 , as113 a10 set422 , rather178 incline204 to261 the19 opinion316 that14 by406 rights462 the19 ship438 's483 cabin192 belongs402 to261 them146 ; and236 that14 it162 is487 by406 courtesy239 alone2 that14 anybody58 else212 is487 , at65 any501 time577 , permitted120 there340 . So281 that14 , in107 real305 truth350 , the19 mates264 and236 harpooneers of89 the19 Pequod288 might496 more348 properly93 be341 said252 to261 have254 lived415 out66 of89 the19 cabin192 than77 in107 it162 . For190 when189 they382 did444 enter204 it162 , it162 was454 something181 as113 a10 streetdoor181 enters157 a10 house499 ; turning69 inwards317 for190 a10 moment258 , only517 to261 be341 turned492 out66 the19 next27 ; and236 , as113 a10 permanent339 thing309 , residing29 in107 the19 open464 air209 . Nor137 did444 they382 lose247 much61 hereby196 ; in107 the19 cabin192 was454 no235 companionship256 ; socially161 , Ahab232 was454 inaccessible341 . Though400 nominally159 included559 in107 the19 census198 of89 Christendom400 , he362 was454 still278 an138 alien8 to261 it162 . He362 lived415 in107 the19 world126 , as113 the19 last436 of89 the19 Grisly309 Bears97 lived415 in107 settled540 Missouri390 . And236 as113 when189 Spring148 and236 Summer408 had364 departed467 , that14 wild230 Logan416 of89 the19 woods29 , burying435 himself282 in107 the19 hollow511 of89 a10 tree482 , lived415 out66 the19 winter317 there340 , sucking373 his433 own248 paws282 ; so281 , in107 his433 inclement4 , howling204 old447 age157 , Ahab232 's483 soul428 , shut59 up405 in107 the19 caved127 trunk389 of89 his433 body348 , there340 fed491 upon419 the19 sullen335 paws282 of89 its234 gloom7 ! CHAPTER293 35550 The19 Mast44 -Head116 It162 was454 during309 the19 more348 pleasant233 weather405 , that14 in107 due266 rotation102 with449 the19 other282 seamen6 my36 first13 mast44 -head116 came549 round287 . In107 most216 American272 whalemen451 the19 mast44 -heads279 are314 manned282 almost518 simultaneously558 with449 the19 vessel155 's483 leaving231 her400 port409 ; even198 though400 she391 may236 have254 fifteen289 thousand586 miles278 , and236 more348 , to261 sail218 ere83 reaching141 her400 proper249 cruising298 ground127 . And236 if141 , after358 a10 three329 , four175 , or519 five103 years116 ' voyage137 she391 is487 drawing407 nigh254 home450 with449 anything480 empty450 in107 her400 --say306 , an138 empty450 vial82 even198 -- then45 , her400 mast44 -heads279 are314 kept290 manned282 to261 the19 last436 ! and236 not518 till181 her400 skysail-poles122 sail218 in107 among483 the19 spires115 of89 the19 port409 , does565 she391 altogether31 relinquish261 the19 hope211 of89 capturing258 one470 whale422 more348 . Now20 , as113 the19 business168 of89 standing144 mast44 -heads279 , ashore122 or519 afloat2 , is487 a10 very515 ancient463 and236 interesting409 one470 , let66 us569 in107 some265 measure520 expatiate125 here135 . I482 take279 it162 , that14 the19 earliest69 standers43 of89 mast44 -heads279 were324 the19 old447 Egyptians188 ; because540 , in107 all145 my36 researches368 , I482 find138 none365 prior201 to261 them146 . For190 though400 their219 progenitors77 , the19 builders167 of89 Babel214 , must226 doubtless101 , by406 their219 tower36 , have254 intended495 to261 rear252 the19 loftiest460 mast44 -head116 in107 all145 Asia112 , or519 Africa269 either45 ; yet443 (ere83 the19 final357 truck120 was454 put190 to261 it162 ) as113 that14 great259 stone398 mast44 of89 theirs137 may236 be341 said252 to261 have254 gone190 by406 the19 board540 , in107 the19 dread251 gale440 of89 God185 's483 wrath450 ; therefore94 , we465 cannot give142 these527 Babel214 builders167 priority165 over82 the19 Egyptians188 . And236 that14 the19 Egyptians188 were324 a10 nation466 of89 mast44 -head116 standers43 , is487 an138 assertion464 based391 upon419 the19 general37 belief85 among483 archaeologists189 , that14 the19 first13 pyramids202 were324 founded113 for190 astronomical99 purposes415 : a10 theory60 singularly389 supported158 by406 the19 peculiar291 stairlike formation44 of89 all145 four175 sides331 of89 those427 edifices38 ; whereby358 , with449 prodigious223 long544 upliftings181 of89 their219 legs108 , those427 old447 astronomers69 were324 wont268 to261 mount34 to261 the19 apex43 , and236 sing549 out66 for190 new36 stars286 ; even198 as113 the19 look523 -outs52 of89 a10 modern446 ship438 sing549 out66 for190 a10 sail218 , or519 a10 whale422 just108 bearing354 in107 sight365 . In107 Saint324 Stylites227 , the19 famous254 Christian235 hermit44 of89 old447 times121 , who319 built20 him248 a10 lofty161 stone398 pillar397 in107 the19 desert255 and236 spent329 the19 whole199 latter497 portion120 of89 his433 life71 on392 its234 summit347 , hoisting50 his433 food248 from316 the19 ground127 with449 a10 tackle346 ; in107 him248 we465 have254 a10 remarkable381 instance141 of89 a10 dauntless29 stander-of89 -mast44 -heads279 ; who319 was454 not518 to261 be341 driven228 from316 his433 place107 by406 fogs157 or519 frosts110 , rain190 , hail75 , or519 sleet149 ; but330 valiantly138 facing68 everything233 out66 to261 the19 last436 , literally37 died575 at65 his433 post2 . Of89 modern446 standers43 -of89 -mast44 -heads279 we465 have254 but330 a10 lifeless19 set422 ; mere393 stone398 , iron169 , and236 bronze25 men62 ; who319 , though400 well263 capable424 of89 facing68 out66 a10 stiff549 gale440 , are314 still278 entirely148 incompetent201 to261 the19 business168 of89 singing288 out66 upon419 discovering170 any501 strange440 sight365 . There340 is487 Napoleon66 ; who319 , upon419 the19 top70 of89 the19 column265 of89 Vendome86 stands256 with449 arms536 folded305 , some265 one470 hundred93 and236 fifty406 feet349 in107 the19 air209 ; careless27 , now20 , who319 rules318 the19 decks386 below397 , whether454 Louis264 Philippe398 , Louis264 Blanc551 , or519 Louis264 the19 Devil411 . Great259 Washington413 , too11 , stands256 high361 aloft276 on392 his433 towering210 main501 -mast44 in107 Baltimore92 , and236 like410 one470 of89 Hercules301 ' pillars146 , his433 column265 marks226 that14 point438 of89 human43 grandeur436 beyond421 which16 few49 mortals72 will584 go20 . Admiral25 Nelson364 , also119 , on392 a10 capstan241 of89 gun152 -metal147 , stands256 his433 mast44 -head116 in107 Trafalgar273 Square302 ; and236 even198 when189 most216 obscured4 by406 that14 London41 smoke99 , token502 is487 yet443 given141 that14 a10 hidden78 hero213 is487 there340 ; for190 where579 there340 is487 smoke99 , must226 be341 fire559 . But330 neither74 great259 Washington413 , nor137 Napoleon66 , nor137 Nelson364 , will584 answer164 a10 single77 hail75 from316 below397 , however44 madly218 invoked398 to261 befriend223 by406 their219 counsels414 the19 distracted180 decks386 upon419 which16 they382 gaze568 ; however44 it162 may236 be341 surmised97 , that14 their219 spirits471 penetrate140 through295 the19 thick502 haze283 of89 the19 future44 , and236 descry126 what243 shoals340 and236 what243 rocks265 must226 be341 shunned46 . It162 may236 seem404 unwarrantable35 to261 couple261 in107 any501 respect441 the19 mast44 -head116 standers43 of89 the19 land406 with449 those427 of89 the19 sea67 ; but330 that14 in107 truth350 it162 is487 not518 so281 , is487 plainly450 evinced94 by406 an138 item60 for190 which16 Obed196 Macy39 , the19 sole462 historian147 of89 Nantucket283 , stands256 accountable224 . The19 worthy60 Obed196 tells449 us569 , that14 in107 the19 early92 times121 of89 the19 whale422 fishery136 , ere83 ships21 were324 regularly37 launched336 in107 pursuit305 of89 the19 game233 , the19 people482 of89 that14 island516 erected412 lofty161 spars15 along423 the19 seacoast138 , to261 which16 the19 look523 -outs52 ascended302 by406 means502 of89 nailed419 cleats367 , something181 as113 fowls206 go20 upstairs199 in107 a10 hen314 -house499 . A10 few49 years116 ago141 this256 same541 plan99 was454 adopted13 by406 the19 Bay279 whalemen451 of89 New36 Zealand115 , who319 , upon419 descrying141 the19 game233 , gave572 notice76 to261 the19 ready464 -manned282 boats83 nigh254 the19 beach183 . But330 this256 custom544 has399 now20 become548 obsolete280 ; turn17 we465 then45 to261 the19 one470 proper249 mast44 -head116 , that14 of89 a10 whale422 -ship98 at65 sea67 . The19 three329 mast44 -heads279 are314 kept290 manned282 from316 sun397 -rise251 to261 sun397 -set422 ; the19 seamen6 taking146 their219 regular400 turns136 (as113 at65 the19 helm285 ), and236 relieving43 each520 other282 every389 two527 hours127 . In107 the19 serene18 weather405 of89 the19 tropics300 it162 is487 exceedingly257 pleasant233 the19 mast44 -head116 : nay358 , to261 a10 dreamy247 meditative220 man17 it162 is487 delightful113 . There340 you227 stand530 , a10 hundred93 feet349 above502 the19 silent382 decks386 , striding110 along423 the19 deep483 , as113 if141 the19 masts212 were324 gigantic157 stilts522 , while55 beneath320 you227 and236 between77 your162 legs108 , as113 it162 were324 , swim226 the19 hugest83 monsters129 of89 the19 sea67 , even198 as113 ships21 once248 sailed248 between77 the19 boots497 of89 the19 famous254 Colossus312 at65 old447 Rhodes509 . There340 you227 stand530 , lost308 in107 the19 infinite503 series494 of89 the19 sea67 , with449 nothing324 ruffled40 but330 the19 waves443 . The19 tranced110 ship438 indolently536 rolls475 ; the19 drowsy203 trade335 winds399 blow230 ; everything233 resolves31 you227 into554 languor102 . For190 the19 most216 part207 , in107 this256 tropic303 whaling155 life71 , a10 sublime76 uneventfulness invests25 you227 ; you227 hear386 no235 news314 ; read98 no235 gazettes41 ; extras21 with449 startling221 accounts311 of89 commonplaces95 never206 delude83 you227 into554 unnecessary444 excitements34 ; you227 hear386 of89 no235 domestic303 afflictions383 ; bankrupt285 securities412 ; fall90 of89 stocks425 ; are314 never206 troubled327 with449 the19 thought186 of89 what243 you227 shall66 have254 for190 dinner322 -- for190 all145 your162 meals419 for190 three329 years116 and236 more348 are314 snugly392 stowed434 in107 casks213 , and236 your162 bill338 of89 fare19 is487 immutable224 . In107 one470 of89 those427 southern187 whalesmen, on392 a10 long544 three329 or519 four175 years116 ' voyage137 , as113 often227 happens143 , the19 sum213 of89 the19 various183 hours127 you227 spend357 at65 the19 mast44 -head116 would282 amount11 to261 several479 entire230 months17 . And236 it162 is487 much61 to261 be341 deplored57 that14 the19 place107 to261 which16 you227 devote104 so281 considerable75 a10 portion120 of89 the19 whole199 term416 of89 your162 natural298 life71 , should255 be341 so281 sadly75 destitute190 of89 anything480 approaching271 to261 a10 cosy230 inhabitiveness, or519 adapted263 to261 breed450 a10 comfortable402 localness of89 feeling384 , such420 as113 pertains24 to261 a10 bed273 , a10 hammock323 , a10 hearse34 , a10 sentry364 box226 , a10 pulpit107 , a10 coach188 , or519 any501 other282 of89 those427 small350 and236 snug310 contrivances99 in107 which16 men62 temporarily22 isolate133 themselves510 . Your162 most216 usual278 point438 of89 perch295 is487 the19 head219 of89 the19 t500 ' gallant323 -mast44 , where579 you227 stand530 upon419 two527 thin445 parallel78 sticks335 (almost518 peculiar291 to261 whalemen451 ) called237 the19 t500 ' gallant323 crosstrees411 . Here135 , tossed227 about123 by406 the19 sea67 , the19 beginner248 feels450 about123 as113 cosy230 as113 he362 would282 standing144 on392 a10 bull76 's483 horns450 . To261 be341 sure41 , in107 cold330 weather405 you227 may236 carry160 your162 house499 aloft276 with449 you227 , in107 the19 shape99 of89 a10 watch89 -coat7 ; but330 properly93 speaking22 the19 thickest316 watch89 -coat7 is487 no235 more348 of89 a10 house499 than77 the19 unclad202 body348 ; for190 as113 the19 soul428 is487 glued120 inside438 of89 its234 fleshy26 tabernacle190 , and236 cannot freely386 move361 about123 in107 it162 , nor137 even198 move361 out66 of89 it162 , without309 running296 great259 risk97 of89 perishing60 (like410 an138 ignorant136 pilgrim253 crossing402 the19 snowy152 Alps214 in107 winter317 ); so281 a10 watch89 -coat7 is487 not518 so281 much61 of89 a10 house499 as113 it162 is487 a10 mere393 envelope155 , or519 additional131 skin428 encasing298 you227 . You227 cannot put190 a10 shelf3 or519 chest98 of89 drawers350 in107 your162 body348 , and236 no235 more348 can450 you227 make175 a10 convenience180 closet437 of89 your162 watch89 -coat7 . Concerning368 all145 this256 , it162 is487 much61 to261 be341 deplored57 that14 the19 mast44 -heads279 of89 a10 southern187 whale422 ship438 are314 unprovided116 with449 those427 enviable492 little554 tents450 or519 pulpits301 , called237 crow151 's483 -nests, in107 which16 the19 look523 -outs52 of89 a10 Greenland110 whaler91 are314 protected59 from316 the19 inclement4 weather405 of89 the19 frozen446 seas350 . In107 the19 fireside21 narrative81 of89 Captain295 Sleet149 , entitled189 "A10 Voyage137 among483 the19 Icebergs210 , in107 quest36 of89 the19 Greenland110 Whale422 , and236 incidentally261 for190 the19 re-discovery416 of89 the19 Lost308 Icelandic340 Colonies323 of89 Old447 Greenland110 ;" in107 this256 admirable267 volume295 , all145 standers43 of89 mast44 -heads279 are314 furnished201 with449 a10 charmingly21 circumstantial102 account102 of89 the19 then45 recently128 invented15 crow151 's483 -nest454 of89 the19 Glacier204 , which16 was454 the19 name477 of89 Captain295 Sleet149 's483 good221 craft187 . He362 called237 it162 the19 Sleet149 's483 crow151 's483 -nest454 , in107 honor497 of89 himself282 ; he362 being264 the19 original463 inventor6 and236 patentee229 , and236 free483 from316 all145 ridiculous92 false490 delicacy201 , and236 holding311 that14 if141 we465 call259 our234 own248 children374 after358 our234 own248 names360 (we465 fathers305 being264 the19 original463 inventors197 and236 patentees419 ), so281 likewise193 should255 we465 denominate83 after358 ourselves15 any501 other282 apparatus306 we465 may236 beget415 . In107 shape99 , the19 Sleet149 's483 crow151 's483 -nest454 is487 something181 like410 a10 large385 tierce384 or519 pipe124 ; it162 is487 open464 above502 , however44 , where579 it162 is487 furnished201 with449 a10 movable261 sidescreen to261 keep381 to261 windward170 of89 your162 head219 in107 a10 hard337 gale440 . Being264 fixed564 on392 the19 summit347 of89 the19 mast44 , you227 ascend155 into554 it162 through295 a10 little554 trap19 -hatch241 in107 the19 bottom461 . On392 the19 after358 side246 , or519 side246 next27 the19 stern442 of89 the19 ship438 , is487 a10 comfortable402 seat88 , with449 a10 locker26 underneath224 for190 umbrellas259 , comforters332 , and236 coats172 . In107 front196 is487 a10 leather303 rack415 , in107 which16 to261 keep381 your162 speaking22 trumpet104 , pipe124 , telescope26 , and236 other282 nautical42 conveniences40 . When189 Captain295 Sleet149 in107 person550 stood1 his433 mast44 -head116 in107 this256 crow151 's483 -nest454 of89 his433 , he362 tells449 us569 that14 he362 always367 had364 a10 rifle303 with449 him248 (also119 fixed564 in107 the19 rack415 ), together440 with449 a10 powder5 flask199 and236 shot443 , for190 the19 purpose514 of89 popping210 off111 the19 stray133 narwhales, or519 vagrant22 sea67 unicorns113 infesting268 those427 waters556 ; for190 you227 cannot successfully412 shoot316 at65 them146 from316 the19 deck505 owing98 to261 the19 resistance262 of89 the19 water520 , but330 to261 shoot316 down133 upon419 them146 is487 a10 very515 different276 thing309 . Now20 , it162 was454 plainly450 a10 labor209 of89 love391 for190 Captain295 Sleet149 to261 describe54 , as113 he362 does565 , all145 the19 little554 detailed117 conveniences40 of89 his433 crow151 's483 -nest454 ; but330 though400 he362 so281 enlarges468 upon419 many282 of89 these527 , and236 though400 he362 treats262 us569 to261 a10 very515 scientific435 account102 of89 his433 experiments120 in107 this256 crow151 's483 -nest454 , with449 a10 small350 compass463 he362 kept290 there340 for190 the19 purpose514 of89 counteracting53 the19 errors6 resulting105 from316 what243 is487 called237 the19 "local10 attraction242 " of89 all145 binnacle98 magnets284 ; an138 error374 ascribable201 to261 the19 horizontal252 vicinity208 of89 the19 iron169 in107 the19 ship438 's483 planks284 , and236 in107 the19 Glacier204 's483 case346 , perhaps75 , to261 there340 having69 been185 so281 many282 broken255 -down133 blacksmiths136 among483 her400 crew126 ; I482 say306 , that14 though400 the19 Captain295 is487 very515 discreet127 and236 scientific435 here135 , yet443 , for190 all145 his433 learned277 "binnacle98 deviations199 ," "azimuth78 compass463 observations451 ," and236 "approximate72 errors6 ," he362 knows286 very515 well263 , Captain295 Sleet149 , that14 he362 was454 not518 so281 much61 immersed95 in107 those427 profound371 magnetic181 meditations181 , as113 to261 fail126 being264 attracted36 occasionally509 towards417 that14 well263 replenished198 little554 case346 -bottle42 , so281 nicely560 tucked143 in107 on392 one470 side246 of89 his433 crow151 's483 nest454 , within503 easy281 reach43 of89 his433 hand252 . Though400 , upon419 the19 whole199 , I482 greatly460 admire399 and236 even198 love391 the19 brave218 , the19 honest287 , and236 learned277 Captain295 ; yet443 I482 take279 it162 very515 ill236 of89 him248 that14 he362 should255 so281 utterly46 ignore299 that14 case346 -bottle42 , seeing426 what243 a10 faithful284 friend179 and236 comforter131 it162 must226 have254 been185 , while55 with449 mittened331 fingers345 and236 hooded374 head219 he362 was454 studying67 the19 mathematics431 aloft276 there340 in107 that14 bird443 's483 nest454 within503 three329 or519 four175 perches390 of89 the19 pole20 . But330 if141 we465 Southern187 whale422 -fishers192 are314 not518 so281 snugly392 housed367 aloft276 as113 Captain295 Sleet149 and236 his433 Greenlandmen438 were324 ; yet443 that14 disadvantage45 is487 greatly460 counter225 -balanced153 by406 the19 widely171 contrasting286 serenity27 of89 those427 seductive86 seas350 in107 which16 we465 South257 fishers192 mostly190 float231 . For190 one470 , I482 used102 to261 lounge121 up405 the19 rigging516 very515 leisurely505 , resting455 in107 the19 top70 to261 have254 a10 chat205 with449 Queequeg, or519 any501 one470 else212 off111 duty468 whom324 I482 might496 find138 there340 ; then45 ascending116 a10 little554 way435 further53 , and236 throwing120 a10 lazy182 leg331 over82 the19 top70 -sail218 yard258 , take279 a10 preliminary32 view370 of89 the19 watery59 pastures403 , and236 so281 at65 last436 mount34 to261 my36 ultimate221 destination453 . Let66 me2 make175 a10 clean26 breast272 of89 it162 here135 , and236 frankly41 admit321 that14 I482 kept290 but330 sorry147 guard205 . With449 the19 problem28 of89 the19 universe426 revolving21 in107 me2 , how19 could375 I482 --being264 left159 completely385 to261 myself99 at65 such420 a10 thought186 -engendering419 altitude315 --how19 could375 I482 but330 lightly284 hold204 my36 obligations462 to261 observe213 all145 whaleships' standing144 orders199 , "Keep381 your162 weather405 eye220 open464 , and236 sing549 out66 every389 time577 ." And236 let66 me2 in107 this256 place107 movingly314 admonish261 you227 , ye483 ship438 -owners39 of89 Nantucket283 ! Beware255 of89 enlisting191 in107 your162 vigilant142 fisheries6 any501 lad342 with449 lean279 brow474 and236 hollow511 eye220 ; given141 to261 unseasonable249 meditativeness161 ; and236 who319 offers287 to261 ship438 with449 the19 Phaedon393 instead398 of89 Bowditch98 in107 his433 head219 . Beware255 of89 such420 an138 one470 , I482 say306 : your162 whales331 must226 be341 seen154 before344 they382 can450 be341 killed409 ; and236 this256 sunken83 -eyed363 young389 Platonist320 will584 tow160 you227 ten198 wakes60 round287 the19 world126 , and236 never206 make175 you227 one470 pint48 of89 sperm26 the19 richer284 . Nor137 are314 these527 monitions141 at65 all145 unneeded225 . For190 nowadays444 , the19 whale422 -fishery136 furnishes165 an138 asylum258 for190 many282 romantic133 , melancholy398 , and236 absent122 -minded335 young389 men62 , disgusted186 with449 the19 corking83 care307 of89 earth513 , and236 seeking427 sentiment44 in107 tar59 and236 blubber232 . Childe69 Harold244 not518 unfrequently198 perches390 himself282 upon419 the19 mast44 -head116 of89 some265 luckless122 disappointed86 whale422 -ship98 , and236 in107 moody447 phrase22 ejaculates248 :-- "Roll473 on392 , thou173 deep483 and236 dark471 blue240 ocean224 , roll473 ! Ten198 thousand586 blubber232 -hunters423 sweep471 over82 thee15 in107 vain216 ." Very515 often227 do353 the19 captains124 of89 such420 ships21 take279 those427 absent122 -minded335 young389 philosophers529 to261 task482 , upbraiding244 them146 with449 not518 feeling384 sufficient124 "interest323 " in107 the19 voyage137 ; half119 -hinting73 that14 they382 are314 so281 hopelessly367 lost308 to261 all145 honorable15 ambition90 , as113 that14 in107 their219 secret409 souls82 they382 would282 rather178 not518 see370 whales331 than77 otherwise542 . But330 all145 in107 vain216 ; those427 young389 Platonists170 have254 a10 notion266 that14 their219 vision304 is487 imperfect30 ; they382 are314 short522 -sighted105 ; what243 use176 , then45 , to261 strain468 the19 visual507 nerve35 ? They382 have254 left159 their219 opera-glasses527 at65 home450 . "Why177 , thou173 monkey335 ," said252 a10 harpooneer to261 one470 of89 these527 lads252 , "we465 've477 been185 cruising298 now20 hard337 upon419 three329 years116 , and236 thou173 hast174 not518 raised493 a10 whale422 yet443 . Whales331 are314 scarce462 as113 hen314 's483 teeth82 whenever15 thou173 art462 up405 here135 ." Perhaps75 they382 were324 ; or519 perhaps75 there340 might496 have254 been185 shoals340 of89 them146 in107 the19 far258 horizon516 ; but330 lulled15 into554 such420 an138 opium-like410 listlessness192 of89 vacant367 , unconscious152 reverie70 is487 this256 absent122 -minded335 youth327 by406 the19 blending350 cadence330 of89 waves443 with449 thoughts26 , that14 at65 last436 he362 loses125 his433 identity124 ; takes362 the19 mystic455 ocean224 at65 his433 feet349 for190 the19 visible94 image74 of89 that14 deep483 , blue240 , bottomless376 soul428 , pervading140 mankind40 and236 nature159 ; and236 every389 strange440 , half119 -seen446 , gliding248 , beautiful239 thing309 that14 eludes197 him248 ; every389 dimly298 -discovered36 , uprising375 fin286 of89 some265 undiscernible24 form238 , seems19 to261 him248 the19 embodiment87 of89 those427 elusive3 thoughts26 that14 only517 people482 the19 soul428 by406 continually303 flitting411 through295 it162 . In107 this256 enchanted229 mood547 , thy43 spirit227 ebbs325 away443 to261 whence494 it162 came549 ; becomes314 diffused321 through295 time577 and236 space468 ; like410 Crammer's483 sprinkled18 Pantheistic210 ashes243 , forming354 at65 last436 a10 part207 of89 every389 shore280 the19 round287 globe23 over82 . There340 is487 no235 life71 in107 thee15 , now20 , except545 that14 rocking6 life71 imparted189 by406 a10 gently284 rolling253 ship438 ; by406 her400 , borrowed199 from316 the19 sea67 ; by406 the19 sea67 , from316 the19 inscrutable29 tides36 of89 God185 . But330 while55 this256 sleep233 , this256 dream86 is487 on392 ye483 , move361 your162 foot467 or519 hand252 an138 inch65 ; slip64 your162 hold204 at65 all145 ; and236 your162 identity124 comes268 back457 in107 horror134 . Over82 Descartian vortices489 you227 hover244 . And236 perhaps75 , at65 midday101 , in107 the19 fairest476 weather405 , with449 one470 half119 -throttled shriek27 you227 drop22 through295 that14 transparent129 air209 into554 the19 summer408 sea67 , no235 more348 to261 rise251 for190 ever208 . Heed163 it162 well263 , ye483 Pantheists! CHAPTER293 364 The19 Quarter6 -Deck505 (Enter204 Ahab232 : Then45 , all145 ) It162 was454 not518 a10 great259 while55 after358 the19 affair388 of89 the19 pipe124 , that14 one470 morning417 shortly425 after358 breakfast408 , Ahab232 , as113 was454 his433 wont268 , ascended302 the19 cabin192 -gangway240 to261 the19 deck505 . There340 most216 sea67 -captains124 usually211 walk405 at65 that14 hour384 , as113 country362 gentlemen340 , after358 the19 same541 meal246 , take279 a10 few49 turns136 in107 the19 garden121 . Soon18 his433 steady21 , ivory76 stride129 was454 heard444 , as113 to261 and236 fro183 he362 paced145 his433 old447 rounds369 , upon419 planks284 so281 familiar139 to261 his433 tread252 , that14 they382 were324 all145 over82 dented19 , like410 geological303 stones501 , with449 the19 peculiar291 mark169 of89 his433 walk405 . Did444 you227 fixedly434 gaze568 , too11 , upon419 that14 ribbed246 and236 dented19 brow474 ; there340 also119 , you227 would282 see370 still278 stranger233 foot467 -prints441 --the19 foot467 -prints441 of89 his433 one470 unsleeping403 , ever208 -pacing253 thought186 . But330 on392 the19 occasion211 in107 question562 , those427 dents398 looked232 deeper253 , even198 as113 his433 nervous154 step204 that14 morning417 left159 a10 deeper253 mark169 . And236 , so281 full414 of89 his433 thought186 was454 Ahab232 , that14 at65 every389 uniform173 turn17 that14 he362 made563 , now20 at65 the19 main501 -mast44 and236 now20 at65 the19 binnacle98 , you227 could375 almost518 see370 that14 thought186 turn17 in107 him248 as113 he362 turned492 , and236 pace384 in107 him248 as113 he362 paced145 ; so281 completely385 possessing507 him248 , indeed522 , that14 it162 all145 but330 seemed132 the19 inward337 mould208 of89 every389 outer359 movement128 . "D67 'ye163 mark169 him248 , Flask199 ?" whispered89 Stubb; "the19 chick286 that14 's76 in107 him248 pecks154 the19 shell152 . 'Twill soon18 be341 out66 ." The19 hours127 wore92 on392 ;--Ahab232 now20 shut59 up405 within503 his433 cabin192 ; anon88 , pacing253 the19 deck505 , with449 the19 same541 intense89 bigotry399 of89 purpose514 in107 his433 aspect147 . It162 drew175 near70 the19 close65 of89 day112 . Suddenly193 he362 came549 to261 a10 halt146 by406 the19 bulwarks411 , and236 inserting357 his433 bone184 leg331 into554 the19 auger327 -hole73 there340 , and236 with449 one470 hand252 grasping427 a10 shroud260 , he362 ordered143 Starbuck to261 send536 everybody77 aft2 . "Sir271 !" said252 the19 mate508 , astonished260 at65 an138 order343 seldom140 or519 never206 given141 on392 ship438 -board540 except545 in107 some265 extraordinary346 case346 . "Send536 everybody77 aft2 ," repeated381 Ahab232 . "Mast44 -heads279 , there340 ! come420 down133 !" When189 the19 entire230 ship438 's483 company280 were324 assembled170 , and236 with449 curious264 and236 not518 wholly497 unapprehensive110 faces97 , were324 eyeing49 him248 , for190 he362 looked232 not518 unlike406 the19 weather405 horizon516 when189 a10 storm218 is487 coming140 up405 , Ahab232 , after358 rapidly116 glancing18 over82 the19 bulwarks411 , and236 then45 darting147 his433 eyes125 among483 the19 crew126 , started492 from316 his433 standpoint303 ; and236 as113 though400 not518 a10 soul428 were324 nigh254 him248 resumed7 his433 heavy421 turns136 upon419 the19 deck505 . With449 bent406 head219 and236 half119 -slouched364 hat107 he362 continued44 to261 pace384 , unmindful225 of89 the19 wondering263 whispering491 among483 the19 men62 ; till181 Stubb cautiously286 whispered89 to261 Flask199 , that14 Ahab232 must226 have254 summoned77 them146 there340 for190 the19 purpose514 of89 witnessing247 a10 pedestrian19 feat1 . But330 this256 did444 not518 last436 long544 . Vehemently201 pausing19 , he362 cried506 :-- "What243 do353 ye483 do353 when189 ye483 see370 a10 whale422 , men62 ?" "Sing549 out66 for190 him248 !" was454 the19 impulsive389 rejoinder330 from316 a10 score124 of89 clubbed322 voices386 . "Good221 !" cried506 Ahab232 , with449 a10 wild230 approval21 in107 his433 tones129 ; observing278 the19 hearty140 animation211 into554 which16 his433 unexpected78 question562 had364 so281 magnetically336 thrown359 them146 . "And236 what243 do353 ye483 next27 , men62 ?" "Lower47 away443 , and236 after358 him248 !" "And236 what243 tune330 is487 it162 ye483 pull35 to261 , men62 ?" "A10 dead568 whale422 or519 a10 stove373 boat439 !" More348 and236 more348 strangely155 and236 fiercely111 glad356 and236 approving232 , grew5 the19 countenance553 of89 the19 old447 man17 at65 every389 shout299 ; while55 the19 mariners347 began132 to261 gaze568 curiously261 at65 each520 other282 , as113 if141 marvelling181 how19 it162 was454 that14 they382 themselves510 became70 so281 excited283 at65 such420 seemingly261 purposeless214 questions300 . But330 , they382 were324 all145 eagerness275 again52 , as113 Ahab232 , now20 half119 -revolving21 in107 his433 pivot-hole73 , with449 one470 hand252 reaching141 high361 up405 a10 shroud260 , and236 tightly259 , almost518 convulsively19 grasping427 it162 , addressed169 them146 thus362 :-- "All145 ye483 mast44 -headers have254 before344 now20 heard444 me2 give142 orders199 about123 a10 white82 whale422 . Look523 ye483 ! d67 'ye163 see370 this256 Spanish124 ounce275 of89 gold231 ?"--holding311 up405 a10 broad267 bright205 coin77 to261 the19 sun397 --"it162 is487 a10 sixteen68 dollar501 piece121 , men62 . D67 'ye163 see370 it162 ? Mr219 . Starbuck, hand252 me2 yon252 top70 -maul191 ." While55 the19 mate508 was454 getting369 the19 hammer364 , Ahab232 , without309 speaking22 , was454 slowly149 rubbing120 the19 gold231 piece121 against417 the19 skirts259 of89 his433 jacket481 , as113 if141 to261 heighten191 its234 lustre19 , and236 without309 using14 any501 words107 was454 meanwhile282 lowly117 humming243 to261 himself282 , producing1 a10 sound181 so281 strangely155 muffled58 and236 inarticulate137 that14 it162 seemed132 the19 mechanical31 humming243 of89 the19 wheels116 of89 his433 vitality204 in107 him248 . Receiving124 the19 top70 -maul191 from316 Starbuck, he362 advanced55 towards417 the19 main501 -mast44 with449 the19 hammer364 uplifted533 in107 one470 hand252 , exhibiting67 the19 gold231 with449 the19 other282 , and236 with449 a10 high361 raised493 voice233 exclaiming117 : "Whosoever54 of89 ye483 raises148 me2 a10 white82 -headed21 whale422 with449 a10 wrinkled259 brow474 and236 a10 crooked236 jaw213 ; whosoever54 of89 ye483 raises148 me2 that14 white82 -headed21 whale422 , with449 three329 holes41 punctured305 in107 his433 starboard309 fluke415 --look523 ye483 , whosoever54 of89 ye483 raises148 me2 that14 same541 white82 whale422 , he362 shall66 have254 this256 gold231 ounce275 , my36 boys22 !" "Huzza191 ! huzza191 !" cried506 the19 seamen6 , as113 with449 swinging379 tarpaulins389 they382 hailed411 the19 act10 of89 nailing83 the19 gold231 to261 the19 mast44 . "It162 's483 a10 white82 whale422 , I482 say306 ," resumed7 Ahab232 , as113 he362 threw459 down133 the19 topmaul: "a10 white82 whale422 . Skin428 your162 eyes125 for190 him248 , men62 ; look523 sharp427 for190 white82 water520 ; if141 ye483 see370 but330 a10 bubble81 , sing549 out66 ." All145 this256 while55 Tashtego, Daggoo, and236 Queequeg had364 looked232 on392 with449 even198 more348 intense89 interest323 and236 surprise125 than77 the19 rest302 , and236 at65 the19 mention510 of89 the19 wrinkled259 brow474 and236 crooked236 jaw213 they382 had364 started492 as113 if141 each520 was454 separately350 touched367 by406 some265 specific383 recollection217 . "Captain295 Ahab232 ," said252 Tashtego, "that14 white82 whale422 must226 be341 the19 same541 that14 some265 call259 Moby362 Dick25 ." "Moby362 Dick25 ?" shouted300 Ahab232 . "Do353 ye483 know60 the19 white82 whale422 then45 , Tash299 ?" "Does565 he362 fan104 -tail55 a10 little554 curious264 , sir271 , before344 he362 goes205 down133 ?" said252 the19 Gay323 -Header deliberately336 . "And236 has399 he362 a10 curious264 spout224 , too11 ," said252 Daggoo, "very515 bushy191 , even198 for190 a10 parmacetty, and236 mighty2 quick241 , Captain295 Ahab232 ?" "And236 he362 have254 one470 , two527 , tree482 --oh367 ! good221 many282 iron169 in107 him248 hide266 , too11 , Captain295 ," cried506 Queequeg disjointedly364 , "all145 twiske-tee be341 -twisk, like410 him248 --him248 -" faltering369 hard337 for190 a10 word486 , and236 screwing284 his433 hand252 round287 and236 round287 as113 though400 uncorking40 a10 bottle42 --"like410 him248 --him248 -" "Corkscrew181 !" cried506 Ahab232 , "aye86 , Queequeg, the19 harpoons6 lie212 all145 twisted279 and236 wrenched302 in107 him248 ; aye86 , Daggoo, his433 spout224 is487 a10 big245 one470 , like410 a10 whole199 shock44 of89 wheat10 , and236 white82 as113 a10 pile312 of89 our234 Nantucket283 wool218 after358 the19 great259 annual212 sheep45 -shearing; aye86 , Tashtego, and236 he362 fan104 -tails490 like410 a10 split148 jib476 in107 a10 squall467 . Death543 and236 devils377 ! men62 , it162 is487 Moby362 Dick25 ye483 have254 seen154 -- Moby362 Dick25 --Moby362 Dick25 !" "Captain295 Ahab232 ," said252 Starbuck, who319 , with449 Stubb and236 Flask199 , had364 thus362 far258 been185 eyeing49 his433 superior479 with449 increasing329 surprise125 , but330 at65 last436 seemed132 struck441 with449 a10 thought186 which16 somewhat77 explained492 all145 the19 wonder76 . "Captain295 Ahab232 , I482 have254 heard444 of89 Moby362 Dick25 --but330 it162 was454 not518 Moby362 Dick25 that14 took68 off111 thy43 leg331 ?" "Who319 told82 thee15 that14 ?" cried506 Ahab232 ; then45 pausing19 , "Aye86 , Starbuck; aye86 , my36 hearties248 all145 round287 ; it162 was454 Moby362 Dick25 that14 dismasted331 me2 ; Moby362 Dick25 that14 brought85 me2 to261 this256 dead568 stump277 I482 stand530 on392 now20 . Aye86 , aye86 ," he362 shouted300 with449 a10 terrific315 , loud556 , animal22 sob225 , like410 that14 of89 a10 heart470 -stricken328 moose415 ; "Aye86 , aye86 ! it162 was454 that14 accursed203 white82 whale422 that14 razeed me2 ; made563 a10 poor533 pegging83 lubber191 of89 me2 for190 ever208 and236 a10 day112 !" Then45 tossing213 both558 arms536 , with449 measureless102 imprecations296 he362 shouted300 out66 : "Aye86 , aye86 ! and236 I482 'll300 chase89 him248 round287 Good221 Hope211 , and236 round287 the19 Horn139 , and236 round287 the19 Norway314 Maelstrom367 , and236 round287 perdition431 's483 flames74 before344 I482 give142 him248 up405 . And236 this256 is487 what243 ye483 have254 shipped26 for190 , men62 ! to261 chase89 that14 white82 whale422 on392 both558 sides331 of89 land406 , and236 over82 all145 sides331 of89 earth513 , till181 he362 spouts75 black581 blood208 and236 rolls475 fin286 out66 . What243 say306 ye483 , men62 , will584 ye483 splice4 hands87 on392 it162 , now20 ? I482 think424 ye483 do353 look523 brave218 ." "Aye86 , aye86 !" shouted300 the19 harpooneers and236 seamen6 , running296 closer111 to261 the19 excited283 old447 man17 : "A10 sharp427 eye220 for190 the19 White82 Whale422 ; a10 sharp427 lance76 for190 Moby362 Dick25 !" "God185 bless128 ye483 ," he362 seemed132 to261 half119 sob225 and236 half119 shout299 . "God185 bless128 ye483 , men62 . Steward82 ! go20 draw106 the19 great259 measure520 of89 grog98 . But330 what243 's483 this256 long544 face556 about123 , Mr219 . Starbuck; wilt401 thou173 not518 chase89 the19 white82 whale422 ! art462 not518 game233 for190 Moby362 Dick25 ?" "I482 am375 game233 for190 his433 crooked236 jaw213 , and236 for190 the19 jaws341 of89 Death543 too11 , Captain295 Ahab232 , if141 it162 fairly211 comes268 in107 the19 way435 of89 the19 business168 we465 follow408 ; but330 I482 came549 here135 to261 hunt418 whales331 , not518 my36 commander108 's483 vengeance72 . How19 many282 barrels368 will584 thy43 vengeance72 yield39 thee15 even198 if141 thou173 gettest461 it162 , Captain295 Ahab232 ? it162 will584 not518 fetch261 thee15 much61 in107 our234 Nantucket283 market286 ." "Nantucket283 market286 ! Hoot191 ! But330 come420 closer111 , Starbuck; thou173 requirest457 a10 little554 lower47 layer296 . If141 money383 's483 to261 be341 the19 measurer59 , man17 , and236 the19 accountants25 have254 computed287 their219 great259 counting345 -house499 the19 globe23 , by406 girdling132 it162 with449 guineas316 , one470 to261 every389 three329 parts470 of89 an138 inch65 ; then45 , let66 me2 tell392 thee15 , that14 my36 vengeance72 will584 fetch261 a10 great259 premium25 here135 !" "He362 smites314 his433 chest98 ," whispered89 Stubb, "what243 's483 that14 for190 ? methinks462 it162 rings25 most216 vast43 , but330 hollow511 ." "Vengeance72 on392 a10 dumb371 brute73 !" cried506 Starbuck, "that14 simply142 smote261 thee15 from316 blindest192 instinct72 ! Madness282 ! To261 be341 enraged19 with449 a10 dumb371 thing309 , Captain295 Ahab232 , seems19 blasphemous113 ." "Hark313 ye483 yet443 again52 --the19 little554 lower47 layer296 . All145 visible94 objects326 , man17 , are314 but330 as113 pasteboard303 masks272 . But330 in107 each520 event28 --in107 the19 living117 act10 , the19 undoubted214 deed101 --there340 , some265 unknown10 but330 still278 reasoning68 thing309 puts146 forth152 the19 mouldings264 of89 its234 features150 from316 behind80 the19 unreasoning107 mask86 . If141 man17 will584 strike374 , strike374 through295 the19 mask86 ! How19 can450 the19 prisoner92 reach43 outside75 except545 by406 thrusting100 through295 the19 wall509 ? To261 me2 , the19 white82 whale422 is487 that14 wall509 , shoved136 near70 to261 me2 . Sometimes77 I482 think424 there340 's483 naught80 beyond421 . But330 'tis enough217 . He362 tasks468 me2 ; he362 heaps86 me2 ; I482 see370 in107 him248 outrageous247 strength168 , with449 an138 inscrutable29 malice157 sinewing it162 . That14 inscrutable29 thing309 is487 chiefly90 what243 I482 hate267 ; and236 be341 the19 white82 whale422 agent360 , or519 be341 the19 white82 whale422 principal550 , I482 will584 wreak159 that14 hate267 upon419 him248 . Talk173 not518 to261 me2 of89 blasphemy161 , man17 ; I482 'd67 strike374 the19 sun397 if141 it162 insulted25 me2 . For190 could375 the19 sun397 do353 that14 , then45 could375 I482 do353 the19 other282 ; since374 there340 is487 ever208 a10 sort42 of89 fair320 play89 herein264 , jealousy124 presiding328 over82 all145 creations170 . But330 not518 my36 master131 , man17 , is487 even198 that14 fair320 play89 . Who319 's483 over82 me2 ? Truth350 hath585 no235 confines365 . Take279 off111 thine72 eye220 ! more348 intolerable304 than77 fiends270 ' glarings is487 a10 doltish83 stare236 ! So281 , so281 ; thou173 reddenest and236 palest240 ; my36 heat218 has399 melted145 thee15 to261 anger282 -glow227 . But330 look523 ye483 , Starbuck, what243 is487 said252 in107 heat218 , that14 thing309 unsays itself312 . There340 are314 men62 from316 whom324 warm178 words107 are314 small350 indignity29 . I482 meant157 not518 to261 incense474 thee15 . Let66 it162 go20 . Look523 ! see370 yonder41 Turkish124 cheeks282 of89 spotted122 tawn--living117 , breathing403 pictures371 painted340 by406 the19 sun397 . The19 Pagan118 leopards330 --the19 unrecking306 and236 unworshipping things4 , that14 live554 ; and236 seek292 , and236 give142 no235 reasons186 for190 the19 torrid42 life71 they382 feel461 ! The19 crew126 , man17 , the19 crew126 ! Are314 they382 not518 one470 and236 all145 with449 Ahab232 , in107 this256 matter176 of89 the19 whale422 ? See370 Stubb! he362 laughs259 ! See370 yonder41 Chilian98 ! he362 snorts149 to261 think424 of89 it162 . Stand530 up405 amid240 the19 general37 hurricane299 , thy43 one470 tost197 sapling356 cannot, Starbuck! And236 what243 is487 it162 ? Reckon270 it162 . 'Tis but330 to261 help526 strike374 a10 fin286 ; no235 wondrous30 feat1 for190 Starbuck. What243 is487 it162 more348 ? From316 this256 one470 poor533 hunt418 , then45 , the19 best315 lance76 out66 of89 all145 Nantucket283 , surely388 he362 will584 not518 hang253 back457 , when189 every389 foremast331 -hand252 has399 clutched169 a10 whetstone159 . Ah132 ! constrainings seize445 thee15 ; I482 see370 ! the19 billow510 lifts414 thee15 ! Speak337 , but330 speak337 !--Aye86 , aye86 ! thy43 silence309 , then45 , that14 voices386 thee15 . (Aside408 ) Something181 shot443 from316 my36 dilated230 nostrils42 , he362 has399 inhaled498 it162 in107 his433 lungs40 . Starbuck now20 is487 mine482 ; cannot oppose307 me2 now20 , without309 rebellion486 ." "God185 keep381 me2 !--keep381 us569 all145 !" murmured238 Starbuck, lowly117 . But330 in107 his433 joy430 at65 the19 enchanted229 , tacit180 acquiescence31 of89 the19 mate508 , Ahab232 did444 not518 hear386 his433 foreboding243 invocation311 ; nor137 yet443 the19 low407 laugh559 from316 the19 hold204 ; nor137 yet443 the19 presaging224 vibrations434 of89 the19 winds399 in107 the19 cordage218 ; nor137 yet443 the19 hollow511 flap10 of89 the19 sails344 against417 the19 masts212 , as113 for190 a10 moment258 their219 hearts431 sank310 in107 . For190 again52 Starbuck's483 downcast181 eyes125 lighted422 up405 with449 the19 stubbornness317 of89 life71 ; the19 subterranean105 laugh559 died575 away443 ; the19 winds399 blew234 on392 ; the19 sails344 filled232 out66 ; the19 ship438 heaved52 and236 rolled226 as113 before344 . Ah132 , ye483 admonitions137 and236 warnings133 ! why177 stay238 ye483 not518 when189 ye483 come420 ? But330 rather178 are314 ye483 predictions138 than77 warnings133 , ye483 shadows480 ! Yet443 not518 so281 much61 predictions138 from316 without309 , as113 verifications83 of89 the19 fore259 -going227 things4 within503 . For190 with449 little554 external386 to261 constrain177 us569 , the19 innermost27 necessities43 in107 our234 being264 , these527 still278 drive548 us569 on392 . "The19 measure520 ! the19 measure520 !" cried506 Ahab232 . Receiving124 the19 brimming317 pewter86 , and236 turning69 to261 the19 harpooneers, he362 ordered143 them146 to261 produce494 their219 weapons489 . Then45 ranging261 them146 before344 him248 near70 the19 capstan241 , with449 their219 harpoons6 in107 their219 hands87 , while55 his433 three329 mates264 stood1 at65 his433 side246 with449 their219 lances8 , and236 the19 rest302 of89 the19 ship438 's483 company280 formed294 a10 circle282 round287 the19 group104 ; he362 stood1 for190 an138 instant279 searchingly201 eyeing49 every389 man17 of89 his433 crew126 . But330 those427 wild230 eyes125 met130 his433 , as113 the19 bloodshot26 eyes125 of89 the19 prairie214 wolves482 meet16 the19 eye220 of89 their219 leader353 , ere83 he362 rushes411 on392 at65 their219 head219 in107 the19 trail3 of89 the19 bison25 ; but330 , alas129 ! only517 to261 fall90 into554 the19 hidden78 snare52 of89 the19 Indian303 . "Drink117 and236 pass153 !" he362 cried506 , handing353 the19 heavy421 charged103 flagon65 to261 the19 nearest26 seaman166 . "The19 crew126 alone2 now20 drink117 . Round287 with449 it162 , round287 ! Short522 draughts52 --long544 swallows384 , men62 ; 'tis hot424 as113 Satan229 's483 hoof278 . So281 , so281 ; it162 goes205 round287 excellently210 . It162 spiralizes in107 ye483 ; forks282 out66 at65 the19 serpent264 -snapping88 eye220 . Well263 done135 ; almost518 drained388 . That14 way435 it162 went516 , this256 way435 it162 comes268 . Hand252 it162 me2 --here135 's483 a10 hollow511 ! Men62 , ye483 seem404 the19 years116 ; so281 brimming317 life71 is487 gulped122 and236 gone190 . Steward82 , refill102 ! "Attend120 now20 , my36 braves316 . I482 have254 mustered237 ye483 all145 round287 this256 capstan241 ; and236 ye483 mates264 , flank434 me2 with449 your162 lances8 ; and236 ye483 harpooneers, stand530 there340 with449 your162 irons363 ; and236 ye483 , stout29 mariners347 , ring579 me2 in107 , that14 I482 may236 in107 some265 sort42 revive117 a10 noble226 custom544 of89 my36 fisherman18 fathers305 before344 me2 . O24 men62 , you227 will584 yet443 see370 that14 --Ha387 ! boy110 , come420 back457 ? bad458 pennies199 come420 not518 sooner338 . Hand252 it162 me2 . Why177 , now20 , this256 pewter86 had364 run172 brimming317 again52 , wert508 not518 thou173 St193 . Vitus205 ' imp20 --away443 , thou173 ague88 ! "Advance70 , ye483 mates264 ! Cross416 your162 lances8 full414 before344 me2 . Well263 done135 ! Let66 me2 touch486 the19 axis20 ." So281 saying9 , with449 extended531 arm25 , he362 grasped101 the19 three329 level378 , radiating41 lances8 at65 their219 crossed202 centre389 ; while55 so281 doing227 , suddenly193 and236 nervously547 twitched364 them146 ; meanwhile282 glancing18 intently258 from316 Starbuck to261 Stubb; from316 Stubb to261 Flask199 . It162 seemed132 as113 though400 , by406 some265 nameless427 , interior163 volition431 , he362 would282 fain264 have254 shocked516 into554 them146 the19 same541 fiery42 emotion355 accumulated236 within503 the19 Leyden199 jar408 of89 his433 own248 magnetic181 life71 . The19 three329 mates264 quailed434 before344 his433 strong145 , sustained283 , and236 mystic455 aspect147 . Stubb and236 Flask199 looked232 sideways496 from316 him248 ; the19 honest287 eye220 of89 Starbuck fell421 downright402 . "In107 vain216 !" cried506 Ahab232 ; "but330 , maybe92 , 'tis well263 . For190 did444 ye483 three329 but330 once248 take279 the19 full414 -forced28 shock44 , then45 mine482 own248 electric311 thing309 , that14 had364 perhaps75 expired328 from316 out66 me2 . Perchance306 , too11 , it162 would282 have254 dropped2 ye483 dead568 . Perchance306 ye483 need32 it162 not518 . Down133 lances8 ! And236 now20 , ye483 mates264 , I482 do353 appoint339 ye483 three329 cupbearers362 to261 my36 three329 pagan118 kinsmen196 there340 -- yon252 three329 most216 honorable15 gentlemen340 and236 noblemen159 , my36 valiant359 harpooneers. Disdain256 the19 task482 ? What243 , when189 the19 great259 Pope44 washes169 the19 feet349 of89 beggars363 , using14 his433 tiara270 for190 ewer92 ? Oh367 , my36 sweet417 cardinals84 ! your162 own248 condescension83 , that14 shall66 bend434 ye483 to261 it162 . I482 do353 not518 order343 ye483 ; ye483 will584 it162 . Cut310 your162 seizings98 and236 draw106 the19 poles122 , ye483 harpooneers!" Silently533 obeying163 the19 order343 , the19 three329 harpooneers now20 stood1 with449 the19 detached5 iron169 part207 of89 their219 harpoons6 , some265 three329 feet349 long544 , held212 , barbs226 up405 , before344 him248 . "Stab21 me2 not518 with449 that14 keen202 steel184 ! Cant355 them146 ; cant355 them146 over82 ! know60 ye483 not518 the19 goblet233 end149 ? Turn17 up405 the19 socket43 ! So281 , so281 ; now20 , ye483 cup13 -bearers249 , advance70 . The19 irons363 ! take279 them146 ; hold204 them146 while55 I482 fill380 !" Forthwith198 , slowly149 going227 from316 one470 officer70 to261 the19 other282 , he362 brimmed330 the19 harpoon67 sockets35 with449 the19 fiery42 waters556 from316 the19 pewter86 . "Now20 , three329 to261 three329 , ye483 stand530 . Commend105 the19 murderous86 chalices399 ! Bestow188 them146 , ye483 who319 are314 now20 made563 parties162 to261 this256 indissoluble425 league81 . Ha387 ! Starbuck! but330 the19 deed101 is487 done135 ! Yon252 ratifying173 sun397 now20 waits298 to261 sit215 upon419 it162 . Drink117 , ye483 harpooneers! drink117 and236 swear322 , ye483 men62 that14 man17 the19 deathful174 whaleboat39 's483 bow146 -- Death543 to261 Moby362 Dick25 ! God185 hunt418 us569 all145 , if141 we465 do353 not518 hunt418 Moby362 Dick25 to261 his433 death543 !" The19 long544 , barbed27 steel184 goblets402 were324 lifted448 ; and236 to261 cries104 and236 maledictions165 against417 the19 white82 whale422 , the19 spirits471 were324 simultaneously558 quaffed9 down133 with449 a10 hiss117 . Starbuck paled34 , and236 turned492 , and236 shivered34 . Once248 more348 , and236 finally69 , the19 replenished198 pewter86 went516 the19 rounds369 among483 the19 frantic211 crew126 ; when189 , waving364 his433 free483 hand252 to261 them146 , they382 all145 dispersed417 ; and236 Ahab232 retired158 within503 his433 cabin192 . CHAPTER293 37146 Sunset305 The19 cabin192 ; by406 the19 stern442 windows115 ; Ahab232 sitting136 alone2 , and236 gazing117 out66 . I482 leave450 a10 white82 and236 turbid171 wake205 ; pale292 waters556 , paler88 cheeks282 , where579 'er304 I482 sail218 . The19 envious402 billows295 sidelong203 swell280 to261 whelm4 my36 track169 ; let66 them146 ; but330 first13 I482 pass153 . Yonder41 , by406 the19 ever208 -brimming317 goblet233 's483 rim157 , the19 warm178 waves443 blush503 like410 wine102 . The19 gold231 brow474 plumbs487 the19 blue240 . The19 diver120 sun397 -- slow96 dived149 from316 noon445 --goes205 down133 ; my36 soul428 mounts280 up405 ! she391 wearies315 with449 her400 endless489 hill219 . Is487 , then45 , the19 crown463 too11 heavy421 that14 I482 wear250 ? this256 Iron169 Crown463 of89 Lombardy83 . Yet443 is487 it162 bright205 with449 many282 a10 gem202 ; I482 the19 wearer527 , see370 not518 its234 far258 flashings227 ; but330 darkly371 feel461 that14 I482 wear250 that14 , that14 dazzlingly261 confounds355 . 'Tis iron169 --that14 I482 know60 --not518 gold231 . 'Tis split148 , too11 --that14 I482 feel461 ; the19 jagged263 edge323 galls70 me2 so281 , my36 brain158 seems19 to261 beat449 against417 the19 solid494 metal147 ; aye86 , steel184 skull9 , mine482 ; the19 sort42 that14 needs41 no235 helmet159 in107 the19 most216 brain158 -battering193 fight330 ! Dry430 heat218 upon419 my36 brow474 ? Oh367 ! time577 was454 , when189 as113 the19 sunrise445 nobly308 spurred345 me2 , so281 the19 sunset305 soothed436 . No235 more348 . This256 lovely126 light382 , it162 lights59 not518 me2 ; all145 loveliness218 is487 anguish75 to261 me2 , since374 I482 can450 ne'er190 enjoy173 . Gifted19 with449 the19 high361 perception444 , I482 lack92 the19 low407 , enjoying261 power145 ; damned572 , most216 subtly169 and236 most216 malignantly57 ! damned572 in107 the19 midst533 of89 Paradise215 ! Good221 night108 --good221 night108 ! (waving364 his433 hand252 , he362 moves115 from316 the19 window8 .) 'Twas not518 so281 hard337 a10 task482 . I482 thought186 to261 find138 one470 stubborn452 , at65 the19 least453 ; but330 my36 one470 cogged83 circle282 fits369 into554 all145 their219 various183 wheels116 , and236 they382 revolve125 . Or519 , if141 you227 will584 , like410 so281 many282 ant106 -hills352 of89 powder5 , they382 all145 stand530 before344 me2 ; and236 I482 their219 match441 . Oh367 , hard337 ! that14 to261 fire559 others317 , the19 match441 itself312 must226 needs41 be341 wasting291 ! What243 I482 've149 dared294 , I482 've149 willed116 ; and236 what243 I482 've149 willed116 , I482 'll300 do353 ! They382 think424 me2 mad235 -- Starbuck does565 ; but330 I482 'm250 demoniac279 , I482 am375 madness282 maddened273 ! That14 wild230 madness282 that14 's76 only517 calm39 to261 comprehend301 itself312 ! The19 prophecy147 was454 that14 I482 should255 be341 dismembered314 ; and236 --Aye86 ! I482 lost308 this256 leg331 . I482 now20 prophesy168 that14 I482 will584 dismember309 my36 dismemberer. Now20 , then45 , be341 the19 prophet25 and236 the19 fulfiller439 one470 . That14 's76 more348 than77 ye483 , ye483 great259 gods325 , ever208 were324 . I482 laugh559 and236 hoot191 at65 ye483 , ye483 cricket111 -players40 , ye483 pugilists443 , ye483 deaf375 Burkes492 and236 blinded337 Bendigoes! I482 will584 not518 say306 as113 schoolboys127 do353 to261 bullies107 --Take279 some265 one470 of89 your162 own248 size503 ; don280 't500 pommel400 me2 ! No235 , ye483 've477 knocked49 me2 down133 , and236 I482 am375 up405 again52 ; but330 ye483 have254 run172 and236 hidden78 . Come420 forth152 from316 behind80 your162 cotton444 bags373 ! I482 have254 no235 long544 gun152 to261 reach43 ye483 . Come420 , Ahab232 's483 compliments11 to261 ye483 ; come420 and236 see370 if141 ye483 can450 swerve110 me2 . Swerve110 me2 ? ye483 cannot swerve110 me2 , else212 ye483 swerve110 yourselves192 ! man17 has399 ye483 there340 . Swerve110 me2 ? The19 path234 to261 my36 fixed564 purpose514 is487 laid181 with449 iron169 rails492 , whereon132 my36 soul428 is487 grooved110 to261 run172 . Over82 unsounded253 gorges261 , through295 the19 rifled513 hearts431 of89 mountains202 , under533 torrents231 ' beds41 , unerringly240 I482 rush6 ! Naught80 's483 an138 obstacle88 , naught80 's483 an138 angle205 to261 the19 iron169 way435 ! CHAPTER293 38330 Dusk180 By406 the19 Mainmast323 ; Starbuck leaning559 against417 it162 . My36 soul428 is487 more348 than77 matched152 ; she391 's483 over82 -manned282 ; and236 by406 a10 madman361 ! Insufferable295 sting225 , that14 sanity140 should255 ground127 arms536 on392 such420 a10 field275 ! But330 he362 drilled8 deep483 down133 , and236 blasted253 all145 my36 reason238 out66 of89 me2 ! I482 think424 I482 see370 his433 impious15 end149 ; but330 feel461 that14 I482 must226 help526 him248 to261 it162 . Will584 I482 , nill223 I482 , the19 ineffable285 thing309 has399 tied101 me2 to261 him248 ; tows117 me2 with449 a10 cable41 I482 have254 no235 knife503 to261 cut310 . Horrible398 old447 man17 ! Who319 's483 over82 him248 , he362 cries104 ;--aye86 , he362 would282 be341 a10 democrat29 to261 all145 above502 ; look523 , how19 he362 lords410 it162 over82 all145 below397 ! Oh367 ! I482 plainly450 see370 my36 miserable364 office256 ,-- to261 obey67 , rebelling259 ; and236 worse561 yet443 , to261 hate267 with449 touch486 of89 pity270 ! For190 in107 his433 eyes125 I482 read98 some265 lurid110 woe295 would282 shrivel104 me2 up405 , had364 I482 it162 . Yet443 is487 there340 hope211 . Time577 and236 tide523 flow44 wide465 . The19 hated499 whale422 has399 the19 round287 watery59 world126 to261 swim226 in107 , as113 the19 small350 gold231 -fish187 has399 its234 glassy489 globe23 . His433 heaven163 -insulting380 purpose514 , God185 may236 wedge309 aside408 . I482 would282 up405 heart470 , were324 it162 not518 like410 lead362 . But330 my36 whole199 clock489 's483 run172 down133 ; my36 heart470 the19 all145 -controlling weight213 , I482 have254 no235 key140 to261 lift229 again52 . [A10 burst174 of89 revelry279 from316 the19 forecastle367 .] Oh367 , God185 ! to261 sail218 with449 such420 a10 heathen336 crew126 that14 have254 small350 touch486 of89 human43 mothers98 in107 them146 ! Whelped510 somewhere201 by406 the19 sharkish51 sea67 . The19 white82 whale422 is487 their219 demigorgon. Hark313 ! the19 infernal84 orgies279 ! that14 revelry279 is487 forward364 ! mark169 the19 unfaltering434 silence309 aft2 ! Methinks462 it162 pictures371 life71 . Foremost61 through295 the19 sparkling42 sea67 shoots536 on392 the19 gay323 , embattled300 , bantering261 bow146 , but330 only517 to261 drag426 dark471 Ahab232 after358 it162 , where579 he362 broods89 within503 his433 sternward cabin192 , builded82 over82 the19 dead568 water520 of89 the19 wake205 , and236 further53 on392 , hunted439 by406 its234 wolfish178 gurglings259 . The19 long544 howl283 thrills314 me2 through295 ! Peace216 ! ye483 revellers192 , and236 set422 the19 watch89 ! Oh367 , life71 ! 'tis in107 an138 hour384 like410 this256 , with449 soul428 beat449 down133 and236 held212 to261 knowledge270 ,-- as113 wild230 , untutored173 things4 are314 forced28 to261 feed252 --Oh367 , life71 ! 'tis now20 that14 I482 do353 feel461 the19 latent70 horror134 in107 thee15 ! but330 'tis not518 me2 ! that14 horror134 's483 out66 of89 me2 , and236 with449 the19 soft226 feeling384 of89 the19 human43 in107 me2 , yet443 will584 I482 try266 to261 fight330 ye483 , ye483 grim19 , phantom101 futures31 ! Stand530 by406 me2 , hold204 me2 , bind316 me2 , O24 ye483 blessed473 influences232 ! CHAPTER293 39312 First13 Night108 Watch89 (Stubb solus267 , and236 mending271 a10 brace403 .) Ha387 ! ha387 ! ha387 ! ha387 ! hem322 ! clear408 my36 throat461 !--I482 've149 been185 thinking385 over82 it162 ever208 since374 , and236 that14 ha387 , ha387 's483 the19 final357 consequence111 . Why177 so281 ? Because540 a10 laugh559 's483 the19 wisest416 , easiest396 answer164 to261 all145 that14 's76 queer156 ; and236 come420 what243 will584 , one470 comfort364 's483 always367 left159 -- that14 unfailing441 comfort364 is487 , it162 's483 all145 predestinated332 . I482 heard444 not518 all145 his433 talk173 with449 Starbuck; but330 to261 my36 poor533 eye220 Starbuck then45 looked232 something181 as113 I482 the19 other282 evening581 felt440 . Be341 sure41 the19 old447 Mogul270 has399 fixed564 him248 , too11 . I482 twigged453 it162 , knew480 it162 ; had364 had364 the19 gift213 , might496 readily467 have254 prophesied240 it162 --for190 when189 I482 clapped423 my36 eye220 upon419 his433 skull9 I482 saw113 it162 . Well263 , Stubb, wise16 Stubb-- that14 's76 my36 title168 --well263 , Stubb, what243 of89 it162 , Stubb? Here135 's483 a10 carcase366 . I482 know60 not518 all145 that14 may236 be341 coming140 , but330 be341 it162 what243 it162 will584 , I482 'll300 go20 to261 it162 laughing83 . Such420 a10 waggish21 leering439 as113 lurks115 in107 all145 your162 horribles164 ! I482 feel461 funny96 . Fa501 , la417 ! lirra192 , skirra! What243 's483 my36 juicy374 little554 pear270 at65 home450 doing227 now20 ? Crying321 its234 eyes125 out66 ?-- Giving207 a10 party314 to261 the19 last436 arrived553 harpooneers, I482 dare11 say306 , gay323 as113 a10 frigate44 's483 pennant6 , and236 so281 am375 I482 --fa501 , la417 ! lirra192 , skirra! Oh367 -- We465 'll300 drink117 to261 -night108 with449 hearts431 as113 light382 , To261 love391 , as113 gay323 and236 fleeting225 As113 bubbles552 that14 swim226 , on392 the19 beaker102 's483 brim84 , And236 break483 on392 the19 lips585 while55 meeting183 . A10 brave218 stave416 that14 --who319 calls15 ? Mr219 . Starbuck? Aye86 , aye86 , sir271 -- (Aside408 ) he362 's483 my36 superior479 , he362 has399 his433 too11 , if141 I482 'm250 not518 mistaken49 .-- Aye86 , aye86 , sir271 , just108 through295 with449 this256 job269 --coming140 . CHAPTER293 40285 Midnight539 , Forecastle367 HARPOONEERS AND236 SAILORS64 (Foresail135 rises215 and236 discovers121 the19 watch89 standing144 , lounging325 , leaning559 , and236 lying204 in107 various183 attitudes167 , all145 singing288 in107 chorus98 .) Farewell283 and236 adieu116 to261 you227 , Spanish124 ladies66 ! Farewell283 and236 adieu116 to261 you227 , ladies66 of89 Spain20 ! Our234 captain295 's483 commanded571 .-- 1ST127 NANTUCKET283 SAILOR561 Oh367 , boys22 , don280 't500 be341 sentimental31 . it162 's483 bad458 for190 the19 digestion524 ! Take279 a10 tonic117 , follow408 me2 ! (Sings197 , and236 all145 follow408 ) Our234 captain295 stood1 upon419 the19 deck505 , A10 spy411 -glass27 in107 his433 hand252 , A10 viewing165 of89 those427 gallant323 whales331 That14 blew234 at65 every389 strand171 . Oh367 , your162 tubs410 in107 your162 boats83 , my36 boys22 , And236 by406 your162 braces403 stand530 , And236 we465 'll300 have254 one470 of89 those427 fine333 whales331 , Hand252 , boys22 , over82 hand252 ! So281 , be341 cheery117 , my36 lads252 ! may236 your162 hearts431 never206 fail126 ! While55 the19 bold356 harpooneer is487 striking22 the19 whale422 ! MATE508 'S483 VOICE233 FROM316 THE19 QUARTER6 -DECK505 Eight316 bells117 there340 , forward364 ! 2ND35 NANTUCKET283 SAILOR561 Avast279 the19 chorus98 ! Eight316 bells117 there340 ! d67 'ye163 hear386 , bell28 -boy110 ? Strike374 the19 bell28 eight316 , thou173 Pip238 ! thou173 blackling! and236 let66 me2 call259 the19 watch89 . I482 've149 the19 sort42 of89 mouth414 for190 that14 --the19 hogshead519 mouth414 . So281 , so281 , (thrusts506 his433 head219 down133 the19 scuttle27 ,) Star274 -bo-l580 -e443 -e443 -n422 -s483 , a10 -h349 -o24 -y! Eight316 bells117 there340 below397 ! Tumble553 up405 ! DUTCH325 SAILOR561 Grand229 snoozing316 to261 -night108 , maty499 ; fat351 night108 for190 that14 . I482 mark169 this256 in107 our234 old447 Mogul270 's483 wine102 ; it162 's483 quite327 as113 deadening301 to261 some265 as113 filliping41 to261 others317 . We465 sing549 ; they382 sleep233 --aye86 , lie212 down133 there340 , like410 ground127 -tier butts83 . At65 'em again52 ! There340 , take279 this256 copper300 -pump390 , and236 hail75 'em through295 it162 . Tell392 'em to261 avast279 dreaming47 of89 their219 lassies68 . Tell392 'em it162 's483 the19 resurrection281 ; they382 must226 kiss456 their219 last436 , and236 come420 to261 judgment83 . That14 's76 the19 way435 --that14 's76 it162 ; thy43 throat461 ain't500 spoiled282 with449 eating22 Amsterdam345 butter536 . FRENCH491 SAILOR561 Hist117 , boys22 ! let66 's483 have254 a10 jig30 or519 two527 before344 we465 ride197 to261 anchor141 in107 Blanket115 Bay279 . What243 say306 ye483 ? There340 comes268 the19 other282 watch89 . Stand530 by406 all145 legs108 ! Pip238 ! little554 Pip238 ! hurrah277 with449 your162 tambourine197 ! PIP238 (Sulky316 and236 sleepy452 ) Don280 't500 know60 where579 it162 is487 . FRENCH491 SAILOR561 Beat449 thy43 belly511 , then45 , and236 wag26 thy43 ears560 . Jig30 it162 , men62 , I482 say306 ; merry486 's483 the19 word486 ; hurrah277 ! Damn468 me2 , won't500 you227 dance174 ? Form238 , now20 , Indian303 -file322 , and236 gallop367 into554 the19 double20 -shuffle? Throw345 yourselves192 ! Legs108 ! legs108 ! ICELAND203 SAILOR561 I482 don280 't500 like410 your162 floor418 , maty499 ; it162 's483 too11 springy91 to261 my36 taste134 . I482 'm250 used102 to261 ice443 -floors491 . I482 'm250 sorry147 to261 throw345 cold330 water520 on392 the19 subject382 ; but330 excuse410 me2 . MALTESE105 SAILOR561 Me2 too11 ; where579 's483 your162 girls388 ? Who319 but330 a10 fool5 would282 take279 his433 left159 hand252 by406 his433 right499 , and236 say306 to261 himself282 , how19 d67 'ye163 do353 ? Partners403 ! I482 must226 have254 partners403 ! SICILIAN125 SAILOR561 Aye86 ; girls388 and236 a10 green549 !--then45 I482 'll300 hop559 with449 ye483 ; yea204 , turn17 grasshopper375 ! LONG544 -ISLAND516 SAILOR561 Well263 , well263 , ye483 sulkies, there340 's483 plenty406 more348 of89 us569 . Hoe576 corn237 when189 you227 may236 , say306 I482 . All145 legs108 go20 to261 harvest38 soon18 . Ah132 ! here135 comes268 the19 music91 ; now20 for190 it162 ! AZORE99 SAILOR561 (Ascending116 , and236 pitching143 the19 tambourine197 up405 the19 scuttle27 .) Here135 you227 are314 , Pip238 ; and236 there340 's483 the19 windlass231 -bits256 ; up405 you227 mount34 ! Now20 , boys22 ! (The19 half119 of89 them146 dance174 to261 the19 tambourine197 ; some265 go20 below397 ; some265 sleep233 or519 lie212 among483 the19 coils259 of89 rigging516 . Oaths142 a10 -plenty406 .) AZORE99 SAILOR561 (Dancing192 ) Go20 it162 , Pip238 ! Bang386 it162 , bell28 -boy110 ! Rig415 it162 , dig89 it162 , stig97 it162 , quig it162 , bell28 -boy110 ! Make175 fire559 -flies404 ; break483 the19 jinglers! PIP238 Jinglers, you227 say306 ?--there340 goes205 another269 , dropped2 off111 ; I482 pound77 it162 so281 . CHINA253 SAILOR561 Rattle371 thy43 teeth82 , then45 , and236 pound77 away443 ; make175 a10 pagoda354 of89 thyself402 . FRENCH491 SAILOR561 Merry486 -mad235 ! Hold204 up405 thy43 hoop116 , Pip238 , till181 I482 jump50 through295 it162 ! Split148 jibs26 ! tear146 yourselves192 ! Tashtego ( Quietly380 smoking470 .) That14 's76 a10 white82 man17 ; he362 calls15 that14 fun347 : humph86 ! I482 save556 my36 sweat132 . OLD447 MANX26 SAILOR561 I482 wonder76 whether454 those427 jolly50 lads252 bethink51 them146 of89 what243 they382 are314 dancing192 over82 . I482 'll300 dance174 over82 your162 grave344 , I482 will584 --that14 's76 the19 bitterest197 threat518 of89 your162 night108 -women275 , that14 beat449 head219 -winds399 round287 corners124 . O24 Christ75 ! to261 think424 of89 the19 green549 navies27 and236 the19 green549 -skulled crews559 ! Well263 , well263 ; belike142 the19 whole199 world126 's483 a10 ball141 , as113 you227 scholars255 have254 it162 ; and236 so281 'tis right499 to261 make175 one470 ballroom364 of89 it162 . Dance174 on392 , lads252 , you227 're155 young389 ; I482 was454 once248 . 3D487 NANTUCKET283 SAILOR561 Spell416 oh367 !--whew26 ! this256 is487 worse561 than77 pulling217 after358 whales331 in107 a10 calm39 -- give142 us569 a10 whiff26 , Tash299 . (They382 cease143 dancing192 , and236 gather311 in107 clusters333 . Meantime210 the19 sky331 darkens86 -- the19 wind262 rises215 .) LASCAR6 SAILOR561 By406 Brahma481 ! boys22 , it162 'll300 be341 douse183 sail218 soon18 . The19 sky331 -born236 , high361 -tide523 Ganges84 turned492 to261 wind262 ! Thou173 showest475 thy43 black581 brow474 , Seeva110 ! MALTESE105 SAILOR561 (Reclining316 and236 shaking206 his433 cap328 ) It162 's483 the19 waves443 --the19 snow498 's483 caps214 turn17 to261 jig30 it162 now20 . They382 'll300 shake180 their219 tassels3 soon18 . Now20 would282 all145 the19 waves443 were324 women275 , then45 I482 'd67 go20 drown522 , and236 chassee with449 them146 evermore274 ! There340 's483 naught80 so281 sweet417 on392 earth513 --heaven163 may236 not518 match441 it162 !-- as113 those427 swift376 glances363 of89 warm178 , wild230 bosoms504 in107 the19 dance174 , when189 the19 over82 -arboring arms536 hide266 such420 ripe238 , bursting288 grapes69 . SICILIAN125 SAILOR561 (Reclining316 ) Tell392 me2 not518 of89 it162 ! Hark313 ye483 , lad342 --fleet206 interlacings86 of89 the19 limbs315 -- lithe275 swayings227 --coyings--flutterings83 ! lip318 ! heart470 ! hip461 ! all145 graze154 : unceasing360 touch486 and236 go20 ! not518 taste134 , observe213 ye483 , else212 come420 satiety217 . Eh76 , Pagan118 ? (Nudging48 .) TAHITAN SAILOR561 (Reclining316 on392 a10 mat316 ) Hail75 , holy61 nakedness475 of89 our234 dancing192 girls388 !--the19 Heeva-Heeva! Ah132 ! low407 veiled126 , high361 palmed158 Tahiti183 ! I482 still278 rest302 me2 on392 thy43 mat316 , but330 the19 soft226 soil430 has399 slid132 ! I482 saw113 thee15 woven26 in107 the19 wood46 , my36 mat316 ! green549 the19 first13 day112 I482 brought85 ye483 thence158 ; now20 worn174 and236 wilted369 quite327 . Ah132 me2 !--not518 thou173 nor137 I482 can450 bear48 the19 change386 ! How19 then45 , if141 so281 be341 transplanted82 to261 yon252 sky331 ? Hear386 I482 the19 roaring182 streams15 from316 Pirohitee's483 peak454 of89 spears450 , when189 they382 leap342 down133 the19 crags362 and236 drown522 the19 villages316 ?--The19 blast13 , the19 blast13 ! Up405 , spine236 , and236 meet16 it162 ! (Leaps575 to261 his433 feet349 .) PORTUGUESE116 SAILOR561 How19 the19 sea67 rolls475 swashing280 'gainst the19 side246 ! Stand530 by406 for190 reefing155 , hearties248 ! the19 winds399 are314 just108 crossing402 swords533 , pell-mell117 they382 'll300 go20 lunging280 presently166 . DANISH208 SAILOR561 Crack83 , crack83 , old447 ship438 ! so281 long544 as113 thou173 crackest, thou173 holdest160 ! Well263 done135 ! The19 mate508 there340 holds92 ye483 to261 it162 stiffly292 . He362 's483 no235 more348 afraid248 than77 the19 isle41 fort146 at65 Cattegat364 , put190 there340 to261 fight330 the19 Baltic289 with449 storm218 -lashed64 guns225 , on392 which16 the19 sea67 -salt183 cakes321 ! 4TH29 NANTUCKET283 SAILOR561 He362 has399 his433 orders199 , mind118 ye483 that14 . I482 heard444 old447 Ahab232 tell392 him248 he362 must226 always367 kill219 a10 squall467 , something181 as113 they382 burst174 a10 waterspout93 with449 a10 pistol167 -- fire559 your162 ship438 right499 into554 it162 ! ENGLISH69 SAILOR561 Blood208 ! but330 that14 old447 man17 's415 a10 grand229 old447 cove399 ! We465 are314 the19 lads252 to261 hunt418 him248 up405 his433 whale422 ! ALL145 Aye86 ! aye86 ! OLD447 MANX26 SAILOR561 How19 the19 three329 pines398 shake180 ! Pines398 are314 the19 hardest11 sort42 of89 tree482 to261 live554 when189 shifted167 to261 any501 other282 soil430 , and236 here135 there340 's483 none365 but330 the19 crew126 's483 cursed441 clay370 . Steady21 , helmsman457 ! steady21 . This256 is487 the19 sort42 of89 weather405 when189 brave218 hearts431 snap110 ashore122 , and236 keeled299 hulls133 split148 at65 sea67 . Our234 captain295 has399 his433 birthmark214 ; look523 yonder41 , boys22 , there340 's483 another269 in107 the19 sky331 lurid110 --like410 , ye483 see370 , all145 else212 pitch115 black581 . DAGGOO What243 of89 that14 ? Who319 's483 afraid248 of89 black581 's483 afraid248 of89 me2 ! I482 'm250 quarried165 out66 of89 it162 ! SPANISH124 SAILOR561 (Aside408 .) He362 wants418 to261 bully248 , ah132 !--the19 old447 grudge446 makes32 me2 touchy52 (Advancing444 .) Aye86 , harpooneer, thy43 race392 is487 the19 undeniable68 dark471 side246 of89 mankind40 --devilish181 dark471 at65 that14 . No235 offence143 . DAGGOO (Grimly226 ) None365 . ST193 . JAGO296 'S483 SAILOR561 That14 Spaniard336 's483 mad235 or519 drunk213 . But330 that14 can450 't500 be341 , or519 else212 in107 his433 one470 case346 our234 old447 Mogul270 's483 fire559 -waters556 are314 somewhat77 long544 in107 working113 . 5TH77 NANTUCKET283 SAILOR561 What243 's483 that14 I482 saw113 --lightning171 ? Yes143 . SPANISH124 SAILOR561 No235 ; Daggoo showing445 his433 teeth82 . DAGGOO (Springing481 ) Swallow195 thine72 , mannikin12 ! White82 skin428 , white82 liver442 ! SPANISH124 SAILOR561 (Meeting183 him248 ) Knife503 thee15 heartily254 ! big245 frame84 , small350 spirit227 ! ALL145 A10 row328 ! a10 row328 ! a10 row328 ! TASHTEGO (With449 a10 whiff26 ) A10 row328 a10 'low407 , and236 a10 row328 aloft276 --Gods325 and236 men62 --both558 brawlers250 ! Humph86 ! BELFAST281 SAILOR561 A10 row328 ! arrah26 a10 row328 ! The19 Virgin317 be341 blessed473 , a10 row328 ! Plunge234 in107 with449 ye483 ! ENGLISH69 SAILOR561 Fair320 play89 ! Snatch276 the19 Spaniard336 's483 knife503 ! A10 ring579 , a10 ring579 ! OLD447 MANX26 SAILOR561 Ready464 formed294 . There340 ! the19 ringed379 horizon516 . In107 that14 ring579 Cain460 struck441 Abel389 . Sweet417 work385 , right499 work385 ! No235 ? Why177 then45 , God185 , mad235 'st193 thou173 the19 ring579 ? MATE508 'S483 VOICE233 FROM316 THE19 QUARTER6 -DECK505 Hands87 by406 the19 halyards145 ! in107 top70 -gallant323 sails344 ! Stand530 by406 to261 reef265 topsails76 ! ALL145 The19 squall467 ! the19 squall467 ! jump50 , my36 jollies! (They382 scatter246 .) PIP238 (Shrinking466 under533 the19 windlass231 ) Jollies? Lord106 help526 such420 jollies! Crish, crash341 ! there340 goes205 the19 jib476 -stay238 ! Blang-whang223 ! God185 ! Duck455 lower47 , Pip238 , here135 comes268 the19 royal161 yard258 ! It162 's483 worse561 than77 being264 in107 the19 whirled174 woods29 , the19 last436 day112 of89 the19 year347 ! Who319 'd67 go20 climbing18 after358 chestnuts141 now20 ? But330 there340 they382 go20 , all145 cursing22 , and236 here135 I482 don280 't500 . Fine333 prospects212 to261 'em; they382 're155 on392 the19 road533 to261 heaven163 . Hold204 on392 hard337 ! Jimmini, what243 a10 squall467 ! But330 those427 chaps280 there340 are314 worse561 yet443 -- they382 are314 your162 white82 squalls104 , they382 . White82 squalls104 ? white82 whale422 , shirr! shirr! Here135 have254 I482 heard444 all145 their219 chat205 just108 now20 , and236 the19 white82 whale422 --shirr! shirr!--but330 spoken507 of89 once248 ! and236 only517 this256 evening581 --it162 makes32 me2 jingle415 all145 over82 like410 my36 tambourine197 -- that14 anaconda25 of89 an138 old447 man17 swore470 'em in107 to261 hunt418 him248 ! Oh367 ! thou173 big245 white82 God185 aloft276 there340 somewhere201 in107 yon252 darkness493 , have254 mercy378 on392 this256 small350 black581 boy110 down133 here135 ; preserve192 him248 from316 all145 men62 that14 have254 no235 bowels499 to261 feel461 fear103 ! CHAPTER293 41477 Moby362 Dick25 I482 , Ishmael196 , was454 one470 of89 that14 crew126 ; my36 shouts240 had364 gone190 up405 with449 the19 rest302 ; my36 oath115 had364 been185 welded102 with449 theirs137 ; and236 stronger234 I482 shouted300 , and236 more348 did444 I482 hammer364 and236 clinch66 my36 oath115 , because540 of89 the19 dread251 in107 my36 soul428 . A10 wild230 , mystical493 , sympathetical feeling384 was454 in107 me2 ; Ahab232 's483 quenchless218 feud377 seemed132 mine482 . With449 greedy278 ears560 I482 learned277 the19 history183 of89 that14 murderous86 monster480 against417 whom324 I482 and236 all145 the19 others317 had364 taken222 our234 oaths142 of89 violence486 and236 revenge140 . For190 some265 time577 past111 , though400 at65 intervals295 only517 , the19 unaccompanied19 , secluded332 White82 Whale422 had364 haunted398 those427 uncivilized163 seas350 mostly190 frequented359 by406 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 fishermen24 . But330 not518 all145 of89 them146 knew480 of89 his433 existence187 ; only517 a10 few49 of89 them146 , comparatively203 , had364 knowingly295 seen154 him248 ; while55 the19 number196 who319 as113 yet443 had364 actually69 and236 knowingly295 given141 battle105 to261 him248 , was454 small350 indeed522 . For190 , owing98 to261 the19 large385 number196 of89 whale422 -cruisers298 ; the19 disorderly550 way435 they382 were324 sprinkled18 over82 the19 entire230 watery59 circumference417 , many282 of89 them146 adventurously138 pushing39 their219 quest36 along423 solitary407 latitudes267 , so281 as113 seldom140 or519 never206 for190 a10 whole199 twelvemonth160 or519 more348 on392 a10 stretch318 , to261 encounter250 a10 single77 news314 -telling196 sail218 of89 any501 sort42 ; the19 inordinate4 length202 of89 each520 separate495 voyage137 ; the19 irregularity287 of89 the19 times121 of89 sailing232 from316 home450 ; all145 these527 , with449 other282 circumstances267 , direct314 and236 indirect528 , long544 obstructed84 the19 spread348 through295 the19 whole199 world126 -wide465 whaling155 -fleet206 of89 the19 special326 individualizing15 tidings395 concerning368 Moby362 Dick25 . It162 was454 hardly182 to261 be341 doubted279 , that14 several479 vessels150 reported123 to261 have254 encountered102 , at65 such420 or519 such420 a10 time577 , or519 on392 such420 or519 such420 a10 meridian127 , a10 Sperm26 Whale422 of89 uncommon88 magnitude203 and236 malignity269 , which16 whale422 , after358 doing227 great259 mischief260 to261 his433 assailants273 , has399 completely385 escaped197 them146 ; to261 some265 minds244 it162 was454 not518 an138 unfair165 presumption225 , I482 say306 , that14 the19 whale422 in107 question562 must226 have254 been185 no235 other282 than77 Moby362 Dick25 . Yet443 as113 of89 late351 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 fishery136 had364 been185 marked67 by406 various183 and236 not518 unfrequent371 instances252 of89 great259 ferocity424 , cunning198 , and236 malice157 in107 the19 monster480 attacked507 ; therefore94 it162 was454 , that14 those427 who319 by406 accident210 ignorantly136 gave572 battle105 to261 Moby362 Dick25 ; such420 hunters423 , perhaps75 , for190 the19 most216 part207 , were324 content7 to261 ascribe1 the19 peculiar291 terror85 he362 bred128 , more348 , as113 it162 were324 , to261 the19 perils140 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 fishery136 at65 large385 , than77 to261 the19 individual233 cause220 . In107 that14 way435 , mostly190 , the19 disastrous311 encounter250 between77 Ahab232 and236 the19 whale422 had364 hitherto533 been185 popularly301 regarded393 . And236 as113 for190 those427 who319 , previously250 hearing325 of89 the19 White82 Whale422 , by406 chance292 caught105 sight365 of89 him248 ; in107 the19 beginning188 of89 the19 thing309 they382 had364 every389 one470 of89 them146 , almost518 , as113 boldly445 and236 fearlessly111 lowered279 for190 him248 , as113 for190 any501 other282 whale422 of89 that14 species69 . But330 at65 length202 , such420 calamities128 did444 ensue524 in107 these527 assaults91 -- not518 restricted292 to261 sprained415 wrists260 and236 ankles446 , broken255 limbs315 , or519 devouring354 amputations25 --but330 fatal460 to261 the19 last436 degree209 of89 fatality223 ; those427 repeated381 disastrous311 repulses403 , all145 accumulating31 and236 piling284 their219 terrors192 upon419 Moby362 Dick25 ; those427 things4 had364 gone190 far258 to261 shake180 the19 fortitude14 of89 many282 brave218 hunters423 , to261 whom324 the19 story197 of89 the19 White82 Whale422 had364 eventually163 come420 . Nor137 did444 wild230 rumors156 of89 all145 sorts354 fail126 to261 exaggerate40 , and236 still278 the19 more348 horrify4 the19 true483 histories23 of89 these527 deadly49 encounters433 . For190 not518 only517 do353 fabulous335 rumors156 naturally362 grow163 out66 of89 the19 very515 body348 of89 all145 surprising359 terrible132 events390 ,--as113 the19 smitten83 tree482 gives529 birth215 to261 its234 fungi266 ; but330 , in107 maritime243 life71 , far258 more348 than77 in107 that14 of89 terra198 firma33 , wild230 rumors156 abound15 , wherever408 there340 is487 any501 adequate209 reality214 for190 them146 to261 cling126 to261 . And236 as113 the19 sea67 surpasses299 the19 land406 in107 this256 matter176 , so281 the19 whale422 fishery136 surpasses299 every389 other282 sort42 of89 maritime243 life71 , in107 the19 wonderfulness186 and236 fearfulness177 of89 the19 rumors156 which16 sometimes77 circulate460 there340 . For190 not518 only517 are314 whalemen451 as113 a10 body348 unexempt4 from316 that14 ignorance211 and236 superstitiousness261 hereditary125 to261 all145 sailors64 ; but330 of89 all145 sailors64 , they382 are314 by406 all145 odds250 the19 most216 directly58 brought85 into554 contact263 with449 whatever38 is487 appallingly299 astonishing80 in107 the19 sea67 ; face556 to261 face556 they382 not518 only517 eye220 its234 greatest479 marvels25 , but330 , hand252 to261 jaw213 , give142 battle105 to261 them146 . Alone2 , in107 such420 remotest95 waters556 , that14 though400 you227 sailed248 a10 thousand586 miles278 , and236 passed87 a10 thousand586 shores116 , you227 would282 not518 come420 to261 any501 chiselled253 hearth61 -stone192 , or519 aught26 hospitable468 beneath320 that14 part207 of89 the19 sun397 ; in107 such420 latitudes267 and236 longitudes252 , pursuing392 too11 such420 a10 calling56 as113 he362 does565 , the19 whaleman98 is487 wrapped99 by406 influences232 all145 tending293 to261 make175 his433 fancy396 pregnant182 with449 many282 a10 mighty2 birth215 . No235 wonder76 , then45 , that14 ever208 gathering20 volume295 from316 the19 mere393 transit11 over82 the19 wildest356 watery59 spaces137 , the19 outblown317 rumors156 of89 the19 White82 Whale422 did444 in107 the19 end149 incorporate38 with449 themselves510 all145 manner153 of89 morbid272 hints260 , and236 half119 -formed294 foetal25 suggestions262 of89 supernatural367 agencies23 , which16 eventually163 invested60 Moby362 Dick25 with449 new36 terrors192 unborrowed4 from316 anything480 that14 visibly393 appears268 . So281 that14 in107 many282 cases108 such420 a10 panic285 did444 he362 finally69 strike374 , that14 few49 who319 by406 those427 rumors156 , at65 least453 , had364 heard444 of89 the19 White82 Whale422 , few49 of89 those427 hunters423 were324 willing514 to261 encounter250 the19 perils140 of89 his433 jaw213 . But330 there340 were324 still278 other282 and236 more348 vital204 practical74 influences232 at65 work385 . Nor137 even198 at65 the19 present112 day112 has399 the19 original463 prestige41 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 , as113 fearfully345 distinguished365 from316 all145 other282 species69 of89 the19 leviathan384 , died575 out66 of89 the19 minds244 of89 the19 whalemen451 as113 a10 body348 . There340 are314 those427 this256 day112 among483 them146 , who319 , though400 intelligent346 and236 courageous127 enough217 in107 offering18 battle105 to261 the19 Greenland110 or519 Right499 whale422 , would282 perhaps75 --either45 from316 professional357 inexperience115 , or519 incompetency29 , or519 timidity315 , decline570 a10 contest31 with449 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 ; at65 any501 rate515 , there340 are314 plenty406 of89 whalemen451 , especially371 among483 those427 whaling155 nations274 not518 sailing232 under533 the19 American272 flag270 , who319 have254 never206 hostilely40 encountered102 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 , but330 whose286 sole462 knowledge270 of89 the19 leviathan384 is487 restricted292 to261 the19 ignoble38 monster480 primitively399 pursued460 in107 the19 North174 ; seated158 on392 their219 hatches4 , these527 men62 will584 hearken297 with449 a10 childish159 fireside21 interest323 and236 awe305 , to261 the19 wild230 , strange440 tales527 of89 Southern187 whaling155 . Nor137 is487 the19 preeminent4 tremendousness of89 the19 great259 Sperm26 Whale422 anywhere436 more348 feelingly562 comprehended104 , than77 on392 board540 of89 those427 prows24 which16 stem493 him248 . And236 as113 if141 the19 now20 tested427 reality214 of89 his433 might496 had364 in107 former157 legendary335 times121 thrown359 its234 shadow438 before344 it162 ; we465 find138 some265 book230 naturalists140 -- Olassen and236 Povelson--declaring412 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 not518 only517 to261 be341 a10 consternation52 to261 every389 other282 creature82 in107 the19 sea67 , but330 also119 to261 be341 so281 incredibly479 ferocious448 as113 continually303 to261 be341 athirst280 for190 human43 blood208 . Nor137 even198 down133 to261 so281 late351 a10 time577 as113 Cuvier158 's483 , were324 these527 or519 almost518 similar101 impressions110 effaced396 . For190 in107 his433 Natural298 History183 , the19 Baron361 himself282 affirms464 that14 at65 sight365 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 , all145 fish187 (sharks206 included559 ) are314 "struck441 with449 the19 most216 lively272 terrors192 ," and236 "often227 in107 the19 precipitancy172 of89 their219 flight306 dash355 themselves510 against417 the19 rocks265 with449 such420 violence486 as113 to261 cause220 instantaneous322 death543 ." And236 however44 the19 general37 experiences93 in107 the19 fishery136 may236 amend429 such420 reports315 as113 these527 ; yet443 in107 their219 full414 terribleness377 , even198 to261 the19 bloodthirsty296 item60 of89 Povelson, the19 superstitious49 belief85 in107 them146 is487 , in107 some265 vicissitudes124 of89 their219 vocation408 , revived403 in107 the19 minds244 of89 the19 hunters423 . So281 that14 overawed92 by406 the19 rumors156 and236 portents306 concerning368 him248 , not518 a10 few49 of89 the19 fishermen24 recalled346 , in107 reference116 to261 Moby362 Dick25 , the19 earlier56 days351 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 fishery136 , when189 it162 was454 oftentimes30 hard337 to261 induce237 long544 practised190 Right499 whalemen451 to261 embark296 in107 the19 perils140 of89 this256 new36 and236 daring322 warfare246 ; such420 men62 protesting6 that14 although535 other282 leviathans336 might496 be341 hopefully277 pursued460 , yet443 to261 chase89 and236 point438 lances8 at65 such420 an138 apparition143 as113 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 was454 not518 for190 mortal371 man17 . That14 to261 attempt385 it162 , would282 be341 inevitably127 to261 be341 torn237 into554 a10 quick241 eternity380 . On392 this256 head219 , there340 are314 some265 remarkable381 documents125 that14 may236 be341 consulted122 . Nevertheless104 , some265 there340 were324 , who319 even198 in107 the19 face556 of89 these527 things4 were324 ready464 to261 give142 chase89 to261 Moby362 Dick25 ; and236 a10 still278 greater505 number196 who319 , chancing40 only517 to261 hear386 of89 him248 distantly336 and236 vaguely230 , without309 the19 specific383 details286 of89 any501 certain31 calamity138 , and236 without309 superstitious49 accompaniments25 were324 sufficiently12 hardy241 not518 to261 flee440 from316 the19 battle105 if141 offered336 . One470 of89 the19 wild230 suggestions262 referred350 to261 , as113 at65 last436 coming140 to261 be341 linked155 with449 the19 White82 Whale422 in107 the19 minds244 of89 the19 superstitiously253 inclined76 , was454 the19 unearthly110 conceit58 that14 Moby362 Dick25 was454 ubiquitous258 ; that14 he362 had364 actually69 been185 encountered102 in107 opposite107 latitudes267 at65 one470 and236 the19 same541 instant279 of89 time577 . Nor137 , credulous74 as113 such420 minds244 must226 have254 been185 , was454 this256 conceit58 altogether31 without309 some265 faint316 show460 of89 superstitious49 probability377 . For190 as113 the19 secrets107 of89 the19 currents218 in107 the19 seas350 have254 never206 yet443 been185 divulged13 , even198 to261 the19 most216 erudite54 research51 ; so281 the19 hidden78 ways101 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 when189 beneath320 the19 surface328 remain326 , in107 great259 part207 , unaccountable316 to261 his433 pursuers196 ; and236 from316 time577 to261 time577 have254 originated106 the19 most216 curious264 and236 contradictory189 speculations189 regarding23 them146 , especially371 concerning368 the19 mystic455 modes243 whereby358 , after358 sounding331 to261 a10 great259 depth474 , he362 transports69 himself282 with449 such420 vast43 swiftness395 to261 the19 most216 widely171 distant353 points245 . It162 is487 a10 thing309 well263 known86 to261 both558 American272 and236 English69 whale422 -ships21 , and236 as113 well263 a10 thing309 placed556 upon419 authoritative29 record571 years116 ago141 by406 Scoresby, that14 some265 whales331 have254 been185 captured126 far258 north174 in107 the19 Pacific294 , in107 whose286 bodies392 have254 been185 found260 the19 barbs226 of89 harpoons6 darted362 in107 the19 Greenland110 seas350 . Nor137 is487 it162 to261 be341 gainsaid24 , that14 in107 some265 of89 these527 instances252 it162 has399 been185 declared29 that14 the19 interval114 of89 time577 between77 the19 two527 assaults91 could375 not518 have254 exceeded374 very515 many282 days351 . Hence503 , by406 inference292 , it162 has399 been185 believed214 by406 some265 whalemen451 , that14 the19 Nor137 ' West569 Passage285 , so281 long544 a10 problem28 to261 man17 , was454 never206 a10 problem28 to261 the19 whale422 . So281 that14 here135 , in107 the19 real305 living117 experience127 of89 living117 men62 , the19 prodigies112 related377 in107 old447 times121 of89 the19 inland146 Strello mountain231 in107 Portugal312 (near70 whose286 top70 there340 was454 said252 to261 be341 a10 lake43 in107 which16 the19 wrecks480 of89 ships21 floated6 up405 to261 the19 surface328 ); and236 that14 still278 more348 wonderful291 story197 of89 the19 Arethusa246 fountain524 near70 Syracuse295 (whose286 waters556 were324 believed214 to261 have254 come420 from316 the19 Holy61 Land406 by406 an138 underground397 passage285 ); these527 fabulous335 narrations41 are314 almost518 fully530 equalled27 by406 the19 realities292 of89 the19 whalemen451 . Forced28 into554 familiarity522 , then45 , with449 such420 prodigies112 as113 these527 ; and236 knowing240 that14 after358 repeated381 , intrepid127 assaults91 , the19 White82 Whale422 had364 escaped197 alive298 ; it162 cannot be341 much61 matter176 of89 surprise125 that14 some265 whalemen451 should255 go20 still278 further53 in107 their219 superstitions128 ; declaring412 Moby362 Dick25 not518 only517 ubiquitous258 , but330 immortal15 (for190 immortality181 is487 but330 ubiquity27 in107 time577 ); that14 though400 groves130 of89 spears450 should255 be341 planted82 in107 his433 flanks46 , he362 would282 still278 swim226 away443 unharmed92 ; or519 if141 indeed522 he362 should255 ever208 be341 made563 to261 spout224 thick502 blood208 , such420 a10 sight365 would282 be341 but330 a10 ghastly442 deception7 ; for190 again52 in107 unensanguined billows295 hundreds458 of89 leagues116 away443 , his433 unsullied198 jet423 would282 once248 more348 be341 seen154 . But330 even198 stripped301 of89 these527 supernatural367 surmisings481 , there340 was454 enough217 in107 the19 earthly64 make175 and236 incontestable399 character239 of89 the19 monster480 to261 strike374 the19 imagination131 with449 unwonted481 power145 . For190 , it162 was454 not518 so281 much61 his433 uncommon88 bulk181 that14 so281 much61 distinguished365 him248 from316 other282 sperm26 whales331 , but330 , as113 was454 elsewhere154 thrown359 out66 --a10 peculiar291 snow498 -white362 wrinkled259 forehead380 , and236 a10 high361 , pyramidical8 white82 hump20 . These527 were324 his433 prominent492 features150 ; the19 tokens473 whereby358 , even198 in107 the19 limitless303 , uncharted356 seas350 , he362 revealed530 his433 identity124 , at65 a10 long544 distance264 , to261 those427 who319 knew480 him248 . The19 rest302 of89 his433 body348 was454 so281 streaked389 , and236 spotted122 , and236 marbled174 with449 the19 same541 shrouded465 hue296 , that14 , in107 the19 end149 , he362 had364 gained290 his433 distinctive19 appellation84 of89 the19 White82 Whale422 ; a10 name477 , indeed522 , literally37 justified107 by406 his433 vivid180 aspect147 , when189 seen154 gliding248 at65 high361 noon445 through295 a10 dark471 blue240 sea67 , leaving231 a10 milky23 -way435 wake205 of89 creamy205 foam160 , all145 spangled110 with449 golden508 gleamings182 . Nor137 was454 it162 his433 unwonted481 magnitude203 , nor137 his433 remarkable381 hue296 , nor137 yet443 his433 deformed125 lower47 jaw213 , that14 so281 much61 invested60 the19 whale422 with449 natural298 terror85 , as113 that14 unexampled92 , intelligent346 malignity269 which16 , according281 to261 specific383 accounts311 , he362 had364 over82 and236 over82 again52 evinced94 in107 his433 assaults91 . More348 than77 all145 , his433 treacherous166 retreats431 struck441 more348 of89 dismay366 than77 perhaps75 aught26 else212 . For190 , when189 swimming367 before344 his433 exulting521 pursuers196 , with449 every389 apparent203 symptom25 of89 alarm178 , he362 had364 several479 times121 been185 known86 to261 turn17 around66 suddenly193 , and236 , bearing354 down133 upon419 them146 , either45 stave416 their219 boats83 to261 splinters30 , or519 drive548 them146 back457 in107 consternation52 to261 their219 ship438 . Already93 several479 fatalities124 had364 attended206 his433 chase89 . But330 though400 similar101 disasters138 , however44 little554 bruited203 ashore122 , were324 by406 no235 means502 unusual322 in107 the19 fishery136 ; yet443 , in107 most216 instances252 , such420 seemed132 the19 White82 Whale422 's483 infernal84 aforethought251 of89 ferocity424 , that14 every389 dismembering102 or519 death543 that14 he362 caused308 , was454 not518 wholly497 regarded393 as113 having69 been185 inflicted7 by406 an138 unintelligent354 agent360 . Judge337 , then45 , to261 what243 pitches83 of89 inflamed29 , distracted180 fury30 the19 minds244 of89 his433 more348 desperate316 hunters423 were324 impelled104 , when189 amid240 the19 chips333 of89 chewed225 boats83 , and236 the19 sinking60 limbs315 of89 torn237 comrades410 , they382 swam111 out66 of89 the19 white82 curds504 of89 the19 whale422 's483 direful137 wrath450 into554 the19 serene18 , exasperating434 sunlight333 , that14 smiled213 on392 , as113 if141 at65 a10 birth215 or519 a10 bridal23 . His433 three329 boats83 stove373 around66 him248 , and236 oars398 and236 men62 both558 whirling122 in107 the19 eddies354 ; one470 captain295 , seizing327 the19 line25 -knife503 from316 his433 broken255 prow451 , had364 dashed304 at65 the19 whale422 , as113 an138 Arkansas327 duellist201 at65 his433 foe479 , blindly219 seeking427 with449 a10 six415 inch65 blade83 to261 reach43 the19 fathom-deep192 life71 of89 the19 whale422 . That14 captain295 was454 Ahab232 . And236 then45 it162 was454 , that14 suddenly193 sweeping61 his433 sickle-shaped68 lower47 jaw213 beneath320 him248 , Moby362 Dick25 had364 reaped19 away443 Ahab232 's483 leg331 , as113 a10 mower244 a10 blade83 of89 grass418 in107 the19 field275 . No235 turbaned83 Turk291 , no235 hired518 Venetian59 or519 Malay116 , could375 have254 smote261 him248 with449 more348 seeming59 malice157 . Small350 reason238 was454 there340 to261 doubt71 , then45 , that14 ever208 since374 that14 almost518 fatal460 encounter250 , Ahab232 had364 cherished117 a10 wild230 vindictiveness234 against417 the19 whale422 , all145 the19 more348 fell421 for190 that14 in107 his433 frantic211 morbidness25 he362 at65 last436 came549 to261 identify233 with449 him248 , not518 only517 all145 his433 bodily172 woes476 , but330 all145 his433 intellectual243 and236 spiritual467 exasperations41 . The19 White82 Whale422 swam111 before344 him248 as113 the19 monomaniac336 incarnation306 of89 all145 those427 malicious361 agencies23 which16 some265 deep483 men62 feel461 eating22 in107 them146 , till181 they382 are314 left159 living117 on392 with449 half119 a10 heart470 and236 half119 a10 lung92 . That14 intangible22 malignity269 which16 has399 been185 from316 the19 beginning188 ; to261 whose286 dominion57 even198 the19 modern446 Christians13 ascribe1 one470 -half157 of89 the19 worlds388 ; which16 the19 ancient463 Ophites25 of89 the19 east524 reverenced159 in107 their219 statue37 devil411 ;-- Ahab232 did444 not518 fall90 down133 and236 worship48 it162 like410 them146 ; but330 deliriously110 transferring83 its234 idea250 to261 the19 abhorred324 white82 whale422 , he362 pitted303 himself282 , all145 mutilated229 , against417 it162 . All145 that14 most216 maddens377 and236 torments427 ; all145 that14 stirs161 up405 the19 lees163 of89 things4 ; all145 truth350 with449 malice157 in107 it162 ; all145 that14 cracks292 the19 sinews270 and236 cakes321 the19 brain158 ; all145 the19 subtle143 demonisms of89 life71 and236 thought186 ; all145 evil2 , to261 crazy418 Ahab232 , were324 visibly393 personified306 , and236 made563 practically138 assailable83 in107 Moby362 Dick25 . He362 piled126 upon419 the19 whale422 's483 white82 hump20 the19 sum213 of89 all145 the19 general37 rage293 and236 hate267 felt440 by406 his433 whole199 race392 from316 Adam482 down133 ; and236 then45 , as113 if141 his433 chest98 had364 been185 a10 mortar10 , he362 burst174 his433 hot424 heart470 's483 shell152 upon419 it162 . It162 is487 not518 probable213 that14 this256 monomania336 in107 him248 took68 its234 instant279 rise251 at65 the19 precise158 time577 of89 his433 bodily172 dismemberment124 . Then45 , in107 darting147 at65 the19 monster480 , knife503 in107 hand252 , he362 had364 but330 given141 loose159 to261 a10 sudden309 , passionate480 , corporal314 animosity25 ; and236 when189 he362 received12 the19 stroke436 that14 tore493 him248 , he362 probably244 but330 felt440 the19 agonizing41 bodily172 laceration434 , but330 nothing324 more348 . Yet443 , when189 by406 this256 collision336 forced28 to261 turn17 towards417 home450 , and236 for190 long544 months17 of89 days351 and236 weeks522 , Ahab232 and236 anguish75 lay62 stretched63 together440 in107 one470 hammock323 , rounding314 in107 mid84 winter317 that14 dreary445 , howling204 Patagonian31 Cape23 ; then45 it162 was454 , that14 his433 torn237 body348 and236 gashed132 soul428 bled52 into554 one470 another269 ; and236 so281 interfusing83 , made563 him248 mad235 . That14 it162 was454 only517 then45 , on392 the19 homeward282 voyage137 , after358 the19 encounter250 , that14 the19 final357 monomania336 seized337 him248 , seems19 all145 but330 certain31 from316 the19 fact12 that14 , at65 intervals295 during309 the19 passage285 , he362 was454 a10 raving309 lunatic294 ; and236 , though400 unlimbed of89 a10 leg331 , yet443 such420 vital204 strength168 yet443 lurked453 in107 his433 Egyptian358 chest98 , and236 was454 moreover326 intensified70 by406 his433 delirium106 , that14 his433 mates264 were324 forced28 to261 lace375 him248 fast208 , even198 there340 , as113 he362 sailed248 , raving309 in107 his433 hammock323 . In107 a10 strait324 -jacket481 , he362 swung205 to261 the19 mad235 rockings of89 the19 gales42 . And236 , when189 running296 into554 more348 sufferable343 latitudes267 , the19 ship438 , with449 mild117 stun'sails344 spread348 , floated6 across129 the19 tranquil181 tropics300 , and236 , to261 all145 appearances14 , the19 old447 man17 's415 delirium106 seemed132 left159 behind80 him248 with449 the19 Cape23 Horn139 swells446 , and236 he362 came549 forth152 from316 his433 dark471 den299 into554 the19 blessed473 light382 and236 air209 ; even198 then45 , when189 he362 bore27 that14 firm415 , collected472 front196 , however44 pale292 , and236 issued146 his433 calm39 orders199 once248 again52 ; and236 his433 mates264 thanked347 God185 the19 direful137 madness282 was454 now20 gone190 ; even198 then45 , Ahab232 , in107 his433 hidden78 self442 , raved95 on392 . Human43 madness282 is487 oftentimes30 a10 cunning198 and236 most216 feline452 thing309 . When189 you227 think424 it162 fled434 , it162 may236 have254 but330 become548 transfigured110 into554 some265 still278 subtler409 form238 . Ahab232 's483 full414 lunacy26 subsided445 not518 , but330 deepeningly contracted355 ; like410 the19 unabated371 Hudson435 , when189 that14 noble226 Northman28 flows6 narrowly57 , but330 unfathomably190 through295 the19 Highland173 gorge19 . But330 , as113 in107 his433 narrow140 -flowing298 monomania336 , not518 one470 jot9 of89 Ahab232 's483 broad267 madness282 had364 been185 left159 behind80 ; so281 in107 that14 broad267 madness282 , not518 one470 jot9 of89 his433 great259 natural298 intellect229 had364 perished264 . That14 before344 living117 agent360 , now20 became70 the19 living117 instrument464 . If141 such420 a10 furious89 trope141 may236 stand530 , his433 special326 lunacy26 stormed269 his433 general37 sanity140 , and236 carried232 it162 , and236 turned492 all145 its234 concentred57 cannon515 upon419 its234 own248 mad235 mark169 ; so281 that14 far258 from316 having69 lost308 his433 strength168 , Ahab232 , to261 that14 one470 end149 , did444 now20 possess35 a10 thousand586 fold142 more348 potency26 than77 ever208 he362 had364 sanely360 brought85 to261 bear48 upon419 any501 one470 reasonable88 object100 . This256 is487 much61 ; yet443 Ahab232 's483 larger50 , darker20 , deeper253 part207 remains324 unhinted. But330 vain216 to261 popularize25 profundities292 , and236 all145 truth350 is487 profound371 . Winding486 far258 down133 from316 within503 the19 very515 heart470 of89 this256 spiked359 Hotel124 de404 Cluny480 where579 we465 here135 stand530 --however44 grand229 and236 wonderful291 , now20 quit295 it162 ;-- and236 take279 your162 way435 , ye483 nobler354 , sadder388 souls82 , to261 those427 vast43 Roman333 halls55 of89 Thermes19 ; where579 far258 beneath320 the19 fantastic325 towers506 of89 man17 's415 upper403 earth513 , his433 root24 of89 grandeur436 , his433 whole199 awful539 essence13 sits105 in107 bearded364 state135 ; an138 antique58 buried205 beneath320 antiquities166 , and236 throned235 on392 torsoes! So281 with449 a10 broken255 throne332 , the19 great259 gods325 mock261 that14 captive401 king324 ; so281 like410 a10 Caryatid41 , he362 patient516 sits105 , upholding129 on392 his433 frozen446 brow474 the19 piled126 entablatures325 of89 ages146 . Wind262 ye483 down133 there340 , ye483 prouder207 , sadder388 souls82 ! question562 that14 proud108 , sad341 king324 ! A10 family347 likeness460 ! aye86 , he362 did444 beget415 ye483 , ye483 young389 exiled280 royalties30 ; and236 from316 your162 grim19 sire244 only517 will584 the19 old447 State135 -secret409 come420 . Now20 , in107 his433 heart470 , Ahab232 had364 some265 glimpse12 of89 this256 , namely324 ; all145 my36 means502 are314 sane38 , my36 motive54 and236 my36 object100 mad235 . Yet443 without309 power145 to261 kill219 , or519 change386 , or519 shun349 the19 fact12 ; he362 likewise193 knew480 that14 to261 mankind40 he362 did444 now20 long544 dissemble509 ; in107 some265 sort42 , did444 still278 . But330 that14 thing309 of89 his433 dissembling5 was454 only517 subject382 to261 his433 perceptibility4 , not518 to261 his433 will584 determinate102 . Nevertheless104 , so281 well263 did444 he362 succeed441 in107 that14 dissembling5 , that14 when189 with449 ivory76 leg331 he362 stepped306 ashore122 at65 last436 , no235 Nantucketer thought186 him248 otherwise542 than77 but330 naturally362 grieved17 , and236 that14 to261 the19 quick241 , with449 the19 terrible132 casualty347 which16 had364 overtaken16 him248 . The19 report238 of89 his433 undeniable68 delirium106 at65 sea67 was454 likewise193 popularly301 ascribed344 to261 a10 kindred402 cause220 . And236 so281 too11 , all145 the19 added52 moodiness22 which16 always367 afterwards418 , to261 the19 very515 day112 of89 sailing232 in107 the19 Pequod288 on392 the19 present112 voyage137 , sat77 brooding261 on392 his433 brow474 . Nor137 is487 it162 so281 very515 unlikely138 , that14 far258 from316 distrusting27 his433 fitness89 for190 another269 whaling155 voyage137 , on392 account102 of89 such420 dark471 symptoms128 , the19 calculating368 people482 of89 that14 prudent183 isle41 were324 inclined76 to261 harbor289 the19 conceit58 , that14 for190 those427 very515 reasons186 he362 was454 all145 the19 better34 qualified210 and236 set422 on392 edge323 , for190 a10 pursuit305 so281 full414 of89 rage293 and236 wildness424 as113 the19 bloody357 hunt418 of89 whales331 . Gnawed26 within503 and236 scorched253 without309 , with449 the19 infixed32 , unrelenting380 fangs21 of89 some265 incurable125 idea250 ; such420 an138 one470 , could375 he362 be341 found260 , would282 seem404 the19 very515 man17 to261 dart293 his433 iron169 and236 lift229 his433 lance76 against417 the19 most216 appalling282 of89 all145 brutes402 . Or519 , if141 for190 any501 reason238 thought186 to261 be341 corporeally282 incapacitated235 for190 that14 , yet443 such420 an138 one470 would282 seem404 superlatively4 competent348 to261 cheer337 and236 howl283 on392 his433 underlings457 to261 the19 attack74 . But330 be341 all145 this256 as113 it162 may236 , certain31 it162 is487 , that14 with449 the19 mad235 secret409 of89 his433 unabated371 rage293 bolted74 up405 and236 keyed182 in107 him248 , Ahab232 had364 purposely140 sailed248 upon419 the19 present112 voyage137 with449 the19 one470 only517 and236 all145 -engrossing427 object100 of89 hunting45 the19 White82 Whale422 . Had364 any501 one470 of89 his433 old447 acquaintances222 on392 shore280 but330 half119 dreamed44 of89 what243 was454 lurking89 in107 him248 then45 , how19 soon18 would282 their219 aghast331 and236 righteous530 souls82 have254 wrenched302 the19 ship438 from316 such420 a10 fiendish102 man17 ! They382 were324 bent406 on392 profitable419 cruises231 , the19 profit498 to261 be341 counted81 down133 in107 dollars201 from316 the19 mint364 . He362 was454 intent359 on392 an138 audacious142 , immitigable39 , and236 supernatural367 revenge140 . Here135 , then45 , was454 this256 grey491 -headed124 , ungodly144 old447 man17 , chasing227 with449 curses497 a10 Job269 's483 whale422 round287 the19 world126 , at65 the19 head219 of89 a10 crew126 , too11 , chiefly90 made563 up405 of89 mongrel22 renegades20 , and236 castaways6 , and236 cannibals27 --morally86 enfeebled214 also119 , by406 the19 incompetence4 of89 mere393 unaided356 virtue16 or519 right499 -mindedness in107 Starbuck, the19 invulnerable190 jollity152 of89 indifference111 and236 recklessness34 in107 Stubb, and236 the19 pervading140 mediocrity173 in107 Flask199 . Such420 a10 crew126 , so281 officered86 , seemed132 specially87 picked129 and236 packed55 by406 some265 infernal84 fatality223 to261 help526 him248 to261 his433 monomaniac336 revenge140 . How19 it162 was454 that14 they382 so281 aboundingly141 responded337 to261 the19 old447 man17 's415 ire223 --by406 what243 evil2 magic54 their219 souls82 were324 possessed95 , that14 at65 times121 his433 hate267 seemed132 almost518 theirs137 ; the19 White82 Whale422 as113 much61 their219 insufferable295 foe479 as113 his433 ; how19 all145 this256 came549 to261 be341 --what243 the19 White82 Whale422 was454 to261 them146 , or519 how19 to261 their219 unconscious152 understandings43 , also119 , in107 some265 dim14 , unsuspected427 way435 , he362 might496 have254 seemed132 the19 gliding248 great259 demon22 of89 the19 seas350 of89 life71 ,-- all145 this256 to261 explain349 , would282 be341 to261 dive316 deeper253 than77 Ishmael196 can450 go20 . The19 subterranean105 miner67 that14 works64 in107 us569 all145 , how19 can450 one470 tell392 whither160 leads134 his433 shaft56 by406 the19 ever208 shifting253 , muffled58 sound181 of89 his433 pick447 ? Who319 does565 not518 feel461 the19 irresistible214 arm25 drag426 ? What243 skiff2 in107 tow160 of89 a10 seventy156 -four175 can450 stand530 still278 ? For190 one470 , I482 gave572 myself99 up405 to261 the19 abandonment102 of89 the19 time577 and236 the19 place107 ; but330 while55 yet443 all145 a10 -rush6 to261 encounter250 the19 whale422 , could375 see370 naught80 in107 that14 brute73 but330 the19 deadliest29 ill236 . CHAPTER293 42201 The19 Whiteness232 of89 The19 Whale422 What243 the19 white82 whale422 was454 to261 Ahab232 , has399 been185 hinted253 ; what243 , at65 times121 , he362 was454 to261 me2 , as113 yet443 remains324 unsaid4 . Aside408 from316 those427 more348 obvious147 considerations88 touching80 Moby362 Dick25 , which16 could375 not518 but330 occasionally509 awaken143 in107 any501 man17 's415 soul428 some265 alarm178 , there340 was454 another269 thought186 , or519 rather178 vague70 , nameless427 horror134 concerning368 him248 , which16 at65 times121 by406 its234 intensity285 completely385 overpowered165 all145 the19 rest302 ; and236 yet443 so281 mystical493 and236 well263 nigh254 ineffable285 was454 it162 , that14 I482 almost518 despair187 of89 putting243 it162 in107 a10 comprehensible255 form238 . It162 was454 the19 whiteness232 of89 the19 whale422 that14 above502 all145 things4 appalled24 me2 . But330 how19 can450 I482 hope211 to261 explain349 myself99 here135 ; and236 yet443 , in107 some265 dim14 , random439 way435 , explain349 myself99 I482 must226 , else212 all145 these527 chapters185 might496 be341 naught80 . Though400 in107 many282 natural298 objects326 , whiteness232 refiningly enhances69 beauty262 , as113 if141 imparting180 some265 special326 virtue16 of89 its234 own248 , as113 in107 marbles484 , japonicas152 , and236 pearls215 ; and236 though400 various183 nations274 have254 in107 some265 way435 recognised133 a10 certain31 royal161 preeminence257 in107 this256 hue296 ; even198 the19 barbaric559 , grand229 old447 kings474 of89 Pegu25 placing287 the19 title168 "Lord106 of89 the19 White82 Elephants452 " above502 all145 their219 other282 magniloquent363 ascriptions152 of89 dominion57 ; and236 the19 modern446 kings474 of89 Siam332 unfurling143 the19 same541 snow498 -white362 quadruped398 in107 the19 royal161 standard507 ; and236 the19 Hanoverian124 flag270 bearing354 the19 one470 figure55 of89 a10 snow498 -white362 charger64 ; and236 the19 great259 Austrian296 Empire390 , Caesarian142 , heir295 to261 overlording Rome401 , having69 for190 the19 imperial249 color13 the19 same541 imperial249 hue296 ; and236 though400 this256 pre-eminence257 in107 it162 applies195 to261 the19 human43 race392 itself312 , giving207 the19 white82 man17 ideal229 mastership43 over82 every389 dusky98 tribe273 ; and236 though400 , besides465 , all145 this256 , whiteness232 has399 been185 even198 made563 significant143 of89 gladness354 , for190 among483 the19 Romans54 a10 white82 stone398 marked67 a10 joyful435 day112 ; and236 though400 in107 other282 mortal371 sympathies396 and236 symbolizings, this256 same541 hue296 is487 made563 the19 emblem296 of89 many282 touching80 , noble226 things4 -- the19 innocence236 of89 brides500 , the19 benignity24 of89 age157 ; though400 among483 the19 Red293 Men62 of89 America133 the19 giving207 of89 the19 white82 belt323 of89 wampum4 was454 the19 deepest494 pledge322 of89 honor497 ; though400 in107 many282 climes348 , whiteness232 typifies279 the19 majesty268 of89 Justice7 in107 the19 ermine292 of89 the19 Judge337 , and236 contributes529 to261 the19 daily201 state135 of89 kings474 and236 queens431 drawn564 by406 milk362 -white82 steeds524 ; though400 even198 in107 the19 higher574 mysteries445 of89 the19 most216 august29 religions206 it162 has399 been185 made563 the19 symbol426 of89 the19 divine216 spotlessness83 and236 power145 ; by406 the19 Persian23 fire559 worshippers8 , the19 white82 forked386 flame113 being264 held212 the19 holiest359 on392 the19 altar273 ; and236 in107 the19 Greek261 mythologies188 , Great259 Jove274 himself282 being264 made563 incarnate163 in107 a10 snow498 -white362 bull76 ; and236 though400 to261 the19 noble226 Iroquois94 , the19 midwinter479 sacrifice317 of89 the19 sacred32 White82 Dog322 was454 by406 far258 the19 holiest359 festival466 of89 their219 theology3 , that14 spotless251 , faithful284 creature82 being264 held212 the19 purest524 envoy416 they382 could375 send536 to261 the19 Great259 Spirit227 with449 the19 annual212 tidings395 of89 their219 own248 fidelity93 ; and236 though400 directly58 from316 the19 Latin420 word486 for190 white82 , all145 Christian235 priests411 derive414 the19 name477 of89 one470 part207 of89 their219 sacred32 vesture20 , the19 alb99 or519 tunic362 , worn174 beneath320 the19 cassock323 ; and236 though400 among483 the19 holy61 pomps366 of89 the19 Romish160 faith511 , white82 is487 specially87 employed263 in107 the19 celebration4 of89 the19 Passion38 of89 our234 Lord106 ; though400 in107 the19 Vision304 of89 St193 . John416 , white82 robes463 are314 given141 to261 the19 redeemed448 , and236 the19 four175 -and236 -twenty433 elders475 stand530 clothed63 in107 white82 before344 the19 great259 -white82 throne332 , and236 the19 Holy61 One470 that14 sitteth377 there340 white82 like410 wool218 ; yet443 for190 all145 these527 accumulated236 associations212 , with449 whatever38 is487 sweet417 , and236 honorable15 , and236 sublime76 , there340 yet443 lurks115 an138 elusive3 something181 in107 the19 innermost27 idea250 of89 this256 hue296 , which16 strikes323 more348 of89 panic285 to261 the19 soul428 than77 that14 redness210 which16 affrights505 in107 blood208 . This256 elusive3 quality127 it162 is487 , which16 causes427 the19 thought186 of89 whiteness232 , when189 divorced460 from316 more348 kindly459 associations212 , and236 coupled83 with449 any501 object100 terrible132 in107 itself312 , to261 heighten191 that14 terror85 to261 the19 furthest361 bounds169 . Witness134 the19 white82 bear48 of89 the19 poles122 , and236 the19 white82 shark4 of89 the19 tropics300 ; what243 but330 their219 smooth388 , flaky17 whiteness232 makes32 them146 the19 transcendent499 horrors403 they382 are314 ? That14 ghastly442 whiteness232 it162 is487 which16 imparts217 such420 an138 abhorrent91 mildness354 , even198 more348 loathsome45 than77 terrific315 , to261 the19 dumb371 gloating479 of89 their219 aspect147 . So281 that14 not518 the19 fierce394 -fanged tiger293 in107 his433 heraldic317 coat7 can450 so281 stagger106 courage48 as113 the19 white82 -shrouded465 bear48 or519 shark4 .* *With449 reference116 to261 the19 Polar25 bear48 , it162 may236 possibly201 be341 urged436 by406 him248 who319 would282 fain264 go20 still278 deeper253 into554 this256 matter176 , that14 it162 is487 not518 the19 whiteness232 , separately350 regarded393 , which16 heightens15 the19 intolerable304 hideousness41 of89 that14 brute73 ; for190 , analysed389 , that14 heightened53 hideousness41 , it162 might496 be341 said252 , only517 rises215 from316 the19 circumstance407 , that14 the19 irresponsible277 ferociousness13 of89 the19 creature82 stands256 invested60 in107 the19 fleece462 of89 celestial437 innocence236 and236 love391 ; and236 hence503 , by406 bringing9 together440 two527 such420 opposite107 emotions205 in107 our234 minds244 , the19 Polar25 bear48 frightens165 us569 with449 so281 unnatural111 a10 contrast205 . But330 even198 assuming330 all145 this256 to261 be341 true483 ; yet443 , were324 it162 not518 for190 the19 whiteness232 , you227 would282 not518 have254 that14 intensified70 terror85 . As113 for190 the19 white82 shark4 , the19 white82 gliding248 ghostliness253 of89 repose463 in107 that14 creature82 , when189 beheld132 in107 his433 ordinary225 moods4 , strangely155 tallies415 with449 the19 same541 quality127 in107 the19 Polar25 quadruped398 . This256 peculiarity211 is487 most216 vividly143 hit322 by406 the19 French491 in107 the19 name477 they382 bestow188 upon419 that14 fish187 . The19 Romish160 mass36 for190 the19 dead568 begins374 with449 "Requiem244 eternam60 " (eternal155 rest302 ), whence494 Requiem244 denominating392 the19 mass36 itself312 , and236 any501 other282 funeral390 music91 . Now20 , in107 allusion88 to261 the19 white82 , silent382 stillness516 of89 death543 in107 this256 shark4 , and236 the19 mild117 deadliness83 of89 his433 habits272 , the19 French491 call259 him248 Requin311 . Bethink51 thee15 of89 the19 albatross298 , whence494 come420 those427 clouds342 of89 spiritual467 wonderment183 and236 pale292 dread251 , in107 which16 that14 white82 phantom101 sails344 in107 all145 imaginations28 ? Not518 Coleridge496 first13 threw459 that14 spell416 ; but330 God185 's483 great259 , unflattering110 laureate393 , Nature159 .* *I482 remember499 the19 first13 albatross298 I482 ever208 saw113 . It162 was454 during309 a10 prolonged246 gale440 , in107 waters556 hard337 upon419 the19 Antarctic141 seas350 . From316 my36 forenoon92 watch89 below397 , I482 ascended302 to261 the19 overclouded460 deck505 ; and236 there340 , dashed304 upon419 the19 main501 hatches4 , I482 saw113 a10 regal203 , feathery330 thing309 of89 unspotted23 whiteness232 , and236 with449 a10 hooked91 , Roman333 bill338 sublime76 . At65 intervals295 , it162 arched4 forth152 its234 vast43 archangel82 wings175 , as113 if141 to261 embrace281 some265 holy61 ark25 . Wondrous30 flutterings83 and236 throbbings190 shook161 it162 . Though400 bodily172 unharmed92 , it162 uttered454 cries104 , as113 some265 king324 's483 ghost246 in107 supernatural367 distress273 . Through295 its234 inexpressible480 , strange440 eyes125 , methought411 I482 peeped236 to261 secrets107 which16 took68 hold204 of89 God185 . As113 Abraham124 before344 the19 angels29 , I482 bowed26 myself99 ; the19 white82 thing309 was454 so281 white82 , its234 wings175 so281 wide465 , and236 in107 those427 for190 ever208 exiled280 waters556 , I482 had364 lost308 the19 miserable364 warping309 memories347 of89 traditions489 and236 of89 towns120 . Long544 I482 gazed13 at65 that14 prodigy13 of89 plumage206 . I482 cannot tell392 , can450 only517 hint335 , the19 things4 that14 darted362 through295 me2 then45 . But330 at65 last436 I482 awoke174 ; and236 turning69 , asked369 a10 sailor561 what243 bird443 was454 this256 . A10 goney415 , he362 replied163 . Goney415 ! never206 had364 heard444 that14 name477 before344 ; is487 it162 conceivable147 that14 this256 glorious466 thing309 is487 utterly46 unknown10 to261 men62 ashore122 ! never206 ! But330 some265 time577 after358 , I482 learned277 that14 goney415 was454 some265 seaman166 's483 name477 for190 albatross298 . So281 that14 by406 no235 possibility237 could375 Coleridge496 's483 wild230 Rhyme443 have254 had364 aught26 to261 do353 with449 those427 mystical493 impressions110 which16 were324 mine482 , when189 I482 saw113 that14 bird443 upon419 our234 deck505 . For190 neither74 had364 I482 then45 read98 the19 Rhyme443 , nor137 knew480 the19 bird443 to261 be341 an138 albatross298 . Yet443 , in107 saying9 this256 , I482 do353 but330 indirectly155 burnish4 a10 little554 brighter260 the19 noble226 merit353 of89 the19 poem157 and236 the19 poet384 . I482 assert354 , then45 , that14 in107 the19 wondrous30 bodily172 whiteness232 of89 the19 bird443 chiefly90 lurks115 the19 secret409 of89 the19 spell416 ; a10 truth350 the19 more348 evinced94 in107 this256 , that14 by406 a10 solecism127 of89 terms297 there340 are314 birds332 called237 grey491 albatrosses241 ; and236 these527 I482 have254 frequently475 seen154 , but330 never206 with449 such420 emotions205 as113 when189 I482 beheld132 the19 Antarctic141 fowl11 . But330 how19 had364 the19 mystic455 thing309 been185 caught105 ? Whisper315 it162 not518 , and236 I482 will584 tell392 ; with449 a10 treacherous166 hook157 and236 line25 , as113 the19 fowl11 floated6 on392 the19 sea67 . At65 last436 the19 Captain295 made563 a10 postman76 of89 it162 ; tying49 a10 lettered247 , leathern427 tally5 round287 its234 neck239 , with449 the19 ship438 's483 time577 and236 place107 ; and236 then45 letting122 it162 escape565 . But330 I482 doubt71 not518 , that14 leathern427 tally5 , meant157 for190 man17 , was454 taken222 off111 in107 Heaven163 , when189 the19 white82 fowl11 flew424 to261 join61 the19 wing101 -folding309 , the19 invoking447 , and236 adoring144 cherubim220 ! Most216 famous254 in107 our234 Western227 annals303 and236 Indian303 traditions489 is487 that14 of89 the19 White82 Steed249 of89 the19 Prairies155 ; a10 magnificent512 milk362 -white82 charger64 , large385 -eyed363 , small350 -headed124 , bluff4 -chested, and236 with449 the19 dignity338 of89 a10 thousand586 monarchs93 in107 his433 lofty161 , overscorning carriage21 . He362 was454 the19 elected270 Xerxes158 of89 vast43 herds341 of89 wild230 horses189 , whose286 pastures403 in107 those427 days351 were324 only517 fenced116 by406 the19 Rocky218 Mountains202 and236 the19 Alleghanies368 . At65 their219 flaming269 head219 he362 westward381 trooped97 it162 like410 that14 chosen13 star274 which16 every389 evening581 leads134 on392 the19 hosts62 of89 light382 . The19 flashing181 cascade451 of89 his433 mane261 , the19 curving23 comet403 of89 his433 tail102 , invested60 him248 with449 housings454 more348 resplendent111 than77 gold231 and236 silver205 -beaters could375 have254 furnished201 him248 . A10 most216 imperial249 and236 archangelical83 apparition143 of89 that14 unfallen26 , western227 world126 , which16 to261 the19 eyes125 of89 the19 old447 trappers76 and236 hunters423 revived403 the19 glories29 of89 those427 primeval279 times121 when189 Adam482 walked92 majestic13 as113 a10 god185 , bluff4 -bowed26 and236 fearless132 as113 this256 mighty2 steed249 . Whether454 marching57 amid240 his433 aides88 and236 marshals243 in107 the19 van164 of89 countless111 cohorts246 that14 endlessly333 streamed122 it162 over82 the19 plains21 , like410 an138 Ohio242 ; or519 whether454 with449 his433 circumambient78 subjects122 browsing259 all145 around66 at65 the19 horizon516 , the19 White82 Steed249 gallopingly reviewed277 them146 with449 warm178 nostrils42 reddening316 through295 his433 cool102 milkiness4 ; in107 whatever38 aspect147 he362 presented320 himself282 , always367 to261 the19 bravest175 Indians99 he362 was454 the19 object100 of89 trembling280 reverence255 and236 awe305 . Nor137 can450 it162 be341 questioned122 from316 what243 stands256 on392 legendary335 record571 of89 this256 noble226 horse409 , that14 it162 was454 his433 spiritual467 whiteness232 chiefly90 , which16 so281 clothed63 him248 with449 divineness83 ; and236 that14 this256 divineness83 had364 that14 in107 it162 which16 , though400 commanding76 worship48 , at65 the19 same541 time577 enforced445 a10 certain31 nameless427 terror85 . But330 there340 are314 other282 instances252 where579 this256 whiteness232 loses125 all145 that14 accessory111 and236 strange440 glory173 which16 invests25 it162 in107 the19 White82 Steed249 and236 Albatross298 . What243 is487 it162 that14 in107 the19 Albino258 man17 so281 peculiarly182 repels110 and236 often227 shocks443 the19 eye220 , as113 that14 sometimes77 he362 is487 loathed281 by406 his433 own248 kith377 and236 kin197 ! It162 is487 that14 whiteness232 which16 invests25 him248 , a10 thing309 expressed21 by406 the19 name477 he362 bears97 . The19 Albino258 is487 as113 well263 made563 as113 other282 men62 -- has399 no235 substantive181 deformity122 --and236 yet443 this256 mere393 aspect147 of89 all145 -pervading398 whiteness232 makes32 him248 more348 strangely155 hideous298 than77 the19 ugliest88 abortion110 . Why177 should255 this256 be341 so281 ? Nor137 , in107 quite327 other282 aspects322 , does565 Nature159 in107 her400 least453 palpable255 but330 not518 the19 less261 malicious361 agencies23 , fail126 to261 enlist120 among483 her400 forces292 this256 crowning235 attribute25 of89 the19 terrible132 . From316 its234 snowy152 aspect147 , the19 gauntleted132 ghost246 of89 the19 Southern187 Seas350 has399 been185 denominated122 the19 White82 Squall467 . Nor137 , in107 some265 historic72 instances252 , has399 the19 art462 of89 human43 malice157 omitted117 so281 potent422 an138 auxiliary103 . How19 wildly356 it162 heightens15 the19 effect215 of89 that14 passage285 in107 Froissart295 , when189 , masked234 in107 the19 snowy152 symbol426 of89 their219 faction483 , the19 desperate316 White82 Hoods116 of89 Ghent25 murder448 their219 bailiff26 in107 the19 market286 -place107 ! Nor137 , in107 some265 things4 , does565 the19 common304 , hereditary125 experience127 of89 all145 mankind40 fail126 to261 bear48 witness134 to261 the19 supernaturalism161 of89 this256 hue296 . It162 cannot well263 be341 doubted279 , that14 the19 one470 visible94 quality127 in107 the19 aspect147 of89 the19 dead568 which16 most216 appals218 the19 gazer103 , is487 the19 marble364 pallor230 lingering186 there340 ; as113 if141 indeed522 that14 pallor230 were324 as113 much61 like410 the19 badge361 of89 consternation52 in107 the19 other282 world126 , as113 of89 mortal371 trepidation438 here135 . And236 from316 that14 pallor230 of89 the19 dead568 , we465 borrow315 the19 expressive234 hue296 of89 the19 shroud260 in107 which16 we465 wrap19 them146 . Nor137 even198 in107 our234 superstitions128 do353 we465 fail126 to261 throw345 the19 same541 snowy152 mantle409 round287 our234 phantoms13 ; all145 ghosts44 rising464 in107 a10 milk362 -white82 fog554 --Yea204 , while55 these527 terrors192 seize445 us569 , let66 us569 add236 , that14 even198 the19 king324 of89 terrors192 , when189 personified306 by406 the19 evangelist4 , rides330 on392 his433 pallid22 horse409 . Therefore94 , in107 his433 other282 moods4 , symbolize67 whatever38 grand229 or519 gracious375 thing309 he362 will584 by406 whiteness232 , no235 man17 can450 deny346 that14 in107 its234 profoundest320 idealized83 significance330 it162 calls15 up405 a10 peculiar291 apparition143 to261 the19 soul428 . But330 though400 without309 dissent186 this256 point438 be341 fixed564 , how19 is487 mortal371 man17 to261 account102 for190 it162 ? To261 analyse554 it162 , would282 seem404 impossible305 . Can450 we465 , then45 , by406 the19 citation413 of89 some265 of89 those427 instances252 wherein396 this256 thing309 of89 whiteness232 --though400 for190 the19 time577 either45 wholly497 or519 in107 great259 part207 stripped301 of89 all145 direct314 associations212 calculated321 to261 impart237 to261 it162 aught26 fearful183 , but330 nevertheless104 , is487 found260 to261 exert137 over82 us569 the19 same541 sorcery81 , however44 modified564 ;-- can450 we465 thus362 hope211 to261 light382 upon419 some265 chance292 clue345 to261 conduct161 us569 to261 the19 hidden78 cause220 we465 seek292 ? Let66 us569 try266 . But330 in107 a10 matter176 like410 this256 , subtlety530 appeals80 to261 subtlety530 , and236 without309 imagination131 no235 man17 can450 follow408 another269 into554 these527 halls55 . And236 though400 , doubtless101 , some265 at65 least453 of89 the19 imaginative128 impressions110 about123 to261 be341 presented320 may236 have254 been185 shared376 by406 most216 men62 , yet443 few49 perhaps75 were324 entirely148 conscious443 of89 them146 at65 the19 time577 , and236 therefore94 may236 not518 be341 able362 to261 recall288 them146 now20 . Why177 to261 the19 man17 of89 untutored173 ideality7 , who319 happens143 to261 be341 but330 loosely235 acquainted78 with449 the19 peculiar291 character239 of89 the19 day112 , does565 the19 bare245 mention510 of89 Whitsuntide226 marshal192 in107 the19 fancy396 such420 long544 , dreary445 , speechless225 processions161 of89 slow96 -pacing253 pilgrims19 , down133 -cast99 and236 hooded374 with449 new36 -fallen40 snow498 ? Or519 to261 the19 unread41 , unsophisticated507 Protestant256 of89 the19 Middle39 American272 States443 , why177 does565 the19 passing147 mention510 of89 a10 White82 Friar216 or519 a10 White82 Nun116 , evoke25 such420 an138 eyeless401 statue37 in107 the19 soul428 ? Or519 what243 is487 there340 apart526 from316 the19 traditions489 of89 dungeoned83 warriors144 and236 kings474 (which16 will584 not518 wholly497 account102 for190 it162 ) that14 makes32 the19 White82 Tower36 of89 London41 tell392 so281 much61 more348 strongly168 on392 the19 imagination131 of89 an138 untravelled325 American272 , than77 those427 other282 storied388 structures165 , its234 neighbors466 -- the19 Byward Tower36 , or519 even198 the19 Bloody357 ? And236 those427 sublimer141 towers506 , the19 White82 Mountains202 of89 New36 Hampshire324 , whence494 , in107 peculiar291 moods4 , comes268 that14 gigantic157 ghostliness253 over82 the19 soul428 at65 the19 bare245 mention510 of89 that14 name477 , while55 the19 thought186 of89 Virginia354 's483 Blue240 Ridge435 is487 full414 of89 a10 soft226 , dewy260 , distant353 dreaminess41 ? Or519 why177 , irrespective218 of89 all145 latitudes267 and236 longitudes252 , does565 the19 name477 of89 the19 White82 Sea67 exert137 such420 a10 spectralness over82 the19 fancy396 , while55 that14 of89 the19 Yellow95 Sea67 lulls6 us569 with449 mortal371 thoughts26 of89 long544 lacquered445 mild117 afternoons210 on392 the19 waves443 , followed234 by406 the19 gaudiest118 and236 yet443 sleepiest49 of89 sunsets26 ? Or519 , to261 choose147 a10 wholly497 unsubstantial103 instance141 , purely138 addressed169 to261 the19 fancy396 , why177 , in107 reading210 the19 old447 fairy272 tales527 of89 Central229 Europe153 , does565 "the19 tall373 pale292 man17 " of89 the19 Hartz18 forests238 , whose286 changeless177 pallor230 unrestingly136 glides29 through295 the19 green549 of89 the19 groves130 -- why177 is487 this256 phantom101 more348 terrible132 than77 all145 the19 whooping122 imps183 of89 the19 Blocksburg? Nor137 is487 it162 , altogether31 , the19 remembrance37 of89 her400 cathedral231 -toppling earthquakes511 ; nor137 the19 stampedoes of89 her400 frantic211 seas350 ; nor137 the19 tearlessness of89 arid11 skies30 that14 never206 rain190 ; nor137 the19 sight365 of89 her400 wide465 field275 of89 leaning559 spires115 , wrenched302 cope-stones501 , and236 crosses521 all145 adroop83 (like410 canted438 yards386 of89 anchored42 fleets29 ); and236 her400 suburban104 avenues441 of89 house499 -walls116 lying204 over82 upon419 each520 other282 , as113 a10 tossed227 pack294 of89 cards142 ;-- it162 is487 not518 these527 things4 alone2 which16 make175 tearless468 Lima120 , the19 strangest86 , saddest235 city82 thou173 can450 'st193 see370 . For190 Lima120 has399 taken222 the19 white82 veil69 ; and236 there340 is487 a10 higher574 horror134 in107 this256 whiteness232 of89 her400 woe295 . Old447 as113 Pizarro99 , this256 whiteness232 keeps20 her400 ruins31 for190 ever208 new36 ; admits309 not518 the19 cheerful391 greenness149 of89 complete191 decay233 ; spreads110 over82 her400 broken255 ramparts83 the19 rigid380 pallor230 of89 an138 apoplexy111 that14 fixes382 its234 own248 distortions285 . I482 know60 that14 , to261 the19 common304 apprehension26 , this256 phenomenon34 of89 whiteness232 is487 not518 confessed270 to261 be341 the19 prime425 agent360 in107 exaggerating111 the19 terror85 of89 objects326 otherwise542 terrible132 ; nor137 to261 the19 unimaginative107 mind118 is487 there340 aught26 of89 terror85 in107 those427 appearances14 whose286 awfulness306 to261 another269 mind118 almost518 solely41 consists303 in107 this256 one470 phenomenon34 , especially371 when189 exhibited20 under533 any501 form238 at65 all145 approaching271 to261 muteness88 or519 universality396 . What243 I482 mean504 by406 these527 two527 statements42 may236 perhaps75 be341 respectively254 elucidated54 by406 the19 following181 examples53 . First13 : The19 mariner265 , when189 drawing407 nigh254 the19 coasts147 of89 foreign198 lands436 , if141 by406 night108 he362 hear386 the19 roar147 of89 breakers317 , starts248 to261 vigilance124 , and236 feels450 just108 enough217 of89 trepidation438 to261 sharpen249 all145 his433 faculties53 ; but330 under533 precisely217 similar101 circumstances267 , let66 him248 be341 called237 from316 his433 hammock323 to261 view370 his433 ship438 sailing232 through295 a10 midnight539 sea67 of89 milky23 whiteness232 -- as113 if141 from316 encircling460 headlands129 shoals340 of89 combed434 white82 bears97 were324 swimming367 round287 him248 , then45 he362 feels450 a10 silent382 , superstitious49 dread251 ; the19 shrouded465 phantom101 of89 the19 whitened481 waters556 is487 horrible398 to261 him248 as113 a10 real305 ghost246 ; in107 vain216 the19 lead362 assures111 him248 he362 is487 still278 off111 soundings99 ; heart470 and236 helm285 they382 both558 go20 down133 ; he362 never206 rests154 till181 blue240 water520 is487 under533 him248 again52 . Yet443 where579 is487 the19 mariner265 who319 will584 tell392 thee15 , "Sir271 , it162 was454 not518 so281 much61 the19 fear103 of89 striking22 hidden78 rocks265 , as113 the19 fear103 of89 that14 hideous298 whiteness232 that14 so281 stirred101 me2 ?" Second386 : To261 the19 native399 Indian303 of89 Peru19 , the19 continual222 sight365 of89 the19 snowhowdahed Andes341 conveys303 naught80 of89 dread251 , except545 , perhaps75 , in107 the19 mere393 fancying249 of89 the19 eternal155 frosted83 desolateness83 reigning147 at65 such420 vast43 altitudes25 , and236 the19 natural298 conceit58 of89 what243 a10 fearfulness177 it162 would282 be341 to261 lose247 oneself314 in107 such420 inhuman207 solitudes210 . Much61 the19 same541 is487 it162 with449 the19 backwoodsman299 of89 the19 West569 , who319 with449 comparative87 indifference111 views67 an138 unbounded296 prairie214 sheeted99 with449 driven228 snow498 , no235 shadow438 of89 tree482 or519 twig25 to261 break483 the19 fixed564 trance202 of89 whiteness232 . Not518 so281 the19 sailor561 , beholding248 the19 scenery102 of89 the19 Antarctic141 seas350 ; where579 at65 times121 , by406 some265 infernal84 trick26 of89 legerdemain117 in107 the19 powers140 of89 frost113 and236 air209 , he362 , shivering559 and236 half119 shipwrecked25 , instead398 of89 rainbows20 speaking22 hope211 and236 solace26 to261 his433 misery395 , views67 what243 seems19 a10 boundless386 churchyard63 grinning424 upon419 him248 with449 its234 lean279 ice443 monuments557 and236 splintered330 crosses521 . But330 thou173 sayest56 , methinks462 this256 white82 -lead25 chapter293 about123 whiteness232 is487 but330 a10 white82 flag270 hung479 out66 from316 a10 craven429 soul428 ; thou173 surrenderest454 to261 a10 hypo163 , Ishmael196 . Tell392 me2 , why177 this256 strong145 young389 colt230 , foaled406 in107 some265 peaceful319 valley18 of89 Vermont258 , far258 removed447 from316 all145 beasts359 of89 prey347 -- why177 is487 it162 that14 upon419 the19 sunniest215 day112 , if141 you227 but330 shake180 a10 fresh540 buffalo299 robe147 behind80 him248 , so281 that14 he362 cannot even198 see370 it162 , but330 only517 smells422 its234 wild230 animal22 muskiness105 --why177 will584 he362 start117 , snort269 , and236 with449 bursting288 eyes125 paw194 the19 ground127 in107 phrensies of89 affright306 ? There340 is487 no235 remembrance37 in107 him248 of89 any501 gorings137 of89 wild230 creatures5 in107 his433 green549 northern252 home450 , so281 that14 the19 strange440 muskiness105 he362 smells422 cannot recall288 to261 him248 anything480 associated98 with449 the19 experience127 of89 former157 perils140 ; for190 what243 knows286 he362 , this256 New36 England348 colt230 , of89 the19 black581 bisons234 of89 distant353 Oregon404 ? No235 ; but330 here135 thou173 beholdest18 even198 in107 a10 dumb371 brute73 , the19 instinct72 of89 the19 knowledge270 of89 the19 demonism4 in107 the19 world126 . Though400 thousands7 of89 miles278 from316 Oregon404 , still278 when189 he362 smells422 that14 savage398 musk16 , the19 rending170 , goring341 bison25 herds341 are314 as113 present112 as113 to261 the19 deserted178 wild230 foal160 of89 the19 prairies155 , which16 this256 instant279 they382 may236 be341 trampling292 into554 dust434 . Thus362 , then45 , the19 muffled58 rollings83 of89 a10 milky23 sea67 ; the19 bleak151 rustlings453 of89 the19 festooned238 frosts110 of89 mountains202 ; the19 desolate126 shiftings188 of89 the19 windrowed snows23 of89 prairies155 ; all145 these527 , to261 Ishmael196 , are314 as113 the19 shaking206 of89 that14 buffalo299 robe147 to261 the19 frightened172 colt230 ! Though400 neither74 knows286 where579 lie212 the19 nameless427 things4 of89 which16 the19 mystic455 sign8 gives529 forth152 such420 hints260 ; yet443 with449 me2 , as113 with449 the19 colt230 , somewhere201 those427 things4 must226 exist265 . Though400 in107 many282 of89 its234 aspects322 this256 visible94 world126 seems19 formed294 in107 love391 , the19 invisible186 spheres64 were324 formed294 in107 fright18 . But330 not518 yet443 have254 we465 solved133 the19 incantation102 of89 this256 whiteness232 , and236 learned277 why177 it162 appeals80 with449 such420 power145 to261 the19 soul428 ; and236 more348 strange440 and236 far258 more348 portentous125 --why177 , as113 we465 have254 seen154 , it162 is487 at65 once248 the19 most216 meaning62 symbol426 of89 spiritual467 things4 , nay358 , the19 very515 veil69 of89 the19 Christian235 's483 Deity220 ; and236 yet443 should255 be341 as113 it162 is487 , the19 intensifying189 agent360 in107 things4 the19 most216 appalling282 to261 mankind40 . Is487 it162 that14 by406 its234 indefiniteness518 it162 shadows480 forth152 the19 heartless190 voids41 and236 immensities402 of89 the19 universe426 , and236 thus362 stabs274 us569 from316 behind80 with449 the19 thought186 of89 annihilation138 , when189 beholding248 the19 white82 depths416 of89 the19 milky23 way435 ? Or519 is487 it162 , that14 as113 in107 essence13 whiteness232 is487 not518 so281 much61 a10 color13 as113 the19 visible94 absence484 of89 color13 ; and236 at65 the19 same541 time577 the19 concrete53 of89 all145 colors24 ; is487 it162 for190 these527 reasons186 that14 there340 is487 such420 a10 dumb371 blankness12 , full414 of89 meaning62 , in107 a10 wide465 landscape192 of89 snows23 --a10 colorless305 , all145 -color13 of89 atheism22 from316 which16 we465 shrink21 ? And236 when189 we465 consider259 that14 other282 theory60 of89 the19 natural298 philosophers529 , that14 all145 other282 earthly64 hues223 --every389 stately344 or519 lovely126 emblazoning110 -- the19 sweet417 tinges23 of89 sunset305 skies30 and236 woods29 ; yea204 , and236 the19 gilded41 velvets15 of89 butterflies501 , and236 the19 butterfly125 cheeks282 of89 young389 girls388 ; all145 these527 are314 but330 subtile186 deceits379 , not518 actually69 inherent18 in107 substances23 , but330 only517 laid181 on392 from316 without309 ; so281 that14 all145 deified127 Nature159 absolutely518 paints142 like410 the19 harlot253 , whose286 allurements57 cover172 nothing324 but330 the19 charnel-house6 within503 ; and236 when189 we465 proceed367 further53 , and236 consider259 that14 the19 mystical493 cosmetic58 which16 produces139 every389 one470 of89 her400 hues223 , the19 great259 principle420 of89 light382 , for190 ever208 remains324 white82 or519 colorless305 in107 itself312 , and236 if141 operating357 without309 medium27 upon419 matter176 , would282 touch486 all145 objects326 , even198 tulips41 and236 roses542 , with449 its234 own248 blank156 tinge261 --pondering280 all145 this256 , the19 palsied26 universe426 lies27 before344 us569 a10 leper115 ; and236 like410 wilful160 travellers491 in107 Lapland231 , who319 refuse337 to261 wear250 colored213 and236 coloring214 glasses527 upon419 their219 eyes125 , so281 the19 wretched294 infidel183 gazes23 himself282 blind375 at65 the19 monumental430 white82 shroud260 that14 wraps83 all145 the19 prospect198 around66 him248 . And236 of89 all145 these527 things4 the19 Albino258 whale422 was454 the19 symbol426 . Wonder76 ye483 then45 at65 the19 fiery42 hunt418 ? .. CHAPTER293 43345 Hark313 ! "HIST117 ! Did444 you227 hear386 that14 noise254 , Cabaco? It162 was454 the19 middle39 -watch89 : a10 fair320 moonlight122 ; the19 seamen6 were324 standing144 in107 a10 cordon83 , extending231 from316 one470 of89 the19 fresh540 -water159 butts83 in107 the19 waist52 , to261 the19 scuttle27 -butt331 near70 the19 taffrail83 . In107 this256 manner153 , they382 passed87 the19 buckets157 to261 fill380 the19 scuttle27 -butt331 . Standing144 , for190 the19 most216 part207 , on392 the19 hallowed316 precincts95 of89 the19 quarter6 -deck505 , they382 were324 careful252 not518 to261 speak337 or519 rustle266 their219 feet349 . From316 hand252 to261 hand252 , the19 buckets157 went516 in107 the19 deepest494 silence309 , only517 broken255 by406 the19 occasional202 flap10 of89 a10 sail218 , and236 the19 steady21 hum345 of89 the19 unceasingly507 advancing444 keel39 . It162 was454 in107 the19 midst533 of89 this256 repose463 , that14 Archy110 , one470 of89 the19 cordon83 , whose286 post2 was454 near70 the19 after358 -hatches4 , whispered89 to261 his433 neighbor431 , a10 Cholo36 , the19 words107 above502 . "Hist117 ! did444 you227 hear386 that14 noise254 , Cabaco?" "Take279 the19 bucket170 , will584 ye483 , Archy110 ? what243 noise254 d67 'ye163 mean504 ?" "There340 it162 is487 again52 --under533 the19 hatches4 --don280 't500 you227 hear386 it162 --a10 cough21 -- it162 sounded163 like410 a10 cough21 ." "Cough21 be341 damned572 ! Pass153 along423 that14 return407 bucket170 ." "There340 again52 --there340 it162 is487 !--it162 sounds394 like410 two527 or519 three329 sleepers367 turning69 over82 , now20 !" "Caramba26 ! have254 done135 , shipmate283 , will584 ye483 ? It162 's483 the19 three329 soaked55 biscuits104 ye483 eat286 for190 supper4 turning69 over82 inside438 of89 ye483 --nothing324 else212 . Look523 to261 the19 bucket170 !" "Say306 what243 ye483 will584 , shipmate283 ; I482 've149 sharp427 ears560 ." "Aye86 , you227 are314 the19 chap287 , ain't500 ye483 , that14 heard444 the19 hum345 of89 the19 old447 Quakeress253 's483 knitting57 -needles265 fifty406 miles278 at65 sea67 from316 Nantucket283 ; you227 're155 the19 chap287 ." "Grin401 away443 ; we465 'll300 see370 what243 turns136 up405 . Hark313 ye483 , Cabaco, there340 is487 somebody387 down133 in107 the19 after358 -hold191 that14 has399 not518 yet443 been185 seen154 on392 deck505 ; and236 I482 suspect307 our234 old447 Mogul270 knows286 something181 of89 it162 too11 . I482 heard444 Stubb tell392 Flask199 , one470 morning417 watch89 , that14 there340 was454 something181 of89 that14 sort42 in107 the19 wind262 ." "Tish142 ! the19 bucket170 !" CHAPTER293 44170 The19 Chart102 Had364 you227 followed234 Captain295 Ahab232 down133 into554 his433 cabin192 after358 the19 squall467 that14 took68 place107 on392 the19 night108 succeeding493 that14 wild230 ratification125 of89 his433 purpose514 with449 his433 crew126 , you227 would282 have254 seen154 him248 go20 to261 a10 locker26 in107 the19 transom379 , and236 bringing9 out66 a10 large385 wrinkled259 roll473 of89 yellowish203 sea67 charts98 , spread348 them146 before344 him248 on392 his433 screwed453 -down133 table572 . Then45 seating122 himself282 before344 it162 , you227 would282 have254 seen154 him248 intently258 study252 the19 various183 lines241 and236 shadings66 which16 there340 met130 his433 eye220 ; and236 with449 slow96 but330 steady21 pencil122 trace327 additional131 courses139 over82 spaces137 that14 before344 were324 blank156 . At65 intervals295 , he362 would282 refer169 to261 piles369 of89 old447 log127 -books525 beside276 him248 , wherein396 were324 set422 down133 the19 seasons192 and236 places423 in107 which16 , on392 various183 former157 voyages368 of89 various183 ships21 , sperm26 whales331 had364 been185 captured126 or519 seen154 . While55 thus362 employed263 , the19 heavy421 pewter86 lamp330 suspended245 in107 chains446 over82 his433 head219 , continually303 rocked157 with449 the19 motion544 of89 the19 ship438 , and236 for190 ever208 threw459 shifting253 gleams34 and236 shadows480 of89 lines241 upon419 his433 wrinkled259 brow474 , till181 it162 almost518 seemed132 that14 while55 he362 himself282 was454 marking279 out66 lines241 and236 courses139 on392 the19 wrinkled259 charts98 , some265 invisible186 pencil122 was454 also119 tracing359 lines241 and236 courses139 upon419 the19 deeply225 marked67 chart102 of89 his433 forehead380 . But330 it162 was454 not518 this256 night108 in107 particular336 that14 , in107 the19 solitude15 of89 his433 cabin192 , Ahab232 thus362 pondered182 over82 his433 charts98 . Almost518 every389 night108 they382 were324 brought85 out66 ; almost518 every389 night108 some265 pencil122 marks226 were324 effaced396 , and236 others317 were324 substituted243 . For190 with449 the19 charts98 of89 all145 four175 oceans60 before344 him248 , Ahab232 was454 threading143 a10 maze508 of89 currents218 and236 eddies354 , with449 a10 view370 to261 the19 more348 certain31 accomplishment355 of89 that14 monomaniac336 thought186 of89 his433 soul428 . Now20 , to261 any501 one470 not518 fully530 acquainted78 with449 the19 ways101 of89 the19 leviathans336 , it162 might496 seem404 an138 absurdly34 hopeless189 task482 thus362 to261 seek292 out66 one470 solitary407 creature82 in107 the19 unhooped213 oceans60 of89 this256 planet382 . But330 not518 so281 did444 it162 seem404 to261 Ahab232 , who319 knew480 the19 sets83 of89 all145 tides36 and236 currents218 ; and236 thereby190 calculating368 the19 driftings of89 the19 sperm26 whale422 's483 food248 ; and236 , also119 calling56 to261 mind118 the19 regular400 , ascertained214 seasons192 for190 hunting45 him248 in107 particular336 latitudes267 ; could375 arrive8 at65 reasonable88 surmises280 , almost518 approaching271 to261 certainties391 , concerning368 the19 timeliest419 day112 to261 be341 upon419 this256 or519 that14 ground127 in107 search352 of89 his433 prey347 . So281 assured557 , indeed522 , is487 the19 fact12 concerning368 the19 periodicalness of89 the19 sperm26 whale422 's483 resorting269 to261 given141 waters556 , that14 many282 hunters423 believe191 that14 , could375 he362 be341 closely218 observed340 and236 studied222 throughout159 the19 world126 ; were324 the19 logs296 for190 one470 voyage137 of89 the19 entire230 whale422 fleet206 carefully374 collated110 , then45 the19 migrations183 of89 the19 sperm26 whale422 would282 be341 found260 to261 correspond153 in107 invariability111 to261 those427 of89 the19 herring26 -shoals340 or519 the19 flights154 of89 swallows384 . On392 this256 hint335 , attempts13 have254 been185 made563 to261 construct125 elaborate36 migratory37 charts98 of89 the19 sperm26 whale422 .* *Since374 the19 above502 was454 written388 , the19 statement187 is487 happily217 borne493 out66 by406 an138 official283 circular21 , issued146 by406 Lieutenant47 Maury99 , of89 the19 National145 Observatory265 , Washington413 , April431 16th77 , 1851430 . By406 that14 circular21 , it162 appears268 that14 precisely217 such420 a10 chart102 is487 in107 course171 of89 completion104 ; and236 portions315 of89 it162 are314 presented320 in107 the19 circular21 . "This256 chart102 divides58 the19 ocean224 into554 districts411 of89 five103 degrees31 of89 latitude258 by406 five103 degrees31 of89 longitude239 ; perpendicularly41 through295 each520 of89 which16 districts411 are314 twelve293 columns262 for190 the19 twelve293 months17 ; and236 horizontally389 through295 each520 of89 which16 districts411 are314 three329 lines241 ; one470 to261 show460 the19 number196 of89 days351 that14 have254 been185 spent329 in107 each520 month438 in107 every389 district11 , and236 the19 two527 others317 to261 show460 the19 number196 of89 days351 in107 which16 whales331 , sperm26 or519 right499 , have254 been185 seen154 ." Besides465 , when189 making415 a10 passage285 from316 one470 feeding367 -ground127 to261 another269 , the19 sperm26 whales331 , guided284 by406 some265 infallible59 instinct72 --say306 , rather178 , secret409 intelligence30 from316 the19 Deity220 --mostly190 swim226 in107 veins395 , as113 they382 are314 called237 ; continuing215 their219 way435 along423 a10 given141 ocean224 -line25 with449 such420 undeviating138 exactitude6 , that14 no235 ship438 ever208 sailed248 her400 course171 , by406 any501 chart102 , with449 one470 tithe502 of89 such420 marvellous35 precision154 . Though400 , in107 these527 cases108 , the19 direction67 taken222 by406 any501 one470 whale422 be341 straight346 as113 a10 surveyor288 's483 parallel78 , and236 though400 the19 line25 of89 advance70 be341 strictly303 confined185 to261 its234 own248 unavoidable74 , straight346 wake205 , yet443 the19 arbitrary163 vein361 in107 which16 at65 these527 times121 he362 is487 said252 to261 swim226 , generally402 embraces296 some265 few49 miles278 in107 width118 (more348 or519 less261 , as113 the19 vein361 is487 presumed300 to261 expand254 or519 contract284 ); but330 never206 exceeds525 the19 visual507 sweep471 from316 the19 whale422 -ship98 's483 mast44 -heads279 , when189 circumspectly292 gliding248 along423 this256 magic54 zone173 . The19 sum213 is487 , that14 at65 particular336 seasons192 within503 that14 breadth252 and236 along423 that14 path234 , migrating252 whales331 may236 with449 great259 confidence46 be341 looked232 for190 . And236 hence503 not518 only517 at65 substantiated484 times121 , upon419 well263 known86 separate495 feeding367 -grounds448 , could375 Ahab232 hope211 to261 encounter250 his433 prey347 ; but330 in107 crossing402 the19 widest147 expanses55 of89 water520 between77 those427 grounds448 he362 could375 , by406 his433 art462 , so281 place107 and236 time577 himself282 on392 his433 way435 , as113 even198 then45 not518 to261 be341 wholly497 without309 prospect198 of89 a10 meeting183 . There340 was454 a10 circumstance407 which16 at65 first13 sight365 seemed132 to261 entangle74 his433 delirious205 but330 still278 methodical21 scheme337 . But330 not518 so281 in107 the19 reality214 , perhaps75 . Though400 the19 gregarious204 sperm26 whales331 have254 their219 regular400 seasons192 for190 particular336 grounds448 , yet443 in107 general37 you227 cannot conclude1 that14 the19 herds341 which16 haunted398 such420 and236 such420 a10 latitude258 or519 longitude239 this256 year347 , say306 , will584 turn17 out66 to261 be341 identically43 the19 same541 with449 those427 that14 were324 found260 there340 the19 preceding44 season248 ; though400 there340 are314 peculiar291 and236 unquestionable129 instances252 where579 the19 contrary166 of89 this256 has399 proved312 true483 . In107 general37 , the19 same541 remark325 , only517 within503 a10 less261 wide465 limit272 , applies195 to261 the19 solitaries83 and236 hermits428 among483 the19 matured518 , aged361 sperm26 whales331 . So281 that14 though400 Moby362 Dick25 had364 in107 a10 former157 year347 been185 seen154 , for190 example479 , on392 what243 is487 called237 the19 Seychelle ground127 in107 the19 Indian303 ocean224 , or519 Volcano155 Bay279 on392 the19 Japanese364 Coast287 ; yet443 it162 did444 not518 follow408 that14 were324 the19 Pequod288 to261 visit229 either45 of89 those427 spots8 at65 any501 subsequent312 corresponding427 season248 , she391 would282 infallibly426 encounter250 him248 there340 . So281 , too11 , with449 some265 other282 feeding367 -grounds448 , where579 he362 had364 at65 times121 revealed530 himself282 . But330 all145 these527 seemed132 only517 his433 casual83 stopping406 -places402 and236 ocean224 -inns281 , so281 to261 speak337 , not518 his433 places423 of89 prolonged246 abode122 . And236 where579 Ahab232 's483 chances400 of89 accomplishing217 his433 object100 have254 hitherto533 been185 spoken507 of89 , allusion88 has399 only517 been185 made563 to261 whatever38 way435 -side99 , antecedent83 , extra201 prospects212 were324 his433 , ere83 a10 particular336 set422 time577 or519 place107 were324 attained177 , when189 all145 possibilities136 would282 become548 probabilities384 , and236 , as113 Ahab232 fondly105 thought186 , every389 possibility237 the19 next27 thing309 to261 a10 certainty400 . That14 particular336 set422 time577 and236 place107 were324 conjoined280 in107 the19 one470 technical240 phrase22 --the19 Season248 -on392 -the19 -Line25 . For190 there340 and236 then45 , for190 several479 consecutive259 years116 , Moby362 Dick25 had364 been185 periodically427 descried313 , lingering186 in107 those427 waters556 for190 awhile16 , as113 the19 sun397 , in107 its234 annual212 round287 , loiters359 for190 a10 predicted225 interval114 in107 any501 one470 sign8 of89 the19 Zodiac68 . There340 it162 was454 , too11 , that14 most216 of89 the19 deadly49 encounters433 with449 the19 white82 whale422 had364 taken222 place107 ; there340 the19 waves443 were324 storied388 with449 his433 deeds159 ; there340 also119 was454 that14 tragic140 spot46 where579 the19 monomaniac336 old447 man17 had364 found260 the19 awful539 motive54 to261 his433 vengeance72 . But330 in107 the19 cautious406 comprehensiveness31 and236 unloitering vigilance124 with449 which16 Ahab232 threw459 his433 brooding261 soul428 into554 this256 unfaltering434 hunt418 , he362 would282 not518 permit256 himself282 to261 rest302 all145 his433 hopes36 upon419 the19 one470 crowning235 fact12 above502 mentioned149 , however44 flattering287 it162 might496 be341 to261 those427 hopes36 ; nor137 in107 the19 sleeplessness561 of89 his433 vow159 could375 he362 so281 tranquillize19 his433 unquiet492 heart470 as113 to261 postpone107 all145 intervening371 quest36 . Now20 , the19 Pequod288 had364 sailed248 from316 Nantucket283 at65 the19 very515 beginning188 of89 the19 Season248 -on392 -the19 -Line25 . No235 possible277 endeavor41 then45 could375 enable93 her400 commander108 to261 make175 the19 great259 passage285 southwards232 , double20 Cape23 Horn139 , and236 then45 running296 down133 sixty332 degrees31 of89 latitude258 arrive8 in107 the19 equatorial105 Pacific294 in107 time577 to261 cruise117 there340 . Therefore94 , he362 must226 wait315 for190 the19 next27 ensuing74 season248 . Yet443 the19 premature154 hour384 of89 the19 Pequod288 's483 sailing232 had364 , perhaps75 , been185 correctly444 selected286 by406 Ahab232 , with449 a10 view370 to261 this256 very515 complexion243 of89 things4 . Because540 , an138 interval114 of89 three329 hundred93 and236 sixty332 -five402 days351 and236 nights224 was454 before344 him248 ; an138 interval114 which16 , instead398 of89 impatiently374 enduring377 ashore122 , he362 would282 spend357 in107 a10 miscellaneous557 hunt418 ; if141 by406 chance292 the19 White82 Whale422 , spending348 his433 vacation156 in107 seas350 far258 remote141 from316 his433 periodical358 feeding367 -grounds448 , should255 turn17 up405 his433 wrinkled259 brow474 off111 the19 Persian23 Gulf375 , or519 in107 the19 Bengal353 Bay279 , or519 China253 Seas350 , or519 in107 any501 other282 waters556 haunted398 by406 his433 race392 . So281 that14 Monsoons67 , Pampas4 , Nor137 -Westers, Harmattans, Trades111 ; any501 wind262 but330 the19 Levanter296 and236 Simoon4 , might496 blow230 Moby362 Dick25 into554 the19 devious350 zig-zag452 world126 -circle282 of89 the19 Pequod288 's483 circumnavigating347 wake205 . But330 granting235 all145 this256 ; yet443 , regarded393 discreetly443 and236 coolly156 , seems19 it162 not518 but330 a10 mad235 idea250 , this256 ; that14 in107 the19 broad267 boundless386 ocean224 , one470 solitary407 whale422 , even198 if141 encountered102 , should255 be341 thought186 capable424 of89 individual233 recognition5 from316 his433 hunter287 , even198 as113 a10 white82 -bearded364 Mufti167 in107 the19 thronged10 thoroughfares147 of89 Constantinople330 ? Yes143 . For190 the19 peculiar291 snow498 -white362 brow474 of89 Moby362 Dick25 , and236 his433 snow498 -white362 hump20 , could375 not518 but330 be341 unmistakable10 . And236 have254 I482 not518 tallied304 the19 whale422 , Ahab232 would282 mutter125 to261 himself282 , as113 after358 poring295 over82 his433 charts98 till181 long544 after358 midnight539 he362 would282 throw345 himself282 back457 in107 reveries423 --tallied304 him248 , and236 shall66 he362 escape565 ? His433 broad267 fins556 are314 bored480 , and236 scalloped260 out66 like410 a10 lost308 sheep45 's483 ear515 ! And236 here135 , his433 mad235 mind118 would282 run172 on392 in107 a10 breathless34 race392 ; till181 a10 weariness429 and236 faintness173 of89 pondering280 came549 over82 him248 ! and236 in107 the19 open464 air209 of89 the19 deck505 he362 would282 seek292 to261 recover192 his433 strength168 . Ah132 , God185 ! what243 trances83 of89 torments427 does565 that14 man17 endure161 who319 is487 consumed78 with449 one470 unachieved395 revengeful235 desire241 . He362 sleeps136 with449 clenched198 hands87 ; and236 wakes60 with449 his433 own248 bloody357 nails174 in107 his433 palms173 . Often227 , when189 forced28 from316 his433 hammock323 by406 exhausting361 and236 intolerably181 vivid180 dreams299 of89 the19 night108 , which16 , resuming283 his433 own248 intense89 thoughts26 through295 the19 day112 , carried232 them146 on392 amid240 a10 clashing371 of89 phrensies, and236 whirled174 them146 round287 and236 round287 and236 round287 in107 his433 blazing232 brain158 , till181 the19 very515 throbbing335 of89 his433 life71 -spot46 became70 insufferable295 anguish75 ; and236 when189 , as113 was454 sometimes77 the19 case346 , these527 spiritual467 throes47 in107 him248 heaved52 his433 being264 up405 from316 its234 base258 , and236 a10 chasm265 seemed132 opening306 in107 him248 , from316 which16 forked386 flames74 and236 lightnings174 shot443 up405 , and236 accursed203 fiends270 beckoned461 him248 to261 leap342 down133 among483 them146 ; when189 this256 hell169 in107 himself282 yawned402 beneath320 him248 , a10 wild230 cry561 would282 be341 heard444 through295 the19 ship438 ; and236 with449 glaring23 eyes125 Ahab232 would282 burst174 from316 his433 state135 room65 , as113 though400 escaping173 from316 a10 bed273 that14 was454 on392 fire559 . Yet443 these527 , perhaps75 , instead398 of89 being264 the19 unsuppressable symptoms128 of89 some265 latent70 weakness304 , or519 fright18 at65 his433 own248 resolve420 , were324 but330 the19 plainest361 tokens473 of89 its234 intensity285 . For190 , at65 such420 times121 , crazy418 Ahab232 , the19 scheming348 , unappeasedly steadfast246 hunter287 of89 the19 white82 whale422 ; this256 Ahab232 that14 had364 gone190 to261 his433 hammock323 , was454 not518 the19 agent360 that14 so281 caused308 him248 to261 burst174 from316 it162 in107 horror134 again52 . The19 latter497 was454 the19 eternal155 , living117 principle420 or519 soul428 in107 him248 ; and236 in107 sleep233 , being264 for190 the19 time577 dissociated147 from316 the19 characterizing53 mind118 , which16 at65 other282 times121 employed263 it162 for190 its234 outer359 vehicle361 or519 agent360 , it162 spontaneously213 sought82 escape565 from316 the19 scorching251 contiguity4 of89 the19 frantic211 thing309 , of89 which16 , for190 the19 time577 , it162 was454 no235 longer559 an138 integral336 . But330 as113 the19 mind118 does565 not518 exist265 unless54 leagued128 with449 the19 soul428 , therefore94 it162 must226 have254 been185 that14 , in107 Ahab232 's483 case346 , yielding345 up405 all145 his433 thoughts26 and236 fancies190 to261 his433 one470 supreme160 purpose514 ; that14 purpose514 , by406 its234 own248 sheer147 inveteracy125 of89 will584 , forced28 itself312 against417 gods325 and236 devils377 into554 a10 kind451 of89 self442 -assumed460 , independent330 being264 of89 its234 own248 . Nay358 , could375 grimly226 live554 and236 burn118 , while55 the19 common304 vitality204 to261 which16 it162 was454 conjoined280 , fled434 horror134 -stricken328 from316 the19 unbidden102 and236 unfathered128 birth215 . Therefore94 , the19 tormented256 spirit227 that14 glared327 out66 of89 bodily172 eyes125 , when189 what243 seemed132 Ahab232 rushed199 from316 his433 room65 , was454 for190 the19 time577 but330 a10 vacated410 thing309 , a10 formless110 somnambulistic21 being264 , a10 ray105 of89 living117 light382 , to261 be341 sure41 , but330 without309 an138 object100 to261 color13 , and236 therefore94 a10 blankness12 in107 itself312 . God185 help526 thee15 , old447 man17 , thy43 thoughts26 have254 created37 a10 creature82 in107 thee15 ; and236 he362 whose286 intense89 thinking385 thus362 makes32 him248 a10 Prometheus170 ; a10 vulture253 feeds304 upon419 that14 heart470 for190 ever208 ; that14 vulture253 the19 very515 creature82 he362 creates231 . CHAPTER293 45127 The19 Affidavit86 So281 far258 as113 what243 there340 may236 be341 of89 a10 narrative81 in107 this256 book230 ; and236 , indeed522 , as113 indirectly155 touching80 one470 or519 two527 very515 interesting409 and236 curious264 particulars230 in107 the19 habits272 of89 sperm26 whales331 , the19 foregoing25 chapter293 , in107 its234 earlier56 part207 , is487 as113 important104 a10 one470 as113 will584 be341 found260 in107 this256 volume295 ; but330 the19 leading59 matter176 of89 it162 requires205 to261 be341 still278 further53 and236 more348 familiarly31 enlarged2 upon419 , in107 order343 to261 be341 adequately367 understood473 , and236 moreover326 to261 take279 away443 any501 incredulity143 which16 a10 profound371 ignorance211 of89 the19 entire230 subject382 may236 induce237 in107 some265 minds244 , as113 to261 the19 natural298 verity102 of89 the19 main501 points245 of89 this256 affair388 . I482 care307 not518 to261 perform312 this256 part207 of89 my36 task482 methodically178 ; but330 shall66 be341 content7 to261 produce494 the19 desired480 impression219 by406 separate495 citations107 of89 items18 , practically138 or519 reliably26 known86 to261 me2 as113 a10 whaleman98 ; and236 from316 these527 citations107 , I482 take279 it162 -- the19 conclusion330 aimed314 at65 will584 naturally362 follow408 of89 itself312 . First13 : I482 have254 personally64 known86 three329 instances252 where579 a10 whale422 , after358 receiving124 a10 harpoon67 , has399 effected142 a10 complete191 escape565 ; and236 , after358 an138 interval114 (in107 one470 instance141 of89 three329 years116 ), has399 been185 again52 struck441 by406 the19 same541 hand252 , and236 slain268 ; when189 the19 two527 irons363 , both558 marked67 by406 the19 same541 private541 cypher117 , have254 been185 taken222 from316 the19 body348 . In107 the19 instance141 where579 three329 years116 intervened290 between77 the19 flinging389 of89 the19 two527 harpoons6 ; and236 I482 think424 it162 may236 have254 been185 something181 more348 than77 that14 ; the19 man17 who319 darted362 them146 happening106 , in107 the19 interval114 , to261 go20 in107 a10 trading280 ship438 on392 a10 voyage137 to261 Africa269 , went516 ashore122 there340 , joined210 a10 discovery416 party314 , and236 penetrated300 far258 into554 the19 interior163 , where579 he362 travelled452 for190 a10 period196 of89 nearly575 two527 years116 , often227 endangered350 by406 serpents403 , savages247 , tigers20 , poisonous288 miasmas265 , with449 all145 the19 other282 common304 perils140 incident339 to261 wandering530 in107 the19 heart470 of89 unknown10 regions320 . Meanwhile282 , the19 whale422 he362 had364 struck441 must226 also119 have254 been185 on392 its234 travels134 ; no235 doubt71 it162 had364 thrice282 circumnavigated206 the19 globe23 , brushing323 with449 its234 flanks46 all145 the19 coasts147 of89 Africa269 ; but330 to261 no235 purpose514 . This256 man17 and236 this256 whale422 again52 came549 together440 , and236 the19 one470 vanquished129 the19 other282 . I482 say306 I482 , myself99 , have254 known86 three329 instances252 similar101 to261 this256 ; that14 is487 in107 two527 of89 them146 I482 saw113 the19 whales331 struck441 ; and236 , upon419 the19 second386 attack74 , saw113 the19 two527 irons363 with449 the19 respective348 marks226 cut310 in107 them146 , afterwards418 taken222 from316 the19 dead568 fish187 . In107 the19 three329 -year347 instance141 , it162 so281 fell421 out66 that14 I482 was454 in107 the19 boat439 both558 times121 , first13 and236 last436 , and236 the19 last436 time577 distinctly26 recognized410 a10 peculiar291 sort42 of89 huge132 mole156 under533 the19 whale422 's483 eye220 , which16 I482 had364 observed340 there340 three329 years116 previous376 . I482 say306 three329 years116 , but330 I482 am375 pretty252 sure41 it162 was454 more348 than77 that14 . Here135 are314 three329 instances252 , then45 , which16 I482 personally64 know60 the19 truth350 of89 ; but330 I482 have254 heard444 of89 many282 other282 instances252 from316 persons5 whose286 veracity332 in107 the19 matter176 there340 is487 no235 good221 ground127 to261 impeach129 . Secondly54 : It162 is487 well263 known86 in107 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 Fishery136 , however44 ignorant136 the19 world126 ashore122 may236 be341 of89 it162 , that14 there340 have254 been185 several479 memorable154 historical243 instances252 where579 a10 particular336 whale422 in107 the19 ocean224 has399 been185 at65 distant353 times121 and236 places423 popularly301 cognisable272 . Why177 such420 a10 whale422 became70 thus362 marked67 was454 not518 altogether31 and236 originally367 owing98 to261 his433 bodily172 peculiarities38 as113 distinguished365 from316 other282 whales331 ; for190 however44 peculiar291 in107 that14 respect441 any501 chance292 whale422 may236 be341 , they382 soon18 put190 an138 end149 to261 his433 peculiarities38 by406 killing311 him248 , and236 boiling99 him248 down133 into554 a10 peculiarly182 valuable72 oil118 . No235 : the19 reason238 was454 this256 : that14 from316 the19 fatal460 experiences93 of89 the19 fishery136 there340 hung479 a10 terrible132 prestige41 of89 perilousness286 about123 such420 a10 whale422 as113 there340 did444 about123 Rinaldo75 Rinaldini, insomuch160 that14 most216 fishermen24 were324 content7 to261 recognise363 him248 by406 merely57 touching80 their219 tarpaulins389 when189 he362 would282 be341 discovered36 lounging325 by406 them146 on392 the19 sea67 , without309 seeking427 to261 cultivate102 a10 more348 intimate155 acquaintance376 . Like410 some265 poor533 devils377 ashore122 that14 happen352 to261 known86 an138 irascible303 great259 man17 , they382 make175 distant353 unobtrusive122 salutations169 to261 him248 in107 the19 street100 , lest499 if141 they382 pursued460 the19 acquaintance376 further53 , they382 might496 receive327 a10 summary420 thump421 for190 their219 presumption225 . But330 not518 only517 did444 each520 of89 these527 famous254 whales331 enjoy173 great259 individual233 celebrity40 --nay358 , you227 may236 call259 it162 an138 oceanwide renown1 ; not518 only517 was454 he362 famous254 in107 life71 and236 now20 is487 immortal15 in107 forecastle367 stories264 after358 death543 , but330 he362 was454 admitted434 into554 all145 the19 rights462 , privileges150 , and236 distinctions137 of89 a10 name477 ; had364 as113 much61 a10 name477 indeed522 as113 Cambyses119 or519 Caesar24 . Was454 it162 not518 so281 , O24 Timor31 Tom166 ! thou173 famed416 leviathan384 , scarred435 like410 an138 iceberg279 , who319 so281 long544 did444 'st193 lurk246 in107 the19 Oriental147 straits273 of89 that14 name477 , whose286 spout224 was454 oft9 seen154 from316 the19 palmy4 beach183 of89 Ombay? Was454 it162 not518 so281 , O24 New36 Zealand115 Jack299 ! thou173 terror85 of89 all145 cruisers298 that14 crossed202 their219 wakes60 in107 the19 vicinity208 of89 the19 Tattoo364 Land406 ? Was454 it162 not518 so281 , O24 Morquan! King324 of89 Japan53 , whose286 lofty161 jet423 they382 say306 at65 times121 assumed460 the19 semblance490 of89 a10 snow498 -white362 cross416 against417 the19 sky331 ? Was454 it162 not518 so281 , O24 Don280 Miguel107 ! thou173 Chilian98 whale422 , marked67 like410 an138 old447 tortoise94 with449 mystic455 hieroglyphics99 upon419 the19 back457 ! In107 plain28 prose44 , here135 are314 four175 whales331 as113 well263 known86 to261 the19 students128 of89 Cetacean118 History183 as113 Marius292 or519 Sylla267 to261 the19 classic336 scholar376 . But330 this256 is487 not518 all145 . New36 Zealand115 Tom166 and236 Don280 Miguel107 , after358 at65 various183 times121 creating250 great259 havoc172 among483 the19 boats83 of89 different276 vessels150 , were324 finally69 gone190 in107 quest36 of89 , systematically102 hunted439 out66 , chased389 and236 killed409 by406 valiant359 whaling155 captains124 , who319 heaved52 up405 their219 anchors273 with449 that14 express91 object100 as113 much61 in107 view370 , as113 in107 setting151 out66 through295 the19 Narragansett136 Woods29 , Captain295 Butler13 of89 old447 had364 it162 in107 his433 mind118 to261 capture361 that14 notorious215 murderous86 savage398 Annawon, the19 headmost206 warrior140 of89 the19 Indian303 King324 Philip153 . I482 do353 not518 know60 where579 I482 can450 find138 a10 better34 place107 than77 just108 here135 , to261 make175 mention510 of89 one470 or519 two527 other282 things4 , which16 to261 me2 seem404 important104 , as113 in107 printed199 form238 establishing25 in107 all145 respects403 the19 reasonableness50 of89 the19 whole199 story197 of89 the19 White82 Whale422 , more348 especially371 the19 catastrophe92 . For190 this256 is487 one470 of89 those427 disheartening229 instances252 where579 truth350 requires205 full414 as113 much61 bolstering31 as113 error374 . So281 ignorant136 are314 most216 landsmen117 of89 some265 of89 the19 plainest361 and236 most216 palpable255 wonders115 of89 the19 world126 , that14 without309 some265 hints260 touching80 the19 plain28 facts484 , historical243 and236 otherwise542 , of89 the19 fishery136 , they382 might496 scout430 at65 Moby362 Dick25 as113 a10 monstrous395 fable18 , or519 still278 worse561 and236 more348 detestable95 , a10 hideous298 and236 intolerable304 allegory174 . First13 : Though400 most216 men62 have254 some265 vague70 flitting411 ideas264 of89 the19 general37 perils140 of89 the19 grand229 fishery136 , yet443 they382 have254 nothing324 like410 a10 fixed564 , vivid180 conception150 of89 those427 perils140 , and236 the19 frequency396 with449 which16 they382 recur9 . One470 reason238 perhaps75 is487 , that14 not518 one470 in107 fifty406 of89 the19 actual143 disasters138 and236 deaths107 by406 casualties347 in107 the19 fishery136 , ever208 finds455 a10 public3 record571 at65 home450 , however44 transient13 and236 immediately172 forgotten170 that14 record571 . Do353 you227 suppose120 that14 that14 poor533 fellow369 there340 , who319 this256 moment258 perhaps75 caught105 by406 the19 whale422 -line25 off111 the19 coast287 of89 New36 Guinea310 , is487 being264 carried232 down133 to261 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 sea67 by406 the19 sounding331 leviathan384 -- do353 you227 suppose120 that14 that14 poor533 fellow369 's483 name477 will584 appear443 in107 the19 newspaper547 obituary266 you227 will584 read98 to261 -morrow376 at65 your162 breakfast408 ? No235 : because540 the19 mails63 are314 very515 irregular430 between77 here135 and236 New36 Guinea310 . In107 fact12 , did444 you227 ever208 hear386 what243 might496 be341 called237 regular400 news314 direct314 or519 indirect528 from316 New36 Guinea310 ? Yet443 I482 will584 tell392 you227 that14 upon419 one470 particular336 voyage137 which16 I482 made563 to261 the19 Pacific294 , among483 many282 others317 we465 spoke185 thirty521 different276 ships21 , every389 one470 of89 which16 had364 had364 a10 death543 by406 a10 whale422 , some265 of89 them146 more348 than77 one470 , and236 three329 that14 had364 each520 lost308 a10 boat439 's483 crew126 . For190 God185 's483 sake523 , be341 economical115 with449 your162 lamps310 and236 candles457 ! not518 a10 gallon290 you227 burn118 , but330 at65 least453 one470 drop22 of89 man17 's415 blood208 was454 spilled434 for190 it162 . Secondly54 : People482 ashore122 have254 indeed522 some265 indefinite376 idea250 that14 a10 whale422 is487 an138 enormous327 creature82 of89 enormous327 power145 ; but330 I482 have254 ever208 found260 that14 when189 narrating170 to261 them146 some265 specific383 example479 of89 this256 two527 -fold142 enormousness193 , they382 have254 significantly23 complimented379 me2 upon419 my36 facetiousness225 ; when189 , I482 declare167 upon419 my36 soul428 , I482 had364 no235 more348 idea250 of89 being264 facetious68 than77 Moses417 , when189 he362 wrote69 the19 history183 of89 the19 plagues28 of89 Egypt116 . But330 fortunately18 the19 special326 point438 I482 here135 seek292 can450 be341 established214 upon419 testimony9 entirely148 independent330 of89 my36 own248 . That14 point438 is487 this256 : The19 Sperm26 Whale422 is487 in107 some265 cases108 sufficiently12 powerful147 , knowing240 , and236 judiciously106 malicious361 , as113 with449 direct314 aforethought251 to261 stave416 in107 , utterly46 destroy387 , and236 sink190 a10 large385 ship438 ; and236 what243 is487 more348 , the19 Sperm26 Whale422 has399 done135 it162 . First13 : In107 the19 year347 1820209 the19 ship438 Essex27 , Captain295 Pollard80 , of89 Nantucket283 , was454 cruising298 in107 the19 Pacific294 Ocean224 . One470 day112 she391 saw113 spouts75 , lowered279 her400 boats83 , and236 gave572 chase89 to261 a10 shoal520 of89 sperm26 whales331 . Ere83 long544 , several479 of89 the19 whales331 were324 wounded396 ; when189 , suddenly193 , a10 very515 large385 whale422 escaping173 from316 the19 boats83 , issued146 from316 the19 shoal520 , and236 bore27 directly58 down133 upon419 the19 ship438 . Dashing14 his433 forehead380 against417 her400 hull323 , he362 so281 stove373 her400 in107 , that14 in107 less261 than77 "ten198 minutes368 " she391 settled540 down133 and236 fell421 over82 . Not518 a10 surviving61 plank243 of89 her400 has399 been185 seen154 since374 . After358 the19 severest240 exposure31 , part207 of89 the19 crew126 reached386 the19 land406 in107 their219 boats83 . Being264 returned214 home450 at65 last436 , Captain295 Pollard80 once248 more348 sailed248 for190 the19 Pacific294 in107 command190 of89 another269 ship438 , but330 the19 gods325 shipwrecked25 him248 again52 upon419 unknown10 rocks265 and236 breakers317 ; for190 the19 second386 time577 his433 ship438 was454 utterly46 lost308 , and236 forthwith198 forswearing160 the19 sea67 , he362 has399 never206 attempted5 it162 since374 . At65 this256 day112 Captain295 Pollard80 is487 a10 resident555 of89 Nantucket283 . I482 have254 seen154 Owen129 Chace355 , who319 was454 chief156 mate508 of89 the19 Essex27 at65 the19 time577 of89 the19 tragedy409 ; I482 have254 read98 his433 plain28 and236 faithful284 narrative81 ; I482 have254 conversed341 with449 his433 son26 ; and236 all145 this256 within503 a10 few49 miles278 of89 the19 scene228 of89 the19 catastrophe92 .* *The19 following181 are314 extracts173 from316 Chace355 's483 narrative81 : "Every389 fact12 seemed132 to261 warrant105 me2 in107 concluding84 that14 it162 was454 anything480 but330 chance292 which16 directed498 his433 operations181 ; he362 made563 two527 several479 attacks444 upon419 the19 ship438 , at65 a10 short522 interval114 between77 them146 , both558 of89 this256 catastrophe92 I482 have254 never206 chanced424 to261 their219 direction67 , were324 calculated321 to261 do353 us569 the19 whale422 hunters423 I482 have254 now20 and236 then45 heard444 casual83 allusions117 to261 it162 . Thirdly27 : Some265 eighteen387 or519 twenty433 years116 ago141 Commodore415 J115 ---then45 commanding76 an138 American272 sloop172 -of89 -war169 of89 the19 first13 class410 , happened156 to261 be341 dining260 with449 a10 party314 of89 whaling155 captains124 , on392 board540 a10 Nantucket283 ship438 in107 the19 harbor289 of89 Oahu98 , Sandwich162 Islands59 . Conversation222 turning69 upon419 whales331 , the19 Commodore415 was454 pleased282 to261 be341 sceptical445 touching80 the19 amazing306 strength168 ascribed344 to261 them146 by406 the19 professional357 gentlemen340 present112 . He362 peremptorily235 denied40 for190 example479 , that14 any501 whale422 could375 so281 smite37 his433 stout29 sloop172 -of89 -war169 as113 to261 cause220 her400 to261 leak41 so281 much61 as113 a10 thimbleful278 . Very515 good221 ; but330 there340 is487 more348 coming140 . Some265 weeks522 later87 , the19 Commodore415 set422 sail218 in107 this256 impregnable410 craft187 for190 Valparaiso31 . But330 he362 was454 stopped564 on392 the19 way435 by406 a10 portly149 sperm26 whale422 , that14 begged345 a10 few49 moments434 ' confidential147 business168 with449 him248 . That14 business168 consisted412 in107 fetching320 the19 Commodore415 's483 craft187 such420 a10 thwack260 , that14 with449 all145 his433 pumps128 going227 he362 made563 straight346 for190 the19 nearest26 port409 to261 heave308 down133 and236 repair373 . I482 am375 not518 superstitious49 , but330 I482 consider259 the19 Commodore415 's483 interview296 with449 that14 whale422 as113 providential451 . Was454 not518 Saul401 of89 Tarsus275 converted260 from316 unbelief127 by406 a10 similar101 fright18 ? I482 tell392 you227 , the19 sperm26 whale422 will584 stand530 no235 nonsense581 . I482 will584 now20 refer169 you227 to261 Langsdorff227 's483 Voyages368 for190 a10 little554 circumstance407 in107 point438 , peculiarly182 interesting409 to261 the19 writer280 hereof26 . Langsdorff227 , you227 must226 know60 by406 the19 way435 , was454 attached211 to261 the19 Russian300 Admiral25 Krusenstern's483 famous254 Discovery416 Expedition308 in107 the19 beginning188 of89 the19 present112 century149 . Captain295 Langsdorff227 thus362 begins374 his433 seventeenth390 chapter293 : "By406 the19 thirteenth451 of89 May236 our234 ship438 was454 ready464 to261 sail218 , and236 the19 next27 day112 we465 were324 out66 in107 the19 open464 sea67 , on392 our234 way435 to261 Ochotsh. The19 weather405 was454 very515 clear408 and236 fine333 , but330 so281 intolerably181 cold330 that14 we465 were324 obliged206 to261 keep381 on392 our234 fur370 clothing217 . For190 some265 days351 we465 had364 very515 little554 wind262 ; it162 was454 not518 till181 the19 nineteenth36 that14 a10 brisk142 gale440 from316 the19 northwest136 sprang253 up405 . An138 uncommonly194 large385 whale422 , the19 body348 of89 which16 was454 larger50 than77 the19 ship438 itself312 , lay62 almost518 at65 the19 surface328 of89 the19 water520 , but330 was454 not518 perceived76 by406 any501 one470 on392 board540 till181 the19 moment258 when189 the19 ship438 , which16 was454 in107 full414 sail218 , was454 almost518 upon419 him248 , so281 that14 it162 was454 impossible305 to261 prevent491 its234 striking22 against417 him248 . We465 were324 thus362 placed556 in107 the19 most216 imminent22 danger383 , as113 this256 gigantic157 creature82 , setting151 up405 its234 back457 , raised493 the19 ship438 three329 feet349 at65 least453 out66 of89 the19 water520 . The19 masts212 reeled429 , and236 the19 sails344 fell421 altogether31 , while55 we465 who319 were324 below397 all145 sprang253 instantly186 upon419 the19 deck505 , concluding84 that14 we465 had364 struck441 upon419 some265 rock264 ; instead398 of89 this256 we465 saw113 the19 monster480 sailing232 off111 with449 the19 utmost43 gravity430 and236 solemnity310 . Captain295 D67 'Wolf applied122 immediately172 to261 the19 pumps128 to261 examine203 whether454 or519 not518 the19 vessel155 had364 received12 any501 damage348 from316 the19 shock44 , but330 we465 found260 that14 very515 happily217 it162 had364 escaped197 entirely148 uninjured31 ." Now20 , the19 Captain295 D67 'Wolf here135 alluded231 to261 as113 commanding76 the19 ship438 in107 question562 , is487 a10 New36 Englander75 , who319 , after358 a10 long544 life71 of89 unusual322 adventures266 as113 a10 sea67 -captain295 , this256 day112 resides83 in107 the19 village218 of89 Dorchester277 near70 Boston240 . I482 have254 the19 honor497 of89 being264 a10 nephew314 of89 his433 . I482 have254 particularly106 questioned122 him248 concerning368 this256 passage285 in107 Langsdorff227 . He362 substantiates103 every389 word486 . The19 ship438 , however44 , was454 by406 no235 means502 a10 large385 one470 : a10 Russian300 craft187 built20 on392 the19 Siberian154 coast287 , and236 purchased188 by406 my36 uncle178 after358 bartering290 away443 the19 vessel155 in107 which16 he362 sailed248 from316 home450 . In107 that14 up405 and236 down133 manly56 book230 of89 old447 -fashioned432 adventure44 , so281 full414 , too11 , of89 honest287 wonders115 --the19 voyage137 of89 Lionel396 Wafer4 , one470 of89 ancient463 Dampier25 's483 old447 chums83 --I482 found260 a10 little554 matter176 set422 down133 so281 like410 that14 just108 quoted280 from316 Langsdorff227 , that14 I482 cannot forbear511 inserting357 it162 here135 for190 a10 corroborative118 example479 , if141 such420 be341 needed133 . Lionel396 , it162 seems19 , was454 on392 his433 way435 to261 "John416 Ferdinando484 ," as113 he362 calls15 the19 modern446 Juan31 Fernandes206 . "In107 our234 way435 thither118 ," he362 says424 , "about123 four175 o24 'clock489 in107 the19 morning417 , when189 we465 were324 about123 one470 hundred93 and236 fifty406 leagues116 from316 the19 Main501 of89 America133 , our234 ship438 felt440 a10 terrible132 shock44 , which16 put190 our234 men62 in107 such420 consternation52 that14 they382 could375 hardly182 tell392 where579 they382 were324 or519 what243 to261 think424 ; but330 every389 one470 began132 to261 prepare265 for190 death543 . And236 , indeed522 , the19 shock44 was454 so281 sudden309 and236 violent336 , that14 we465 took68 it162 for190 granted317 the19 ship438 had364 struck441 against417 a10 rock264 ; but330 when189 the19 amazement223 was454 a10 little554 over82 , we465 cast99 the19 lead362 , and236 sounded163 , but330 found260 no235 ground127 . ... The19 suddenness31 of89 the19 shock44 made563 the19 guns225 leap342 in107 their219 carriages322 , and236 several479 of89 the19 men62 were324 shaken23 out66 of89 their219 hammocks264 . Captain295 Davis211 , who319 lay62 with449 his433 head219 on392 a10 gun152 , was454 thrown359 out66 of89 his433 cabin192 !" Lionel396 then45 goes205 on392 to261 impute261 the19 shock44 to261 an138 earthquake20 , and236 seems19 to261 substantiate173 the19 imputation371 by406 stating521 that14 a10 great259 earthquake20 , somewhere201 about123 that14 time577 , did444 actually69 do353 great259 mischief260 along423 the19 Spanish124 land406 . But330 I482 should255 not518 much61 wonder76 if141 , in107 the19 darkness493 of89 that14 early92 hour384 of89 the19 morning417 , the19 shock44 was454 after358 all145 caused308 by406 an138 unseen173 whale422 vertically39 bumping40 the19 hull323 from316 beneath320 . I482 might496 proceed367 with449 several479 more348 examples53 , one470 way435 or519 another269 known86 to261 me2 , of89 the19 great259 power145 and236 malice157 at65 times121 of89 the19 sperm26 whale422 . In107 more348 than77 one470 instance141 , he362 has399 been185 known86 , not518 only517 to261 chase89 the19 assailing83 boats83 back457 to261 their219 ships21 , but330 to261 pursue426 the19 ship438 itself312 , and236 long544 withstand263 all145 the19 lances8 hurled46 at65 him248 from316 its234 decks386 . The19 English69 ship438 Pusie Hall165 can450 tell392 a10 story197 on392 that14 head219 ; and236 , as113 for190 his433 strength168 , let66 me2 say306 , that14 there340 have254 been185 examples53 where579 the19 lines241 attached211 to261 a10 running296 sperm26 whale422 have254 , in107 a10 calm39 , been185 transferred8 to261 the19 ship438 , and236 secured284 there340 ! the19 whale422 towing78 her400 great259 hull323 through295 the19 water520 , as113 a10 horse409 walks461 off111 with449 a10 cart238 . Again52 , it162 is487 very515 often227 observed340 that14 , if141 the19 sperm26 whale422 , once248 struck441 , is487 allowed339 time577 to261 rally264 , he362 then45 acts395 , not518 so281 often227 with449 blind375 rage293 , as113 with449 wilful160 , deliberate29 designs18 of89 destruction423 to261 his433 pursuers196 ; nor137 is487 it162 without309 conveying70 some265 eloquent95 indication557 of89 his433 character239 , that14 upon419 being264 attacked507 he362 will584 frequently475 open464 his433 mouth414 , and236 retain153 it162 in107 that14 dread251 expansion43 for190 several479 consecutive259 minutes368 . But330 I482 must226 be341 content7 with449 only517 one470 more348 and236 a10 concluding84 illustration416 ; a10 remarkable381 and236 most216 significant143 one470 , by406 which16 you227 will584 not518 fail126 to261 see370 , that14 not518 only517 is487 the19 most216 marvellous35 event28 in107 this256 book230 corroborated27 by406 plain28 facts484 of89 the19 present112 day112 , but330 that14 these527 marvels25 (like410 all145 marvels25 ) are314 mere393 repetitions54 of89 the19 ages146 ; so281 that14 for190 the19 millionth258 time577 we465 say306 amen184 with449 Solomon8 --Verily113 there340 is487 nothing324 new36 under533 the19 sun397 . In107 the19 sixth1 Christian235 century149 lived415 Procopius154 , a10 Christian235 magistrate64 of89 Constantinople330 , in107 the19 days351 when189 Justinian27 was454 Emperor262 and236 Belisarius25 general37 . As113 many282 know60 , he362 wrote69 the19 history183 of89 his433 own248 times121 , a10 work385 every389 way435 of89 uncommon88 value567 . By406 the19 best315 authorities322 , he362 has399 always367 been185 considered484 a10 most216 trustworthy303 and236 unexaggerating historian147 , except545 in107 some265 one470 or519 two527 particulars230 , not518 at65 all145 affecting264 the19 matter176 presently166 to261 be341 mentioned149 . Now20 , in107 this256 history183 of89 his433 , Procopius154 mentions243 that14 , during309 the19 term416 of89 his433 prefecture9 at65 Constantinople330 , a10 great259 sea67 -monster480 was454 captured126 in107 the19 neighboring399 Propontis110 , or519 Sea67 of89 Marmora8 , after358 having69 destroyed197 vessels150 at65 intervals295 in107 those427 waters556 for190 a10 period196 of89 more348 than77 fifty406 years116 . A10 fact12 thus362 set422 down133 in107 substantial101 history183 cannot easily45 be341 gainsaid24 . Nor137 is487 there340 any501 reason238 it162 should255 be341 . Of89 what243 precise158 species69 this256 sea67 -monster480 was454 , is487 not518 mentioned149 . But330 as113 he362 destroyed197 ships21 , as113 well263 as113 for190 other282 reasons186 , he362 must226 have254 been185 a10 whale422 ; and236 I482 am375 strongly168 inclined76 to261 think424 a10 sperm26 whale422 . And236 I482 will584 tell392 you227 why177 . For190 a10 long544 time577 I482 fancied100 that14 the19 sperm26 whale422 had364 been185 always367 unknown10 in107 the19 Mediterranean241 and236 the19 deep483 waters556 connecting430 with449 it162 . Even198 now20 I482 am375 certain31 that14 those427 seas350 are314 not518 , and236 perhaps75 never206 can450 be341 , in107 the19 present112 constitution480 of89 things4 , a10 place107 for190 his433 habitual214 gregarious204 resort425 . But330 further53 investigations29 have254 recently128 proved312 to261 me2 , that14 in107 modern446 times121 there340 have254 been185 isolated93 instances252 of89 the19 presence492 of89 the19 sperm26 whale422 in107 the19 Mediterranean241 . I482 am375 told82 , on392 good221 authority146 , that14 on392 the19 Barbary119 coast287 , a10 Commodore415 Davis211 of89 the19 British81 navy83 found260 the19 skeleton231 of89 a10 sperm26 whale422 . Now20 , as113 a10 vessel155 of89 war169 readily467 passes350 through295 the19 Dardanelles296 , hence503 a10 sperm26 whale422 could375 , by406 the19 same541 route197 , pass153 out66 of89 the19 Mediterranean241 into554 the19 Propontis110 . In107 the19 Propontis110 , as113 far258 as113 I482 can450 learn341 , none365 of89 that14 peculiar291 substance316 called237 brit20 is487 to261 be341 found260 , the19 aliment423 of89 the19 right499 whale422 . But330 I482 have254 every389 reason238 to261 believe191 that14 the19 food248 of89 the19 sperm26 whale422 -- squid318 or519 cuttle-fish187 --lurks115 at65 the19 bottom461 of89 that14 sea67 , because540 large385 creatures5 , but330 by406 no235 means502 the19 largest139 of89 that14 sort42 , have254 been185 found260 at65 its234 surface328 . If141 , then45 , you227 properly93 put190 these527 statements42 together440 , and236 reason238 upon419 them146 a10 bit72 , you227 will584 clearly53 perceive131 that14 , according281 to261 all145 human43 reasoning68 , Procopius154 's483 sea67 -monster480 , that14 for190 half119 a10 century149 stove373 the19 ships21 of89 a10 Roman333 Emperor262 , must226 in107 all145 probability377 have254 been185 a10 sperm26 whale422 . CHAPTER293 4652 Surmises280 Though400 , consumed78 with449 the19 hot424 fire559 of89 his433 purpose514 , Ahab232 in107 all145 his433 thoughts26 and236 actions201 ever208 had364 in107 view370 the19 ultimate221 capture361 of89 Moby362 Dick25 ; though400 he362 seemed132 ready464 to261 sacrifice317 all145 mortal371 interests27 to261 that14 one470 passion38 ; nevertheless104 it162 may236 have254 been185 that14 he362 was454 by406 nature159 and236 long544 habituation326 far258 too11 wedded489 to261 a10 fiery42 whaleman98 's483 ways101 , altogether31 to261 abandon12 the19 collateral203 prosecution480 of89 the19 voyage137 . Or519 at65 least453 if141 this256 were324 otherwise542 , there340 were324 not518 wanting361 other282 motives5 much61 more348 influential426 with449 him248 . It162 would282 be341 refining136 too11 much61 , perhaps75 , even198 considering115 his433 monomania336 , to261 hint335 that14 his433 vindictiveness234 towards417 the19 White82 Whale422 might496 have254 possibly201 extended531 itself312 in107 some265 degree209 to261 all145 sperm26 whales331 , and236 that14 the19 more348 monsters129 he362 slew137 by406 so281 much61 the19 more348 he362 multiplied191 the19 chances400 that14 each520 subsequently342 encountered102 whale422 would282 prove396 to261 be341 the19 hated499 one470 he362 hunted439 . But330 if141 such420 an138 hypothesis262 be341 indeed522 exceptionable31 , there340 were324 still278 additional131 considerations88 which16 , though400 not518 so281 strictly303 according281 with449 the19 wildness424 of89 his433 ruling161 passion38 , yet443 were324 by406 no235 means502 incapable181 of89 swaying315 him248 . To261 accomplish254 his433 object100 Ahab232 must226 use176 tools21 ; and236 of89 all145 tools21 used102 in107 the19 shadow438 of89 the19 moon45 , men62 are314 most216 apt40 to261 get126 out66 of89 order343 . He362 knew480 , for190 example479 , that14 however44 magnetic181 his433 ascendency480 in107 some265 respects403 was454 over82 Starbuck, yet443 that14 ascendency480 did444 not518 cover172 the19 complete191 spiritual467 man17 any501 more348 than77 mere393 corporeal355 superiority507 involves167 intellectual243 mastership43 ; for190 to261 the19 purely138 spiritual467 , the19 intellectual243 but330 stand530 in107 a10 sort42 of89 corporeal355 relation129 . Starbuck's483 body348 and236 Starbuck's483 coerced443 will584 were324 Ahab232 's483 , so281 long544 as113 Ahab232 kept290 his433 magnet506 at65 Starbuck's483 brain158 ; still278 he362 knew480 that14 for190 all145 this256 the19 chief156 mate508 , in107 his433 soul428 , abhorred324 his433 captain295 's483 quest36 , and236 could375 he362 , would282 joyfully498 disintegrate7 himself282 from316 it162 , or519 even198 frustrate362 it162 . It162 might496 be341 that14 a10 long544 interval114 would282 elapse78 ere83 the19 White82 Whale422 was454 seen154 . During309 that14 long544 interval114 Starbuck would282 ever208 be341 apt40 to261 fall90 into554 open464 relapses229 of89 rebellion486 against417 his433 captain295 's483 leadership163 , unless54 some265 ordinary225 , prudential154 , circumstantial102 influences232 were324 brought85 to261 bear48 upon419 him248 . Not518 only517 that14 , but330 the19 subtle143 insanity115 of89 Ahab232 respecting540 Moby362 Dick25 was454 noways295 more348 significantly23 manifested440 than77 in107 his433 superlative35 sense85 and236 shrewdness262 in107 foreseeing366 that14 , for190 the19 present112 , the19 hunt418 should255 in107 some265 way435 be341 stripped301 of89 that14 strange440 imaginative128 impiousness196 which16 naturally362 invested60 it162 ; that14 the19 full414 terror85 of89 the19 voyage137 must226 be341 kept290 withdrawn35 into554 the19 obscure143 background397 (for190 few49 men62 's483 courage48 is487 proof161 against417 protracted122 meditation21 unrelieved22 by406 action102 ); that14 when189 they382 stood1 their219 long544 night108 watches458 , his433 officers439 and236 men62 must226 have254 some265 nearer303 things4 to261 think424 of89 than77 Moby362 Dick25 . For190 however44 eagerly100 and236 impetuously86 the19 savage398 crew126 had364 hailed411 the19 announcement457 of89 his433 quest36 ; yet443 all145 sailors64 of89 all145 sorts354 are314 more348 or519 less261 capricious6 and236 unreliable31 -- they382 live554 in107 the19 varying303 outer359 weather405 , and236 they382 inhale339 its234 fickleness201 -- and236 when189 retained155 for190 any501 object100 remote141 and236 blank156 in107 the19 pursuit305 , however44 promissory425 of89 life71 and236 passion38 in107 the19 end149 , it162 is487 above502 all145 things4 requisite400 that14 temporary235 interests27 and236 employments216 should255 intervene363 and236 hold204 them146 healthily102 suspended245 for190 the19 final357 dash355 . Nor137 was454 Ahab232 unmindful225 of89 another269 thing309 . In107 times121 of89 strong145 emotion355 mankind40 disdain256 all145 base258 considerations88 ; but330 such420 times121 are314 evanescent303 . The19 permanent339 constitutional330 condition62 of89 the19 manufactured139 man17 , thought186 Ahab232 , is487 sordidness22 . Granting235 that14 the19 White82 Whale422 fully530 incites201 the19 hearts431 of89 this256 my36 savage398 crew126 , and236 playing471 round287 their219 savageness88 even198 breeds447 a10 certain31 generous355 knight176 -errantism in107 them146 , still278 , while55 for190 the19 love391 of89 it162 they382 give142 chase89 to261 Moby362 Dick25 , they382 must226 also119 have254 food248 for190 their219 more348 common304 , daily201 appetites249 . For190 even198 the19 high361 lifted448 and236 chivalric243 Crusaders29 of89 old447 times121 were324 not518 content7 to261 traverse181 two527 thousand586 miles278 of89 land406 to261 fight330 for190 their219 holy61 sepulchre75 , without309 committing24 burglaries83 , picking331 pockets240 , and236 gaining225 other282 pious237 perquisites25 by406 the19 way435 . Had364 they382 been185 strictly303 held212 to261 their219 one470 final357 and236 romantic133 object100 -- that14 final357 and236 romantic133 object100 , too11 many282 would282 have254 turned492 from316 in107 disgust201 . I482 will584 not518 strip396 these527 men62 , thought186 Ahab232 , of89 all145 hopes36 of89 cash290 --aye86 , cash290 . They382 may236 scorn8 cash290 now20 ; but330 let66 some265 months17 go20 by406 , and236 no235 perspective357 promise461 of89 it162 to261 them146 , and236 then45 this256 same541 quiescent460 cash290 all145 at65 once248 mutinying24 in107 them146 , this256 same541 cash290 would282 soon18 cashier27 Ahab232 . Nor137 was454 there340 wanting361 still278 another269 precautionary4 motive54 more348 related377 to261 Ahab232 personally64 . Having69 impulsively122 , it162 is487 probable213 , and236 perhaps75 somewhat77 prematurely374 revealed530 the19 prime425 but330 private541 purpose514 of89 the19 Pequod288 's483 voyage137 , Ahab232 was454 now20 entirely148 conscious443 that14 , in107 so281 doing227 , he362 had364 indirectly155 laid181 himself282 open464 to261 the19 unanswerable50 charge308 of89 usurpation110 ; and236 with449 perfect307 impunity106 , both558 moral221 and236 legal145 , his433 crew126 if141 so281 disposed154 , and236 to261 that14 end149 competent348 , could375 refuse337 all145 further53 obedience74 to261 him248 , and236 even198 violently340 wrest253 from316 him248 the19 command190 . From316 even198 the19 barely221 hinted253 imputation371 of89 usurpation110 , and236 the19 possible277 consequences167 of89 such420 a10 suppressed211 impression219 gaining225 ground127 , Ahab232 must226 of89 course171 have254 been185 most216 anxious256 to261 protect77 himself282 . That14 protection71 could375 only517 consist103 in107 his433 own248 predominating262 brain158 and236 heart470 and236 hand252 , backed270 by406 a10 heedful133 , closely218 calculating368 attention518 to261 every389 minute236 atmospheric83 influence299 which16 it162 was454 possible277 for190 his433 crew126 to261 be341 subjected43 to261 . For190 all145 these527 reasons186 then45 , and236 others317 perhaps75 too11 analytic396 to261 be341 verbally4 developed396 here135 , Ahab232 plainly450 saw113 that14 he362 must226 still278 in107 a10 good221 degree209 continue225 true483 to261 the19 natural298 , nominal336 purpose514 of89 the19 Pequod288 's483 voyage137 ; observe213 all145 customary79 usages262 ; and236 not518 only517 that14 , but330 force406 himself282 to261 evince433 all145 his433 well263 known86 passionate480 interest323 in107 the19 general37 pursuit305 of89 his433 profession202 . Be341 all145 this256 as113 it162 may236 , his433 voice233 was454 now20 often227 heard444 hailing400 the19 three329 mastheads157 and236 admonishing291 them146 to261 keep381 a10 bright205 look523 -out66 , and236 not518 omit296 reporting388 even198 a10 porpoise487 . This256 vigilance124 was454 not518 long544 without309 reward116 . CHAPTER293 4721 The19 Mat316 -Maker52 It162 was454 a10 cloudy284 , sultry403 afternoon128 ; the19 seamen6 were324 lazily347 lounging325 about123 the19 decks386 , or519 vacantly423 gazing117 over82 into554 the19 lead362 -colored213 waters556 . Queequeg and236 I482 were324 mildly115 employed263 weaving113 what243 is487 called237 a10 sword273 -mat316 , for190 an138 additional131 lashing19 to261 our234 boat439 . So281 still278 and236 subdued8 and236 yet443 somehow425 preluding80 was454 all145 the19 scene228 , and236 such420 an138 incantation102 of89 revelry279 lurked453 in107 the19 air209 , that14 each520 silent382 sailor561 seemed132 resolved158 into554 his433 own248 invisible186 self442 . I482 was454 the19 attendant13 or519 page425 of89 Queequeg, while55 busy130 at65 the19 mat316 . As113 I482 kept290 passing147 and236 repassing98 the19 filling330 or519 woof414 of89 marline98 between77 the19 long544 yarns122 of89 the19 warp382 , using14 my36 own248 hand252 for190 the19 shuttle465 , and236 as113 Queequeg, standing144 sideways496 , ever208 and236 anon88 slid132 his433 heavy421 oaken492 sword273 between77 the19 threads19 , and236 idly188 looking318 off111 upon419 the19 water520 , carelessly184 and236 unthinkingly364 drove427 home450 every389 yarn118 ; I482 say306 so281 strange440 a10 dreaminess41 did444 there340 then45 reign145 all145 over82 the19 ship438 and236 all145 over82 the19 sea67 , only517 broken255 by406 the19 intermitting141 dull546 sound181 of89 the19 sword273 , that14 it162 seemed132 as113 if141 this256 were324 the19 Loom280 of89 Time577 , and236 I482 myself99 were324 a10 shuttle465 mechanically143 weaving113 and236 weaving113 away443 at65 the19 Fates553 . There340 lay62 the19 fixed564 threads19 of89 the19 warp382 subject382 to261 but330 one470 single77 , ever208 returning53 , unchanging80 vibration78 , and236 that14 vibration78 merely57 enough217 to261 admit321 of89 the19 crosswise350 interblending of89 other282 threads19 with449 its234 own248 . This256 warp382 seemed132 necessity81 ; and236 here135 , thought186 I482 , with449 my36 own248 hand252 I482 ply108 my36 own248 shuttle465 and236 weave46 my36 own248 destiny255 into554 these527 unalterable27 threads19 . Meantime210 , Queequeg's483 impulsive389 , indifferent255 sword273 , sometimes77 hitting127 the19 woof414 slantingly68 , or519 crookedly60 , or519 strongly168 , or519 weakly132 , as113 the19 case346 might496 be341 ; and236 by406 this256 difference3 in107 the19 concluding84 blow230 producing1 a10 corresponding427 contrast205 in107 the19 final357 aspect147 of89 the19 completed102 fabric191 ; this256 savage398 's483 sword273 , thought186 I482 , which16 thus362 finally69 shapes525 and236 fashions74 both558 warp382 and236 woof414 ; this256 easy281 , indifferent255 sword273 must226 be341 chance292 -- aye86 , chance292 , free483 will584 , and236 necessity81 --no235 wise16 incompatible320 -- all145 interweavingly working113 together440 . The19 straight346 warp382 of89 necessity81 , not518 to261 be341 swerved25 from316 its234 ultimate221 course171 -- its234 every389 alternating83 vibration78 , indeed522 , only517 tending293 to261 that14 ; free483 will584 still278 free483 to261 ply108 her400 shuttle465 between77 given141 threads19 ; and236 chance292 , though400 restrained309 in107 its234 play89 within503 the19 right499 lines241 of89 necessity81 , and236 sideways496 in107 its234 motions62 directed498 by406 free483 will584 , though400 thus362 prescribed128 to261 by406 both558 , chance292 by406 turns136 rules318 either45 , and236 has399 the19 last436 featuring357 blow230 at65 events390 . Thus362 we465 were324 weaving113 and236 weaving113 away443 when189 I482 started492 at65 a10 sound181 so281 strange440 , long544 drawn564 , and236 musically201 wild230 and236 unearthly110 , that14 the19 ball141 of89 free483 will584 dropped2 from316 my36 hand252 , and236 I482 stood1 gazing117 up405 at65 the19 clouds342 whence494 that14 voice233 dropped2 like410 a10 wing101 . High361 aloft276 in107 the19 cross416 -trees354 was454 that14 mad235 Gay323 -Header, Tashtego. His433 body348 was454 reaching141 eagerly100 forward364 , his433 hand252 stretched63 out66 like410 a10 wand450 , and236 at65 brief59 sudden309 intervals295 he362 continued44 his433 cries104 . To261 be341 sure41 the19 same541 sound181 was454 that14 very515 moment258 perhaps75 being264 heard444 all145 over82 the19 seas350 , from316 hundreds458 of89 whalemen451 's483 look523 -outs52 perched151 as113 high361 in107 the19 air209 ; but330 from316 few49 of89 those427 lungs40 could375 that14 accustomed295 old447 cry561 have254 derived494 such420 a10 marvellous35 cadence330 as113 from316 Tashtego the19 Indian303 's483 . As113 he362 stood1 hovering520 over82 you227 half119 suspended245 in107 air209 , so281 wildly356 and236 eagerly100 peering446 towards417 the19 horizon516 , you227 would282 have254 thought186 him248 some265 prophet25 or519 seer44 beholding248 the19 shadows480 of89 Fate74 , and236 by406 those427 wild230 cries104 announcing337 their219 coming140 . "There340 she391 blows361 ! there340 ! there340 ! there340 ! she391 blows361 ! she391 blows361 !" "Where579 -away443 ?" "On392 the19 lee472 -beam298 , about123 two527 miles278 off111 ! a10 school315 of89 them146 !" Instantly186 all145 was454 commotion155 . The19 Sperm26 Whale422 blows361 as113 a10 clock489 ticks453 , with449 the19 same541 undeviating138 and236 reliable111 uniformity350 . And236 thereby190 whalemen451 distinguish76 this256 fish187 from316 other282 tribes402 of89 his433 genus165 . "There340 go20 flukes155 !" was454 now20 the19 cry561 from316 Tashtego; and236 the19 whales331 disappeared5 . "Quick241 , steward82 !" cried506 Ahab232 . "Time577 ! time577 !" Dough-Boy110 hurried335 below397 , glanced411 at65 the19 watch89 , and236 reported123 the19 exact408 minute236 to261 Ahab232 . The19 ship438 was454 now20 kept290 away443 from316 the19 wind262 , and236 she391 went516 gently284 rolling253 before344 it162 . Tashtego reporting388 that14 the19 whales331 had364 gone190 down133 heading364 to261 leeward265 , we465 confidently225 looked232 to261 see370 them146 again52 directly58 in107 advance70 of89 our234 bows460 . For190 that14 singular216 craft187 at65 times121 evinced94 by406 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 when189 , sounding331 with449 his433 head219 in107 one470 direction67 , he362 nevertheless104 , while55 concealed97 beneath320 the19 surface328 , mills501 around66 , and236 swiftly441 swims403 off111 in107 the19 opposite107 quarter6 --this256 deceitfulness444 of89 his433 could375 not518 now20 be341 in107 action102 ; for190 there340 was454 no235 reason238 to261 suppose120 that14 the19 fish187 seen154 by406 Tashtego had364 been185 in107 any501 way435 alarmed344 , or519 indeed522 knew480 at65 all145 of89 our234 vicinity208 . One470 of89 the19 men62 selected286 for190 shipkeepers--that14 is487 , those427 not518 appointed82 to261 the19 boats83 , by406 this256 time577 relieved158 the19 Indian303 at65 the19 main501 -mast44 head219 . The19 sailors64 at65 the19 fore259 and236 mizzen4 had364 come420 down133 ; the19 line25 tubs410 were324 fixed564 in107 their219 places423 ; the19 cranes377 were324 thrust379 out66 ; the19 mainyard191 was454 backed270 , and236 the19 three329 boats83 swung205 over82 the19 sea67 like410 three329 samphire6 baskets445 over82 high361 cliffs290 . Outside75 of89 the19 bulwarks411 their219 eager516 crews559 with449 one470 hand252 clung336 to261 the19 rail51 , while55 one470 foot467 was454 expectantly284 poised198 on392 the19 gunwale198 . So281 look523 the19 long544 line25 of89 man17 -of89 -war6 's483 men62 about123 to261 throw345 themselves510 on392 board540 an138 enemy431 's483 ship438 . But330 at65 this256 critical38 instant279 a10 sudden309 exclamation156 was454 heard444 that14 took68 every389 eye220 from316 the19 whale422 . With449 a10 start117 all145 glared327 at65 dark471 Ahab232 , who319 was454 surrounded75 by406 five103 dusky98 phantoms13 that14 seemed132 fresh540 formed294 out66 of89 air209 . CHAPTER293 4878 The19 First13 Lowering240 The19 phantoms13 , for190 so281 they382 then45 seemed132 , were324 flitting411 on392 the19 other282 side246 of89 the19 deck505 , and236 , with449 a10 noiseless21 celerity69 , were324 casting19 loose159 the19 tackles278 and236 bands468 of89 the19 boat439 which16 swung205 there340 . This256 boat439 had364 always367 been185 deemed17 one470 of89 the19 spare295 boats83 , though400 technically247 called237 the19 captain295 's483 , on392 account102 of89 its234 hanging222 from316 the19 starboard309 quarter6 . The19 figure55 that14 now20 stood1 by406 its234 bows460 was454 tall373 and236 swart32 , with449 one470 white82 tooth108 evilly136 protruding41 from316 its234 steel184 -like410 lips585 . A10 rumpled26 Chinese44 jacket481 of89 black581 cotton444 funereally83 invested60 him248 , with449 wide465 black581 trowsers206 of89 the19 same541 dark471 stuff471 . But330 strangely155 crowning235 this256 ebonness was454 a10 glistening24 white82 plaited82 turban146 , the19 living117 hair237 braided261 and236 coiled4 round287 and236 round287 upon419 his433 head219 . Less261 swart32 in107 aspect147 , the19 companions19 of89 this256 figure55 were324 of89 that14 vivid180 , tiger293 -yellow95 complexion243 peculiar291 to261 some265 of89 the19 aboriginal15 natives165 of89 the19 Manillas283 ;--a10 race392 notorious215 for190 a10 certain31 diabolism479 of89 subtilty63 , and236 by406 some265 honest287 white82 mariners347 supposed423 to261 be341 the19 paid490 spies314 and236 secret409 confidential147 agents242 on392 the19 water520 of89 the19 devil411 , their219 lord106 , whose286 counting345 -room65 they382 suppose120 to261 be341 elsewhere154 . While55 yet443 the19 wondering263 ship438 's483 company280 were324 gazing117 upon419 these527 strangers226 , Ahab232 cried506 out66 to261 the19 white82 -turbaned83 old447 man17 at65 their219 head219 , "All145 ready464 there340 , Fedallah?" "Ready464 ," was454 the19 half119 -hissed29 reply271 . "Lower47 away443 then45 ; d67 'ye163 hear386 ?" shouting421 across129 the19 deck505 . "Lower47 away443 there340 , I482 say306 ." Such420 was454 the19 thunder356 of89 his433 voice233 , that14 spite431 of89 their219 amazement223 the19 men62 sprang253 over82 the19 rail51 ; the19 sheaves149 whirled174 round287 in107 the19 blocks6 ; with449 a10 wallow252 , the19 three329 boats83 dropped2 into554 the19 sea67 ; while55 , with449 a10 dexterous25 , off111 -handed189 daring322 , unknown10 in107 any501 other282 vocation408 , the19 sailors64 , goat113 -like410 , leaped314 down133 the19 rolling253 ship438 's483 side246 into554 the19 tossed227 boats83 below397 . Hardly182 had364 they382 pulled213 out66 from316 under533 the19 ship438 's483 lee472 , when189 a10 fourth399 keel39 , coming140 from316 the19 windward170 side246 , pulled213 round287 under533 the19 stern442 , and236 showed507 the19 five103 strangers226 rowing375 Ahab232 , who319 , standing144 erect245 in107 the19 stern442 , loudly275 hailed411 Starbuck, Stubb, and236 Flask199 , to261 spread348 themselves510 widely171 , so281 as113 to261 cover172 a10 large385 expanse98 of89 water520 . But330 with449 all145 their219 eyes125 again52 riveted264 upon419 the19 swart32 Fedallah and236 his433 crew126 , the19 inmates480 of89 the19 other282 boats83 obeyed311 not518 the19 command190 . "Captain295 Ahab232 ?-" said252 Starbuck. "Spread348 yourselves192 ," cried506 Ahab232 ; "give142 way435 , all145 four175 boats83 . Thou173 , Flask199 , pull35 out66 more348 to261 leeward265 !" "Aye86 , aye86 , sir271 ," cheerily282 cried506 little554 King324 -Post2 , sweeping61 round287 his433 great259 steering252 oar61 . "Lay62 back457 !" addressing54 his433 crew126 . "There340 !--there340 !-- there340 again52 ! There340 she391 blows361 right499 ahead5 , boys22 !--lay62 back457 ! "Never206 heed163 yonder41 yellow95 boys22 , Archy110 ." "Oh367 , I482 don280 't500 mind118 'em4 , sir271 ," said252 Archy110 ; "I482 knew480 it162 all145 before344 now20 . Didn't500 I482 hear386 'em in107 the19 hold204 ? And236 didn't500 I482 tell392 Cabaco here135 of89 it162 ? What243 say306 ye483 , Cabaco? They382 are314 stowaways, Mr219 . Flask199 ." "Pull35 , pull35 , my36 fine333 hearts431 -alive298 ; pull35 , my36 children374 ; pull35 , my36 little554 ones396 ," drawlingly453 and236 soothingly85 sighed445 Stubb to261 his433 crew126 , some265 of89 whom324 still278 showed507 signs211 of89 uneasiness307 . "Why177 don280 't500 you227 break483 your162 backbones218 , my36 boys22 ? What243 is487 it162 you227 stare236 at65 ? Those427 chaps280 in107 yonder41 boat439 ? Tut109 ! They382 are314 only517 five103 more348 hands87 come420 to261 help526 us569 never206 mind118 from316 where579 the19 more348 the19 merrier27 . Pull35 , then45 , do353 pull35 ; never206 mind118 the19 brimstone206 devils377 are314 good221 fellows131 enough217 . So281 , so281 ; there340 you227 are314 now20 ; that14 's76 the19 stroke436 for190 a10 thousand586 pounds74 ; that14 's76 the19 stroke436 to261 sweep471 the19 stakes322 ! Hurrah277 for190 the19 gold231 cup13 of89 sperm26 oil118 , my36 heroes295 ! Three329 cheers416 , men62 --all145 hearts431 alive298 ! Easy281 , easy281 ; don280 't500 be341 in107 a10 hurry183 -- don280 't500 be341 in107 a10 hurry183 . Why177 don280 't500 you227 snap110 your162 oars398 , you227 rascals308 ? Bite517 something181 , you227 dogs393 ! So281 , so281 , so281 , then45 :--softly461 , softly461 ! That14 's76 it162 --that14 's76 it162 ! long544 and236 strong145 . Give142 way435 there340 , give142 way435 ! The19 devil411 fetch261 ye483 , ye483 ragamuffin4 rapscallions541 ; ye483 are314 all145 asleep492 . Stop48 snoring424 , ye483 sleepers367 , and236 pull35 . Pull35 , will584 ye483 ? pull35 , can450 't500 ye483 ? pull35 , won't500 ye483 ? Why177 in107 the19 name477 of89 gudgeons468 and236 ginger449 -cakes321 don280 't500 ye483 pull35 ?--pull35 and236 break483 something181 ! pull35 , and236 start117 your162 eyes125 out66 ! Here135 ," whipping26 out66 the19 sharp427 knife503 from316 his433 girdle9 ; "every389 mother276 's483 son26 of89 ye483 draw106 his433 knife503 , and236 pull35 with449 the19 blade83 between77 his433 teeth82 . That14 's76 it162 --that14 's76 it162 . Now20 ye483 do353 something181 ; that14 looks150 like410 it162 , my36 steel184 -bits256 . Start117 her400 -- start117 her400 , my36 silverspoons! Start117 her400 , marling-spikes60 !" Stubb's483 exordium295 to261 his433 crew126 is487 given141 here135 at65 large385 , because540 he362 had364 rather178 a10 peculiar291 way435 of89 talking513 to261 them146 in107 general37 , and236 especially371 in107 inculcating260 the19 religion354 of89 rowing375 . But330 you227 must226 not518 suppose120 from316 this256 specimen155 of89 his433 sermonizings83 that14 he362 ever208 flew424 into554 downright402 passions173 with449 his433 congregation23 . Not518 at65 all145 ; and236 therein68 consisted412 his433 chief156 peculiarity211 . He362 would282 say306 the19 most216 terrific315 things4 to261 his433 crew126 , in107 a10 tone13 so281 strangely155 compounded218 of89 fun347 and236 fury30 , and236 the19 fury30 seemed132 so281 calculated321 merely57 as113 a10 spice43 to261 the19 fun347 , that14 no235 oarsman60 could375 hear386 such420 queer156 invocations152 without309 pulling217 for190 dear333 life71 , and236 yet443 pulling217 for190 the19 mere393 joke568 of89 the19 thing309 . Besides465 he362 all145 the19 time577 looked232 so281 easy281 and236 indolent53 himself282 , so281 loungingly42 managed14 his433 steering252 -oar61 , and236 so281 broadly202 gaped83 -- open464 -mouthed at65 times121 --that14 the19 mere393 sight365 of89 such420 a10 yawning480 commander108 , by406 sheer147 force406 of89 contrast205 , acted553 like410 a10 charm251 upon419 the19 crew126 . Then45 again52 , Stubb was454 one470 of89 those427 odd19 sort42 of89 humorists289 , whose286 jollity152 is487 sometimes77 so281 curiously261 ambiguous46 , as113 to261 put190 all145 inferiors211 on392 their219 guard205 in107 the19 matter176 of89 obeying163 them146 . In107 obedience74 to261 a10 sign8 from316 Ahab232 , Starbuck was454 now20 pulling217 obliquely122 across129 Stubb's483 bow146 ; and236 when189 for190 a10 minute236 or519 so281 the19 two527 boats83 were324 pretty252 near70 to261 each520 other282 , Stubb hailed411 the19 mate508 . "Mr219 . Starbuck! larboard203 boat439 there340 , ahoy26 ! a10 word486 with449 ye483 , sir271 , if141 ye483 please153 !" "Halloa83 !" returned214 Starbuck, turning69 round287 not518 a10 single77 inch65 as113 he362 spoke185 ; still278 earnestly98 but330 whisperingly203 urging350 his433 crew126 ; his433 face556 set422 like410 a10 flint153 from316 Stubb's483 . "What243 think424 ye483 of89 those427 yellow95 boys22 , sir271 ! "Smuggled260 on392 board540 , somehow425 , before344 the19 ship438 sailed248 . (Strong145 , strong145 , boys22 !)" in107 a10 whisper315 to261 his433 crew126 , then45 speaking22 out66 loud556 again52 : "A10 sad341 business168 , Mr219 . Stubb! (seethe46 her400 , seethe46 her400 , my36 lads252 !) but330 never206 mind118 , Mr219 . Stubb, all145 for190 the19 best315 . Let66 all145 your162 crew126 pull35 strong145 , come420 what243 will584 . (Spring148 , my36 men62 , spring148 !) There340 's483 hogsheads163 of89 sperm26 ahead5 , Mr219 . Stubb, and236 that14 's76 what243 ye483 came549 for190 . (Pull35 , my36 boys22 !) Sperm26 , sperm26 's483 the19 play89 ! This256 at65 least453 is487 duty468 ; duty468 and236 profit498 hand252 in107 hand252 ." "Aye86 , aye86 , I482 thought186 as113 much61 ," soliloquized336 Stubb, when189 the19 boats83 diverged10 , "as113 soon18 as113 I482 clapt314 eye220 on392 'em, I482 thought186 so281 . Aye86 , and236 that14 's76 what243 he362 went516 into554 the19 after358 hold204 for190 , so281 often227 , as113 Dough-Boy110 long544 suspected189 . They382 were324 hidden78 down133 there340 . The19 White82 Whale422 's483 at65 the19 bottom461 of89 it162 . Well263 , well263 , so281 be341 it162 ! Can450 't500 be341 helped204 ! All145 right499 ! Give142 way435 men62 ! It162 ain't500 the19 White82 Whale422 to261 -day112 ! Give142 way435 !" Now20 the19 advent129 of89 these527 outlandish292 strangers226 at65 such420 a10 critical38 instant279 as113 the19 lowering240 of89 the19 boats83 from316 the19 deck505 , this256 had364 not518 unreasonably213 awakened390 a10 sort42 of89 superstitious49 amazement223 in107 some265 of89 the19 ship438 's483 company280 ; but330 Archy110 's483 fancied100 discovery416 having69 some265 time577 previous376 got286 abroad504 among483 them146 , though400 indeed522 not518 credited66 then45 , this256 had364 in107 some265 small350 measure520 prepared59 them146 for190 the19 event28 . It162 took68 off111 the19 extreme31 edge323 of89 their219 wonder76 ; and236 so281 what243 with449 all145 this256 and236 Stubb's483 confident122 way435 of89 accounting224 for190 their219 appearance138 , they382 were324 for190 the19 time577 freed23 from316 superstitious49 surmisings481 ; though400 the19 affair388 still278 left159 abundant17 room65 for190 all145 manner153 of89 wild230 conjectures78 as113 to261 dark471 Ahab232 's483 precise158 agency189 in107 the19 matter176 from316 the19 beginning188 . For190 me2 , I482 silently533 recalled346 the19 mysterious304 shadows480 I482 had364 seen154 creeping104 on392 board540 the19 Pequod288 during309 the19 dim14 Nantucket283 dawn72 , as113 well263 as113 the19 enigmatical204 hintings of89 the19 unaccountable316 Elijah160 . Meantime210 , Ahab232 , out66 of89 hearing325 of89 his433 officers439 , having69 sided303 the19 furthest361 to261 windward170 , was454 still278 ranging261 ahead5 of89 the19 other282 boats83 ; a10 circumstance407 bespeaking9 how19 potent422 a10 crew126 was454 pulling217 him248 . Those427 tiger293 yellow95 creatures5 of89 his433 seemed132 all145 steel184 and236 whalebone290 ; like410 five103 trip345 -hammers44 they382 rose449 and236 fell421 with449 regular400 strokes455 of89 strength168 , which16 periodically427 started492 the19 boat439 along423 the19 water520 like410 a10 horizontal252 burst174 boiler287 out66 of89 a10 Mississippi83 steamer11 . As113 for190 Fedallah, who319 was454 seen154 pulling217 the19 harpooneer oar61 , he362 had364 thrown359 aside408 his433 black581 jacket481 , and236 displayed179 his433 naked70 chest98 with449 the19 whole199 part207 of89 his433 body348 above502 the19 gunwale198 , clearly53 cut310 against417 the19 alternating83 depressions232 of89 the19 watery59 horizon516 ; while55 at65 the19 other282 end149 of89 the19 boat439 Ahab232 , with449 one470 arm25 , like410 a10 fencer131 's483 , thrown359 half119 backward19 into554 the19 air209 , as113 if141 to261 counterbalance253 any501 tendency68 to261 trip345 ; Ahab232 was454 seen154 steadily379 managing120 his433 steering252 oar61 as113 in107 a10 thousand586 boat439 lowerings ere83 the19 White82 Whale422 had364 torn237 him248 . All145 at65 once248 the19 outstretched48 arm25 gave572 a10 peculiar291 motion544 and236 then45 remained72 fixed564 , while55 the19 boat439 's483 five103 oars398 were324 seen154 simultaneously558 peaked111 . Boat439 and236 crew126 sat77 motionless498 on392 the19 sea67 . Instantly186 the19 three329 spread348 boats83 in107 the19 rear252 paused390 on392 their219 way435 . The19 whales331 had364 irregularly287 settled540 bodily172 down133 into554 the19 blue240 , thus362 giving207 no235 distantly336 discernible136 token502 of89 the19 movement128 , though400 from316 his433 closer111 vicinity208 Ahab232 had364 observed340 it162 . "Every389 man17 look523 out66 along423 his433 oars398 !" cried506 Starbuck. "Thou173 , Queequeg, stand530 up405 !" Nimbly159 springing481 up405 on392 the19 triangular498 raised493 box226 in107 the19 bow146 , the19 savage398 stood1 erect245 there340 , and236 with449 intensely102 eager516 eyes125 gazed13 off111 towards417 the19 spot46 where579 the19 chase89 had364 last436 been185 descried313 . Likewise193 upon419 the19 extreme31 stern442 of89 the19 boat439 where579 it162 was454 also119 triangularly27 platformed level378 with449 the19 gunwale198 , Starbuck himself282 was454 seen154 coolly156 and236 adroitly503 balancing39 himself282 to261 the19 jerking2 tossings295 of89 his433 chip157 of89 a10 craft187 , and236 silently533 eyeing49 the19 vast43 blue240 eye220 of89 the19 sea67 . Not518 very515 far258 distant353 Flask199 's483 boat439 was454 also119 lying204 breathlessly26 still278 ; its234 commander108 recklessly72 standing144 upon419 the19 top70 of89 the19 loggerhead117 , a10 stout29 sort42 of89 post2 rooted232 in107 the19 keel39 , and236 rising464 some265 two527 feet349 above502 the19 level378 of89 the19 stern442 platform270 . It162 is487 used102 for190 catching263 turns136 with449 the19 whale422 line25 . Its234 top70 is487 not518 more348 spacious133 than77 the19 palm114 of89 a10 man17 's415 hand252 , and236 standing144 upon419 such420 a10 base258 as113 that14 , Flask199 seemed132 perched151 at65 the19 mast44 -head116 of89 some265 ship438 which16 had364 sunk336 to261 all145 but330 her400 trucks364 . But330 little554 King324 -Post2 was454 small350 and236 short522 , and236 at65 the19 same541 time577 little554 King324 -Post2 was454 full414 of89 a10 large385 and236 tall373 ambition90 , so281 that14 this256 logger28 head219 stand530 -point438 of89 his433 did444 by406 no235 means502 satisfy75 King324 -Post2 . "I482 can450 't500 see370 three329 seas350 off111 ; tip82 us569 up405 an138 oar61 there340 , and236 let66 me2 onto38 that14 ." Upon419 this256 , Daggoo, with449 either45 hand252 upon419 the19 gunwale198 to261 steady21 his433 way435 , swiftly441 slid132 aft2 , and236 then45 erecting15 himself282 volunteered10 his433 lofty161 shoulders476 for190 a10 pedestal152 . "Good221 a10 mast44 -head116 as113 any501 , sir271 . Will584 you227 mount34 ?" "That14 I482 will584 , and236 thank166 ye483 very515 much61 , my36 fine333 fellow369 ; only517 I482 wish95 you227 fifty406 feet349 taller261 ." Whereupon44 planting362 his433 feet349 firmly308 against417 two527 opposite107 planks284 of89 the19 boat439 , the19 gigantic157 negro102 , stooping492 a10 little554 , presented320 his433 flat445 palm114 to261 Flask199 's483 foot467 , and236 then45 putting243 Flask199 's483 hand252 on392 his433 hearse34 -plumed409 head219 and236 bidding340 him248 spring148 as113 he362 himself282 should255 toss237 , with449 one470 dexterous25 fling335 landed451 the19 little554 man17 high361 and236 dry430 on392 his433 shoulders476 . And236 here135 was454 Flask199 now20 standing144 , Daggoo with449 one470 lifted448 arm25 furnishing471 him248 with449 a10 breastband to261 lean279 against417 and236 steady21 himself282 by406 . At65 any501 time577 it162 is487 a10 strange440 sight365 to261 the19 tyro83 to261 see370 with449 what243 wondrous30 habitude372 of89 unconscious152 skill502 the19 whaleman98 will584 maintain357 an138 erect245 posture347 in107 his433 boat439 , even198 when189 pitched101 about123 by406 the19 most216 riotously193 perverse537 and236 cross416 -running296 seas350 . Still278 more348 strange440 to261 see370 him248 giddily562 perched151 upon419 the19 logger28 head219 itself312 , under533 such420 circumstances267 . But330 the19 sight365 of89 little554 Flask199 mounted191 upon419 gigantic157 Daggoo was454 yet443 more348 curious264 ; for190 sustaining389 himself282 with449 a10 cool102 , indifferent255 , easy281 , unthought186 of89 , barbaric559 majesty268 , the19 noble226 negro102 to261 every389 roll473 of89 the19 sea67 harmoniously236 rolled226 his433 fine333 form238 . On392 his433 broad267 back457 , flaxen68 -haired Flask199 seemed132 a10 snow498 -flake157 . The19 bearer256 looked232 nobler354 than77 the19 rider113 . Though400 truly530 vivacious347 , tumultuous355 , ostentatious19 little554 Flask199 would282 now20 and236 then45 stamp292 with449 impatience153 ; but330 not518 one470 added52 heave308 did444 he362 thereby190 give142 to261 the19 negro102 's483 lordly14 chest98 . So281 have254 I482 seen154 Passion38 and236 Vanity44 stamping213 the19 living117 magnanimous128 earth513 , but330 the19 earth513 did444 not518 alter50 her400 tides36 and236 her400 seasons192 for190 that14 . Meanwhile282 Stubb, the19 third301 mate508 , betrayed498 no235 such420 far258 -gazing117 solicitudes43 . The19 whales331 might496 have254 made563 one470 of89 their219 regular400 soundings99 , not518 a10 temporary235 dive316 from316 mere393 fright18 ; and236 if141 that14 were324 the19 case346 , Stubb, as113 his433 wont268 in107 such420 cases108 , it162 seems19 , was454 resolved158 to261 solace26 the19 languishing243 interval114 with449 his433 pipe124 . He362 withdrew400 it162 from316 his433 hatband446 , where579 he362 always367 wore92 it162 aslant422 like410 a10 feather127 . He362 loaded55 it162 , and236 rammed78 home450 the19 loading23 with449 his433 thumb141 -end149 ; but330 hardly182 had364 he362 ignited350 his433 match441 across129 the19 rough75 sandpaper25 of89 his433 hand252 , when189 Tashtego, his433 harpooneer, whose286 eyes125 had364 been185 setting151 to261 windward170 like410 two527 fixed564 stars286 , suddenly193 dropped2 like410 light382 from316 his433 erect245 attitude100 to261 his433 seat88 , crying321 out66 in107 a10 quick241 phrensy314 of89 hurry183 , "Down133 , down133 all145 , and236 give142 way435 !--there340 they382 are314 !" To261 a10 landsman331 , no235 whale422 , nor137 any501 sign8 of89 a10 herring26 , would282 have254 been185 visible94 at65 that14 moment258 ; nothing324 but330 a10 troubled327 bit72 of89 greenish390 white82 water520 , and236 thin445 scattered17 puffs136 of89 vapor85 hovering520 over82 it162 , and236 suffusingly blowing248 off111 to261 leeward265 , like410 the19 confused117 scud124 from316 white82 rolling253 billows295 . The19 air209 around66 suddenly193 vibrated376 and236 tingled120 , as113 it162 were324 , like410 the19 air209 over82 intensely102 heated269 plates115 of89 iron169 . Beneath320 this256 atmospheric83 waving364 and236 curling27 , and236 partially263 beneath320 a10 thin445 layer296 of89 water520 , also119 , the19 whales331 were324 swimming367 . Seen154 in107 advance70 of89 all145 the19 other282 indications180 , the19 puffs136 of89 vapor85 they382 spouted395 , seemed132 their219 forerunning224 couriers325 and236 detached5 flying354 outriders59 . All145 four175 boats83 were324 now20 in107 keen202 pursuit305 of89 that14 one470 spot46 of89 troubled327 water520 and236 air209 . But330 it162 bade411 far258 to261 outstrip93 them146 ; it162 flew424 on392 and236 on392 , as113 a10 mass36 of89 interblending bubbles552 borne493 down133 a10 rapid321 stream184 from316 the19 hills352 . "Pull35 , pull35 , my36 good221 boys22 ," said252 Starbuck, in107 the19 lowest287 possible277 but330 intensest389 concentrated208 whisper315 to261 his433 men62 ; while55 the19 sharp427 fixed564 glance362 from316 his433 eyes125 darted362 straight346 ahead5 of89 the19 bow146 , almost518 seemed132 as113 two527 visible94 needles265 in107 two527 unerring110 binnacle98 compasses344 . He362 did444 not518 say306 much61 to261 his433 crew126 , though400 , nor137 did444 his433 crew126 say306 anything480 to261 him248 . Only517 the19 silence309 of89 the19 boat439 was454 at65 intervals295 startlingly203 pierced197 by406 one470 of89 his433 peculiar291 whispers336 , now20 harsh282 with449 command190 , now20 soft226 with449 entreaty481 . How19 different276 the19 loud556 little554 King324 -Post2 . "Sing549 out66 and236 say306 something181 , my36 hearties248 . Roar147 and236 pull35 , my36 thunderbolts20 ! Beach183 me2 , beach183 me2 on392 their219 black581 backs480 , boys22 ; only517 do353 that14 for190 me2 , and236 I482 'll300 sign8 over82 to261 you227 my36 Martha253 's483 Vineyard92 plantation3 , boys22 ; including123 wife37 and236 children374 , boys22 . Lay62 me2 on392 --lay62 me2 on392 ! O24 Lord106 , Lord106 ! but330 I482 shall66 go20 stark376 , staring523 mad235 ! See370 ! see370 that14 white82 water520 !" And236 so281 shouting421 , he362 pulled213 his433 hat107 from316 his433 head219 , and236 stamped31 up405 and236 down133 on392 it162 ; then45 picking331 it162 up405 , flirted83 it162 far258 off111 upon419 the19 sea67 ; and236 finally69 fell421 to261 rearing251 and236 plunging93 in107 the19 boat439 's483 stern442 like410 a10 crazed292 colt230 from316 the19 prairie214 . "Look523 at65 that14 chap287 now20 ," philosophically59 drawled356 Stubb, who319 , with449 his433 unlighted250 short522 pipe124 , mechanically143 retained155 between77 his433 teeth82 , at65 a10 short522 distance264 , followed234 after358 --"He362 's483 got286 fits369 , that14 Flask199 has399 . Fits369 ? yes143 , give142 him248 fits369 --that14 's76 the19 very515 word486 --pitch115 fits369 into554 'em. Merrily61 , merrily61 , hearts431 -alive298 . Pudding176 for190 supper4 , you227 know60 ;-- merry486 's483 the19 word486 . Pull35 , babes448 --pull35 , sucklings330 --pull35 , all145 . But330 what243 the19 devil411 are314 you227 hurrying339 about123 ? Softly461 , softly461 , and236 steadily379 , my36 men62 . Only517 pull35 , and236 keep381 pulling217 ; nothing324 more348 . Crack83 all145 your162 backbones218 , and236 bite517 your162 knives140 in107 two527 --that14 's76 all145 . Take279 it162 easy281 --why177 don280 't500 ye483 take279 it162 easy281 , I482 say306 , and236 burst174 all145 your162 livers83 and236 lungs40 !" But330 what243 it162 was454 that14 inscrutable29 Ahab232 said252 to261 that14 tiger293 -yellow95 crew126 of89 his433 --these527 were324 words107 best315 omitted117 here135 ; for190 you227 live554 under533 the19 blessed473 light382 of89 the19 evangelical26 land406 . Only517 the19 infidel183 sharks206 in107 the19 audacious142 seas350 may236 give142 ear515 to261 such420 words107 , when189 , with449 tornado31 brow474 , and236 eyes125 of89 red293 murder448 , and236 foam160 -glued120 lips585 , Ahab232 leaped314 after358 his433 prey347 . Meanwhile282 , all145 the19 boats83 tore493 on392 . The19 repeated381 specific383 allusions117 of89 Flask199 to261 "that14 whale422 ," as113 he362 called237 the19 fictitious31 monster480 which16 he362 declared29 to261 be341 incessantly194 tantalizing261 his433 boat439 's483 bow146 with449 its234 tail102 --these527 allusions117 of89 his433 were324 at65 times121 so281 vivid180 and236 life71 -like410 , that14 they382 would282 cause220 some265 one470 or519 two527 of89 his433 men62 to261 snatch276 a10 fearful183 look523 over82 his433 shoulder168 . But330 this256 was454 against417 all145 rule393 ; for190 the19 oarsmen59 must226 put190 out66 their219 eyes125 , and236 ram375 a10 skewer327 through295 their219 necks279 ; usages262 announcing337 that14 they382 must226 have254 no235 organs410 but330 ears560 ; and236 no235 limbs315 but330 arms536 , in107 these527 critical38 moments434 . It162 was454 a10 sight365 full414 of89 quick241 wonder76 and236 awe305 ! The19 vast43 swells446 of89 the19 omnipotent448 sea67 ; the19 surging403 , hollow511 roar147 they382 made563 , as113 they382 rolled226 along423 the19 eight316 gunwales42 , like410 gigantic157 bowls127 in107 a10 boundless386 bowling-green549 ; the19 brief59 suspended245 agony242 of89 the19 boat439 , as113 it162 would282 tip82 for190 an138 instant279 on392 the19 knife503 -like410 edge323 of89 the19 sharper339 waves443 , that14 almost518 seemed132 threatening193 to261 cut310 it162 in107 two527 ; the19 sudden309 profound371 dip19 into554 the19 watery59 glens155 and236 hollows111 ; the19 keen202 spurrings and236 goadings169 to261 gain101 the19 top70 of89 the19 opposite107 hill219 ; the19 headlong4 , sled-like410 slide118 down133 its234 other282 side246 ;--all145 these527 , with449 the19 cries104 of89 the19 headsmen51 and236 harpooneers, and236 the19 shuddering143 gasps439 of89 the19 oarsmen59 , with449 the19 wondrous30 sight365 of89 the19 ivory76 Pequod288 bearing354 down133 upon419 her400 boats83 with449 outstretched48 sails344 , like410 a10 wild230 hen314 after358 her400 screaming64 brood232 ;--all145 this256 was454 thrilling128 . Not518 the19 raw93 recruit11 , marching57 from316 the19 bosom82 of89 his433 wife37 into554 the19 fever186 heat218 of89 his433 first13 battle105 ; not518 the19 dead568 man17 's415 ghost246 encountering332 the19 first13 unknown10 phantom101 in107 the19 other282 world126 ;-- neither74 of89 these527 can450 feel461 stranger233 and236 stronger234 emotions205 than77 that14 man17 does565 , who319 for190 the19 first13 time577 finds455 himself282 pulling217 into554 the19 charmed542 , churned26 circle282 of89 the19 hunted439 sperm26 whale422 . The19 dancing192 white82 water520 made563 by406 the19 chase89 was454 now20 becoming460 more348 and236 more348 visible94 , owing98 to261 the19 increasing329 darkness493 of89 the19 dun181 cloud218 -shadows480 flung255 upon419 the19 sea67 . The19 jets6 of89 vapor85 no235 longer559 blended366 , but330 tilted41 everywhere469 to261 right499 and236 left159 ; the19 whales331 seemed132 separating105 their219 wakes60 . The19 boats83 were324 pulled213 more348 apart526 ; Starbuck giving207 chase89 to261 three329 whales331 running296 dead568 to261 leeward265 . Our234 sail218 was454 now20 set422 , and236 , with449 the19 still278 rising464 wind262 , we465 rushed199 along423 ; the19 boat439 going227 with449 such420 madness282 through295 the19 water520 , that14 the19 lee472 oars398 could375 scarcely71 be341 worked245 rapidly116 enough217 to261 escape565 being264 torn237 from316 the19 row328 -locks157 . Soon18 we465 were324 running296 through295 a10 suffusing83 wide465 veil69 of89 mist322 ; neither74 ship438 nor137 boat439 to261 be341 seen154 . "Give142 way435 , men62 ," whispered89 Starbuck, drawing407 still278 further53 aft2 the19 sheet327 of89 his433 sail218 ; "there340 is487 time577 to261 kill219 a10 fish187 yet443 before344 the19 squall467 comes268 . There340 's483 white82 water520 again52 !--close65 to261 ! Spring148 !" Soon18 after358 , two527 cries104 in107 quick241 succession17 on392 each520 side246 of89 us569 denoted86 that14 the19 other282 boats83 had364 got286 fast208 ; but330 hardly182 were324 they382 overheard512 , when189 with449 a10 lightning171 -like410 hurtling347 whisper315 Starbuck said252 : "Stand530 up405 !" and236 Queequeg, harpoon67 in107 hand252 , sprang253 to261 his433 feet349 . Though400 not518 one470 of89 the19 oarsmen59 was454 then45 facing68 the19 life71 and236 death543 peril565 so281 close65 to261 them146 ahead5 , yet443 with449 their219 eyes125 on392 the19 intense89 countenance553 of89 the19 mate508 in107 the19 stern442 of89 the19 boat439 , they382 knew480 that14 the19 imminent22 instant279 had364 come420 ; they382 heard444 , too11 , an138 enormous327 wallowing218 sound181 as113 of89 fifty406 elephants452 stirring130 in107 their219 litter212 . Meanwhile282 the19 boat439 was454 still278 booming379 through295 the19 mist322 , the19 waves443 curling27 and236 hissing403 around66 us569 like410 the19 erected412 crests171 of89 enraged19 serpents403 . "That14 's76 his433 hump20 . There340 , there340 , give142 it162 to261 him248 !" whispered89 Starbuck. A10 short522 rushing344 sound181 leaped314 out66 of89 the19 boat439 ; it162 was454 the19 darted362 iron169 of89 Queequeg. Then45 all145 in107 one470 welded102 commotion155 came549 an138 invisible186 push278 from316 astern39 , while55 forward364 the19 boat439 seemed132 striking22 on392 a10 ledge244 ; the19 sail218 collapsed230 and236 exploded384 ; a10 gush203 of89 scalding181 vapor85 shot443 up405 near70 by406 ; something181 rolled226 and236 tumbled494 like410 an138 earthquake20 beneath320 us569 . The19 whole199 crew126 were324 half119 suffocated70 as113 they382 were324 tossed227 helter-skelter21 into554 the19 white82 curdling20 cream227 of89 the19 squall467 . Squall467 , whale422 , and236 harpoon67 had364 all145 blended366 together440 ; and236 the19 whale422 , merely57 grazed39 by406 the19 iron169 , escaped197 . Though400 completely385 swamped344 , the19 boat439 was454 nearly575 unharmed92 . Swimming367 round287 it162 we465 picked129 up405 the19 floating30 oars398 , and236 lashing19 them146 across129 the19 gunwale198 , tumbled494 back457 to261 our234 places423 . There340 we465 sat77 up405 to261 our234 knees214 in107 the19 sea67 , the19 water520 covering24 every389 rib84 and236 plank243 , so281 that14 to261 our234 downward157 gazing117 eyes125 the19 suspended245 craft187 seemed132 a10 coral22 boat439 grown299 up405 to261 us569 from316 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 ocean224 . The19 wind262 increased406 to261 a10 howl283 ; the19 waves443 dashed304 their219 bucklers405 together440 ; the19 whole199 squall467 roared315 , forked386 , and236 crackled248 around66 us569 like410 a10 white82 fire559 upon419 the19 prairie214 , in107 which16 unconsumed212 , we465 were324 burning70 ; immortal15 in107 these527 jaws341 of89 death543 ! In107 vain216 we465 hailed411 the19 other282 boats83 ; as113 well263 roar147 to261 the19 live554 coals163 down133 the19 chimney94 of89 a10 flaming269 furnace123 as113 hail75 those427 boats83 in107 that14 storm218 . Meanwhile282 the19 driving280 scud124 , rack415 , and236 mist322 , grew5 darker20 with449 the19 shadows480 of89 night108 ; no235 sign8 of89 the19 ship438 could375 be341 seen154 . The19 rising464 sea67 forbade202 all145 attempts13 to261 bale65 out66 the19 boat439 . The19 oars398 were324 useless327 as113 propellers39 , performing444 now20 the19 office256 of89 life71 -preservers. So281 , cutting454 the19 lashing19 of89 the19 waterproof252 match441 keg26 , after358 many282 failures165 Starbuck contrived179 to261 ignite479 the19 lamp330 in107 the19 lantern220 ; then45 stretching413 it162 on392 a10 waif58 pole20 , handed189 it162 to261 Queequeg as113 the19 standard507 -bearer256 of89 this256 forlorn89 hope211 . There340 , then45 , he362 sat77 , holding311 up405 that14 imbecile217 candle248 in107 the19 heart470 of89 that14 almighty473 forlornness253 . There340 , then45 , he362 sat77 , the19 sign8 and236 symbol426 of89 a10 man17 without309 faith511 , hopelessly367 holding311 up405 hope211 in107 the19 midst533 of89 despair187 . Wet299 , drenched116 through295 , and236 shivering559 cold330 , despairing341 of89 ship438 or519 boat439 , we465 lifted448 up405 our234 eyes125 as113 the19 dawn72 came549 on392 . The19 mist322 still278 spread348 over82 the19 sea67 , the19 empty450 lantern220 lay62 crushed197 in107 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 boat439 . Suddenly193 Queequeg started492 to261 his433 feet349 , hollowing20 his433 hand252 to261 his433 ear515 . We465 all145 heard444 a10 faint316 creaking39 , as113 of89 ropes461 and236 yards386 hitherto533 muffled58 by406 the19 storm218 . The19 sound181 came549 nearer303 and236 nearer303 ; the19 thick502 mists241 were324 dimly298 parted201 by406 a10 huge132 , vague70 form238 . Affrighted35 , we465 all145 sprang253 into554 the19 sea67 as113 the19 ship438 at65 last436 loomed145 into554 view370 , bearing354 right499 down133 upon419 us569 within503 a10 distance264 of89 not518 much61 more348 than77 its234 length202 . Floating30 on392 the19 waves443 we465 saw113 the19 abandoned493 boat439 , as113 for190 one470 instant279 it162 tossed227 and236 gaped83 beneath320 the19 ship438 's483 bows460 like410 a10 chip157 at65 the19 base258 of89 a10 cataract192 ; and236 then45 the19 vast43 hull323 rolled226 over82 it162 , and236 it162 was454 seen154 no235 more348 till181 it162 came549 up405 weltering213 astern39 . Again52 we465 swam111 for190 it162 , were324 dashed304 against417 it162 by406 the19 seas350 , and236 were324 at65 last436 taken222 up405 and236 safely206 landed451 on392 board540 . Ere83 the19 squall467 came549 close65 to261 , the19 other282 boats83 had364 cut310 loose159 from316 their219 fish187 and236 returned214 to261 the19 ship438 in107 good221 time577 . The19 ship438 had364 given141 us569 up405 , but330 was454 still278 cruising298 , if141 haply422 it162 might496 light382 upon419 some265 token502 of89 our234 perishing60 ,-- an138 oar61 or519 a10 lance76 pole20 . CHAPTER293 49398 The19 Hyena451 There340 are314 certain31 queer156 times121 and236 occasions115 in107 this256 strange440 mixed459 affair388 we465 call259 life71 when189 a10 man17 takes362 this256 whole199 universe426 for190 a10 vast43 practical74 joke568 , though400 the19 wit571 thereof533 he362 but330 dimly298 discerns84 , and236 more348 than77 suspects117 that14 the19 joke568 is487 at65 nobody41 's483 expense465 but330 his433 own248 . However44 , nothing324 dispirits, and236 nothing324 seems19 worth84 while55 disputing144 . He362 bolts147 down133 all145 events390 , all145 creeds376 , and236 beliefs54 , and236 persuasions154 , all145 hard337 things4 visible94 and236 invisible186 , never206 mind118 how19 knobby156 ; as113 an138 ostrich253 of89 potent422 digestion524 gobbles26 down133 bullets358 and236 gun152 flints195 . And236 as113 for190 small350 difficulties482 and236 worryings440 , prospects212 of89 sudden309 disaster47 , peril565 of89 life71 and236 limb43 ; all145 these527 , and236 death543 itself312 , seem404 to261 him248 only517 sly302 , good221 -natured hits350 , and236 jolly50 punches25 in107 the19 side246 bestowed157 by406 the19 unseen173 and236 unaccountable316 old447 joker127 . That14 odd19 sort42 of89 wayward158 mood547 I482 am375 speaking22 of89 , comes268 over82 a10 man17 only517 in107 some265 time577 of89 extreme31 tribulation256 ; it162 comes268 in107 the19 very515 midst533 of89 his433 earnestness256 , so281 that14 what243 just108 before344 might496 have254 seemed132 to261 him248 a10 thing309 most216 momentous150 , now20 seems19 but330 a10 part207 of89 the19 general37 joke568 . There340 is487 nothing324 like410 the19 perils140 of89 whaling155 to261 breed450 this256 free483 and236 easy281 sort42 of89 genial173 , desperado303 philosophy14 ; and236 with449 it162 I482 now20 regarded393 this256 whole199 voyage137 of89 the19 Pequod288 , and236 the19 great259 White82 Whale422 its234 object100 . "Queequeg," said252 I482 , when189 they382 had364 dragged460 me2 , the19 last436 man17 , to261 the19 deck505 , and236 I482 was454 still278 shaking206 myself99 in107 my36 jacket481 to261 fling335 off111 the19 water520 ; "Queequeg, my36 fine333 friend179 , does565 this256 sort42 of89 thing309 often227 happen352 ?" Without309 much61 emotion355 , though400 soaked55 through295 just108 like410 me2 , he362 gave572 me2 to261 understand111 that14 such420 things4 did444 often227 happen352 . "Mr219 . Stubb," said252 I482 , turning69 to261 that14 worthy60 , who319 , buttoned235 up405 in107 his433 oil118 -jacket481 , was454 now20 calmly170 smoking470 his433 pipe124 in107 the19 rain190 ; "Mr219 . Stubb, I482 think424 I482 have254 heard444 you227 say306 that14 of89 all145 whalemen451 you227 ever208 met130 , our234 chief156 mate508 , Mr219 . Starbuck, is487 by406 far258 the19 most216 careful252 and236 prudent183 . I482 suppose120 then45 , that14 going227 plump105 on392 a10 flying354 whale422 with449 your162 sail218 set422 in107 a10 foggy374 squall467 is487 the19 height20 of89 a10 whaleman98 's483 discretion396 ?" "Certain31 . I482 've149 lowered279 for190 whales331 from316 a10 leaking298 ship438 in107 a10 gale440 off111 Cape23 Horn139 ." "Mr219 . Flask199 ," said252 I482 , turning69 to261 little554 King324 -Post2 , who319 was454 standing144 close65 by406 ; "you227 are314 experienced93 in107 these527 things4 , and236 I482 am375 not518 . Will584 you227 tell392 me2 whether454 it162 is487 an138 unalterable27 law231 in107 this256 fishery136 , Mr219 . Flask199 , for190 an138 oarsman60 to261 break483 his433 own248 back457 pulling217 himself282 back457 -foremost61 into554 death543 's483 jaws341 ?" "Can450 't500 you227 twist30 that14 smaller236 ?" said252 Flask199 . "Yes143 , that14 's76 the19 law231 . I482 should255 like410 to261 see370 a10 boat439 's483 crew126 backing223 water520 up405 to261 a10 whale422 face556 foremost61 . Ha387 , ha387 ! the19 whale422 would282 give142 them146 squint296 for190 squint296 , mind118 that14 !" Here135 then45 , from316 three329 impartial159 witnesses424 , I482 had364 a10 deliberate29 statement187 of89 the19 entire230 case346 . Considering115 , therefore94 , that14 squalls104 and236 capsizings in107 the19 water520 and236 consequent61 bivouacks on392 the19 deep483 , were324 matters515 of89 common304 occurrence497 in107 this256 kind451 of89 life71 ; considering115 that14 at65 the19 superlatively4 critical38 instant279 of89 going227 on392 to261 the19 whale422 I482 must226 resign125 my36 life71 into554 the19 hands87 of89 him248 who319 steered106 the19 boat439 -- oftentimes30 a10 fellow369 who319 at65 that14 very515 moment258 is487 in107 his433 impetuousness217 upon419 the19 point438 of89 scuttling60 the19 craft187 with449 his433 own248 frantic211 stampings120 ; considering115 that14 the19 particular336 disaster47 to261 our234 own248 particular336 boat439 was454 chiefly90 to261 be341 imputed140 to261 Starbuck's483 driving280 on392 to261 his433 whale422 almost518 in107 the19 teeth82 of89 a10 squall467 , and236 considering115 that14 Starbuck, notwithstanding387 , was454 famous254 for190 his433 great259 heedfulness4 in107 the19 fishery136 ; considering115 that14 I482 belonged455 to261 this256 uncommonly194 prudent183 Starbuck's483 boat439 ; and236 finally69 considering115 in107 what243 a10 devil411 's483 chase89 I482 was454 implicated7 , touching80 the19 White82 Whale422 : taking146 all145 things4 together440 , I482 say306 , I482 thought186 I482 might496 as113 well263 go20 below397 and236 make175 a10 rough75 draft369 of89 my36 will584 . "Queequeg," said252 I482 , "come420 along423 , you227 shall66 be341 my36 lawyer166 , executor159 , and236 legatee31 ." It162 may236 seem404 strange440 that14 of89 all145 men62 sailors64 should255 be341 tinkering55 at65 their219 last436 wills473 and236 testaments141 , but330 there340 are314 no235 people482 in107 the19 world126 more348 fond174 of89 that14 diversion169 . This256 was454 the19 fourth399 time577 in107 my36 nautical42 life71 that14 I482 had364 done135 the19 same541 thing309 . After358 the19 ceremony37 was454 concluded157 upon419 the19 present112 occasion211 , I482 felt440 all145 the19 easier314 ; a10 stone398 was454 rolled226 away443 from316 my36 heart470 . Besides465 , all145 the19 days351 I482 should255 now20 live554 would282 be341 as113 good221 as113 the19 days351 that14 Lazarus27 lived415 after358 his433 resurrection281 ; a10 supplementary210 clean26 gain101 of89 so281 many282 months17 or519 weeks522 as113 the19 case346 may236 be341 . I482 survived77 myself99 ; my36 death543 and236 burial218 were324 locked105 up405 in107 my36 chest98 . I482 looked232 round287 me2 tranquilly83 and236 contentedly27 , like410 a10 quiet337 ghost246 with449 a10 clean26 conscience75 sitting136 inside438 the19 bars435 of89 a10 snug310 family347 vault84 . Now20 then45 , thought186 I482 , unconsciously59 rolling253 up405 the19 sleeves363 of89 my36 frock200 , here135 goes205 for190 a10 cool102 , collected472 dive316 at65 death543 and236 destruction423 , and236 the19 devil411 fetch261 the19 hindmost106 . CHAPTER293 50170 Ahab232 's483 Boat439 and236 Crew126 . Fedallah "Who319 would282 have254 thought186 it162 , Flask199 !" cried506 Stubb; "if141 I482 had364 but330 one470 leg331 you227 would282 not518 catch523 me2 in107 a10 boat439 , unless54 maybe92 to261 stop48 the19 plug127 -hole73 with449 my36 timber59 toe424 . Oh367 ! he362 's483 a10 wonderful291 old447 man17 !" "I482 don280 't500 think424 it162 so281 strange440 , after358 all145 , on392 that14 account102 ," said252 Flask199 . "If141 his433 leg331 were324 off111 at65 the19 hip461 , now20 , it162 would282 be341 a10 different276 thing309 . That14 would282 disable124 him248 ; but330 he362 has399 one470 knee235 , and236 good221 part207 of89 the19 other282 left159 , you227 know60 ." "I482 don280 't500 know60 that14 , my36 little554 man17 ; I482 never206 yet443 saw113 him248 kneel510 ." Among483 whale422 -wise16 people482 it162 has399 often227 been185 argued19 whether454 , considering115 the19 paramount197 importance579 of89 his433 life71 to261 the19 success197 of89 the19 voyage137 , it162 is487 right499 for190 a10 whaling155 captain295 to261 jeopardize203 that14 life71 in107 the19 active54 perils140 of89 the19 chase89 . So281 Tamerlane270 's483 soldiers416 often227 argued19 with449 tears470 in107 their219 eyes125 , whether454 that14 invaluable2 life71 of89 his433 ought170 to261 be341 carried232 into554 the19 thickest316 of89 the19 fight330 . But330 with449 Ahab232 the19 question562 assumed460 a10 modified564 aspect147 . Considering115 that14 with449 two527 legs108 man17 is487 but330 a10 hobbling402 wight232 in107 all145 times121 of89 danger383 ; considering115 that14 the19 pursuit305 of89 whales331 is487 always367 under533 great259 and236 extraordinary346 difficulties482 ; that14 every389 individual233 moment258 , indeed522 , then45 comprises234 a10 peril565 ; under533 these527 circumstances267 is487 it162 wise16 for190 any501 maimed116 man17 to261 enter204 a10 whale422 -boat439 in107 the19 hunt418 ? As113 a10 general37 thing309 , the19 joint65 -owners208 of89 the19 Pequod288 must226 have254 plainly450 thought186 not518 . Ahab232 well263 knew480 that14 although535 his433 friends169 at65 home450 would282 think424 little554 of89 his433 entering423 a10 boat439 in107 certain31 comparatively203 harmless268 vicissitudes124 of89 the19 chase89 , for190 the19 sake523 of89 being264 near70 the19 scene228 of89 action102 and236 giving207 his433 orders199 in107 person550 , yet443 for190 Captain295 Ahab232 to261 have254 a10 boat439 actually69 apportioned386 to261 him248 as113 a10 regular400 headsman143 in107 the19 hunt418 --above502 all145 for190 Captain295 Ahab232 to261 be341 supplied338 with449 five103 extra201 men62 , as113 that14 same541 boat439 's483 crew126 , he362 well263 knew480 that14 such420 generous355 conceits217 never206 entered447 the19 heads366 of89 the19 owners208 of89 the19 Pequod288 . Therefore94 he362 had364 not518 solicited432 a10 boat439 's483 crew126 from316 them146 , nor137 had364 he362 in107 any501 way435 hinted253 his433 desires401 on392 that14 head219 . Nevertheless104 he362 had364 taken222 private541 measures359 of89 his433 own248 touching80 all145 that14 matter176 . Until316 Cabaco's483 published393 discovery416 , the19 sailors64 had364 little554 foreseen368 it162 , though400 to261 be341 sure41 when189 , after358 being264 a10 little554 while55 out66 of89 port409 , all145 hands87 had364 concluded157 the19 customary79 business168 of89 fitting96 the19 whaleboats283 for190 service343 ; when189 some265 time577 after358 this256 Ahab232 was454 now20 and236 then45 found260 bestirring84 himself282 in107 the19 matter176 of89 making415 thole-pins279 with449 his433 own248 hands87 for190 what243 was454 thought186 to261 be341 one470 of89 the19 spare295 boats83 , and236 even198 solicitously203 cutting454 the19 small350 wooden35 skewers23 , which16 when189 the19 line25 is487 running296 out66 are314 pinned83 over82 the19 groove70 in107 the19 bow146 : when189 all145 this256 was454 observed340 in107 him248 , and236 particularly106 his433 solicitude341 in107 having69 an138 extra201 coat7 of89 sheathing98 in107 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 boat439 , as113 if141 to261 make175 it162 better34 withstand263 the19 pointed413 pressure102 of89 his433 ivory76 limb43 ; and236 also119 the19 anxiety221 he362 evinced94 in107 exactly315 shaping160 the19 thigh108 board540 , or519 clumsy394 cleat98 , as113 it162 is487 sometimes77 called237 , the19 horizontal252 piece121 in107 the19 boat439 's483 bow146 for190 bracing336 the19 knee235 against417 in107 darting147 or519 stabbing300 at65 the19 whale422 ; when189 it162 was454 observed340 how19 often227 he362 stood1 up405 in107 that14 boat439 with449 his433 solitary407 knee235 fixed564 in107 the19 semi-circular198 depression235 in107 the19 cleat98 , and236 with449 the19 carpenter262 's483 chisel247 gouged356 out66 a10 little554 here135 and236 straightened346 it162 a10 little554 there340 ; all145 these527 things4 , I482 say306 , had364 awakened390 much61 interest323 and236 curiosity501 at65 the19 time577 . But330 almost518 everybody77 supposed423 that14 this256 particular336 preparative235 heedfulness4 in107 Ahab232 must226 only517 be341 with449 a10 view370 to261 the19 ultimate221 chase89 of89 Moby362 Dick25 ; for190 he362 had364 already93 revealed530 his433 intention272 to261 hunt418 that14 mortal371 monster480 in107 person550 . But330 such420 a10 supposition297 did444 by406 no235 means502 involve34 the19 remotest95 suspicion368 as113 to261 any501 boat439 's483 crew126 being264 assigned457 to261 that14 boat439 . Now20 , with449 the19 subordinate204 phantoms13 , what243 wonder76 remained72 soon18 waned221 away443 ; for190 in107 a10 whaler91 wonders115 soon18 wane402 . Besides465 , now20 and236 then45 such420 unaccountable316 odds250 and236 ends301 of89 strange440 nations274 come420 up405 from316 the19 unknown10 nooks533 and236 ash481 -holes41 of89 the19 earth513 to261 man17 these527 floating30 outlaws125 of89 whalers116 ; and236 the19 ships21 themselves510 often227 pick447 up405 such420 queer156 castaway439 creatures5 found260 tossing213 about123 the19 open464 sea67 on392 planks284 , bits256 of89 wreck171 , oars398 , whaleboats283 , canoes471 , blown147 -off111 Japanese364 junks300 , and236 what243 not518 ; that14 Beelzebub541 himself282 might496 climb80 up405 the19 side246 and236 step204 down133 into554 the19 cabin192 to261 chat205 with449 the19 captain295 , and236 it162 would282 not518 create525 any501 unsubduable174 excitement60 in107 the19 forecastle367 . But330 be341 all145 this256 as113 it162 may236 , certain31 it162 is487 that14 while55 the19 subordinate204 phantoms13 soon18 found260 their219 place107 among483 the19 crew126 , though400 still278 as113 it162 were324 somehow425 distinct259 from316 them146 , yet443 that14 hair237 -turbaned83 Fedallah remained72 a10 muffled58 mystery254 to261 the19 last436 . Whence494 he362 came549 in107 a10 mannerly83 world126 like410 this256 , by406 what243 sort42 of89 unaccountable316 tie139 he362 soon18 evinced94 himself282 to261 be341 linked155 with449 Ahab232 's483 peculiar291 fortunes322 ; nay358 , so281 far258 as113 to261 have254 some265 sort42 of89 a10 half119 -hinted253 influence299 ; Heaven163 knows286 , but330 it162 might496 have254 been185 even198 authority146 over82 him248 ; all145 this256 none365 knew480 . But330 one470 cannot sustain264 an138 indifferent255 air209 concerning368 Fedallah. He362 was454 such420 a10 creature82 as113 civilized441 , domestic303 people482 in107 the19 temperate241 zone173 only517 see370 in107 their219 dreams299 , and236 that14 but330 dimly298 ; but330 the19 like410 of89 whom324 now20 and236 then45 glide128 among483 the19 unchanging80 Asiatic16 communities136 , especially371 the19 Oriental147 isles425 to261 the19 east524 of89 the19 continent120 -- those427 insulated350 , immemorial52 , unalterable27 countries279 , which16 even198 in107 these527 modern446 days351 still278 preserve192 much61 of89 the19 ghostly236 aboriginalness of89 earth513 's483 primal177 generations124 , when189 the19 memory333 of89 the19 first13 man17 was454 a10 distinct259 recollection217 , and236 all145 men62 his433 descendants26 , unknowing177 whence494 he362 came549 , eyed363 each520 other282 as113 real305 phantoms13 , and236 asked369 of89 the19 sun397 and236 the19 moon45 why177 they382 were324 created37 and236 to261 what243 end149 ; when189 though400 , according281 to261 Genesis162 , the19 angels29 indeed522 consorted330 with449 the19 daughters197 of89 men62 , the19 devils377 also119 , add236 the19 uncanonical426 Robbins103 , indulged24 in107 mundane242 amours102 . CHAPTER293 5145 The19 Spirit227 -Spout224 Days351 , weeks522 passed87 , and236 under533 easy281 sail218 , the19 ivory76 Pequod288 had364 slowly149 swept305 across129 four175 several479 cruising298 -grounds448 ; that14 off111 the19 Azores273 ; off111 the19 Cape23 de404 Verdes33 ; on392 the19 Plate396 (so281 called237 ), being264 off111 the19 mouth414 of89 the19 Rio31 de404 la417 Plata120 ; and236 the19 Carrol192 Ground127 , an138 unstaked, watery59 locality116 , southerly24 from316 St193 . Helena255 . It162 was454 while55 gliding248 through295 these527 latter497 waters556 that14 one470 serene18 and236 moonlight122 night108 , when189 all145 the19 waves443 rolled226 by406 like410 scrolls479 of89 silver205 ; and236 , by406 their219 soft226 , suffusing83 seethings, made563 what243 seemed132 a10 silvery42 silence309 , not518 a10 solitude15 ; on392 such420 a10 silent382 night108 a10 silvery42 jet423 was454 seen154 far258 in107 advance70 of89 the19 white82 bubbles552 at65 the19 bow146 . Lit26 up405 by406 the19 moon45 , it162 looked232 celestial437 ; seemed132 some265 plumed409 and236 glittering144 god185 uprising375 from316 the19 sea67 . Fedallah first13 descried313 this256 jet423 . For190 of89 these527 moonlight122 nights224 , it162 was454 his433 wont268 to261 mount34 to261 the19 main501 -mast44 head219 , and236 stand530 a10 look523 -out66 there340 , with449 the19 same541 precision154 as113 if141 it162 had364 been185 day112 . And236 yet443 , though400 herds341 of89 whales331 were324 seen154 by406 night108 , not518 one470 whaleman98 in107 a10 hundred93 would282 venture40 a10 lowering240 for190 them146 . You227 may236 think424 with449 what243 emotions205 , then45 , the19 seamen6 beheld132 this256 old447 Oriental147 perched151 aloft276 at65 such420 unusual322 hours127 ; his433 turban146 and236 the19 moon45 , companions19 in107 one470 sky331 . But330 when189 , after358 spending348 his433 uniform173 interval114 there340 for190 several479 successive423 nights224 without309 uttering341 a10 single77 sound181 ; when189 , after358 all145 this256 silence309 , his433 unearthly110 voice233 was454 heard444 announcing337 that14 silvery42 , moon45 -lit397 jet423 , every389 reclining316 mariner265 started492 to261 his433 feet349 as113 if141 some265 winged144 spirit227 had364 lighted422 in107 the19 rigging516 , and236 hailed411 the19 mortal371 crew126 . "There340 she391 blows361 !" Had364 the19 trump25 of89 judgment83 blown147 , they382 could375 not518 have254 quivered310 more348 ; yet443 still278 they382 felt440 no235 terror85 ; rather178 pleasure145 . For190 though400 it162 was454 a10 most216 unwonted481 hour384 , yet443 so281 impressive140 was454 the19 cry561 , and236 so281 deliriously110 exciting152 , that14 almost518 every389 soul428 on392 board540 instinctively210 desired480 a10 lowering240 . Walking523 the19 deck505 with449 quick241 , side246 -lunging280 strides423 , Ahab232 commanded571 the19 t500 'gallant323 sails344 and236 royals223 to261 be341 set422 , and236 every389 stunsail spread348 . The19 best315 man17 in107 the19 ship438 must226 take279 the19 helm285 . Then45 , with449 every389 mast44 -head116 manned282 , the19 piled126 -up405 craft187 rolled226 down133 before344 the19 wind262 . The19 strange440 , upheaving86 , lifting100 tendency68 of89 the19 taffrail83 breeze227 filling330 the19 hollows111 of89 so281 many282 sails344 , made563 the19 buoyant159 , hovering520 deck505 to261 feel461 like410 air209 beneath320 the19 feet349 ; while55 still278 she391 rushed199 along423 , as113 if141 two527 antagonistic425 influences232 were324 struggling107 in107 her400 --one470 to261 mount34 direct314 to261 heaven163 , the19 other282 to261 drive548 yawingly to261 some265 horizontal252 goal127 . And236 had364 you227 watched340 Ahab232 's483 face556 that14 night108 , you227 would282 have254 thought186 that14 in107 him248 also119 two527 different276 things4 were324 warring84 . While55 his433 one470 live554 leg331 made563 lively272 echoes48 along423 the19 deck505 , every389 stroke436 of89 his433 dead568 limb43 sounded163 like410 a10 coffin284 -tap367 . On392 life71 and236 death543 this256 old447 man17 walked92 . But330 though400 the19 ship438 so281 swiftly441 sped227 , and236 though400 from316 every389 eye220 , like410 arrows473 , the19 eager516 glances363 shot443 , yet443 the19 silvery42 jet423 was454 no235 more348 seen154 that14 night108 . Every389 sailor561 swore470 he362 saw113 it162 once248 , but330 not518 a10 second386 time577 . This256 midnight539 -spout224 had364 almost518 grown299 a10 forgotten170 thing309 , when189 , some265 days351 after358 , lo418 ! at65 the19 same541 silent382 hour384 , it162 was454 again52 announced451 : again52 it162 was454 descried313 by406 all145 ; but330 upon419 making415 sail218 to261 overtake410 it162 , once248 more348 it162 disappeared5 as113 if141 it162 had364 never206 been185 . And236 so281 it162 served460 us569 night108 after358 night108 , till181 no235 one470 heeded47 it162 but330 to261 wonder76 at65 it162 . Mysteriously275 jetted182 into554 the19 clear408 moonlight122 , or519 starlight325 , as113 the19 case346 might496 be341 ; disappearing392 again52 for190 one470 whole199 day112 , or519 two527 days351 , or519 three329 ; and236 somehow425 seeming59 at65 every389 distinct259 repetition403 to261 be341 advancing444 still278 further53 and236 further53 in107 our234 van164 , this256 solitary407 jet423 seemed132 for190 ever208 alluring295 us569 on392 . Nor137 with449 the19 immemorial52 superstition268 of89 their219 race392 , and236 in107 accordance369 with449 the19 preternaturalness, as113 it162 seemed132 , which16 in107 many282 things4 invested60 the19 Pequod288 , were324 there340 wanting361 some265 of89 the19 seamen6 who319 swore470 that14 whenever15 and236 wherever408 descried313 ; at65 however44 remote141 times121 , or519 in107 however44 far258 apart526 latitudes267 and236 longitudes252 , that14 unnearable spout224 was454 cast99 by406 one470 selfsame395 whale422 ; and236 that14 whale422 , Moby362 Dick25 . For190 a10 time577 , there340 reigned208 , too11 , a10 sense85 of89 peculiar291 dread251 at65 this256 flitting411 apparition143 , as113 if141 it162 were324 treacherously292 beckoning9 us569 on392 and236 on392 , in107 order343 that14 the19 monster480 might496 turn17 round287 upon419 us569 , and236 rend310 us569 at65 last436 in107 the19 remotest95 and236 most216 savage398 seas350 . These527 temporary235 apprehensions361 , so281 vague70 but330 so281 awful539 , derived494 a10 wondrous30 potency26 from316 the19 contrasting286 serenity27 of89 the19 weather405 , in107 which16 , beneath320 all145 its234 blue240 blandness4 , some265 thought186 there340 lurked453 a10 devilish181 charm251 , as113 for190 days351 and236 days351 we465 voyaged306 along423 , through295 seas350 so281 wearily434 , lonesomely242 mild117 , that14 all145 space468 , in107 repugnance92 to261 our234 vengeful504 errand264 , seemed132 vacating70 itself312 of89 life71 before344 our234 urn-like410 prow451 . But330 , at65 last436 , when189 turning69 to261 the19 eastward244 , the19 Cape23 winds399 began132 howling204 around66 us569 , and236 we465 rose449 and236 fell421 upon419 the19 long544 , troubled327 seas350 that14 are314 there340 ; when189 the19 ivory76 -tusked244 Pequod288 sharply135 bowed26 to261 the19 blast13 , and236 gored305 the19 dark471 waves443 in107 her400 madness282 , till181 , like410 showers128 of89 silver205 chips333 , the19 foamflakes flew424 over82 her400 bulwarks411 ; then45 all145 this256 desolate126 vacuity43 of89 life71 went516 away443 , but330 gave572 place107 to261 sights24 more348 dismal110 than77 before344 . Close65 to261 our234 bows460 , strange440 forms48 in107 the19 water520 darted362 hither342 and236 thither118 before344 us569 ; while55 thick502 in107 our234 rear252 flew424 the19 inscrutable29 sea67 -ravens. And236 every389 morning417 , perched151 on392 our234 stays324 , rows375 of89 these527 birds332 were324 seen154 ; and236 spite431 of89 our234 hootings129 , for190 a10 long544 time577 obstinately122 clung336 to261 the19 hemp245 , as113 though400 they382 deemed17 our234 ship438 some265 drifting445 , uninhabited146 craft187 ; a10 thing309 appointed82 to261 desolation143 , and236 therefore94 fit12 roosting-place92 for190 their219 homeless316 selves327 . And236 heaved52 and236 heaved52 , still278 unrestingly136 heaved52 the19 black581 sea67 , as113 if141 its234 vast43 tides36 were324 a10 conscience75 ; and236 the19 great259 mundane242 soul428 were324 in107 anguish75 and236 remorse130 for190 the19 long544 sin228 and236 suffering543 it162 had364 bred128 . Cape23 of89 Good221 Hope211 , do353 they382 call259 ye483 ? Rather178 Cape23 Tormentoto, as113 called237 of89 yore160 ; for190 long544 allured15 by406 the19 perfidious19 silences333 that14 before344 had364 attended206 us569 , we465 found260 ourselves15 launched336 into554 this256 tormented256 sea67 , where579 guilty290 beings6 transformed111 into554 those427 fowls206 and236 these527 fish187 , seemed132 condemned518 to261 swim226 on392 everlastingly44 without309 any501 haven432 in107 store420 , or519 beat449 that14 black581 air209 without309 any501 horizon516 . But330 calm39 , snow498 -white362 , and236 unvarying19 ; still278 directing215 its234 fountain524 of89 feathers386 to261 the19 sky331 ; still278 beckoning9 us569 on392 from316 before344 , the19 solitary407 jet423 would282 at65 times121 be341 descried313 . During309 all145 this256 blackness448 of89 the19 elements225 , Ahab232 , though400 assuming330 for190 the19 time577 the19 almost518 continual222 command190 of89 the19 drenched116 and236 dangerous2 deck505 , manifested440 the19 gloomiest336 reserve368 ; and236 more348 seldom140 than77 ever208 addressed169 his433 mates264 . In107 tempestuous431 times121 like410 these527 , after358 everything233 above502 and236 aloft276 has399 been185 secured284 , nothing324 more348 can450 be341 done135 but330 passively31 to261 await86 the19 issue117 of89 the19 gale440 . Then45 Captain295 and236 crew126 become548 practical74 fatalists152 . So281 , with449 his433 ivory76 leg331 inserted102 into554 its234 accustomed295 hole73 , and236 with449 one470 hand252 firmly308 grasping427 a10 shroud260 , Ahab232 for190 hours127 and236 hours127 would282 stand530 gazing117 dead568 to261 windward170 , while55 an138 occasional202 squall467 of89 sleet149 or519 snow498 would282 all145 but330 congeal32 his433 very515 eyelashes253 together440 . Meantime210 , the19 crew126 driven228 from316 the19 forward364 part207 of89 the19 ship438 by406 the19 perilous141 seas350 that14 burstingly broke356 over82 its234 bows460 , stood1 in107 a10 line25 along423 the19 bulwarks411 in107 the19 waist52 ; and236 the19 better34 to261 guard205 against417 the19 leaping397 waves443 , each520 man17 had364 slipped227 himself282 into554 a10 sort42 of89 bowline379 secured284 to261 the19 rail51 , in107 which16 he362 swung205 as113 in107 a10 loosened479 belt323 . Few49 or519 no235 words107 were324 spoken507 ; and236 the19 silent382 ship438 , as113 if141 manned282 by406 painted340 sailors64 in107 wax245 , day112 after358 day112 tore493 on392 through295 all145 the19 swift376 madness282 and236 gladness354 of89 the19 demoniac279 waves443 . By406 night108 the19 same541 muteness88 of89 humanity95 before344 the19 shrieks400 of89 the19 ocean224 prevailed233 ; still278 in107 silence309 the19 men62 swung205 in107 the19 bowlines141 ; still278 wordless402 Ahab232 stood1 up405 to261 the19 blast13 . Even198 when189 wearied229 nature159 seemed132 demanding4 repose463 he362 would282 not518 seek292 that14 repose463 in107 his433 hammock323 . Never206 could375 Starbuck forget426 the19 old447 man17 's415 aspect147 , when189 one470 night108 going227 down133 into554 the19 cabin192 to261 mark169 how19 the19 barometer98 stood1 , he362 saw113 him248 with449 closed523 eyes125 sitting136 straight346 in107 his433 floor418 -screwed453 chair253 ; the19 rain190 and236 half119 -melted398 sleet149 of89 the19 storm218 from316 which16 he362 had364 some265 time577 before344 emerged100 , still278 slowly149 dripping92 from316 the19 unremoved110 hat107 and236 coat7 . On392 the19 table572 beside276 him248 lay62 unrolled59 one470 of89 those427 charts98 of89 tides36 and236 currents218 which16 have254 previously250 been185 spoken507 of89 . His433 lantern220 swung205 from316 his433 tightly259 clenched198 hand252 . Though400 the19 body348 was454 erect245 , the19 head219 was454 thrown359 back457 so281 that14 the19 closed523 eyes125 were324 pointed413 towards417 the19 needle459 of89 the19 tell392 -tale132 that14 swung205 from316 a10 beam298 in107 the19 ceiling30 .* *The19 cabin192 -compass463 is487 called237 the19 tell392 -tale132 , because540 without309 going227 to261 the19 compass463 at65 the19 helm285 , the19 Captain295 , while55 below397 , can450 inform77 himself282 of89 the19 course171 of89 the19 ship438 . Terrible132 old447 man17 ! thought186 Starbuck with449 a10 shudder17 , sleeping341 in107 this256 gale440 , still278 thou173 steadfastly106 eyest thy43 purpose514 . CHAPTER293 52287 The19 Albatross298 South257 -eastward244 from316 the19 Cape23 , off111 the19 distant353 Crozetts, a10 good221 cruising298 ground127 for190 Right499 Whalemen451 , a10 sail218 loomed145 ahead5 , the19 Goney415 (Albatross298 ) by406 name477 . As113 she391 slowly149 drew175 nigh254 , from316 my36 lofty161 perch295 at65 the19 fore259 -mast98 -head219 , I482 had364 a10 good221 view370 of89 that14 sight365 so281 remarkable381 to261 a10 tyro83 in107 the19 far258 ocean224 fisheries6 -- a10 whaler91 at65 sea67 , and236 long544 absent122 from316 home450 . As113 if141 the19 waves443 had364 been185 fullers25 , this256 craft187 was454 bleached80 like410 the19 skeleton231 of89 a10 stranded299 walrus111 . All145 down133 her400 sides331 , this256 spectral120 appearance138 was454 traced507 with449 long544 channels247 of89 reddened394 rust19 , while55 all145 her400 spars15 and236 her400 rigging516 were324 like410 the19 thick502 branches364 of89 trees354 furred405 over82 with449 hoar-frost78 . Only517 her400 lower47 sails344 were324 set422 . A10 wild230 sight365 it162 was454 to261 see370 her400 long544 -bearded364 look523 -outs52 at65 those427 three329 mast44 -heads279 . They382 seemed132 clad457 in107 the19 skins337 of89 beasts359 , so281 torn237 and236 bepatched89 the19 raiment114 that14 had364 survived77 nearly575 four175 years116 of89 cruising298 . Standing144 in107 iron169 hoops170 nailed419 to261 the19 mast44 , they382 swayed136 and236 swung205 over82 a10 fathomless340 sea67 ; and236 though400 , when189 the19 ship438 slowly149 glided152 close65 under533 our234 stern442 , we465 six415 men62 in107 the19 air209 came549 so281 nigh254 to261 each520 other282 that14 we465 might496 almost518 have254 leaped314 from316 the19 mast44 -heads279 of89 one470 ship438 to261 those427 of89 the19 other282 ; yet443 , those427 forlorn89 -looking318 fishermen24 , mildly115 eyeing49 us569 as113 they382 passed87 , said252 not518 one470 word486 to261 our234 own248 look523 -outs52 , while55 the19 quarter6 -deck505 hail75 was454 being264 heard444 from316 below397 . "Ship438 ahoy26 ! Have254 ye483 seen154 the19 White82 Whale422 ?" But330 as113 the19 strange440 captain295 , leaning559 over82 the19 pallid22 bulwarks411 , was454 in107 the19 act10 of89 putting243 his433 trumpet104 to261 his433 mouth414 , it162 somehow425 fell421 from316 his433 hand252 into554 the19 sea67 ; and236 the19 wind262 now20 rising464 amain279 , he362 in107 vain216 strove180 to261 make175 himself282 heard444 without309 it162 . Meantime210 his433 ship438 was454 still278 increasing329 the19 distance264 between77 us569 . While55 in107 various183 silent382 ways101 the19 seamen6 of89 the19 Pequod288 were324 evincing187 their219 observance495 of89 this256 ominous70 incident339 at65 the19 first13 mere393 mention510 of89 the19 White82 Whale422 's483 name477 to261 another269 ship438 , Ahab232 for190 a10 moment258 paused390 ; it162 almost518 seemed132 as113 though400 he362 would282 have254 lowered279 a10 boat439 to261 board540 the19 stranger233 , had364 not518 the19 threatening193 wind262 forbade202 . But330 taking146 advantage169 of89 his433 windward170 position383 , he362 again52 seized337 his433 trumpet104 , and236 knowing240 by406 her400 aspect147 that14 the19 stranger233 vessel155 was454 a10 Nantucketer and236 shortly425 bound108 home450 , he362 loudly275 hailed411 --"Ahoy26 there340 ! This256 is487 the19 Pequod288 , bound108 round287 the19 world126 ! Tell392 them146 to261 address512 all145 future44 letters170 to261 the19 Pacific294 ocean224 ! and236 this256 time577 three329 years116 , if141 I482 am375 not518 at65 home450 , tell392 them146 to261 address512 them146 to261 -" At65 that14 moment258 the19 two527 wakes60 were324 fairly211 crossed202 , and236 instantly186 , then45 , in107 accordance369 with449 their219 singular216 ways101 , shoals340 of89 small350 harmless268 fish187 , that14 for190 some265 days351 before344 had364 been185 placidly29 swimming367 by406 our234 side246 , darted362 away443 with449 what243 seemed132 shuddering143 fins556 , and236 ranged435 themselves510 fore259 and236 aft2 with449 the19 stranger233 's483 flanks46 . Though400 in107 the19 course171 of89 his433 continual222 voyagings8 Ahab232 must226 often227 before344 have254 noticed157 a10 similar101 sight365 , yet443 , to261 any501 monomaniac336 man17 , the19 veriest192 trifles78 capriciously83 carry160 meanings186 . "Swim226 away443 from316 me2 , do353 ye483 ?" murmured238 Ahab232 , gazing117 over82 into554 the19 water520 . There340 seemed132 but330 little554 in107 the19 words107 , but330 the19 tone13 conveyed223 more348 of89 deep483 helpless26 sadness23 than77 the19 insane416 old447 man17 had364 ever208 before344 evinced94 . But330 turning69 to261 the19 steersman290 , who319 thus362 far258 had364 been185 holding311 the19 ship438 in107 the19 wind262 to261 diminish340 her400 headway492 , he362 cried506 out66 in107 his433 old447 lion84 voice233 ,--"Up405 helm285 ! Keep381 her400 off111 round287 the19 world126 !" Round287 the19 world126 ! There340 is487 much61 in107 that14 sound181 to261 inspire571 proud108 feelings120 ; but330 whereto306 does565 all145 that14 circumnavigation399 conduct161 ? Only517 through295 numberless4 perils140 to261 the19 very515 point438 whence494 we465 started492 , where579 those427 that14 we465 left159 behind80 secure92 , were324 all145 the19 time577 before344 us569 . Were324 this256 world126 an138 endless489 plain28 , and236 by406 sailing232 eastward244 we465 could375 for190 ever208 reach43 new36 distances110 , and236 discover291 sights24 more348 sweet417 and236 strange440 than77 any501 Cyclades141 or519 Islands59 of89 King324 Solomon8 , then45 there340 were324 promise461 in107 the19 voyage137 . But330 in107 pursuit305 of89 those427 far258 mysteries445 we465 dream86 of89 , or519 in107 tormented256 chase89 of89 that14 demon22 phantom101 that14 , some265 time577 or519 other282 , swims403 before344 all145 human43 hearts431 ; while55 chasing227 such420 over82 this256 round287 globe23 , they382 either45 lead362 us569 on392 in107 barren415 mazes485 or519 midway418 leave450 us569 whelmed89 . CHAPTER293 53219 The19 Gam437 The19 ostensible25 reason238 why177 Ahab232 did444 not518 go20 on392 board540 of89 the19 whaler91 we465 had364 spoken507 was454 this256 : the19 wind262 and236 sea67 betokened205 storms327 . But330 even198 had364 this256 not518 been185 the19 case346 , he362 would282 not518 after358 all145 , perhaps75 , have254 boarded52 her400 --judging288 by406 his433 subsequent312 conduct161 on392 similar101 occasions115 --if141 so281 it162 had364 been185 that14 , by406 the19 process29 of89 hailing400 , he362 had364 obtained186 a10 negative384 answer164 to261 the19 question562 he362 put190 . For190 , as113 it162 eventually163 turned492 out66 , he362 cared95 not518 to261 consort94 , even198 for190 five103 minutes368 , with449 any501 stranger233 captain295 , except545 he362 could375 contribute454 some265 of89 that14 information389 he362 so281 absorbingly557 sought82 . But330 all145 this256 might496 remain326 inadequately198 estimated5 , were324 not518 something181 said252 here135 of89 the19 peculiar291 usages262 of89 whaling155 -vessels198 when189 meeting183 each520 other282 in107 foreign198 seas350 , and236 especially371 on392 a10 common304 cruising298 -ground127 . If141 two527 strangers226 crossing402 the19 Pine54 Barrens152 in107 New36 York523 State135 , or519 the19 equally336 desolate126 Salisbury172 Plain28 in107 England348 ; if141 casually181 encountering332 each520 other282 in107 such420 inhospitable34 wilds110 , these527 twain313 , for190 the19 life71 of89 them146 , cannot well263 avoid444 a10 mutual35 salutation102 ; and236 stopping406 for190 a10 moment258 to261 interchange382 the19 news314 ; and236 , perhaps75 , sitting136 down133 for190 a10 while55 and236 resting455 in107 concert159 : then45 , how19 much61 more348 natural298 that14 upon419 the19 illimitable364 Pine54 Barrens152 and236 Salisbury172 Plains21 of89 the19 sea67 , two527 whaling155 vessels150 descrying141 each520 other282 at65 the19 ends301 of89 the19 earth513 --off111 lone19 Fanning363 's483 Island516 , or519 the19 far258 away443 King324 's483 Mills501 ; how19 much61 more348 natural298 , I482 say306 , that14 under533 such420 circumstances267 these527 ships21 should255 not518 only517 interchange382 hails192 , but330 come420 into554 still278 closer111 , more348 friendly495 and236 sociable263 contact263 . And236 especially371 would282 this256 seem404 to261 be341 a10 matter176 of89 course171 , in107 the19 case346 of89 vessels150 owned196 in107 one470 seaport296 , and236 whose286 captains124 , officers439 , and236 not518 a10 few49 of89 the19 men62 are314 personally64 known86 to261 each520 other282 ; and236 consequently441 , have254 all145 sorts354 of89 dear333 domestic303 things4 to261 talk173 about123 . For190 the19 long544 absent122 ship438 , the19 outward393 -bounder, perhaps75 , has399 letters170 on392 board540 ; at65 any501 rate515 , she391 will584 be341 sure41 to261 let66 her400 have254 some265 papers434 of89 a10 date261 a10 year347 or519 two527 later87 than77 the19 last436 one470 on392 her400 blurred310 and236 thumb141 -worn174 files225 . And236 in107 return407 for190 that14 courtesy239 , the19 outward393 -bound108 ship438 would282 receive327 the19 latest523 whaling155 intelligence30 from316 the19 cruising298 -ground127 to261 which16 she391 may236 be341 destined197 , a10 thing309 of89 the19 utmost43 importance579 to261 her400 . And236 in107 degree209 , all145 this256 will584 hold204 true483 concerning368 whaling155 vessels150 crossing402 each520 other282 's483 track169 on392 the19 cruising298 -ground127 itself312 , even198 though400 they382 are314 equally336 long544 absent122 from316 home450 . For190 one470 of89 them146 may236 have254 received12 a10 transfer549 of89 letters170 from316 some265 third301 , and236 now20 far258 remote141 vessel155 ; and236 some265 of89 those427 letters170 may236 be341 for190 the19 people482 of89 the19 ship438 she391 now20 meets518 . Besides465 , they382 would282 exchange342 the19 whaling155 news314 , and236 have254 an138 agreeable521 chat205 . For190 not518 only517 would282 they382 meet16 with449 all145 the19 sympathies396 of89 sailors64 , but330 likewise193 with449 all145 the19 peculiar291 congenialities arising303 from316 a10 common304 pursuit305 and236 mutually250 shared376 privations102 and236 perils140 . Nor137 would282 difference3 of89 country362 make175 any501 very515 essential124 difference3 ; that14 is487 , so281 long544 as113 both558 parties162 speak337 one470 language322 , as113 is487 the19 case346 with449 Americans81 and236 English69 . Though400 , to261 be341 sure41 , from316 the19 small350 number196 of89 English69 whalers116 , such420 meetings279 do353 not518 very515 often227 occur512 , and236 when189 they382 do353 occur512 there340 . is487 too11 apt40 to261 be341 a10 sort42 of89 shyness18 between77 them146 ; for190 your162 Englishman101 is487 rather178 reserved234 , and236 your162 Yankee211 , he362 does565 not518 fancy396 that14 sort42 of89 thing309 in107 anybody58 but330 himself282 . Besides465 , the19 English69 whalers116 sometimes77 affect298 a10 kind451 of89 metropolitan169 superiority507 over82 the19 American272 whalers116 ; regarding23 the19 long544 , lean279 Nantucketer, with449 his433 nondescript3 provincialisms165 , as113 a10 sort42 of89 sea67 -peasant61 . But330 where579 this256 superiority507 in107 the19 English69 whaleman98 does565 really406 consist103 , it162 would282 be341 hard337 to261 say306 , seeing426 that14 the19 Yankees44 in107 one470 day112 , collectively292 , kill219 more348 whales331 than77 all145 the19 English69 , collectively292 , in107 ten198 years116 . But330 this256 is487 a10 harmless268 little554 foible223 in107 the19 English69 whale422 -hunters423 , which16 the19 Nantucketer does565 not518 take279 much61 to261 heart470 ; probably244 , because540 he362 knows286 that14 he362 has399 a10 few49 foibles415 himself282 . So281 , then45 , we465 see370 that14 of89 all145 ships21 separately350 sailing232 the19 sea67 , the19 whalers116 have254 most216 reason238 to261 be341 sociable263 --and236 they382 are314 so281 . Whereas18 , some265 merchant332 ships21 crossing402 each520 other282 's483 wake205 in107 the19 mid84 -Atlantic198 , will584 oftentimes30 pass153 on392 without309 so281 much61 as113 a10 single77 word486 of89 recognition5 , mutually250 cutting454 each520 other282 on392 the19 high361 seas350 , like410 a10 brace403 of89 dandies340 in107 Broadway92 ; and236 all145 the19 time577 indulging413 , perhaps75 , in107 finical5 criticism262 upon419 each520 other282 's483 rig415 . As113 for190 Men62 -of89 -War169 , when189 they382 chance292 to261 meet16 at65 sea67 , they382 first13 go20 through295 such420 a10 string446 of89 silly314 bowings235 and236 scrapings83 , such420 a10 ducking156 of89 ensigns141 , that14 there340 does565 not518 seem404 to261 be341 much61 right499 -down133 hearty140 good221 -will214 and236 brotherly301 love391 about123 it162 at65 all145 . As113 touching80 Slave126 -ships21 meeting183 , why177 , they382 are314 in107 such420 a10 prodigious223 hurry183 , they382 run172 away443 from316 each520 other282 as113 soon18 as113 possible277 . And236 as113 for190 Pirates19 , when189 they382 chance292 to261 cross416 each520 other282 's483 cross416 -bones128 , the19 first13 hail75 is487 --"How19 many282 skulls136 ?"-- the19 same541 way435 that14 whalers116 hail75 --"How19 many282 barrels368 ?" And236 that14 question562 once248 answered100 , pirates19 straightway210 steer426 apart526 , for190 they382 are314 infernal84 villains2 on392 both558 sides331 , and236 don280 't500 like410 to261 see370 overmuch82 of89 each520 other282 's483 villanous336 likenesses270 . But330 look523 at65 the19 godly186 , honest287 , unostentatious247 , hospitable468 , sociable263 , free483 -and236 -easy281 whaler91 ! What243 does565 the19 whaler91 do353 when189 she391 meets518 another269 whaler91 in107 any501 sort42 of89 decent136 weather405 ? She391 has399 a10 "Gam437 ," a10 thing309 so281 utterly46 unknown10 to261 all145 other282 ships21 that14 they382 never206 heard444 of89 the19 name477 even198 ; and236 if141 by406 chance292 they382 should255 hear386 of89 it162 , they382 only517 grin401 at65 it162 , and236 repeat2 gamesome110 stuff471 about123 "spouters" and236 "blubber232 -boilers69 ," and236 such420 like410 pretty252 exclamations278 . Why177 it162 is487 that14 all145 Merchant332 -seamen6 , and236 also119 all145 Pirates19 and236 Man17 -of89 -War6 's483 men62 , and236 Slave126 -ship438 sailors64 , cherish181 such420 a10 scornful34 feeling384 towards417 Whale422 -ships21 ; this256 is487 a10 question562 it162 would282 be341 hard337 to261 answer164 . Because540 , in107 the19 case346 of89 pirates19 , say306 , I482 should255 like410 to261 know60 whether454 that14 profession202 of89 theirs137 has399 any501 peculiar291 glory173 about123 it162 . It162 sometimes77 ends301 in107 uncommon88 elevation272 , indeed522 ; but330 only517 at65 the19 gallows486 . And236 besides465 , when189 a10 man17 is487 elevated541 in107 that14 odd19 fashion467 , he362 has399 no235 proper249 foundation42 for190 his433 superior479 altitude315 . Hence503 , I482 conclude1 , that14 in107 boasting223 himself282 to261 be341 high361 lifted448 above502 a10 whaleman98 , in107 that14 assertion464 the19 pirate214 has399 no235 solid494 basis15 to261 stand530 on392 . But330 what243 is487 a10 Gam437 ? You227 might496 wear250 out66 your162 index270 -finger190 running296 up405 and236 down133 the19 columns262 of89 dictionaries417 , and236 never206 find138 the19 word486 , Dr364 . Johnson69 never206 attained177 to261 that14 erudition4 ; Noah69 Webster281 's483 ark25 does565 not518 hold204 it162 . Nevertheless104 , this256 same541 expressive234 word486 has399 now20 for190 many282 years116 been185 in107 constant149 use176 among483 some265 fifteen289 thousand586 true483 born236 Yankees44 . Certainly124 , it162 needs41 a10 definition1 , and236 should255 be341 incorporated129 into554 the19 Lexicon165 . With449 that14 view370 , let66 me2 learnedly117 define79 it162 . GAM437 . NOUN38 --A10 social149 meeting183 of89 two527 (or519 more348 ) Whaleships, generally402 on392 a10 cruising298 -ground127 ; when189 , after358 exchanging250 hails192 , they382 exchange342 visits444 by406 boats83 ' crews559 , the19 two527 captains124 remaining64 , for190 the19 time577 , on392 board540 of89 one470 ship438 , and236 the19 two527 chief156 mates264 on392 the19 other282 . There340 is487 another269 little554 item60 about123 Gamming which16 must226 not518 be341 forgotten170 here135 . All145 professions295 have254 their219 own248 little554 peculiarities38 of89 detail41 ; so281 has399 the19 whale422 fishery136 . In107 a10 pirate214 , man17 -of89 -war6 , or519 slave126 ship438 , when189 the19 captain295 is487 rowed411 anywhere436 in107 his433 boat439 , he362 always367 sits105 in107 the19 stern442 sheets281 on392 a10 comfortable402 , sometimes77 cushioned250 seat88 there340 , and236 often227 steers232 himself282 with449 a10 pretty252 little554 milliner104 's483 tiller445 decorated305 with449 gay323 cords388 and236 ribbons41 . But330 the19 whale422 -boat439 has399 no235 seat88 astern39 , no235 sofa34 of89 that14 sort42 whatever38 , and236 no235 tiller445 at65 all145 . High361 times121 indeed522 , if141 whaling155 captains124 were324 wheeled542 about123 the19 water520 on392 castors264 like410 gouty57 old447 aldermen199 in107 patent69 chairs19 . And236 as113 for190 a10 tiller445 , the19 whale422 -boat439 never206 admits309 of89 any501 such420 effeminacy173 ; and236 therefore94 as113 in107 gamming a10 complete191 boat439 's483 crew126 must226 leave450 the19 ship438 , and236 hence503 as113 the19 boat439 steerer217 or519 harpooneer is487 of89 the19 number196 , that14 subordinate204 is487 the19 steersman290 upon419 the19 occasion211 , and236 the19 captain295 , having69 no235 place107 to261 sit215 in107 , is487 pulled213 off111 to261 his433 visit229 all145 standing144 like410 a10 pine54 tree482 . And236 often227 you227 will584 notice76 that14 being264 conscious443 of89 the19 eyes125 of89 the19 whole199 visible94 world126 resting455 on392 him248 from316 the19 sides331 of89 the19 two527 ships21 , this256 standing144 captain295 is487 all145 alive298 to261 the19 importance579 of89 sustaining389 his433 dignity338 by406 maintaining140 his433 legs108 . Nor137 is487 this256 any501 very515 easy281 matter176 ; for190 in107 his433 rear252 is487 the19 immense301 projecting336 steering252 oar61 hitting127 him248 now20 and236 then45 in107 the19 small350 of89 his433 back457 , the19 after358 -oar61 reciprocating25 by406 rapping214 his433 knees214 in107 front196 . He362 is487 thus362 completely385 wedged55 before344 and236 behind80 , and236 can450 only517 expand254 himself282 sideways496 by406 settling98 down133 on392 his433 stretched63 legs108 ; but330 a10 sudden309 , violent336 pitch115 of89 the19 boat439 will584 often227 go20 far258 to261 topple199 him248 , because540 length202 of89 foundation42 is487 nothing324 without309 corresponding427 breadth252 . Merely57 make175 a10 spread348 angle205 of89 two527 poles122 , and236 you227 cannot stand530 them146 up405 . Then45 , again52 , it162 would282 never206 do353 in107 plain28 sight365 of89 the19 world126 's483 riveted264 eyes125 , it162 would282 never206 do353 , I482 say306 , for190 this256 straddling141 captain295 to261 be341 seen154 steadying107 himself282 the19 slightest44 particle26 by406 catching263 hold204 of89 anything480 with449 his433 hands87 ; indeed522 , as113 token502 of89 his433 entire230 , buoyant159 self442 -command190 , he362 generally402 carries440 his433 hands87 in107 his433 trowsers206 ' pockets240 ; but330 perhaps75 being264 generally402 very515 large385 , heavy421 hands87 , he362 carries440 them146 there340 for190 ballast58 . Nevertheless104 there340 have254 occurred205 instances252 , well263 authenticated30 ones396 too11 , where579 the19 captain295 has399 been185 known86 for190 an138 uncommonly194 critical38 moment258 or519 two527 , in107 a10 sudden309 squall467 say306 --to261 seize445 hold204 of89 the19 nearest26 oarsman60 's483 hair237 , and236 hold204 on392 there340 like410 grim19 death543 . CHAPTER293 54557 The19 Town172 -Ho31 's483 Story197 (As113 told82 at65 the19 Golden508 Inn190 ) The19 Cape23 of89 Good221 Hope211 , and236 all145 the19 watery59 region145 round287 about123 there340 , is487 much61 like410 some265 noted414 four175 corners124 of89 a10 great259 highway249 , where579 you227 meet16 more348 travellers491 than77 in107 any501 other282 part207 . It162 was454 not518 very515 long544 after358 speaking22 the19 Goney415 that14 another269 homeward282 -bound188 whaleman98 , the19 Town172 -Ho31 ,* was454 encountered102 . She391 was454 manned282 almost518 wholly497 by406 Polynesians350 . In107 the19 short522 gam437 that14 ensued337 she391 gave572 us569 strong145 news314 of89 Moby362 Dick25 . To261 some265 the19 general37 interest323 in107 the19 White82 Whale422 was454 now20 wildly356 heightened53 by406 a10 circumstance407 of89 the19 Town172 -Ho31 's483 story197 , which16 seemed132 obscurely193 to261 involve34 with449 the19 whale422 a10 certain31 wondrous30 , inverted93 visitation221 of89 one470 of89 those427 so281 called237 judgments481 of89 God185 which16 at65 times121 are314 said252 to261 overtake410 some265 men62 . This256 latter497 circumstance407 , with449 its234 own248 particular336 accompaniments25 , forming354 what243 may236 be341 called237 the19 secret409 part207 of89 the19 tragedy409 about123 to261 be341 narrated283 , never206 reached386 the19 ears560 of89 Captain295 Ahab232 or519 his433 mates264 . For190 that14 secret409 part207 of89 the19 story197 was454 unknown10 to261 the19 captain295 of89 the19 Town172 -Ho31 himself282 . It162 was454 the19 private541 property398 of89 three329 confederate69 white82 seamen6 of89 that14 ship438 , one470 of89 whom324 , it162 seems19 , communicated18 it162 to261 Tashtego with449 Romish160 injunctions137 of89 secrecy382 , but330 the19 following181 night108 Tashtego rambled219 in107 his433 sleep233 , and236 revealed530 so281 much61 of89 it162 in107 that14 way435 , that14 when189 he362 was454 wakened314 he362 could375 not518 well263 withhold141 the19 rest302 . Nevertheless104 , so281 potent422 an138 influence299 did444 this256 thing309 have254 on392 those427 seamen6 in107 the19 Pequod288 who319 came549 to261 the19 full414 knowledge270 of89 it162 , and236 by406 such420 a10 strange440 delicacy201 , to261 call259 it162 so281 , were324 they382 governed401 in107 this256 matter176 , that14 they382 kept290 the19 secret409 among483 themselves510 so281 that14 it162 never206 transpired162 abaft26 the19 Pequod288 's483 main501 -mast44 . Interweaving201 in107 its234 proper249 place107 this256 darker20 thread44 with449 the19 story197 as113 publicly230 narrated283 on392 the19 ship438 , the19 whole199 of89 this256 strange440 affair388 I482 now20 proceed367 to261 put190 on392 lasting74 record571 . *The19 ancient463 whale422 -cry561 upon419 first13 sighting454 a10 whale422 from316 the19 mast44 -head116 , still278 used102 by406 whalemen451 in107 hunting45 the19 famous254 Gallipagos283 terrapin170 . For190 my36 humor368 's483 sake523 , I482 shall66 preserve192 the19 style303 in107 which16 I482 once248 narrated283 it162 at65 Lima120 , to261 a10 lounging325 circle282 of89 my36 Spanish124 friends169 , one470 saint324 's483 eve245 , smoking470 upon419 the19 thick502 -gilt491 tiled291 piazza354 of89 the19 Golden508 Inn190 . Of89 those427 fine333 cavaliers44 , the19 young389 Dons70 , Pedro75 and236 Sebastian102 , were324 on392 the19 closer111 terms297 with449 me2 ; and236 hence503 the19 interluding questions300 they382 occasionally509 put190 , and236 which16 are314 duly163 answered100 at65 the19 time577 . "Some265 two527 years116 prior201 to261 my36 first13 learning219 the19 events390 which16 I482 am375 about123 rehearsing65 to261 you227 , gentlemen340 , the19 Town172 -Ho31 , Sperm26 Whaler91 of89 Nantucket283 , was454 cruising298 in107 your162 Pacific294 here135 , not518 very515 many282 days351 ' sail218 eastward244 from316 the19 eaves364 of89 this256 good221 Golden508 Inn190 . She391 was454 somewhere201 to261 the19 northward63 of89 the19 Line25 . One470 morning417 upon419 handling135 the19 pumps128 according281 to261 daily201 usage454 , it162 was454 observed340 that14 she391 made563 more348 water520 in107 her400 hold204 than77 common304 . They382 supposed423 a10 sword273 -fish187 had364 stabbed443 her400 , gentlemen340 . But330 the19 captain295 , having69 some265 unusual322 reason238 for190 believing64 that14 rare296 good221 luck453 awaited132 him248 in107 those427 latitudes267 ; and236 therefore94 being264 very515 averse5 to261 quit295 them146 , and236 the19 leak41 not518 being264 then45 considered484 at65 all145 dangerous2 , though400 , indeed522 , they382 could375 not518 find138 it162 after358 searching15 the19 hold204 as113 low407 down133 as113 was454 possible277 in107 rather178 heavy421 weather405 , the19 ship438 still278 continued44 her400 cruisings263 , the19 mariners347 working113 at65 the19 pumps128 at65 wide465 and236 easy281 intervals295 ; but330 no235 good221 luck453 came549 ; more348 days351 went516 by406 and236 not518 only517 was454 the19 leak41 yet443 undiscovered136 , but330 it162 sensibly232 increased406 . So281 much61 so281 , that14 now20 taking146 some265 alarm178 , the19 captain295 , making415 all145 sail218 , stood1 away443 for190 the19 nearest26 harbor289 among483 the19 islands59 , there340 to261 have254 his433 hull323 hove368 out66 and236 repaired143 . "Though400 no235 small350 passage285 was454 before344 her400 , yet443 , if141 the19 commonest52 chance292 favoured61 , he362 did444 not518 at65 all145 fear103 that14 his433 ship438 would282 founder120 by406 the19 way435 , because540 his433 pumps128 were324 of89 the19 best315 , and236 being264 periodically427 relieved158 at65 them146 , those427 six415 -and236 -thirty521 men62 of89 his433 could375 easily45 keep381 the19 ship438 free483 ; never206 mind118 if141 the19 leak41 should255 double20 on392 her400 . In107 truth350 , well263 nigh254 the19 whole199 of89 this256 passage285 being264 attended206 by406 very515 prosperous365 breezes127 , the19 Town172 -Ho31 had364 all145 but330 certainly124 arrived553 in107 perfect307 safety388 at65 her400 port409 without309 the19 occurrence497 of89 the19 least453 fatality223 , had364 it162 not518 been185 for190 the19 brutal134 overbearing285 of89 Radney, the19 mate508 , a10 Vineyarder, and236 the19 bitterly259 provoked38 vengeance72 of89 Steelkilt, a10 Lakeman and236 desperado303 from316 Buffalo299 . "'Lakeman!--Buffalo299 ! Pray311 , what243 is487 a10 Lakeman, and236 where579 is487 Buffalo299 ?' said252 Don280 Sebastian102 , rising464 in107 his433 swinging379 mat316 of89 grass418 . "On392 the19 eastern86 shore280 of89 our234 Lake43 Erie541 , Don280 ; but330 --I482 crave183 your162 courtesy239 --may236 be341 , you227 shall66 soon18 hear386 further53 of89 all145 that14 . Now20 , gentlemen340 , in107 square302 -sail218 brigs231 and236 three329 -masted241 ships21 , well263 nigh254 as113 large385 and236 stout29 as113 any501 that14 ever208 sailed248 out66 of89 your162 old447 Callao25 to261 far258 Manilla283 ; this256 Lakeman, in107 the19 land406 -locked83 heart470 of89 our234 America133 , had364 yet443 been185 nurtured31 by406 all145 those427 agrarian41 freebooting27 impressions110 popularly301 connected202 with449 the19 open464 ocean224 . For190 in107 their219 interflowing83 aggregate136 , those427 grand229 fresh540 -water159 seas350 of89 ours94 ,--Erie541 , and236 Ontario383 , and236 Huron93 , and236 Superior479 , and236 Michigan507 ,-- possess35 an138 ocean224 -like410 expansiveness335 , with449 many282 of89 the19 ocean224 's483 noblest140 traits264 ; with449 many282 of89 its234 rimmed41 varieties23 of89 races169 and236 of89 climes348 . They382 contain112 round287 archipelagoes83 of89 romantic133 isles425 , even198 as113 the19 Polynesian31 waters556 do353 ; in107 large385 part207 , are314 shored314 by406 two527 great259 contrasting286 nations274 , as113 the19 Atlantic198 is487 ; they382 furnish160 long544 maritime243 approaches141 to261 our234 numerous558 territorial8 colonies323 from316 the19 East524 , dotted399 all145 round287 their219 banks145 ; here135 and236 there340 are314 frowned30 upon419 by406 batteries435 , and236 by406 the19 goat113 -like410 craggy19 guns225 of89 lofty161 Mackinaw333 ; they382 have254 heard444 the19 fleet206 thunderings144 of89 naval152 victories502 ; at65 intervals295 , they382 yield39 their219 beaches364 to261 wild230 barbarians15 , whose286 red293 painted340 faces97 flash424 from316 out66 their219 peltry290 wigwams328 ; for190 leagues116 and236 leagues116 are314 flanked69 by406 ancient463 and236 unentered177 forests238 , where579 the19 gaunt62 pines398 stand530 like410 serried249 lines241 of89 kings474 in107 Gothic157 genealogies409 ; those427 same541 woods29 harboring261 wild230 Afric252 beasts359 of89 prey347 , and236 silken488 creatures5 whose286 exported106 furs13 give142 robes463 to261 Tartar21 Emperors247 ; they382 mirror543 the19 paved97 capitals154 of89 Buffalo299 and236 Cleveland138 , as113 well263 as113 Winnebago31 villages316 ; they382 float231 alike122 the19 full414 -rigged39 merchant332 ship438 , the19 armed299 cruiser214 of89 the19 State135 , the19 steamer11 , and236 the19 beech392 canoe290 ; they382 are314 swept305 by406 Borean20 and236 dismasting blasts245 as113 direful137 as113 any501 that14 lash266 the19 salted212 wave556 ; they382 know60 what243 shipwrecks232 are314 , for190 out66 of89 sight365 of89 land406 , however44 inland146 , they382 have254 drowned83 full414 many282 a10 midnight539 ship438 with449 all145 its234 shrieking516 crew126 . Thus362 , gentlemen340 , though400 an138 inlander, Steelkilt was454 wild230 -ocean224 born236 , and236 wild230 -ocean224 nurtured31 ; as113 much61 of89 an138 audacious142 mariner265 as113 any501 . And236 for190 Radney, though400 in107 his433 infancy371 he362 may236 have254 laid181 him248 down133 on392 the19 lone19 Nantucket283 beach183 , to261 nurse210 at65 his433 maternal371 sea67 ; though400 in107 after358 life71 he362 had364 long544 followed234 our234 austere454 Atlantic198 and236 your162 contemplative44 Pacific294 ; yet443 was454 he362 quite327 as113 vengeful504 and236 full414 of89 social149 quarrel315 as113 the19 backwoods44 seaman166 , fresh540 from316 the19 latitudes267 of89 buckhorn367 handled241 Bowie-knives80 . Yet443 was454 this256 Nantucketer a10 man17 with449 some265 good221 -hearted83 traits264 ; and236 this256 Lakeman, a10 mariner265 , who319 though400 a10 sort42 of89 devil411 indeed522 , might496 yet443 by406 inflexible264 firmness386 , only517 tempered270 by406 that14 common304 decency407 of89 human43 recognition5 which16 is487 the19 meanest486 slave126 's483 right499 ; thus362 treated277 , this256 Steelkilt had364 long544 been185 retained155 harmless268 and236 docile24 . At65 all145 events390 , he362 had364 proved312 so281 thus362 far258 ; but330 Radney was454 doomed54 and236 made563 mad235 , and236 Steelkilt--but330 , gentlemen340 , you227 shall66 hear386 . "It162 was454 not518 more348 than77 a10 day112 or519 two527 at65 the19 furthest361 after358 pointing295 her400 prow451 for190 her400 island516 haven432 , that14 the19 Town172 -Ho31 's483 leak41 seemed132 again52 increasing329 , but330 only517 so281 as113 to261 require228 an138 hour384 or519 more348 at65 the19 pumps128 every389 day112 . You227 must226 know60 that14 in107 a10 settled540 and236 civilized441 ocean224 like410 our234 Atlantic198 , for190 example479 , some265 skippers155 think424 little554 of89 pumping127 their219 whole199 way435 across129 it162 ; though400 of89 a10 still278 , sleepy452 night108 , should255 the19 officer70 of89 the19 deck505 happen352 to261 forget426 his433 duty468 in107 that14 respect441 , the19 probability377 would282 be341 that14 he362 and236 his433 shipmates98 would282 never206 again52 remember499 it162 , on392 account102 of89 all145 hands87 gently284 subsiding83 to261 the19 bottom461 . Nor137 in107 the19 solitary407 and236 savage398 seas350 far258 from316 you227 to261 the19 westward381 , gentlemen340 , is487 it162 altogether31 unusual322 for190 ships21 to261 keep381 clanging127 at65 their219 pump390 -handles314 in107 full414 chorus98 even198 for190 a10 voyage137 of89 considerable75 length202 ! that14 is487 , if141 it162 lie212 along423 a10 tolerably21 accessible163 coast287 , or519 if141 any501 other282 reasonable88 retreat506 is487 afforded37 them146 . It162 is487 only517 when189 a10 leaky299 vessel155 is487 in107 some265 very515 out66 of89 the19 way435 part207 of89 those427 waters556 , some265 really406 landless54 latitude258 , that14 her400 captain295 begins374 to261 feel461 a10 little554 anxious256 . "Much61 this256 way435 had364 it162 been185 with449 the19 Town172 -Ho31 ; so281 when189 her400 leak41 was454 found260 gaining225 once248 more348 , there340 was454 in107 truth350 some265 small350 concern180 manifested440 by406 several479 of89 her400 company280 ; especially371 by406 Radney the19 mate508 . He362 commanded571 the19 upper403 sails344 to261 be341 well263 hoisted367 , sheeted99 home450 anew262 , and236 every389 way435 expanded507 to261 the19 breeze227 . Now20 this256 Radney, I482 suppose120 , was454 as113 little554 of89 a10 coward92 , and236 as113 little554 inclined76 to261 any501 sort42 of89 nervous154 apprehensiveness4 touching80 his433 own248 person550 as113 any501 fearless132 , unthinking253 creature82 on392 land406 or519 on392 sea67 that14 you227 can450 conveniently253 imagine385 , gentlemen340 . Therefore94 when189 he362 betrayed498 this256 imagine385 , solicitude341 about123 the19 safety388 of89 the19 ship438 , some265 of89 the19 seamen6 declared29 that14 it162 was454 only517 on392 account102 of89 his433 being264 a10 part207 owner260 in107 her400 . So281 when189 they382 were324 working113 that14 evening581 at65 the19 pumps128 , there340 was454 on392 this256 head219 no235 small350 gamesomeness285 slily142 going227 on392 among483 them146 , as113 they382 stood1 with449 their219 feet349 continually303 overflowed336 by406 the19 rippling206 clear408 water520 ; clear408 as113 any501 mountain231 spring148 , gentlemen340 --that14 bubbling261 from316 the19 pumps128 ran391 across129 the19 deck505 , and236 poured476 itself312 out66 in107 steady21 spouts75 at65 the19 lee472 scupper-holes41 . "Now20 , as113 you227 well263 know60 , it162 is487 not518 seldom140 the19 case346 in107 this256 conventional201 world126 of89 ours94 --watery59 or519 otherwise542 ; that14 when189 a10 person550 placed556 in107 command190 over82 his433 fellow369 -men62 finds455 one470 of89 them146 to261 be341 very515 significantly23 his433 superior479 in107 general37 pride279 of89 manhood270 , straightway210 against417 that14 man17 he362 conceives105 an138 unconquerable398 dislike471 and236 bitterness7 ; and236 if141 he362 had364 a10 chance292 he362 will584 pull35 down133 and236 pulverize373 that14 subaltern78 's483 tower36 , and236 make175 a10 little554 heap31 of89 dust434 of89 it162 . Be341 this256 conceit58 of89 mine482 as113 it162 may236 , gentlemen340 , at65 all145 events390 Steelkilt was454 a10 tall373 and236 noble226 animal22 with449 a10 head219 like410 a10 Roman333 , and236 a10 flowing298 golden508 beard23 like410 the19 tasseled105 housings454 of89 your162 last436 viceroy141 's483 snorting238 charger64 ; and236 a10 brain158 , and236 a10 heart470 , and236 a10 soul428 in107 him248 , gentlemen340 , which16 had364 made563 Steelkilt Charlemagne292 , had364 he362 been185 born236 son26 to261 Charlemagne292 's483 father339 . But330 Radney, the19 mate508 , was454 ugly101 as113 a10 mule461 ; yet443 as113 hardy241 , as113 stubborn452 , as113 malicious361 . He362 did444 not518 love391 Steelkilt, and236 Steelkilt knew480 it162 . "Espying498 the19 mate508 drawing407 near70 as113 he362 was454 toiling371 at65 the19 pump390 with449 the19 rest302 , the19 Lakeman affected283 not518 to261 notice76 him248 , but330 unawed246 , went516 on392 with449 his433 gay323 banterings. "'Aye86 , aye86 , my36 merry486 lads252 , it162 's483 a10 lively272 leak41 this256 ; hold204 a10 cannikin2 , one470 of89 ye483 , and236 let66 's483 have254 a10 taste134 . By406 the19 Lord106 , it162 's483 worth84 bottling434 ! I482 tell392 ye483 what243 , men62 , old447 Rad551 's483 investment31 must226 go20 for190 it162 ! he362 had364 best315 cut310 away443 his433 part207 of89 the19 hull323 and236 tow160 it162 home450 . The19 fact12 is487 , boys22 , that14 sword273 -fish187 only517 began132 the19 job269 ; he362 's483 come420 back457 again52 with449 a10 gang522 of89 ship438 -carpenters185 , saw113 -fish187 , and236 file322 -fish187 , and236 what243 not518 ; and236 the19 whole199 posse102 of89 'em are314 now20 hard337 at65 work385 cutting454 and236 slashing41 at65 the19 bottom461 ; making415 improvements57 , I482 suppose120 . If141 old447 Rad551 were324 here135 now20 , I482 'd67 tell392 him248 to261 jump50 overboard247 and236 scatter246 'em. They382 're155 playing471 the19 devil411 with449 his433 estate24 , I482 can450 tell392 him248 . But330 he362 's483 a10 simple271 old447 soul428 ,--Rad551 , and236 a10 beauty262 too11 . Boys22 , they382 say306 the19 rest302 of89 his433 property398 is487 invested60 in107 looking318 -glasses527 . I482 wonder76 if141 he362 'd67 give142 a10 poor533 devil411 like410 me2 the19 model413 of89 his433 nose176 .' "'Damn468 your162 eyes125 ! what243 's483 that14 pump390 stopping406 for190 ?' roared315 Radney, pretending475 not518 to261 have254 heard444 the19 sailors64 ' talk173 . 'Thunder356 away443 at65 it162 !' 'Aye86 , aye86 , sir271 ,' said252 Steelkilt, merry486 as113 a10 cricket111 . 'Lively272 , boys22 , lively272 , now20 !' And236 with449 that14 the19 pump390 clanged132 like410 fifty406 fire559 -engines294 ; the19 men62 tossed227 their219 hats379 off111 to261 it162 , and236 ere83 long544 that14 peculiar291 gasping363 of89 the19 lungs40 was454 heard444 which16 denotes52 the19 fullest82 tension101 of89 life71 's483 utmost43 energies404 . "Quitting155 the19 pump390 at65 last436 , with449 the19 rest302 of89 his433 band541 , the19 Lakeman went516 forward364 all145 panting553 , and236 sat77 himself282 down133 on392 the19 windlass231 ; his433 face556 fiery42 red293 , his433 eyes125 bloodshot26 , and236 wiping497 the19 profuse182 sweat132 from316 his433 brow474 . Now20 what243 cozening105 fiend59 it162 was454 , gentlemen340 , that14 possessed95 Radney to261 meddle217 with449 such420 a10 man17 in107 that14 corporeally282 exasperated190 state135 , I482 know60 not518 ; but330 so281 it162 happened156 . Intolerably181 striding110 along423 the19 deck505 , the19 mate508 commanded571 him248 to261 get126 a10 broom559 and236 sweep471 down133 the19 planks284 , and236 also119 a10 shovel107 , and236 remove306 some265 offensive117 matters515 consequent61 upon419 allowing282 a10 pig241 to261 run172 at65 large385 . "Now20 , gentlemen340 , sweeping61 a10 ship438 's483 deck505 at65 sea67 is487 a10 piece121 of89 household67 work385 which16 in107 all145 times121 but330 raging173 gales42 is487 regularly37 attended206 to261 every389 evening581 ; it162 has399 been185 known86 to261 be341 done135 in107 the19 case346 of89 ships21 actually69 foundering283 at65 the19 time577 . Such420 , gentlemen340 , is487 the19 inflexibility365 of89 sea67 -usages262 and236 the19 instinctive66 love391 of89 neatness35 in107 seamen6 ; some265 of89 whom324 would282 not518 willingly390 drown522 without309 first13 washing338 their219 faces97 . But330 in107 all145 vessels150 this256 broom559 business168 is487 the19 prescriptive368 province162 of89 the19 boys22 , if141 boys22 there340 be341 aboard298 . Besides465 , it162 was454 the19 stronger234 men62 in107 the19 Town172 -Ho31 that14 had364 been185 divided469 into554 gangs348 , taking146 turns136 at65 the19 pumps128 ; and236 being264 the19 most216 athletic34 seaman166 of89 them146 all145 , Steelkilt had364 been185 regularly37 assigned457 captain295 of89 one470 of89 the19 gangs348 ; consequently441 he362 should255 have254 been185 freed23 from316 any501 trivial92 business168 not518 connected202 with449 truly530 nautical42 duties137 , such420 being264 the19 case346 with449 his433 comrades410 . I482 mention510 all145 these527 particulars230 so281 that14 you227 may236 understand111 exactly315 how19 this256 affair388 stood1 between77 the19 two527 men62 . "But330 there340 was454 more348 than77 this256 : the19 order343 about123 the19 shovel107 was454 almost518 as113 plainly450 meant157 to261 sting225 and236 insult38 Steelkilt, as113 though400 Radney had364 spat115 in107 his433 face556 . Any501 man17 who319 has399 gone190 sailor561 in107 a10 whale422 -ship98 will584 understand111 this256 ; and236 all145 this256 and236 doubtless101 much61 more348 , the19 Lakeman fully530 comprehended104 when189 the19 mate508 uttered454 his433 command190 . But330 as113 he362 sat77 still278 for190 a10 moment258 , and236 as113 he362 steadfastly106 looked232 into554 the19 mate508 's483 malignant23 eye220 and236 perceived76 the19 stacks416 of89 powder5 -casks265 heaped211 up405 in107 him248 and236 the19 slow96 -match441 silently533 burning70 along423 towards417 them146 ; as113 he362 instinctively210 saw113 all145 this256 , that14 strange440 forbearance180 and236 unwillingness277 to261 stir290 up405 the19 deeper253 passionateness210 in107 any501 already93 ireful394 being264 --a10 repugnance92 most216 felt440 , when189 felt440 at65 all145 , by406 really406 valiant359 men62 even198 when189 aggrieved133 -- this256 nameless427 phantom101 feeling384 , gentlemen340 , stole135 over82 Steelkilt. "Therefore94 , in107 his433 ordinary225 tone13 , only517 a10 little554 broken255 by406 the19 bodily172 exhaustion430 he362 was454 temporarily22 in107 , he362 answered100 him248 saying9 that14 sweeping61 the19 deck505 was454 not518 his433 business168 , and236 he362 would282 not518 do353 it162 . And236 then45 , without309 at65 all145 alluding243 to261 the19 shovel107 , he362 pointed413 to261 three329 lads252 , as113 the19 customary79 sweepers50 ; who319 , not518 being264 billeted27 at65 the19 pumps128 , had364 done135 little554 or519 nothing324 all145 day112 . To261 this256 , Radney replied163 , with449 an138 oath115 , in107 a10 most216 domineering98 and236 outrageous247 manner153 unconditionally124 reiterating27 his433 command190 ; meanwhile282 advancing444 upon419 the19 still278 seated158 Lakeman, with449 an138 uplifted533 cooper35 's483 club83 hammer364 which16 he362 had364 snatched513 from316 a10 cask503 near70 by406 . "Heated269 and236 irritated204 as113 he362 was454 by406 his433 spasmodic303 toil89 at65 the19 pumps128 , for190 all145 his433 first13 nameless427 feeling384 of89 forbearance180 the19 sweating391 Steelkilt could375 but330 ill236 brook490 this256 bearing354 in107 the19 mate508 ; but330 somehow425 still278 smothering223 the19 conflagration225 within503 him248 , without309 speaking22 he362 remained72 doggedly180 rooted232 to261 his433 seat88 , till181 at65 last436 the19 incensed136 Radney shook161 the19 hammer364 within503 a10 few49 inches301 of89 his433 face556 , furiously252 commanding76 him248 to261 do353 his433 bidding340 . "Steelkilt rose449 , and236 slowly149 retreating106 round287 the19 windlass231 , steadily379 followed234 by406 the19 mate508 with449 his433 menacing285 hammer364 , deliberately336 repeated381 his433 intention272 not518 to261 obey67 . Seeing426 , however44 , that14 his433 forbearance180 had364 not518 the19 slightest44 effect215 , by406 an138 awful539 and236 unspeakable4 intimation363 with449 his433 twisted279 hand252 he362 warned508 off111 the19 foolish509 and236 infatuated4 man17 ; but330 it162 was454 to261 no235 purpose514 . And236 in107 this256 way435 the19 two527 went516 once248 slowly149 round287 the19 windlass231 ; when189 , resolved158 at65 last436 no235 longer559 to261 retreat506 , bethinking40 him248 that14 he362 had364 now20 forborne361 as113 much61 as113 comported290 with449 his433 humor368 , the19 Lakeman paused390 on392 the19 hatches4 and236 thus362 spoke185 to261 the19 officer70 : "'Mr219 . Radney, I482 will584 not518 obey67 you227 . Take279 that14 hammer364 away443 , or519 look523 to261 yourself176 .' But330 the19 predestinated332 mate508 coming140 still278 closer111 to261 him248 , where579 the19 Lakeman stood1 fixed564 , now20 shook161 the19 heavy421 hammer364 within503 an138 inch65 of89 his433 teeth82 ; meanwhile282 repeating160 a10 string446 of89 insufferable295 maledictions165 . Retreating106 not518 the19 thousandth120 part207 of89 an138 inch65 ; stabbing300 him248 in107 the19 eye220 with449 the19 unflinching92 poniard19 of89 his433 glance362 , Steelkilt, clenching64 his433 right499 hand252 behind80 him248 and236 creepingly210 drawing407 it162 back457 , told82 his433 persecutor110 that14 if141 the19 hammer364 but330 grazed39 his433 cheek327 he362 (Steelkilt) would282 murder448 him248 . But330 , gentlemen340 , the19 fool5 had364 been185 branded474 for190 the19 slaughter81 by406 the19 gods325 . Immediately172 the19 hammer364 touched367 the19 cheek327 ; the19 next27 instant279 the19 lower47 jaw213 of89 the19 mate508 was454 stove373 in107 his433 head219 ; he362 fell421 on392 the19 hatch241 spouting81 blood208 like410 a10 whale422 . "Ere83 the19 cry561 could375 go20 aft2 Steelkilt was454 shaking206 one470 of89 the19 backstays98 leading59 far258 aloft276 to261 where579 two527 of89 his433 comrades410 were324 standing144 their219 mastheads157 . They382 were324 both558 Canallers. "'Canallers!' cried506 Don280 Pedro75 . 'We465 have254 seen154 many282 whaleships in107 our234 harbors348 , but330 never206 heard444 of89 your162 Canallers. Pardon143 : who319 and236 what243 are314 they382 ?' "'Canallers, Don280 , are314 the19 boatmen116 belonging168 to261 our234 grand229 Erie541 Canal29 . You227 must226 have254 heard444 of89 it162 .' "'Nay358 , Senor296 ; hereabouts116 in107 this256 dull546 , warm178 , most216 lazy182 , and236 hereditary125 land406 , we465 know60 but330 little554 of89 your162 vigorous113 North174 .' "'Aye86 ? Well263 then45 , Don280 , refill102 my36 cup13 . Your162 chicha350 's483 very515 fine333 ; and236 ere83 proceeding422 further53 I482 will584 tell392 ye483 what243 our234 Canallers are314 ; for190 such420 information389 may236 throw345 side246 -light382 upon419 my36 story197 .' "For190 three329 hundred93 and236 sixty332 miles278 , gentlemen340 , through295 the19 entire230 breadth252 of89 the19 state135 of89 New36 York523 ; through295 numerous558 populous4 cities346 and236 most216 thriving321 villages316 ; through295 long544 , dismal110 , uninhabited146 swamps201 , and236 affluent315 , cultivated140 fields64 , unrivalled154 for190 fertility270 ; by406 billiard110 -room65 and236 bar144 -room65 ; through295 the19 holy61 -of89 -holies of89 great259 forests238 ; on392 Roman333 arches314 over82 Indian303 rivers320 ; through295 sun397 and236 shade116 ; by406 happy416 hearts431 or519 broken255 ; through295 all145 the19 wide465 contrasting286 scenery102 of89 those427 noble226 Mohawk4 counties478 ; and236 especially371 , by406 rows375 of89 snow498 -white362 chapels129 , whose286 spires115 stand530 almost518 like410 milestones27 , flows6 one470 continual222 stream184 of89 Venetianly corrupt501 and236 often227 lawless461 life71 . There340 's483 your162 true483 Ashantee399 , gentlemen340 ; there340 howl283 your162 pagans295 ; where579 you227 ever208 find138 them146 , next27 door135 to261 you227 ; under533 the19 long544 -flung255 shadow438 , and236 the19 snug310 patronizing367 lee472 of89 churches44 . For190 by406 some265 curious264 fatality223 , as113 it162 is487 often227 noted414 of89 your162 metropolitan169 freebooters92 that14 they382 ever208 encamp109 around66 the19 halls55 of89 justice7 , so281 sinners196 , gentlemen340 , most216 abound15 in107 holiest359 vicinities. "'Is487 that14 a10 friar216 passing147 ?' said252 Don280 Pedro75 , looking318 downwards468 into554 the19 crowded95 plazza, with449 humorous7 concern180 . "'Well263 for190 our234 northern252 friend179 , Dame449 Isabella401 's483 Inquisition339 wanes142 in107 Lima120 ,' laughed166 Don280 Sebastian102 . 'Proceed367 , Senor296 .' "'A10 moment258 ! Pardon143 !' cried506 another269 of89 the19 company280 . 'In107 the19 name477 of89 all145 us569 Limeese, I482 but330 desire241 to261 express91 to261 you227 , sir271 sailor561 , that14 we465 have254 by406 no235 means502 overlooked183 your162 delicacy201 in107 not518 substituting143 present112 Lima120 for190 distant353 Venice173 in107 your162 corrupt501 comparison255 . Oh367 ! do353 not518 bow146 and236 look523 surprised55 : you227 know60 the19 proverb204 all145 along423 this256 coast287 --"Corrupt501 as113 Lima120 ." It162 but330 bears97 out66 your162 saying9 , too11 ; churches44 more348 plentiful19 than77 billiard110 -tables13 , and236 for190 ever208 open464 -and236 "Corrupt501 as113 Lima120 ." So281 , too11 , Venice173 ; I482 have254 been185 there340 ; the19 holy61 city82 of89 the19 blessed473 evangelist4 , St193 . Mark169 !--St193 . Dominic287 , purge27 it162 ! Your162 cup13 ! Thanks68 : here135 I482 refill102 ; now20 , you227 pour415 out66 again52 .' "Freely386 depicted46 in107 his433 own248 vocation408 , gentlemen340 , the19 Canaller would282 make175 a10 fine333 dramatic317 hero213 , so281 abundantly76 and236 picturesquely83 wicked5 is487 he362 . Like410 Mark169 Antony105 , for190 days351 and236 days351 along423 his433 green549 -turfed, flowery284 Nile553 , he362 indolently536 floats36 , openly196 toying402 with449 his433 red293 -cheeked Cleopatra25 , ripening132 his433 apricot83 thigh108 upon419 the19 sunny200 deck505 . But330 ashore122 , all145 this256 effeminacy173 is487 dashed304 . The19 brigandish guise110 which16 the19 Canaller so281 proudly345 sports438 ; his433 slouched364 and236 gaily275 -ribboned hat107 betoken204 his433 grand229 features150 . A10 terror85 to261 the19 smiling232 innocence236 of89 the19 villages316 through295 which16 he362 floats36 ; his433 swart32 visage279 and236 bold356 swagger3 are314 not518 unshunned531 in107 cities346 . Once248 a10 vagabond137 on392 his433 own248 canal29 , I482 have254 received12 good221 turns136 from316 one470 of89 these527 Canallers; I482 thank166 him248 heartily254 ; would282 fain264 be341 not518 ungrateful389 ; but330 it162 is487 often227 one470 of89 the19 prime425 redeeming399 qualities21 of89 your162 man17 of89 violence486 , that14 at65 times121 he362 has399 as113 stiff549 an138 arm25 to261 back457 a10 poor533 stranger233 in107 a10 strait324 , as113 to261 plunder59 a10 wealthy434 one470 . In107 sum213 , gentlemen340 , what243 the19 wildness424 of89 this256 canal29 life71 is487 , is487 emphatically127 evinced94 by406 this256 ; that14 our234 wild230 whale422 -fishery136 contains81 so281 many282 of89 its234 most216 finished218 graduates287 , and236 that14 scarce462 any501 race392 of89 mankind40 , except545 Sydney463 men62 , are314 so281 much61 distrusted136 by406 our234 whaling155 captains124 . Nor137 does565 it162 at65 all145 diminish340 the19 curiousness151 of89 this256 matter176 , that14 to261 many282 thousands7 of89 our234 rural359 boys22 and236 young389 men62 born236 along423 its234 line25 , the19 probationary102 life71 of89 the19 Grand229 Canal29 furnishes165 the19 sole462 transition59 between77 quietly380 reaping355 in107 a10 Christian235 corn237 -field275 , and236 recklessly72 ploughing140 the19 waters556 of89 the19 most216 barbaric559 seas350 . "'I482 see370 ! I482 see370 !' impetuously86 exclaimed281 Don280 Pedro75 , spilling25 his433 chicha350 upon419 his433 silvery42 ruffles44 . 'No235 need32 to261 travel362 ! The19 world126 's483 one470 Lima120 . I482 had364 thought186 , now20 , that14 at65 your162 temperate241 North174 the19 generations124 were324 cold330 and236 holy61 as113 the19 hills352 .-- But330 the19 story197 .' "I482 had364 left159 off111 , gentlemen340 , where579 the19 Lakeman shook161 the19 backstay206 . Hardly182 had364 he362 done135 so281 , when189 he362 was454 surrounded75 by406 the19 three329 junior24 mates264 and236 the19 four175 harpooneers, who319 all145 crowded95 him248 to261 the19 deck505 . But330 sliding540 down133 the19 ropes461 like410 baleful504 comets27 , the19 two527 Canallers rushed199 into554 the19 uproar111 , and236 sought82 to261 drag426 their219 man17 out66 of89 it162 towards417 the19 forecastle367 . Others317 of89 the19 sailors64 joined210 with449 them146 in107 this256 attempt385 , and236 a10 twisted279 turmoil97 ensued337 ; while55 standing144 out66 of89 harm191 's483 way435 , the19 valiant359 captain295 danced316 up405 and236 down133 with449 a10 whale422 -pike412 , calling56 upon419 his433 officers439 to261 manhandle364 that14 atrocious141 scoundrel320 , and236 smoke99 him248 along423 to261 the19 quarter6 -deck505 . At65 intervals295 , he362 ran391 close65 up405 to261 the19 revolving21 border197 of89 the19 confusion495 , and236 prying513 into554 the19 heart470 of89 it162 with449 his433 pike412 , sought82 to261 prick189 out66 the19 object100 of89 his433 resentment133 . But330 Steelkilt and236 his433 desperadoes92 were324 too11 much61 for190 them146 all145 ; they382 succeeded76 in107 gaining225 the19 forecastle367 deck505 , where579 , hastily155 slewing364 about123 three329 or519 four175 large385 casks213 in107 a10 line25 with449 the19 windlass231 , these527 sea67 -Parisians entrenched127 themselves510 behind80 the19 barricade387 . "'Come420 out66 of89 that14 , ye483 pirates19 !' roared315 the19 captain295 , now20 menacing285 them146 with449 a10 pistol167 in107 each520 hand252 , just108 brought85 to261 him248 by406 the19 steward82 . 'Come420 out66 of89 that14 , ye483 cut310 -throats338 !' "Steelkilt leaped314 on392 the19 barricade387 , and236 striding110 up405 and236 down133 there340 , defied156 the19 worst241 the19 pistols213 could375 do353 ; but330 gave572 the19 captain295 to261 understand111 distinctly26 , that14 his433 (Steelkilt's483 ) death543 would282 be341 the19 signal264 for190 a10 murderous86 mutiny193 on392 the19 part207 of89 all145 hands87 . Fearing475 in107 his433 heart470 lest499 this256 might496 prove396 but330 too11 true483 , the19 captain295 a10 little554 desisted227 , but330 still278 commanded571 the19 insurgents83 instantly186 to261 return407 to261 their219 duty468 . "'Will584 you227 promise461 not518 to261 touch486 us569 , if141 we465 do353 ?' demanded223 their219 ringleader198 . "'Turn17 to261 ! turn17 to261 !--I482 make175 no235 promise461 ; to261 your162 duty468 ! Do353 you227 want350 to261 sink190 the19 ship438 , by406 knocking82 off111 at65 a10 time577 like410 this256 ? Turn17 to261 !' and236 he362 once248 more348 raised493 a10 pistol167 . "'Sink190 the19 ship438 ?' cried506 Steelkilt. 'Aye86 , let66 her400 sink190 . Not518 a10 man17 of89 us569 turns136 to261 , unless54 you227 swear322 not518 to261 raise265 a10 rope265 -yarn98 against417 us569 . What243 say306 ye483 , men62 ?' turning69 to261 his433 comrades410 . A10 fierce394 cheer337 was454 their219 response7 . "The19 Lakeman now20 patrolled147 the19 barricade387 , all145 the19 while55 keeping482 his433 eye220 on392 the19 Captain295 , and236 jerking2 out66 such420 sentences248 as113 these527 :-- 'It162 's483 not518 our234 fault428 ; we465 didn't500 want350 it162 ; I482 told82 him248 to261 take279 his433 hammer364 away443 ; it162 was454 boy110 's483 business168 ; he362 might496 have254 known86 me2 before344 this256 ; I482 told82 him248 not518 to261 prick189 the19 buffalo299 ; I482 believe191 I482 have254 broken255 a10 finger190 here135 against417 his433 cursed441 jaw213 ; ain't500 those427 mincing237 knives140 down133 in107 the19 forecastle367 there340 , men62 ? look523 to261 those427 handspikes209 , my36 hearties248 . Captain295 , by406 God185 , look523 to261 yourself176 ; say306 the19 word486 ; don280 't500 be341 a10 fool5 ; forget426 it162 all145 ; we465 are314 ready464 to261 turn17 to261 ; treat270 us569 decently149 , and236 we465 're155 your162 men62 ; but330 we465 won't500 be341 flogged36 .' "'Turn17 to261 ! I482 make175 no235 promises146 , turn17 to261 , I482 say306 !' "'Look523 ye483 , now20 ,' cried506 the19 Lakeman, flinging389 out66 his433 arm25 towards417 him248 , 'there340 are314 a10 few49 of89 us569 here135 (and236 I482 am375 one470 of89 them146 ) who319 have254 shipped26 for190 the19 cruise117 , d67 'ye163 see370 ; now20 as113 you227 well263 know60 , sir271 , we465 can450 claim217 our234 discharge320 as113 soon18 as113 the19 anchor141 is487 down133 ; so281 we465 don280 't500 want350 a10 row328 ; it162 's483 not518 our234 interest323 ; we465 want350 to261 be341 peaceable31 ; we465 are314 ready464 to261 work385 , but330 we465 won't500 be341 flogged36 .' "'Turn17 to261 !' roared315 the19 Captain295 . "Steelkilt glanced411 round287 him248 a10 moment258 , and236 then45 said252 :--'I482 tell392 you227 what243 it162 is487 now20 , Captain295 , rather178 than77 kill219 ye483 , and236 be341 hung479 for190 such420 a10 shabby24 rascal231 , we465 won't500 lift229 a10 hand252 against417 ye483 unless54 ye483 attack74 us569 ; but330 till181 you227 say306 the19 word486 about123 not518 flogging60 us569 , we465 don280 't500 do353 a10 hand252 's483 turn17 .' "'Down133 into554 the19 forecastle367 then45 , down133 with449 ye483 , I482 'll300 keep381 ye483 there340 till181 ye483 're155 sick250 of89 it162 . Down133 ye483 go20 .' "'Shall66 we465 ?' cried506 the19 ringleader198 to261 his433 men62 . Most216 of89 them146 were324 against417 it162 ; but330 at65 length202 , in107 obedience74 to261 Steelkilt, they382 preceded518 him248 down133 into554 their219 dark471 den299 , growlingly446 disappearing392 , like410 bears97 into554 a10 cave84 . "As113 the19 Lakeman's483 bare245 head219 was454 just108 level378 with449 the19 planks284 , the19 Captain295 and236 his433 posse102 leaped314 the19 barricade387 , and236 rapidly116 drawing407 over82 the19 slide118 of89 the19 scuttle27 , planted82 their219 group104 of89 hands87 upon419 it162 , and236 loudly275 called237 for190 the19 steward82 to261 bring173 the19 heavy421 brass63 padlock330 belonging168 to261 the19 companionway14 . Then45 opening306 the19 slide118 a10 little554 , the19 Captain295 whispered89 something181 down133 the19 crack83 , closed523 it162 , and236 turned492 the19 key140 upon419 them146 --ten198 in107 number196 -- leaving231 on392 deck505 some265 twenty433 or519 more348 , who319 thus362 far258 had364 remained72 neutral434 . "All145 night108 a10 wide465 -awake255 watch89 was454 kept290 by406 all145 the19 officers439 , forward364 and236 aft2 , especially371 about123 the19 forecastle367 scuttle27 and236 fore259 hatchway64 ; at65 which16 last436 place107 it162 was454 feared39 the19 insurgents83 might496 emerge369 , after358 breaking6 through295 the19 bulkhead364 below397 . But330 the19 hours127 of89 darkness493 passed87 in107 peace216 ; the19 men62 who319 still278 remained72 at65 their219 duty468 toiling371 hard337 at65 the19 pumps128 , whose286 clinking540 and236 clanking250 at65 intervals295 through295 the19 dreary445 night108 dismally122 resounded213 through295 the19 ship438 . "At65 sunrise445 the19 Captain295 went516 forward364 , and236 knocking82 on392 the19 deck505 , summoned77 the19 prisoners254 to261 work385 ; but330 with449 a10 yell316 they382 refused412 . Water520 was454 then45 lowered279 down133 to261 them146 , and236 a10 couple261 of89 handfuls106 of89 biscuit369 were324 tossed227 after358 it162 ; when189 again52 turning69 the19 key140 upon419 them146 and236 pocketing83 it162 , the19 Captain295 returned214 to261 the19 quarter6 -deck505 . Twice366 every389 day112 for190 three329 days351 this256 was454 repeated381 ; but330 on392 the19 fourth399 morning417 a10 confused117 wrangling31 , and236 then45 a10 scuffling76 was454 heard444 , as113 the19 customary79 summons63 was454 delivered120 ; and236 suddenly193 four175 men62 burst174 up405 from316 the19 forecastle367 , saying9 they382 were324 ready464 to261 turn17 to261 . The19 fetid132 closeness83 of89 the19 air209 , and236 a10 famishing106 diet110 , united419 perhaps75 to261 some265 fears259 of89 ultimate221 retribution25 , had364 constrained471 them146 to261 surrender314 at65 discretion396 . Emboldened29 by406 this256 , the19 Captain295 reiterated205 his433 demand320 to261 the19 rest302 , but330 Steelkilt shouted300 up405 to261 him248 a10 terrific315 hint335 to261 stop48 his433 babbling279 and236 betake257 himself282 where579 he362 belonged455 . On392 the19 fifth403 morning417 three329 others317 of89 the19 mutineers59 bolted74 up405 into554 the19 air209 from316 the19 desperate316 arms536 below397 that14 sought82 to261 restrain357 them146 . Only517 three329 were324 left159 . "'Better34 turn17 to261 , now20 ?' said252 the19 Captain295 with449 a10 heartless190 jeer186 . "'Shut59 us569 up405 again52 , will584 ye483 !' cried506 Steelkilt. "Oh367 ! certainly124 ," said252 the19 Captain295 , and236 the19 key140 clicked279 . "It162 was454 at65 this256 point438 , gentlemen340 , that14 enraged19 by406 the19 defection399 of89 seven188 of89 his433 former157 associates125 , and236 stung34 by406 the19 mocking315 voice233 that14 had364 last436 hailed411 him248 , and236 maddened273 by406 his433 long544 entombment25 in107 a10 place107 as113 black581 as113 the19 bowels499 of89 despair187 ; it162 was454 then45 that14 Steelkilt proposed328 to261 the19 two527 Canallers, thus362 far258 apparently261 of89 one470 mind118 with449 him248 , to261 burst174 out66 of89 their219 hole73 at65 the19 next27 summoning74 of89 the19 garrison20 ; and236 armed299 with449 their219 keen202 mincing237 knives140 (long544 , crescentic4 , heavy421 implements420 with449 a10 handle546 at65 each520 end149 ) run172 amuck136 from316 the19 bowsprit120 to261 the19 taffrail83 ; and236 if141 by406 any501 devilishness83 of89 desperation27 possible277 , seize445 the19 ship438 . For190 himself282 , he362 would282 do353 this256 , he362 said252 , whether454 they382 joined210 him248 or519 not518 . That14 was454 the19 last436 night108 he362 should255 spend357 in107 that14 den299 . But330 the19 scheme337 met130 with449 no235 opposition312 on392 the19 part207 of89 the19 other282 two527 ; they382 swore470 they382 were324 ready464 for190 that14 , or519 for190 any501 other282 mad235 thing309 , for190 anything480 in107 short522 but330 a10 surrender314 . And236 what243 was454 more348 , they382 each520 insisted138 upon419 being264 the19 first13 man17 on392 deck505 , when189 the19 time577 to261 make175 the19 rush6 should255 come420 . But330 to261 this256 their219 leader353 as113 fiercely111 objected67 , reserving125 that14 priority165 for190 himself282 ; particularly106 as113 his433 two527 comrades410 would282 not518 yield39 , the19 one470 to261 the19 other282 , in107 the19 matter176 ; and236 both558 of89 them146 could375 not518 be341 first13 , for190 the19 ladder391 would282 but330 admit321 one470 man17 at65 a10 time577 . And236 here135 , gentlemen340 , the19 foul528 play89 of89 these527 miscreants366 must226 come420 out66 . "Upon419 hearing325 the19 frantic211 project158 of89 their219 leader353 , each520 in107 his433 own248 separate495 soul428 had364 suddenly193 lighted422 , it162 would282 seem404 , upon419 the19 same541 piece121 of89 treachery349 , namely324 : to261 be341 the19 foremost61 in107 breaking6 out66 , in107 order343 to261 be341 the19 first13 of89 the19 three329 , though400 the19 last436 of89 the19 ten198 , to261 surrender314 ; and236 thereby190 secure92 whatever38 small350 chance292 of89 pardon143 such420 conduct161 might496 merit353 . But330 when189 Steelkilt made563 known86 his433 determination35 still278 to261 lead362 them146 to261 the19 last436 , they382 in107 some265 way435 , by406 some265 subtle143 chemistry232 of89 villany505 , mixed459 their219 before344 secret409 treacheries146 together440 ; and236 when189 their219 leader353 fell421 into554 a10 doze260 , verbally4 opened461 their219 souls82 to261 each520 other282 in107 three329 sentences248 ; and236 bound108 the19 sleeper136 with449 cords388 , and236 gagged265 him248 with449 cords388 ; and236 shrieked151 out66 for190 the19 Captain295 at65 midnight539 . "Thinking385 murder448 at65 hand252 , and236 smelling160 in107 the19 dark471 for190 the19 blood208 , he362 and236 all145 his433 armed299 mates264 and236 harpooneers rushed199 for190 the19 forecastle367 . In107 a10 few49 minutes368 the19 scuttle27 was454 opened461 , and236 , bound108 hand252 and236 foot467 , the19 still278 struggling107 ringleader198 was454 shoved136 up405 into554 the19 air209 by406 his433 perfidious19 allies31 , who319 at65 once248 claimed125 the19 honor497 of89 securing93 a10 man17 who319 had364 been185 fully530 ripe238 for190 murder448 . But330 all145 these527 were324 collared253 , and236 dragged460 along423 the19 deck505 like410 dead568 cattle264 ; and236 , side246 by406 side246 , were324 seized337 up405 into554 the19 mizzen4 rigging516 , like410 three329 quarters336 of89 meat160 , and236 there340 they382 hung479 till181 morning417 . 'Damn468 ye483 ,' cried506 the19 Captain295 , pacing253 to261 and236 fro183 before344 them146 , 'the19 vultures107 would282 not518 touch486 ye483 , ye483 villains2 !' "At65 sunrise445 he362 summoned77 all145 hands87 ; and236 separating105 those427 who319 had364 rebelled269 from316 those427 who319 had364 taken222 no235 part207 in107 the19 mutiny193 , he362 told82 the19 former157 that14 he362 had364 a10 good221 mind118 to261 flog21 them146 all145 round287 --thought186 , upon419 the19 while55 , he362 would282 do353 so281 --he362 ought170 to261 --justice7 demanded223 it162 ; but330 for190 the19 present112 , considering115 their219 timely305 surrender314 , he362 would282 let66 them146 go20 with449 a10 reprimand83 , which16 he362 accordingly249 administered410 in107 the19 vernacular417 . "'But330 as113 for190 you227 , ye483 carrion111 rogues495 ,' turning69 to261 the19 three329 men62 in107 the19 rigging516 --'for190 you227 , I482 mean504 to261 mince221 ye483 up405 for190 the19 try266 -pots184 ;' and236 , seizing327 a10 rope265 , he362 applied122 it162 with449 all145 his433 might496 to261 the19 backs480 of89 the19 two527 traitors472 , till181 they382 yelled61 no235 more348 , but330 lifelessly339 hung479 their219 heads366 sideways496 , as113 the19 two527 crucified169 thieves437 are314 drawn564 . "'My36 wrist117 is487 sprained415 with449 ye483 !' he362 cried506 , at65 last436 ; 'but330 there340 is487 still278 rope265 enough217 left159 for190 you227 , my36 fine333 bantam27 , that14 wouldn't500 give142 up405 . Take279 that14 gag446 from316 his433 mouth414 , and236 let66 us569 hear386 what243 he362 can450 say306 for190 himself282 .' "For190 a10 moment258 the19 exhausted552 mutineer64 made563 a10 tremulous264 motion544 of89 his433 cramped340 jaws341 , and236 then45 painfully547 twisting445 round287 his433 head219 , said252 in107 a10 sort42 of89 hiss117 , 'What243 I482 say306 is487 this256 --and236 mind118 it162 well263 --- if141 you227 flog21 me2 , I482 murder448 you227 !' "'Say306 ye483 so281 ? then45 see370 how19 ye483 frighten202 me2 '--and236 the19 Captain295 drew175 off111 with449 the19 rope265 to261 strike374 . "'Best315 not518 ,' hissed29 the19 Lakeman. "'But330 I482 must226 ,'--and236 the19 rope265 was454 once248 more348 drawn564 back457 for190 the19 stroke436 . "Steelkilt here135 hissed29 out66 something181 , inaudible516 to261 all145 but330 the19 Captain295 ; who319 , to261 the19 amazement223 of89 all145 hands87 , started492 back457 , paced145 the19 deck505 rapidly116 two527 or519 three329 times121 , and236 then45 suddenly193 throwing120 down133 his433 rope265 , said252 , 'I482 won't500 do353 it162 --let66 him248 go20 -- cut310 him248 down133 : d67 'ye163 hear386 ?' But330 as113 the19 junior24 mates264 were324 hurrying339 to261 execute518 the19 order343 , a10 pale292 man17 , with449 a10 bandaged168 head219 , arrested266 them146 --Radney the19 chief156 mate508 . Ever208 since374 the19 blow230 , he362 had364 lain424 in107 his433 berth283 ; but330 that14 morning417 , hearing325 the19 tumult269 on392 the19 deck505 , he362 had364 crept165 out66 , and236 thus362 far258 had364 watched340 the19 whole199 scene228 . Such420 was454 the19 state135 of89 his433 mouth414 , that14 he362 could375 hardly182 speak337 ; but330 mumbling278 something181 about123 his433 being264 willing514 and236 able362 to261 do353 what243 the19 captain295 dared294 not518 attempt385 , he362 snatched513 the19 rope265 and236 advanced55 to261 his433 pinioned279 foe479 . "'You227 are314 a10 coward92 !' hissed29 the19 Lakeman. "'So281 I482 am375 , but330 take279 that14 .' The19 mate508 was454 in107 the19 very515 act10 of89 striking22 , when189 another269 hiss117 stayed117 his433 uplifted533 arm25 . He362 paused390 : and236 then45 pausing19 no235 more348 , made563 good221 his433 word486 , spite431 of89 Steelkilt's483 threat518 , whatever38 that14 might496 have254 been185 . The19 three329 men62 were324 then45 cut310 down133 , all145 hands87 were324 turned492 to261 , and236 , sullenly361 worked245 by406 the19 moody447 seamen6 , the19 iron169 pumps128 clanged132 as113 before344 . "Just108 after358 dark471 that14 day112 , when189 one470 watch89 had364 retired158 below397 , a10 clamor173 was454 heard444 in107 the19 forecastle367 ; and236 the19 two527 trembling280 traitors472 running296 up405 , besieged427 the19 cabin192 door135 , saying9 they382 durst441 not518 consort94 with449 the19 crew126 . Entreaties169 , cuffs248 , and236 kicks370 could375 not518 drive548 them146 back457 , so281 at65 their219 own248 instance141 they382 were324 put190 down133 in107 the19 ship438 's483 run172 for190 salvation346 . Still278 , no235 sign8 of89 mutiny193 reappeared59 among483 the19 rest302 . On392 the19 contrary166 , it162 seemed132 , that14 mainly34 at65 Steelkilt's483 instigation146 , they382 had364 resolved158 to261 maintain357 the19 strictest154 peacefulness169 , obey67 all145 orders199 to261 the19 last436 , and236 , when189 the19 ship438 reached386 port409 , desert255 her400 in107 a10 body348 . But330 in107 order343 to261 insure339 the19 speediest330 end149 to261 the19 voyage137 , they382 all145 agreed481 to261 another269 thing309 --namely324 , not518 to261 sing549 out66 for190 whales331 , in107 case346 any501 should255 be341 discovered36 . For190 , spite431 of89 her400 leak41 , and236 spite431 of89 all145 her400 other282 perils140 , the19 Town172 -Ho31 still278 maintained345 her400 mast44 -heads279 , and236 her400 captain295 was454 just108 as113 willing514 to261 lower47 for190 a10 fish187 that14 moment258 , as113 on392 the19 day112 his433 craft187 first13 struck441 the19 cruising298 ground127 ; and236 Radney the19 mate508 was454 quite327 as113 ready464 to261 change386 his433 berth283 for190 a10 boat439 , and236 with449 his433 bandaged168 mouth414 seek292 to261 gag446 in107 death543 the19 vital204 jaw213 of89 the19 whale422 . "But330 though400 the19 Lakeman had364 induced45 the19 seamen6 to261 adopt105 this256 sort42 of89 passiveness19 in107 their219 conduct161 , he362 kept290 his433 own248 counsel437 (at65 least453 till181 all145 was454 over82 ) concerning368 his433 own248 proper249 and236 private541 revenge140 upon419 the19 man17 who319 had364 stung34 him248 in107 the19 ventricles367 of89 his433 heart470 . He362 was454 in107 Radney the19 chief156 mate508 's483 watch89 ; and236 as113 if141 the19 infatuated4 man17 sought82 to261 run172 more348 than77 half119 way435 to261 meet16 his433 doom73 , after358 the19 scene228 at65 the19 rigging516 , he362 insisted138 , against417 the19 express91 counsel437 of89 the19 captain295 , upon419 resuming283 the19 head219 of89 his433 watch89 at65 night108 . Upon419 this256 , and236 one470 or519 two527 other282 circumstances267 , Steelkilt systematically102 built20 the19 plan99 of89 his433 revenge140 . "During309 the19 night108 , Radney had364 an138 unseaman-like410 way435 of89 sitting136 on392 the19 bulwarks411 of89 the19 quarterdeck120 , and236 leaning559 his433 arm25 upon419 the19 gunwale198 of89 the19 boat439 which16 was454 hoisted367 up405 there340 , a10 little554 above502 the19 ship438 's483 side246 . In107 this256 attitude100 , it162 was454 well263 known86 , he362 sometimes77 dozed127 . There340 was454 a10 considerable75 vacancy11 between77 the19 boat439 and236 the19 ship438 , and236 down133 between77 this256 was454 the19 sea67 . Steelkilt calculated321 his433 time577 , and236 found260 that14 his433 next27 trick26 at65 the19 helm285 would282 come420 round287 at65 two527 o24 'clock489 , in107 the19 morning417 of89 the19 third301 day112 from316 that14 in107 which16 he362 had364 been185 betrayed498 . At65 his433 leisure215 , he362 employed263 the19 interval114 in107 braiding345 something181 very515 carefully374 in107 his433 watches458 below397 . "'What243 are314 you227 making415 there340 ?' said252 a10 shipmate283 . "'What243 do353 you227 think424 ? what243 does565 it162 look523 like410 ?' "'Like410 a10 lanyard369 for190 your162 bag141 ; but330 it162 's483 an138 odd19 one470 , seems19 to261 me2 .' 'Yes143 , rather178 oddish,' said252 the19 Lakeman, holding311 it162 at65 arm25 's483 length202 before344 him248 ; 'but330 I482 think424 it162 will584 answer164 . Shipmate283 , I482 haven432 't500 enough217 twine104 ,--have254 you227 any501 ?' "But330 there340 was454 none365 in107 the19 forecastle367 . "'Then45 I482 must226 get126 some265 from316 old447 Rad551 ;' and236 he362 rose449 to261 go20 aft2 . "'You227 don280 't500 mean504 to261 go20 a10 begging104 to261 him248 !' said252 a10 sailor561 . "'Why177 not518 ? Do353 you227 think424 he362 won't500 do353 me2 a10 turn17 , when189 it162 's483 to261 help526 himself282 in107 the19 end149 , shipmate283 ?' and236 going227 to261 the19 mate508 , he362 looked232 at65 him248 quietly380 , and236 asked369 him248 for190 some265 twine104 to261 mend220 his433 hammock323 . It162 was454 given141 him248 --neither74 twine104 nor137 lanyard369 were324 seen154 again52 ; but330 the19 next27 night108 an138 iron169 ball141 , closely218 netted83 , partly311 rolled226 from316 the19 pocket461 of89 the19 Lakeman's483 monkey335 jacket481 , as113 he362 was454 tucking89 the19 coat7 into554 his433 hammock323 for190 a10 pillow376 . Twenty433 -four175 hours127 after358 , his433 trick26 at65 the19 silent382 helm285 -- nigh254 to261 the19 man17 who319 was454 apt40 to261 doze260 over82 the19 grave344 always367 ready464 dug165 to261 the19 seaman166 's483 hand252 --that14 fatal460 hour384 was454 then45 to261 come420 ; and236 in107 the19 fore259 -ordaining soul428 of89 Steelkilt, the19 mate508 was454 already93 stark376 and236 stretched63 as113 a10 corpse133 , with449 his433 forehead380 crushed197 in107 . "But330 , gentlemen340 , a10 fool5 saved446 the19 would282 -be341 murderer498 from316 the19 bloody357 deed101 he362 had364 planned66 . Yet443 complete191 revenge140 he362 had364 , and236 without309 being264 the19 avenger489 . For190 by406 a10 mysterious304 fatality223 , Heaven163 itself312 seemed132 to261 step204 in107 to261 take279 out66 of89 his433 hands87 into554 its234 own248 the19 damning169 thing309 he362 would282 have254 done135 . "It162 was454 just108 between77 daybreak18 and236 sunrise445 of89 the19 morning417 of89 the19 second386 day112 , when189 they382 were324 washing338 down133 the19 decks386 , that14 a10 stupid107 Teneriffe172 man17 , drawing407 water520 in107 the19 main501 -chains283 , all145 at65 once248 shouted300 out66 , 'There340 she391 rolls475 ! there340 she391 rolls475 !' Jesu163 , what243 a10 whale422 ! It162 was454 Moby362 Dick25 . "'Moby362 Dick25 !' cried506 Don280 Sebastian102 ; 'St193 . Dominic287 ! Sir271 sailor561 , but330 do353 whales331 have254 christenings27 ? Whom324 call259 you227 Moby362 Dick25 ?' "'A10 very515 white82 , and236 famous254 , and236 most216 deadly49 immortal15 monster480 , Don280 ;-- but330 that14 would282 be341 too11 long544 a10 story197 .' "'How19 ? how19 ?' cried506 all145 the19 young389 Spaniards117 , crowding283 . "'Nay358 , Dons70 , Dons70 --nay358 , nay358 ! I482 cannot rehearse382 that14 now20 . Let66 me2 get126 more348 into554 the19 air209 , Sirs275 .' "'The19 chicha350 ! the19 chicha350 !' cried506 Don280 Pedro75 ; 'our234 vigorous113 friend179 looks150 faint316 ;--fill380 up405 his433 empty450 glass27 !' "No235 need32 , gentlemen340 ; one470 moment258 , and236 I482 proceed367 .--Now20 , gentlemen340 , so281 suddenly193 perceiving88 the19 snowy152 whale422 within503 fifty406 yards386 of89 the19 ship438 -- forgetful156 of89 the19 compact446 among483 the19 crew126 --in107 the19 excitement60 of89 the19 moment258 , the19 Teneriffe172 man17 had364 instinctively210 and236 involuntarily124 lifted448 his433 voice233 for190 the19 monster480 , though400 for190 some265 little554 time577 past111 it162 had364 been185 plainly450 beheld132 from316 the19 three329 sullen335 mast44 -heads279 . All145 was454 now20 a10 phrensy314 . 'The19 White82 Whale422 --the19 White82 Whale422 !' was454 the19 cry561 from316 captain295 , mates264 , and236 harpooneers, who319 , undeterred337 by406 fearful183 rumours240 , were324 all145 anxious256 to261 capture361 so281 famous254 and236 precious234 a10 fish187 ; while55 the19 dogged432 crew126 eyed363 askance306 , and236 with449 curses497 , the19 appalling282 beauty262 of89 the19 vast43 milky23 mass36 , that14 lit26 up405 by406 a10 horizontal252 spangling320 sun397 , shifted167 and236 glistened424 like410 a10 living117 opal116 in107 the19 blue240 morning417 sea67 . Gentlemen340 , a10 strange440 fatality223 pervades196 the19 whole199 career165 of89 these527 events390 , as113 if141 verily113 mapped22 out66 before344 the19 world126 itself312 was454 charted135 . The19 mutineer64 was454 the19 bowsman290 of89 the19 mate508 , and236 when189 fast208 to261 a10 fish187 , it162 was454 his433 duty468 to261 sit215 next27 him248 , while55 Radney stood1 up405 with449 his433 lance76 in107 the19 prow451 , and236 haul19 in107 or519 slacken241 the19 line25 , at65 the19 word486 of89 command190 . Moreover326 , when189 the19 four175 boats83 were324 lowered279 , the19 mate508 's483 got286 the19 start117 ; and236 none365 howled333 more348 fiercely111 with449 delight25 than77 did444 Steelkilt, as113 he362 strained516 at65 his433 oar61 . After358 a10 stiff549 pull35 , their219 harpooneer got286 fast208 , and236 , spear188 in107 hand252 , Radney sprang253 to261 the19 bow146 . He362 was454 always367 a10 furious89 man17 , it162 seems19 , in107 a10 boat439 . And236 now20 his433 bandaged168 cry561 was454 , to261 beach183 him248 on392 the19 whale422 's483 topmost346 back457 . Nothing324 loath473 , his433 bowsman290 hauled80 him248 up405 and236 up405 , through295 a10 blinding298 foam160 that14 blent160 two527 whitenesses together440 ; till181 of89 a10 sudden309 the19 boat439 struck441 as113 against417 a10 sunken83 ledge244 , and236 keeling117 over82 , spilled434 out66 the19 standing144 mate508 . That14 instant279 , as113 he362 fell421 on392 the19 whale422 's483 slippery204 back457 , the19 boat439 righted240 , and236 was454 dashed304 aside408 by406 the19 swell280 , while55 Radney was454 tossed227 over82 into554 the19 sea67 , on392 the19 other282 flank434 of89 the19 whale422 . He362 struck441 out66 through295 the19 spray76 , and236 , for190 an138 instant279 , was454 dimly298 seen154 through295 that14 veil69 , wildly356 seeking427 to261 remove306 himself282 from316 the19 eye220 of89 Moby362 Dick25 . But330 the19 whale422 rushed199 round287 in107 a10 sudden309 maelstrom367 ; seized337 the19 swimmer105 between77 his433 jaws341 ; and236 rearing251 high361 up405 with449 him248 , plunged340 headlong4 again52 , and236 went516 down133 . "Meantime210 , at65 the19 first13 tap367 of89 the19 boat439 's483 bottom461 , the19 Lakeman had364 slackened31 the19 line25 , so281 as113 to261 drop22 astern39 from316 the19 whirlpool23 ; calmly170 looking318 on392 , he362 thought186 his433 own248 thoughts26 . But330 a10 sudden309 , terrific315 , downward157 jerking2 of89 the19 boat439 , quickly183 brought85 his433 knife503 to261 the19 line25 . He362 cut310 it162 ; and236 the19 whale422 was454 free483 . But330 , at65 some265 distance264 , Moby362 Dick25 rose449 again52 , with449 some265 tatters89 of89 Radney's483 red293 woollen27 shirt413 , caught105 in107 the19 teeth82 that14 had364 destroyed197 him248 . All145 four175 boats83 gave572 chase89 again52 ; but330 the19 whale422 eluded40 them146 , and236 finally69 wholly497 disappeared5 . "In107 good221 time577 , the19 Town172 -Ho31 reached386 her400 port409 --a10 savage398 , solitary407 place107 -- where579 no235 civilized441 creature82 resided77 . There340 , headed124 by406 the19 Lakeman, all145 but330 five103 or519 six415 of89 the19 foremastmen deliberately336 deserted178 among483 the19 palms173 ; eventually163 , as113 it162 turned492 out66 , seizing327 a10 large385 double20 war169 -canoe290 of89 the19 savages247 , and236 setting151 sail218 for190 some265 other282 harbor289 . "The19 ship438 's483 company280 being264 reduced275 to261 but330 a10 handful330 , the19 captain295 called237 upon419 the19 Islanders279 to261 assist7 him248 in107 the19 laborious17 business168 of89 heaving174 down133 the19 ship438 to261 stop48 the19 leak41 . But330 to261 such420 unresting128 vigilance124 over82 their219 dangerous2 allies31 was454 this256 small350 band541 of89 whites418 necessitated541 , both558 by406 night108 and236 by406 day112 , and236 so281 extreme31 was454 the19 hard337 work385 they382 underwent241 , that14 upon419 the19 vessel155 being264 ready464 again52 for190 sea67 , they382 were324 in107 such420 a10 weakened256 condition62 that14 the19 captain295 durst441 not518 put190 off111 with449 them146 in107 so281 heavy421 a10 vessel155 . After358 taking146 counsel437 with449 his433 officers439 , he362 anchored42 the19 ship438 as113 far258 off111 shore280 as113 possible277 ; loaded55 and236 ran391 out66 his433 two527 cannon515 from316 the19 bows460 ; stacked261 his433 muskets399 on392 the19 poop400 ; and236 warning531 the19 Islanders279 not518 to261 approach23 the19 ship438 at65 their219 peril565 , took68 one470 man17 with449 him248 , and236 setting151 the19 sail218 of89 his433 best315 whale422 -boat439 , steered106 straight346 before344 the19 wind262 for190 Tahiti183 , five103 hundred93 miles278 distant353 , to261 procure209 a10 reinforcement166 to261 his433 crew126 . "On392 the19 fourth399 day112 of89 the19 sail218 , a10 large385 canoe290 was454 descried313 , which16 seemed132 to261 have254 touched367 at65 a10 low407 isle41 of89 corals330 . He362 steered106 away443 from316 it162 ; but330 the19 savage398 craft187 bore27 down133 on392 him248 ; and236 soon18 the19 voice233 of89 Steelkilt hailed411 him248 to261 heave308 to261 , or519 he362 would282 run172 him248 under533 water520 . The19 captain295 presented320 a10 pistol167 . With449 one470 foot467 on392 each520 prow451 of89 the19 yoked417 war169 -canoes28 , the19 Lakeman laughed166 him248 to261 scorn8 ; assuring86 him248 that14 if141 the19 pistol167 so281 much61 as113 clicked279 in107 the19 lock297 , he362 would282 bury354 him248 in107 bubbles552 and236 foam160 . "'What243 do353 you227 want350 of89 me2 ?' cried506 the19 captain295 . "'Where579 are314 you227 bound108 ? and236 for190 what243 are314 you227 bound108 ?' demanded223 Steelkilt; 'no235 lies27 .' "'I482 am375 bound108 to261 Tahiti183 for190 more348 men62 .' "'Very515 good221 . Let66 me2 board540 you227 a10 moment258 --I482 come420 in107 peace216 .' With449 that14 he362 leaped314 from316 the19 canoe290 , swam111 to261 the19 boat439 ; and236 climbing18 the19 gunwale198 , stood1 face556 to261 face556 with449 the19 captain295 . "'Cross416 your162 arms536 , sir271 ; throw345 back457 your162 head219 . Now20 , repeat2 after358 me2 . As113 soon18 as113 Steelkilt leaves441 me2 , I482 swear322 to261 beach183 this256 boat439 on392 yonder41 island516 , and236 remain326 there340 six415 days351 . If141 I482 do353 not518 , may236 lightning171 strike374 me2 !' "'A10 pretty252 scholar376 ,' laughed166 the19 Lakeman. 'Adios, Senor296 !' and236 leaping397 into554 the19 sea67 , he362 swam111 back457 to261 his433 comrades410 . "Watching330 the19 boat439 till181 it162 was454 fairly211 beached98 , and236 drawn564 up405 to261 the19 roots263 of89 the19 cocoa-nut142 trees354 , Steelkilt made563 sail218 again52 , and236 in107 due266 time577 arrived553 at65 Tahiti183 , his433 own248 place107 of89 destination453 . There340 , luck453 befriended476 him248 ; two527 ships21 were324 about123 to261 sail218 for190 France54 , and236 were324 providentially273 in107 want350 of89 precisely217 that14 number196 of89 men62 which16 the19 sailor561 headed124 . They382 embarked262 , and236 so281 for190 ever208 got286 the19 start117 of89 their219 former157 captain295 , had364 he362 been185 at65 all145 minded335 to261 work385 them146 legal145 retribution25 . "Some265 ten198 days351 after358 the19 French491 ships21 sailed248 , the19 whale422 -boat439 arrived553 , and236 the19 captain295 was454 forced28 to261 enlist120 some265 of89 the19 more348 civilized441 Tahitians170 , who319 had364 been185 somewhat77 used102 to261 the19 sea67 . Chartering416 a10 small350 native399 schooner92 , he362 returned214 with449 them146 to261 his433 vessel155 ; and236 finding350 all145 right499 there340 , again52 resumed7 his433 cruisings263 . "Where579 Steelkilt now20 is487 , gentlemen340 , none365 know60 ; but330 upon419 the19 island516 of89 Nantucket283 , the19 widow231 of89 Radney still278 turns136 to261 the19 sea67 which16 refuses217 to261 give142 up405 its234 dead568 ; still278 in107 dreams299 sees187 the19 awful539 white82 whale422 that14 destroyed197 him248 . "'Are314 you227 through295 ?' said252 Don280 Sebastian102 , quietly380 . "'I482 am375 , Don280 .' "'Then45 I482 entreat40 you227 , tell392 me2 if141 to261 the19 best315 of89 your162 own248 convictions133 , this256 your162 story197 is487 in107 substance316 really406 true483 ? It162 is487 so281 passing147 wonderful291 ! Did444 you227 get126 it162 from316 an138 unquestionable129 source254 ? Bear48 with449 me2 if141 I482 seem404 to261 press91 .' "'Also119 bear48 with449 all145 of89 us569 , sir271 sailor561 ; for190 we465 all145 join61 in107 Don280 Sebastian102 's483 suit373 ,' cried506 the19 company280 , with449 exceeding320 interest323 . "'Is487 there340 a10 copy380 of89 the19 Holy61 Evangelists146 in107 the19 Golden508 Inn190 , gentlemen340 ?' "'Nay358 ,' said252 Don280 Sebastian102 ; 'but330 I482 know60 a10 worthy60 priest60 near70 by406 , who319 will584 quickly183 procure209 one470 for190 me2 . I482 go20 for190 it162 ; but330 are314 you227 well263 advised233 ? this256 may236 grow163 too11 serious97 .' "'Will584 you227 be341 so281 good221 as113 to261 bring173 the19 priest60 also119 , Don280 ?' "'Though400 there340 are314 no235 Auto-da-Fe4 's483 in107 Lima120 now20 ,' said252 one470 of89 the19 company280 to261 another269 ; 'I482 fear103 our234 sailor561 friend179 runs399 risks100 of89 the19 archiepiscopacy4 . Let66 us569 withdraw235 more348 out66 of89 the19 moonlight122 . I482 see370 no235 need32 of89 this256 .' "'Excuse410 me2 for190 running296 after358 you227 , Don280 Sebastian102 ; but330 may236 I482 also119 beg399 that14 you227 will584 be341 particular336 in107 procuring507 the19 largest139 sized133 Evangelists146 you227 can450 .' 'This256 is487 the19 priest60 , he362 brings44 you227 the19 Evangelists146 ,' said252 Don280 Sebastian102 , gravely174 , returning53 with449 a10 tall373 and236 solemn303 figure55 . "'Let66 me2 remove306 my36 hat107 . Now20 , venerable57 priest60 , further53 into554 the19 light382 , and236 hold204 the19 Holy61 Book230 before344 me2 that14 I482 may236 touch486 it162 . "'So281 help526 me2 Heaven163 , and236 on392 my36 honor497 the19 story197 I482 have254 told82 ye483 , gentlemen340 , is487 in107 substance316 and236 its234 great259 items18 , true483 . I482 know60 it162 to261 be341 true483 ; it162 happened156 on392 this256 ball141 ; I482 trod319 the19 ship438 ; I482 knew480 the19 crew126 ; I482 have254 seen154 and236 talked7 with449 Steelkilt since374 the19 death543 of89 Radney." CHAPTER293 55256 Of89 the19 Monstrous395 Pictures371 of89 Whales331 I482 shall66 ere83 long544 paint94 to261 you227 as113 well263 as113 one470 can450 without309 canvas557 , something181 like410 the19 true483 form238 of89 the19 whale422 as113 he362 actually69 appears268 to261 the19 eye220 of89 the19 whaleman98 when189 in107 his433 own248 absolute105 body348 the19 whale422 is487 moored379 alongside540 the19 whaleship31 so281 that14 he362 can450 be341 fairly211 stepped306 upon419 there340 . It162 may236 be341 worth84 while55 , therefore94 , previously250 to261 advert136 to261 those427 curious264 imaginary189 portraits340 of89 him248 which16 even198 down133 to261 the19 present112 day112 confidently225 challenge158 the19 faith511 of89 the19 landsman331 . It162 is487 time577 to261 set422 the19 world126 right499 in107 this256 matter176 , by406 proving23 such420 pictures371 of89 the19 whale422 all145 wrong70 . It162 may236 be341 that14 the19 primal177 source254 of89 all145 those427 pictorial122 delusions386 will584 be341 found260 among483 the19 oldest248 Hindoo247 , Egyptian358 , and236 Grecian103 sculptures203 . For190 ever208 since374 those427 inventive262 but330 unscrupulous322 times121 when189 on392 the19 marble364 panellings83 of89 temples381 , the19 pedestals146 of89 statues124 , and236 on392 shields312 , medallions339 , cups58 , and236 coins294 , the19 dolphin110 was454 drawn564 in107 scales543 of89 chain159 -armor127 like410 Saladin280 's483 , and236 a10 helmeted85 head219 like410 St193 . George110 's483 ; ever208 since374 then45 has399 something181 of89 the19 same541 sort42 of89 license13 prevailed233 , not518 only517 in107 most216 popular229 pictures371 of89 the19 whale422 , but330 in107 many282 scientific435 presentations104 of89 him248 . Now20 , by406 all145 odds250 , the19 most216 ancient463 extant557 portrait124 anyways213 purporting471 to261 be341 the19 whale422 's483 , is487 to261 be341 found260 in107 the19 famous254 cavern-pagoda354 of89 Elephants452 , in107 India258 . The19 Brahmins208 maintain357 that14 in107 the19 almost518 endless489 sculptures203 of89 that14 immemorial52 pagoda354 , all145 the19 trades111 and236 pursuits412 , every389 conceivable147 avocation211 of89 man17 , were324 prefigured113 ages146 before344 any501 of89 them146 actually69 came549 into554 being264 . No235 wonder76 then45 , that14 in107 some265 sort42 our234 noble226 profession202 of89 whaling155 should255 have254 been185 there340 shadowed18 forth152 . The19 Hindoo247 whale422 referred350 to261 , occurs183 in107 a10 separate495 department104 of89 the19 wall509 , depicting161 the19 incarnation306 of89 Vishnu380 in107 the19 form238 of89 leviathan384 , learnedly117 known86 as113 the19 Matse Avatar306 . But330 though400 this256 sculpture376 is487 half119 man17 and236 half119 whale422 , so281 as113 only517 to261 give142 the19 tail102 of89 the19 latter497 , yet443 that14 small350 section1 of89 him248 is487 all145 wrong70 . It162 looks150 more348 like410 the19 tapering416 tail102 of89 an138 anaconda25 , than77 the19 broad267 palms173 of89 the19 true483 whale422 's483 majestic13 flukes155 . But330 go20 to261 the19 old447 Galleries361 , and236 look523 now20 at65 a10 great259 Christian235 painter270 's483 portrait124 of89 this256 fish187 ; for190 he362 succeeds192 no235 better34 than77 the19 antediluvian212 Hindoo247 . It162 is487 Guido285 's483 picture264 of89 Perseus170 rescuing480 Andromeda45 from316 the19 sea67 -monster480 or519 whale422 . Where579 did444 Guido285 get126 the19 model413 of89 such420 a10 strange440 creature82 as113 that14 ? Nor137 does565 Hogarth80 , in107 painting320 the19 same541 scene228 in107 his433 own248 "Perseus170 Descending181 ," make175 out66 one470 whit367 better34 . The19 huge132 corpulence24 of89 that14 Hogarthian292 monster480 undulates116 on392 the19 surface328 , scarcely71 drawing407 one470 inch65 of89 water520 . It162 has399 a10 sort42 of89 howdah111 on392 its234 back457 , and236 its234 distended106 tusked244 mouth414 into554 which16 the19 billows295 are314 rolling253 , might496 be341 taken222 for190 the19 Traitors472 ' Gate481 leading59 from316 the19 Thames328 by406 water520 into554 the19 Tower36 . Then45 , there340 are314 the19 Prodromus69 whales331 of89 the19 old447 Scotch481 Sibbald76 , and236 Jonah41 's483 whale422 , as113 depicted46 in107 the19 prints441 of89 old447 Bibles296 and236 the19 cuts26 of89 old447 primers272 . What243 shall66 be341 said252 of89 these527 ? As113 for190 the19 book230 -binder43 's483 whale422 winding486 like410 a10 vine-stalk143 round287 the19 stock437 of89 a10 descending181 anchor141 -- as113 stamped31 and236 gilded41 on392 the19 backs480 and236 titlepages of89 many282 books525 both558 old447 and236 new36 --that14 is487 a10 very515 picturesque453 but330 purely138 fabulous335 creature82 , imitated217 , I482 take279 it162 , from316 the19 like410 figures66 on392 antique58 vases259 . Though400 universally403 denominated122 a10 dolphin110 , I482 nevertheless104 call259 this256 book230 -binder43 's483 fish187 an138 attempt385 at65 a10 whale422 ; because540 it162 was454 so281 intended495 when189 the19 device191 was454 first13 introduced265 . It162 was454 introduced265 by406 an138 old447 Italian396 publisher454 somewhere201 about123 the19 15th38 century149 , during309 the19 Revival24 of89 Learning219 ; and236 in107 those427 days351 , and236 even198 down133 to261 a10 comparatively203 late351 period196 , dolphins192 were324 popularly301 supposed423 to261 be341 a10 species69 of89 the19 Leviathan384 . In107 the19 vignettes41 and236 other282 embellishments345 of89 some265 ancient463 books525 you227 will584 at65 times121 meet16 with449 very515 curious264 touches26 at65 the19 whale422 , where579 all145 manner153 of89 spouts75 , jets6 d67 'eau172 , hot424 springs35 and236 cold330 , Saratoga76 and236 Baden-Baden88 , come420 bubbling261 up405 from316 his433 unexhausted153 brain158 . In107 the19 title168 -page425 of89 the19 original463 edition462 of89 the19 "Advancement306 of89 Learning219 " you227 will584 find138 some265 curious264 whales331 . But330 quitting155 all145 these527 unprofessional443 attempts13 , let66 us569 glance362 at65 those427 pictures371 of89 leviathan384 purporting471 to261 be341 sober121 , scientific435 delineations75 , by406 those427 who319 know60 . In107 old447 Harris75 's483 collection270 of89 voyages368 there340 are314 some265 plates115 of89 whales331 extracted69 from316 a10 Dutch325 book230 of89 voyages368 , A10 .D236 . 1671573 , entitled189 "A10 Whaling155 Voyage137 to261 Spitzbergen78 in107 the19 ship438 Jonas188 in107 the19 Whale422 , Peter419 Peterson400 of89 Friesland273 , master131 ." In107 one470 of89 those427 plates115 the19 whales331 , like410 great259 rafts522 of89 logs296 , are314 represented107 lying204 among483 ice443 -isles425 , with449 white82 bears97 running296 over82 their219 living117 backs480 . In107 another269 plate396 , the19 prodigious223 blunder12 is487 made563 of89 representing118 the19 whale422 with449 perpendicular83 flukes155 . Then45 again52 , there340 is487 an138 imposing365 quarto292 , written388 by406 one470 Captain295 Colnett, a10 Post2 Captain295 in107 the19 English69 navy83 , entitled189 "A10 Voyage137 round287 Cape23 Horn139 into554 the19 South257 Seas350 , for190 the19 purpose514 of89 extending231 the19 Spermaceti283 Whale422 Fisheries6 ." In107 this256 book230 is487 an138 outline242 purporting471 to261 be341 a10 "Picture264 of89 a10 Physeter314 or519 Spermaceti283 whale422 , drawn564 by406 scale271 from316 one470 killed409 on392 the19 coast287 of89 Mexico529 , August29 , 1793396 , and236 hoisted367 on392 deck505 ." I482 doubt71 not518 the19 captain295 had364 this256 veracious88 picture264 taken222 for190 the19 benefit514 of89 his433 marines294 . To261 mention510 but330 one470 thing309 about123 it162 , let66 me2 say306 that14 it162 has399 an138 eye220 which16 applied122 , according281 to261 the19 accompanying371 scale271 , to261 a10 full414 grown299 sperm26 whale422 , would282 make175 the19 eye220 of89 that14 whale422 a10 bow146 -window10 some265 five103 feet349 long544 . Ah132 , my36 gallant323 captain295 , why177 did444 ye483 not518 give142 us569 Jonah41 looking318 out66 of89 that14 eye220 ! Nor137 are314 the19 most216 conscientious196 compilations208 of89 Natural298 History183 for190 the19 benefit514 of89 the19 young389 and236 tender454 , free483 from316 the19 same541 heinousness57 of89 mistake471 . Look523 at65 that14 popular229 work385 "Goldsmith43 's483 Animated143 Nature159 ." In107 the19 abridged69 London41 edition462 of89 1807430 , there340 are314 plates115 of89 an138 alleged163 "whale422 " and236 a10 "narwhale362 ." I482 do353 not518 wish95 to261 seem404 inelegant15 , but330 this256 unsightly4 whale422 looks150 much61 like410 an138 amputated125 sow144 ; and236 , as113 for190 the19 narwhale362 , one470 glimpse12 at65 it162 is487 enough217 to261 amaze266 one470 , that14 in107 this256 nineteenth36 century149 such420 a10 hippogriff292 could375 be341 palmed158 for190 genuine44 upon419 any501 intelligent346 public3 of89 schoolboys127 . Then45 , again52 , in107 1825125 , Bernard359 Germain41 , Count332 de404 Lacepede155 , a10 great259 naturalist122 , published393 a10 scientific435 systemized whale422 book230 , wherein396 are314 several479 pictures371 of89 the19 different276 species69 of89 the19 Leviathan384 . All145 these527 are314 not518 only517 incorrect120 , but330 the19 picture264 of89 the19 Mysticetus or519 Greenland110 whale422 (that14 is487 to261 say306 the19 Right499 whale422 ), even198 Scoresby, a10 long544 experienced93 man17 as113 touching80 that14 species69 , declares242 not518 to261 have254 its234 counterpart350 in107 nature159 . But330 the19 placing287 of89 the19 cap328 -sheaf to261 all145 this256 blundering400 business168 was454 reserved234 for190 the19 scientific435 Frederick107 Cuvier158 , brother46 to261 the19 famous254 Baron361 . In107 1836360 , he362 published393 a10 Natural298 History183 of89 Whales331 , in107 which16 he362 gives529 what243 he362 calls15 a10 picture264 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 . Before344 showing445 that14 picture264 to261 any501 Nantucketer, you227 had364 best315 provide172 for190 your162 summary420 retreat506 from316 Nantucket283 . In107 a10 word486 , Frederick107 Cuvier158 's483 Sperm26 Whale422 is487 not518 a10 Sperm26 Whale422 , but330 a10 squash342 . Of89 course171 , he362 never206 had364 the19 benefit514 of89 a10 whaling155 voyage137 (such420 men62 seldom140 have254 ), but330 whence494 he362 derived494 that14 picture264 , who319 can450 tell392 ? Perhaps75 he362 got286 it162 as113 his433 scientific435 predecessor410 in107 the19 same541 field275 , Desmarest111 , got286 one470 of89 his433 authentic384 abortions140 ; that14 is487 , from316 a10 Chinese44 drawing407 . And236 what243 sort42 of89 lively272 lads252 with449 the19 pencil122 those427 Chinese44 are314 , many282 queer156 cups58 and236 saucers213 inform77 us569 . As113 for190 the19 sign8 -painters' whales331 seen154 in107 the19 streets374 hanging222 over82 the19 shops107 of89 oil118 -dealers93 , what243 shall66 be341 said252 of89 them146 ? They382 are314 generally402 Richard141 III167 . whales331 , with449 dromedary183 humps252 , and236 very515 savage398 ; breakfasting83 on392 three329 or519 four175 sailor561 tarts259 , that14 is487 whaleboats283 full414 of89 mariners347 : their219 deformities133 floundering283 in107 seas350 of89 blood208 and236 blue240 paint94 . But330 these527 manifold14 mistakes70 in107 depicting161 the19 whale422 are314 not518 so281 very515 surprising359 after358 all145 . Consider259 ! Most216 of89 the19 scientific435 drawings468 have254 been185 taken222 from316 the19 stranded299 fish187 ; and236 these527 are314 about123 as113 correct414 as113 a10 drawing407 of89 a10 wrecked527 ship438 , with449 broken255 back457 , would282 correctly444 represent281 the19 noble226 animal22 itself312 in107 all145 its234 undashed pride279 of89 hull323 and236 spars15 . Though400 elephants452 have254 stood1 for190 their219 full414 -lengths469 , the19 living117 Leviathan384 has399 never206 yet443 fairly211 floated6 himself282 for190 his433 portrait124 . The19 living117 whale422 , in107 his433 full414 majesty268 and236 significance330 , is487 only517 to261 be341 seen154 at65 sea67 in107 unfathomable420 waters556 ; and236 afloat2 the19 vast43 bulk181 of89 him248 is487 out66 of89 sight365 , like410 a10 launched336 line25 -of89 -battle105 ship438 ; and236 out66 of89 that14 element38 it162 is487 a10 thing309 eternally86 impossible305 for190 mortal371 man17 to261 hoist9 him248 bodily172 into554 the19 air209 , so281 as113 to261 preserve192 all145 his433 mighty2 swells446 and236 undulations106 . And236 , not518 to261 speak337 of89 the19 highly52 presumable380 difference3 of89 contour402 between77 a10 young389 suckling364 whale422 and236 a10 full414 -grown299 Platonian Leviathan384 ; yet443 , even198 in107 the19 case346 of89 one470 of89 those427 young389 sucking373 whales331 hoisted367 to261 a10 ship438 's483 deck505 , such420 is487 then45 the19 outlandish292 , eel86 -like410 , limbered261 , varying303 shape99 of89 him248 , that14 his433 precise158 expression115 the19 devil411 himself282 could375 not518 catch523 . But330 it162 may236 be341 fancied100 , that14 from316 the19 naked70 skeleton231 of89 the19 stranded299 whale422 , accurate147 hints260 may236 be341 derived494 touching80 his433 true483 form238 . Not518 at65 all145 . For190 it162 is487 one470 of89 the19 more348 curious264 things4 about123 this256 Leviathan384 , that14 his433 skeleton231 gives529 very515 little554 idea250 of89 his433 general37 shape99 . Though400 Jeremy175 Bentham258 's483 skeleton231 , which16 hangs170 for190 candelabra91 in107 the19 library110 of89 one470 of89 his433 executors14 , correctly444 conveys303 the19 idea250 of89 a10 burly541 -browed utilitarian67 old447 gentleman399 , with449 all145 Jeremy175 's483 other282 leading59 personal492 characteristics364 ; yet443 nothing324 of89 this256 kind451 could375 be341 inferred165 from316 any501 leviathan384 's483 articulated423 bones5 . In107 fact12 , as113 the19 great259 Hunter287 says424 , the19 mere393 skeleton231 of89 the19 whale422 bears97 the19 same541 relation129 to261 the19 fully530 invested60 and236 padded116 animal22 as113 the19 insect171 does565 to261 the19 chrysalis396 that14 so281 roundingly envelopes402 it162 . This256 peculiarity211 is487 strikingly583 evinced94 in107 the19 head219 , as113 in107 some265 part207 of89 this256 book230 will584 be341 incidentally261 shown446 . It162 is487 also119 very515 curiously261 displayed179 in107 the19 side246 fin286 , the19 bones5 of89 which16 almost518 exactly315 answer164 to261 the19 bones5 of89 the19 human43 hand252 , minus153 only517 the19 thumb141 . This256 fin286 has399 four175 regular400 bone184 -fingers345 , the19 index270 , middle39 , ring579 , and236 little554 finger190 . But330 all145 these527 are314 permanently492 lodged238 in107 their219 fleshy26 covering24 , as113 the19 human43 fingers345 in107 an138 artificial310 covering24 . "However44 recklessly72 the19 whale422 may236 sometimes77 serve269 us569 ," said252 humorous7 Stubb one470 day112 , "he362 can450 never206 be341 truly530 said252 to261 handle546 us569 without309 mittens55 ." For190 all145 these527 reasons186 , then45 , any501 way435 you227 may236 look523 at65 it162 , you227 must226 needs41 conclude1 that14 the19 great259 Leviathan384 is487 that14 one470 creature82 in107 the19 world126 which16 must226 remain326 unpainted25 to261 the19 last436 . True483 , one470 portrait124 may236 hit322 the19 mark169 much61 nearer303 than77 another269 , but330 none365 can450 hit322 it162 with449 any501 very515 considerable75 degree209 of89 exactness84 . So281 there340 is487 no235 earthly64 way435 of89 finding350 out66 precisely217 what243 the19 whale422 really406 looks150 like410 . And236 the19 only517 mode49 in107 which16 you227 can450 derive414 even198 a10 tolerable198 idea250 of89 his433 living117 contour402 , is487 by406 going227 a10 whaling155 yourself176 ; but330 by406 so281 doing227 , you227 run172 no235 small350 risk97 of89 being264 eternally86 stove373 and236 sunk336 by406 him248 . Wherefore220 , it162 seems19 to261 me2 you227 had364 best315 not518 be341 too11 fastidious361 in107 your162 curiosity501 touching80 this256 Leviathan384 . CHAPTER293 56222 Of89 the19 Less261 Erroneous112 Pictures371 of89 Whales331 and236 the19 True483 Pictures371 of89 Whaling155 Scenes339 In107 connexion400 with449 the19 monstrous395 pictures371 of89 whales331 , I482 am375 strongly168 tempted460 here135 to261 enter204 upon419 those427 still278 more348 monstrous395 stories264 of89 them146 which16 are314 to261 be341 found260 in107 certain31 books525 , both558 ancient463 and236 modern446 , especially371 in107 Pliny159 , Purchas274 , Hackluyt125 , Harris75 , Cuvier158 , &c62 . But330 I482 pass153 that14 matter176 by406 . I482 know60 of89 only517 four175 published393 outlines303 of89 the19 great259 Sperm26 Whale422 ; Colnett's483 , Huggins430 's483 , Frederick107 Cuvier158 's483 , and236 Beale27 's483 . In107 the19 previous376 chapter293 Colnett and236 Cuvier158 have254 been185 referred350 to261 . Huggins430 's483 is487 far258 better34 than77 theirs137 ; but330 , by406 great259 odds250 , Beale27 's483 is487 the19 best315 . All145 Beale27 's483 drawings468 of89 this256 whale422 are314 good221 , excepting289 the19 middle39 figure55 in107 the19 picture264 of89 three329 whales331 in107 various183 attitudes167 , capping78 his433 second386 chapter293 . His433 frontispiece227 , boats83 attacking258 Sperm26 Whales331 , though400 no235 doubt71 calculated321 to261 excite292 the19 civil58 scepticism83 of89 some265 parlor522 men62 , is487 admirably127 correct414 and236 life71 -like410 in107 its234 general37 effect215 . Some265 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 drawings468 in107 J115 . Ross386 Browne400 are314 pretty252 correct414 in107 contour402 ; but330 they382 are314 wretchedly126 engraved25 . That14 is487 not518 his433 fault428 though400 . Of89 the19 Right499 Whale422 , the19 best315 outline242 pictures371 are314 in107 Scoresby; but330 they382 are314 drawn564 on392 too11 small350 a10 scale271 to261 convey403 a10 desirable277 impression219 . He362 has399 but330 one470 picture264 of89 whaling155 scenes339 , and236 this256 is487 a10 sad341 deficiency185 , because540 it162 is487 by406 such420 pictures371 only517 , when189 at65 all145 well263 done135 , that14 you227 can450 derive414 anything480 like410 a10 truthful292 idea250 of89 the19 living117 whale422 as113 seen154 by406 his433 living117 hunters423 . But330 , taken222 for190 all145 in107 all145 , by406 far258 the19 finest66 , though400 in107 some265 details286 not518 the19 most216 correct414 , presentations104 of89 whales331 and236 whaling155 scenes339 to261 be341 anywhere436 found260 , are314 two527 large385 French491 engravings237 , well263 executed128 , and236 taken222 from316 paintings479 by406 one470 Garnery. Respectively254 , they382 represent281 attacks444 on392 the19 Sperm26 and236 Right499 Whale422 . In107 the19 first13 engraving125 a10 noble226 Sperm26 Whale422 is487 depicted46 in107 full414 majesty268 of89 might496 , just108 risen280 beneath320 the19 boat439 from316 the19 profundities292 of89 the19 ocean224 , and236 bearing354 high361 in107 the19 . air209 upon419 his433 back457 the19 terrific315 wreck171 of89 the19 stoven planks284 . The19 prow451 of89 the19 boat439 is487 partially263 unbroken290 , and236 is487 drawn564 just108 balancing39 upon419 the19 monster480 's483 spine236 ; and236 standing144 in107 that14 prow451 , for190 that14 one470 single77 incomputable flash424 of89 time577 , you227 behold525 an138 oarsman60 , half119 shrouded465 by406 the19 incensed136 boiling99 spout224 of89 the19 whale422 , and236 in107 the19 act10 of89 leaping397 , as113 if141 from316 a10 precipice341 . The19 action102 of89 the19 whole199 thing309 is487 wonderfully12 good221 and236 true483 . The19 half119 -emptied311 line25 -tub339 floats36 on392 the19 whitened481 sea67 ; the19 wooden35 poles122 of89 the19 spilled434 harpoons6 obliquely122 bob485 in107 it162 ; the19 heads366 of89 the19 swimming367 crew126 are314 scattered17 about123 the19 whale422 in107 contrasting286 expressions292 of89 affright306 ; while55 in107 the19 black581 stormy115 distance264 the19 ship438 is487 bearing354 down133 upon419 the19 scene228 . Serious97 fault428 might496 be341 found260 with449 the19 anatomical68 details286 of89 this256 whale422 , but330 let66 that14 pass153 ; since374 , for190 the19 life71 of89 me2 , I482 could375 not518 draw106 so281 good221 a10 one470 . In107 the19 second386 engraving125 , the19 boat439 is487 in107 the19 act10 of89 drawing407 alongside540 the19 barnacled flank434 of89 a10 large385 running296 Right499 Whale422 , that14 rolls475 his433 black581 weedy513 bulk181 in107 the19 sea67 like410 some265 mossy192 rock264 -slide118 from316 the19 Patagonian31 cliffs290 . His433 jets6 are314 erect245 , full414 , and236 black581 like410 soot192 ; so281 that14 from316 so281 abounding143 a10 smoke99 in107 the19 chimney94 , you227 would282 think424 there340 must226 be341 a10 brave218 supper4 cooking369 in107 the19 great259 bowels499 below397 . Sea67 fowls206 are314 pecking64 at65 the19 small350 crabs331 , shell152 -fish187 , and236 other282 sea67 candies122 and236 maccaroni83 , which16 the19 Right499 Whale422 sometimes77 carries440 on392 his433 pestilent377 back457 . And236 all145 the19 while55 the19 thick502 -lipped leviathan384 is487 rushing344 through295 the19 deep483 , leaving231 tons363 of89 tumultuous355 white82 curds504 in107 his433 wake205 , and236 causing258 the19 slight259 boat439 to261 rock264 in107 the19 swells446 like410 a10 skiff2 caught105 nigh254 the19 paddle39 -wheels116 of89 an138 ocean224 steamer11 . Thus362 , the19 fore259 -ground43 is487 all145 raging173 commotion155 ; but330 behind80 , in107 admirable267 artistic370 contrast205 , is487 the19 glassy489 level378 of89 a10 sea67 becalmed443 , the19 drooping279 unstarched388 sails344 of89 the19 powerless165 ship438 , and236 the19 inert155 mass36 of89 a10 dead568 whale422 , a10 conquered140 fortress149 , with449 the19 flag270 of89 capture361 lazily347 hanging222 from316 the19 whale422 -pole20 inserted102 into554 his433 spout224 -hole73 . Who319 Garnery the19 painter270 is487 , or519 was454 , I482 know60 not518 . But330 my36 life71 for190 it162 he362 was454 either45 practically138 conversant166 with449 his433 subject382 , or519 else212 marvellously393 tutored75 by406 some265 experienced93 whaleman98 . The19 French491 are314 the19 lads252 for190 painting320 action102 . Go20 and236 gaze568 upon419 all145 the19 paintings479 in107 Europe153 , and236 where579 will584 you227 find138 such420 a10 gallery417 of89 living117 and236 breathing403 commotion155 on392 canvas557 , as113 in107 that14 triumphal564 hall165 at65 Versailles399 ; where579 the19 beholder451 fights295 his433 way435 , pell-mell117 , through295 the19 consecutive259 great259 battles235 of89 France54 ; where579 every389 sword273 seems19 a10 flash424 of89 the19 Northern252 Lights59 , and236 the19 successive423 armed299 kings474 and236 Emperors247 dash355 by406 , like410 a10 charge308 of89 crowned527 centaurs553 ? Not518 wholly497 unworthy280 of89 a10 place107 in107 that14 gallery417 , are314 these527 sea67 battle105 -pieces20 of89 Garnery. The19 natural298 aptitude95 of89 the19 French491 for190 seizing327 the19 picturesqueness201 of89 things4 seems19 to261 be341 peculiarly182 evinced94 in107 what243 paintings479 and236 engravings237 they382 have254 of89 their219 whaling155 scenes339 . With449 not518 one470 tenth243 of89 England348 's483 experience127 in107 the19 fishery136 , and236 not518 the19 thousandth120 part207 of89 that14 of89 the19 Americans81 , they382 have254 nevertheless104 furnished201 both558 nations274 with449 the19 only517 finished218 sketches394 at65 all145 capable424 of89 conveying70 the19 real305 spirit227 of89 the19 whale422 hunt418 . For190 the19 most216 part207 , the19 English69 and236 American272 whale422 draughtsmen444 seem404 entirely148 content7 with449 presenting342 the19 mechanical31 outline242 of89 things4 , such420 as113 the19 vacant367 profile34 of89 the19 whale422 ; which16 , so281 far258 as113 picturesqueness201 of89 effect215 is487 concerned583 , is487 about123 tantamount133 to261 sketching190 the19 profile34 of89 a10 pyramid310 . Even198 Scoresby, the19 justly91 renowned480 Right499 whaleman98 , after358 giving207 us569 a10 stiff549 full414 length202 of89 the19 Greenland110 whale422 , and236 three329 or519 four175 delicate34 miniatures397 of89 narwhales and236 porpoises298 , treats262 us569 to261 a10 series494 of89 classical51 engravings237 of89 boat439 hooks561 , chopping299 knives140 , and236 grapnels188 ; and236 with449 the19 microscopic385 diligence84 of89 a10 Leuwenhoeck submits81 to261 the19 inspection211 of89 a10 shivering559 world126 ninety2 -six59 fac-similes247 of89 magnified140 Arctic364 snow498 crystals429 . I482 mean504 no235 disparagement213 to261 the19 excellent161 voyager25 (I482 honor497 him248 for190 a10 veteran122 ), but330 in107 so281 important104 a10 matter176 it162 was454 certainly124 an138 oversight406 not518 to261 have254 procured133 for190 every389 crystal344 a10 sworn376 affidavit86 taken222 before344 a10 Greenland110 Justice7 of89 the19 Peace216 . In107 addition187 to261 those427 fine333 engravings237 from316 Garnery, there340 are314 two527 other282 French491 engravings237 worthy60 of89 note59 , by406 some265 one470 who319 subscribes69 himself282 "H349 . Durand76 ." One470 of89 them146 , though400 not518 precisely217 adapted263 to261 our234 present112 purpose514 , nevertheless104 deserves229 mention510 on392 other282 accounts311 . It162 is487 a10 quiet337 noon445 -scene228 among483 the19 isles425 of89 the19 Pacific294 ; a10 French491 whaler91 anchored42 , inshore522 , in107 a10 calm39 , and236 lazily347 taking146 water520 on392 board540 ; the19 loosened479 sails344 of89 the19 ship438 , and236 the19 long544 leaves441 of89 the19 palms173 in107 the19 background397 , both558 drooping279 together440 in107 the19 breezeless83 air209 . The19 effect215 is487 very515 fine333 , when189 considered484 with449 reference116 to261 its234 presenting342 the19 hardy241 fishermen24 under533 one470 of89 their219 few49 aspects322 of89 oriental147 repose463 . The19 other282 engraving125 is487 quite327 a10 different276 affair388 : the19 ship438 hove368 -to261 upon419 the19 open464 sea67 , and236 in107 the19 very515 heart470 of89 the19 Leviathanic life71 , with449 a10 Right499 Whale422 alongside540 ; the19 vessel155 (in107 the19 act10 of89 cutting454 -in107 ) hove368 over82 to261 the19 monster480 as113 if141 to261 a10 quay124 ; and236 a10 boat439 , hurriedly12 pushing39 off111 from316 this256 scene228 of89 activity293 , is487 about123 giving207 chase89 to261 whales331 in107 the19 distance264 . The19 harpoons6 and236 lances8 lie212 levelled126 for190 use176 ; three329 oarsmen59 are314 just108 setting151 the19 mast44 in107 its234 hole73 ; while55 from316 a10 sudden309 roll473 of89 the19 sea67 , the19 little554 craft187 stands256 half119 -erect245 out66 of89 the19 water520 , like410 a10 rearing251 horse409 . From316 the19 ship438 , the19 smoke99 of89 the19 torments427 of89 the19 boiling99 whale422 is487 going227 up405 like410 the19 smoke99 over82 a10 village218 of89 smithies213 ; and236 to261 windward170 , a10 black581 cloud218 , rising464 up405 with449 earnest495 of89 squalls104 and236 rains310 , seems19 to261 quicken128 the19 activity293 of89 the19 excited283 seamen6 . CHAPTER293 57226 Of89 Whales331 in107 Paint94 ; in107 Teeth82 ; in107 Wood46 ; in107 Sheet327 -Iron259 ; in107 Stone398 ; in107 Mountains202 ; in107 Stars286 On392 Tower36 -hill219 , as113 you227 go20 down133 to261 the19 London41 docks99 , you227 may236 have254 seen154 a10 crippled480 beggar327 (or519 kedger, as113 the19 sailors64 say306 ) holding311 a10 painted340 board540 before344 him248 , representing118 the19 tragic140 scene228 in107 which16 he362 lost308 his433 leg331 . There340 are314 three329 whales331 and236 three329 boats83 ; and236 one470 of89 the19 boats83 (presumed300 to261 contain112 the19 missing210 leg331 in107 all145 its234 original463 integrity412 ) is487 being264 crunched315 by406 the19 jaws341 of89 the19 foremost61 whale422 . Any501 time577 these527 ten198 years116 , they382 tell392 me2 , has399 that14 man17 held212 up405 that14 picture264 , and236 exhibited20 that14 stump277 to261 an138 incredulous361 world126 . But330 the19 time577 of89 his433 justification102 has399 now20 come420 . His433 three329 whales331 are314 as113 good221 whales331 as113 were324 ever208 published393 in107 Wapping191 , at65 any501 rate515 ; and236 his433 stump277 as113 unquestionable129 a10 stump277 as113 any501 you227 will584 find138 in107 the19 western227 clearings498 . But330 , though400 for190 ever208 mounted191 on392 that14 stump277 , never206 a10 stump277 -speech378 does565 the19 poor533 whaleman98 make175 ; but330 , with449 downcast181 eyes125 , stands256 ruefully100 contemplating134 his433 own248 amputation191 . Throughout159 the19 Pacific294 , and236 also119 in107 Nantucket283 , and236 New36 Bedford83 , and236 Sag83 Harbor289 , you227 will584 come420 across129 lively272 sketches394 of89 whales331 and236 whaling155 -scenes339 , graven97 by406 the19 fishermen24 themselves510 on392 Sperm26 Whale422 -teeth82 , or519 ladies66 ' busks411 wrought22 out66 of89 the19 Right499 Whale422 -bone184 , and236 other282 like410 skrimshander articles259 , as113 the19 whalemen451 call259 the19 numerous558 little554 ingenious102 contrivances99 they382 elaborately107 carve25 out66 of89 the19 rough75 material161 , in107 their219 hours127 of89 ocean224 leisure215 . Some265 of89 them146 have254 little554 boxes381 of89 dentistical-looking318 implements420 , specially87 intended495 for190 the19 skrimshandering business168 . But330 , in107 general37 , they382 toil89 with449 their219 jack299 -knives386 alone2 ; and236 , with449 that14 almost518 omnipotent448 tool31 of89 the19 sailor561 , they382 will584 turn17 you227 out66 anything480 you227 please153 , in107 the19 way435 of89 a10 mariner265 's483 fancy396 . Long544 exile256 from316 Christendom400 and236 civilization92 inevitably127 restores93 a10 man17 to261 that14 condition62 in107 which16 God185 placed556 him248 , i482 .e443 . what243 is487 called237 savagery232 . Your162 true483 whale422 -hunter287 is487 as113 much61 a10 savage398 as113 an138 Iroquois94 . I482 myself99 am375 a10 savage398 , owning136 no235 allegiance42 but330 to261 the19 King324 of89 the19 Cannibals27 ; and236 ready464 at65 any501 moment258 to261 rebel489 against417 him248 . Now20 , one470 of89 the19 peculiar291 characteristics364 of89 the19 savage398 in107 his433 domestic303 hours127 , is487 his433 wonderful291 patience295 of89 industry113 . An138 ancient463 Hawaiian161 war169 -club83 or519 spear188 -paddle39 , in107 its234 full414 multiplicity81 and236 elaboration275 of89 carving54 , is487 as113 great259 a10 trophy463 of89 human43 perseverance73 as113 a10 Latin420 lexicon165 . For190 , with449 but330 a10 bit72 of89 broken255 sea67 -shell152 or519 a10 shark4 's483 tooth108 , that14 miraculous276 intricacy25 of89 wooden35 net23 -work208 has399 been185 achieved251 ; and236 it162 has399 cost567 steady21 years116 of89 steady21 application258 . As113 with449 the19 Hawaiian161 savage398 , so281 with449 the19 white82 sailor561 -savage398 . With449 the19 same541 marvellous35 patience295 , and236 with449 the19 same541 single77 shark4 's483 tooth108 , of89 his433 one470 poor533 jack299 -knife60 , he362 will584 carve25 you227 a10 bit72 of89 bone184 sculpture376 , not518 quite327 as113 workmanlike364 , but330 as113 close65 packed55 in107 its234 maziness325 of89 design31 , as113 the19 Greek261 savage398 , Achilles170 's483 shield69 ; and236 full414 of89 barbaric559 spirit227 and236 suggestiveness330 , as113 the19 prints441 of89 that14 fine333 old447 Dutch325 savage398 , Albert252 Durer372 . Wooden35 whales331 , or519 whales331 cut310 in107 profile34 out66 of89 the19 small350 dark471 slabs231 of89 the19 noble226 South257 Sea67 war169 -wood46 , are314 frequently475 met130 with449 in107 the19 forecastles160 of89 American272 whalers116 . Some265 of89 them146 are314 done135 with449 much61 accuracy484 . At65 some265 old447 gable-roofed64 country362 houses166 you227 will584 see370 brass63 whales331 hung479 by406 the19 tail102 for190 knockers50 to261 the19 road533 -side246 door135 . When189 the19 porter253 is487 sleepy452 , the19 anvil314 -headed124 whale422 would282 be341 best315 . But330 these527 knocking82 whales331 are314 seldom140 remarkable381 as113 faithful284 essays272 . On392 the19 spires115 of89 some265 old447 -fashioned432 churches44 you227 will584 see370 sheet327 -iron259 whales331 placed556 there340 for190 weathercocks160 ; but330 they382 are314 so281 elevated541 , and236 besides465 that14 are314 to261 all145 intents168 and236 purposes415 so281 labelled66 with449 "Hands87 off111 !" you227 cannot examine203 them146 closely218 enough217 to261 decide354 upon419 their219 merit353 . In107 bony23 , ribby regions320 of89 the19 earth513 , where579 at65 the19 base258 of89 high361 broken255 cliffs290 masses361 of89 rock264 lie212 strewn9 in107 fantastic325 groupings397 upon419 the19 plain28 , you227 will584 often227 discover291 images87 as113 of89 the19 petrified191 forms48 of89 the19 Leviathan384 partly311 merged210 in107 grass418 , which16 of89 a10 windy317 day112 breaks522 against417 them146 in107 a10 surf283 of89 green549 surges298 . Then45 , again52 , in107 mountainous273 countries279 where579 the19 traveller258 is487 continually303 girdled312 by406 amphitheatrical heights464 ; here135 and236 there340 from316 some265 lucky439 point438 of89 view370 you227 will584 catch523 passing147 glimpses446 of89 the19 profiles523 of89 whales331 defined288 along423 the19 undulating521 ridges132 . But330 you227 must226 be341 a10 thorough98 whaleman98 , to261 see370 these527 sights24 ; and236 not518 only517 that14 , but330 if141 you227 wish95 to261 return407 to261 such420 a10 sight365 again52 , you227 must226 be341 sure41 and236 take279 the19 exact408 intersecting348 latitude258 and236 longitude239 of89 your162 first13 stand530 -point438 , else212 so281 chance292 -like410 are314 such420 observations451 of89 the19 hills352 , that14 your162 precise158 , previous376 stand530 -point438 would282 require228 a10 laborious17 re-discovery416 ; like410 the19 Solomon8 islands59 , which16 still278 remain326 incognita25 , though400 once248 high361 -ruffed Mendanna trod319 them146 and236 old447 Figuera chronicled226 them146 . Nor137 when189 expandingly lifted448 by406 your162 subject382 , can450 you227 fail126 to261 trace327 out66 great259 whales331 in107 the19 starry477 heavens494 , and236 boats83 in107 pursuit305 of89 them146 ; as113 when189 long544 filled232 with449 thoughts26 of89 war169 the19 Eastern86 nations274 saw113 armies50 locked105 in107 battle105 among483 the19 clouds342 . Thus362 at65 the19 North174 have254 I482 chased389 Leviathan384 round287 and236 round287 the19 Pole20 with449 the19 revolutions211 of89 the19 bright205 points245 that14 first13 defined288 him248 to261 me2 . And236 beneath320 the19 effulgent99 Antarctic141 skies30 I482 have254 boarded52 the19 Argo-Navis, and236 joined210 the19 chase89 against417 the19 starry477 Cetus225 far258 beyond421 the19 utmost43 stretch318 of89 Hydrus84 and236 the19 Flying354 Fish187 . With449 a10 frigate44 's483 anchors273 for190 my36 bridle446 -bitts and236 fasces140 of89 harpoons6 for190 spurs342 , would282 I482 could375 mount34 that14 whale422 and236 leap342 the19 topmost346 skies30 , to261 see370 whether454 the19 fabled173 heavens494 with449 all145 their219 countless111 tents450 really406 lie212 encamped438 beyond421 my36 mortal371 sight365 ! CHAPTER293 58557 Brit20 Steering252 north174 -eastward244 from316 the19 Crozetts, we465 fell421 in107 with449 vast43 meadows42 of89 brit20 , the19 minute236 , yellow95 substance316 , upon419 which16 the19 Right499 Whale422 largely211 feeds304 . For190 leagues116 and236 leagues116 it162 undulated265 round287 us569 , so281 that14 we465 seemed132 to261 be341 sailing232 through295 boundless386 fields64 of89 ripe238 and236 golden508 wheat10 . On392 the19 second386 day112 , numbers285 of89 Right499 Whales331 were324 seen154 , who319 , secure92 from316 the19 attack74 of89 a10 Sperm26 -Whaler91 like410 the19 Pequod288 , with449 open464 jaws341 sluggishly331 swam111 through295 the19 brit20 , which16 , adhering163 to261 the19 fringing424 fibres45 of89 that14 wondrous30 Venetian59 blind375 in107 their219 mouths26 , was454 in107 that14 manner153 separated384 from316 the19 water520 that14 escaped197 at65 the19 lips585 . As113 morning417 mowers99 , who319 side246 by406 side246 slowly149 and236 seethingly advance70 their219 scythes259 through295 the19 long544 wet299 grass418 of89 marshy308 meads18 ; even198 so281 these527 monsters129 swam111 , making415 a10 strange440 , grassy25 , cutting454 sound181 ; and236 leaving231 behind80 them146 endless489 swaths84 of89 blue240 upon419 the19 yellow95 sea67 .* *That14 part207 of89 the19 sea67 known86 among483 whalemen451 as113 the19 "Brazil36 Banks145 " does565 not518 bear48 that14 name477 as113 the19 Banks145 of89 Newfoundland208 do353 , because540 of89 there340 being264 shallows376 and236 soundings99 there340 , but330 because540 of89 this256 remarkable381 meadow310 -like410 appearance138 , caused308 by406 the19 vast43 drifts434 of89 brit20 continually303 floating30 in107 those427 latitudes267 , where579 the19 Right499 Whale422 is487 often227 chased389 . But330 it162 was454 only517 the19 sound181 they382 made563 as113 they382 parted201 the19 brit20 which16 at65 all145 reminded25 one470 of89 mowers99 . Seen154 from316 the19 mast44 -heads279 , especially371 when189 they382 paused390 and236 were324 stationary360 for190 a10 while55 , their219 vast43 black581 forms48 looked232 more348 like410 lifeless19 masses361 of89 rock264 than77 anything480 else212 . And236 as113 in107 the19 great259 hunting45 countries279 of89 India258 , the19 stranger233 at65 a10 distance264 will584 sometimes77 pass153 on392 the19 plains21 recumbent76 elephants452 without309 knowing240 them146 to261 be341 such420 , taking146 them146 for190 bare245 , blackened516 elevations92 of89 the19 soil430 ; even198 so281 , often227 , with449 him248 , who319 for190 the19 first13 time577 beholds181 this256 species69 of89 the19 leviathans336 of89 the19 sea67 . And236 even198 when189 recognized410 at65 last436 , their219 immense301 magnitude203 renders249 it162 very515 hard337 really406 to261 believe191 that14 such420 bulky11 masses361 of89 overgrowth287 can450 possibly201 be341 instinct72 , in107 all145 parts470 , with449 the19 same541 sort42 of89 life71 that14 lives245 in107 a10 dog322 or519 a10 horse409 . Indeed522 . in107 other282 respects403 , you227 can450 hardly182 regard448 any501 creatures5 of89 the19 deep483 with449 the19 same541 feelings120 that14 you227 do353 those427 of89 the19 shore280 . For190 though400 some265 old447 naturalists140 have254 maintained345 that14 all145 creatures5 of89 the19 land406 are314 of89 their219 kind451 in107 the19 sea67 ; and236 though400 taking146 a10 broad267 general37 view370 of89 the19 thing309 , this256 may236 very515 well263 be341 ; yet443 coming140 to261 specialties425 , where579 , for190 example479 , does565 the19 ocean224 furnish160 any501 fish187 that14 in107 disposition131 answers369 to261 the19 sagacious10 kindness376 of89 the19 dog322 ? The19 accursed203 shark4 alone2 can450 in107 any501 generic152 respect441 be341 said252 to261 bear48 comparative87 analogy97 to261 him248 . But330 though400 , to261 landsmen117 in107 general37 , the19 native399 inhabitants110 of89 the19 seas350 have254 ever208 been185 regarded393 with449 emotions205 unspeakably102 unsocial191 and236 repelling19 ; though400 we465 know60 the19 sea67 to261 be341 an138 everlasting249 terra198 incognita25 , so281 that14 Columbus527 sailed248 over82 numberless4 unknown10 worlds388 to261 discover291 his433 one470 superficial531 western227 one470 ; though400 , by406 vast43 odds250 , the19 most216 terrific315 of89 all145 mortal371 disasters138 have254 immemorially210 and236 indiscriminately398 befallen16 tens367 and236 hundreds458 of89 thousands7 of89 those427 who319 have254 gone190 upon419 the19 waters556 ; though400 but330 a10 moment258 's483 consideration196 will584 teach250 that14 , however44 baby236 man17 may236 brag58 of89 his433 science317 and236 skill502 , and236 however44 much61 , in107 a10 flattering287 future44 , that14 science317 and236 skill502 may236 augment41 ; yet443 for190 ever208 and236 for190 ever208 , to261 the19 crack83 of89 doom73 , the19 sea67 will584 insult38 and236 murder448 him248 , and236 pulverize373 the19 stateliest445 , stiffest354 frigate44 he362 can450 make175 ; nevertheless104 , by406 the19 continual222 repetition403 of89 these527 very515 impressions110 , man17 has399 lost308 that14 sense85 of89 the19 full414 awfulness306 of89 the19 sea67 which16 aboriginally111 belongs402 to261 it162 . The19 first13 boat439 we465 read98 of89 , floated6 on392 an138 ocean224 , that14 with449 Portuguese116 vengeance72 had364 whelmed89 a10 whole199 world126 without309 leaving231 so281 much61 as113 a10 widow231 . That14 same541 ocean224 rolls475 now20 ; that14 same541 ocean224 destroyed197 the19 wrecked527 ships21 of89 last436 year347 . Yea204 , foolish509 mortals72 , Noah69 's483 flood167 is487 not518 yet443 subsided445 ; two527 thirds141 of89 the19 fair320 world126 it162 yet443 covers454 . Wherein396 differ22 the19 sea67 and236 the19 land406 , that14 a10 miracle309 upon419 one470 is487 not518 a10 miracle309 upon419 the19 other282 ? Preternatural385 terrors192 rested314 upon419 the19 Hebrews64 , when189 under533 the19 feet349 of89 Korah493 and236 his433 company280 the19 live554 ground127 opened461 and236 swallowed104 them146 up405 for190 ever208 ; yet443 not518 a10 modern446 sun397 ever208 sets83 , but330 in107 precisely217 the19 same541 manner153 the19 live554 sea67 swallows384 up405 ships21 and236 crews559 . But330 not518 only517 is487 the19 sea67 such420 a10 foe479 to261 man17 who319 is487 an138 alien8 to261 it162 , but330 it162 is487 also119 a10 fiend59 to261 its234 own248 off111 -spring148 ; worse561 than77 the19 Persian23 host5 who319 murdered273 his433 own248 guests320 ; sparing427 not518 the19 creatures5 which16 itself312 hath585 spawned232 . Like410 a10 savage398 tigress295 that14 tossing213 in107 the19 jungle116 overlays395 her400 own248 cubs399 , so281 the19 sea67 dashes453 even198 the19 mightiest395 whales331 against417 the19 rocks265 , and236 leaves441 them146 there340 side246 by406 side246 with449 the19 split148 wrecks480 of89 ships21 . No235 mercy378 , no235 power145 but330 its234 own248 controls81 it162 . Panting553 and236 snorting238 like410 a10 mad235 battle105 steed249 that14 has399 lost308 its234 rider113 , the19 masterless25 ocean224 overruns263 the19 globe23 . Consider259 the19 subtleness27 of89 the19 sea67 ; how19 its234 most216 dreaded15 creatures5 glide128 under533 water520 , unapparent23 for190 the19 most216 part207 , and236 treacherously292 hidden78 beneath320 the19 loveliest244 tints210 of89 azure154 . Consider259 also119 the19 devilish181 brilliance105 and236 beauty262 of89 many282 of89 its234 most216 remorseless266 tribes402 , as113 the19 dainty338 embellished27 shape99 of89 many282 species69 of89 sharks206 . Consider259 once248 more348 , the19 universal397 cannibalism118 of89 the19 sea67 ; all145 whose286 creatures5 prey347 upon419 each520 other282 , carrying103 on392 eternal155 war169 since374 the19 world126 began132 . Consider259 all145 this256 ; and236 then45 turn17 to261 this256 green549 , gentle439 , and236 most216 docile24 earth513 ; consider259 them146 both558 , the19 sea67 and236 the19 land406 ; and236 do353 you227 not518 find138 a10 strange440 analogy97 to261 something181 in107 yourself176 ? For190 as113 this256 appalling282 ocean224 surrounds246 the19 verdant441 land406 , so281 in107 the19 soul428 of89 man17 there340 lies27 one470 insular129 Tahiti183 , full414 of89 peace216 and236 joy430 , but330 encompassed46 by406 all145 the19 horrors403 of89 the19 half119 known86 life71 . God185 keep381 thee15 ! Push278 not518 off111 from316 that14 isle41 , thou173 canst502 never206 return407 ! CHAPTER293 5984 Squid318 Slowly149 wading27 through295 the19 meadows42 of89 brit20 , the19 Pequod288 still278 held212 on392 her400 way435 north174 -eastward244 towards417 the19 island516 of89 Java126 ; a10 gentle439 air209 impelling26 her400 keel39 , so281 that14 in107 the19 surrounding398 serenity27 her400 three329 tall373 tapering416 masts212 mildly115 waved366 to261 that14 languid24 breeze227 , as113 three329 mild117 palms173 on392 a10 plain28 . And236 still278 , at65 wide465 intervals295 in107 the19 silvery42 night108 , the19 lonely137 , alluring295 jet423 would282 be341 seen154 . But330 one470 transparent129 blue240 morning417 , when189 a10 stillness516 almost518 preternatural385 spread348 over82 the19 sea67 , however44 unattended359 with449 any501 stagnant396 calm39 ; when189 the19 long544 burnished246 sun397 -glade on392 the19 waters556 seemed132 a10 golden508 finger190 laid181 across129 them146 , enjoining105 some265 secrecy382 ; when189 the19 slippered43 waves443 whispered89 together440 as113 they382 softly461 ran391 on392 ; in107 this256 profound371 hush4 of89 the19 visible94 sphere329 a10 strange440 spectre21 was454 seen154 by406 Daggoo from316 the19 main501 -mast44 -head116 . In107 the19 distance264 , a10 great259 white82 mass36 lazily347 rose449 , and236 rising464 higher574 and236 higher574 , and236 disentangling336 itself312 from316 the19 azure154 , at65 last436 gleamed61 before344 our234 prow451 like410 a10 snow498 -slide118 , new36 slid132 from316 the19 hills352 . Thus362 glistening24 for190 a10 moment258 , as113 slowly149 it162 subsided445 , and236 sank310 . Then45 once248 more348 arose105 , and236 silently533 gleamed61 . It162 seemed132 not518 a10 whale422 ; and236 yet443 is487 this256 Moby362 Dick25 ? thought186 Daggoo. Again52 the19 phantom101 went516 down133 , but330 on392 re-appearing341 once248 more348 , with449 a10 stiletto-like368 cry561 that14 startled475 every389 man17 from316 his433 nod133 , the19 negro102 yelled61 out66 --"There340 ! there340 again52 ! there340 she391 breaches24 ! right499 ahead5 ! The19 White82 Whale422 , the19 White82 Whale422 !" Upon419 this256 , the19 seamen6 rushed199 to261 the19 yard258 -arms305 , as113 in107 swarming41 -time577 the19 bees350 rush6 to261 the19 boughs157 . Bare245 -headed124 in107 the19 sultry403 sun397 , Ahab232 stood1 on392 the19 bowsprit120 , and236 with449 one470 hand252 pushed189 far258 behind80 in107 readiness420 to261 wave556 his433 orders199 to261 the19 helmsman457 , cast99 his433 eager516 glance362 in107 the19 direction67 indicated258 aloft276 by406 the19 outstretched48 motionless498 arm25 of89 Daggoo. Whether454 the19 flitting411 attendance46 of89 the19 one470 still278 and236 solitary407 jet423 had364 gradually355 worked245 upon419 Ahab232 , so281 that14 he362 was454 now20 prepared59 to261 connect282 the19 ideas264 of89 mildness354 and236 repose463 with449 the19 first13 sight365 of89 the19 particular336 whale422 he362 pursued460 ; however44 this256 was454 , or519 whether454 his433 eagerness275 betrayed498 him248 ; whichever364 way435 it162 might496 have254 been185 , no235 sooner338 did444 he362 distinctly26 perceive131 the19 white82 mass36 , than77 with449 a10 quick241 intensity285 he362 instantly186 gave572 orders199 for190 lowering240 . The19 four175 boats83 were324 soon18 on392 the19 water520 ; Ahab232 's483 in107 advance70 , and236 all145 swiftly441 pulling217 towards417 their219 prey347 . Soon18 it162 went516 down133 , and236 while55 , with449 oars398 suspended245 , we465 were324 awaiting408 its234 reappearance379 , lo418 ! in107 the19 same541 spot46 where579 it162 sank310 , once248 more348 it162 slowly149 rose449 . Almost518 forgetting136 for190 the19 moment258 all145 thoughts26 of89 Moby362 Dick25 , we465 now20 gazed13 at65 the19 most216 wondrous30 phenomenon34 which16 the19 secret409 seas350 have254 hitherto533 revealed530 to261 mankind40 . A10 vast43 pulpy4 mass36 , furlongs24 in107 length202 and236 breadth252 , of89 a10 glancing18 cream227 -color13 , lay62 floating30 on392 the19 water520 , innumerable256 long544 arms536 radiating41 from316 its234 centre389 , and236 curling27 and236 twisting445 like410 a10 nest454 of89 anacondas, as113 if141 blindly219 to261 clutch14 at65 any501 hapless483 object100 within503 reach43 . No235 perceptible8 face556 or519 front196 did444 it162 have254 ; no235 conceivable147 token502 of89 either45 sensation286 or519 instinct72 ; but330 undulated265 there340 on392 the19 billows295 , an138 unearthly110 , formless110 , chance292 -like410 apparition143 of89 life71 . As113 with449 a10 low407 sucking373 sound181 it162 slowly149 disappeared5 again52 , Starbuck still278 gazing117 at65 the19 agitated140 waters556 where579 it162 had364 sunk336 , with449 a10 wild230 voice233 exclaimed281 --"Almost518 rather178 had364 I482 seen154 Moby362 Dick25 and236 fought66 him248 , than77 to261 have254 seen154 thee15 , thou173 white82 ghost246 !" "What243 was454 it162 , Sir271 ?" said252 Flask199 . "The19 great259 live554 squid318 , which16 , they382 say306 , few49 whale422 -ships21 ever208 beheld132 , and236 returned214 to261 their219 ports92 to261 tell392 of89 it162 ." But330 Ahab232 said252 nothing324 ; turning69 his433 boat439 , he362 sailed248 back457 to261 the19 vessel155 ; the19 rest302 as113 silently533 following181 . Whatever38 superstitions128 the19 sperm26 whalemen451 in107 general37 have254 connected202 with449 the19 sight365 of89 this256 object100 , certain31 it162 is487 , that14 a10 glimpse12 of89 it162 being264 so281 very515 unusual322 , that14 circumstance407 has399 gone190 far258 to261 invest308 it162 with449 portentousness136 . So281 rarely227 is487 it162 beheld132 , that14 though400 one470 and236 all145 of89 them146 declare167 it162 to261 be341 the19 largest139 animated143 thing309 in107 the19 ocean224 , yet443 very515 few49 of89 them146 have254 any501 but330 the19 most216 vague70 ideas264 concerning368 its234 true483 nature159 and236 form238 ; notwithstanding387 , they382 believe191 it162 to261 furnish160 to261 the19 sperm26 whale422 his433 only517 food248 . For190 though400 other282 species69 of89 whales331 find138 their219 food248 above502 water520 , and236 may236 be341 seen154 by406 man17 in107 the19 act10 of89 feeding367 , the19 spermaceti283 whale422 obtains23 his433 whole199 food248 in107 unknown10 zones183 below397 the19 surface328 ; and236 only517 by406 inference292 is487 it162 that14 any501 one470 can450 tell392 of89 what243 , precisely217 , that14 food248 consists303 . At65 times121 , when189 closely218 pursued460 , he362 will584 disgorge83 what243 are314 supposed423 to261 be341 the19 detached5 arms536 of89 the19 squid318 ; some265 of89 them146 thus362 exhibited20 exceeding320 twenty433 and236 thirty521 feet349 in107 length202 . They382 fancy396 that14 the19 monster480 to261 which16 these527 arms536 belonged455 ordinarily250 clings183 by406 them146 to261 the19 bed273 of89 the19 ocean224 ; and236 that14 the19 sperm26 whale422 , unlike406 other282 species69 , is487 supplied338 with449 teeth82 in107 order343 to261 attack74 and236 tear146 it162 . There340 seems19 some265 ground127 to261 imagine385 that14 the19 great259 Kraken83 of89 Bishop129 Pontoppodan may236 ultimately239 resolve420 itself312 into554 Squid318 . The19 manner153 in107 which16 the19 Bishop129 describes29 it162 , as113 alternately185 rising464 and236 sinking60 , with449 some265 other282 particulars230 he362 narrates314 , in107 all145 this256 the19 two527 correspond153 . But330 much61 abatement136 is487 necessary145 with449 respect441 to261 the19 incredible98 bulk181 he362 assigns25 it162 . By406 some265 naturalists140 who319 have254 vaguely230 heard444 rumors156 of89 the19 mysterious304 creature82 , here135 spoken507 of89 , it162 is487 included559 among483 the19 class410 of89 cuttle-fish187 , to261 which16 , indeed522 , in107 certain31 external386 respects403 it162 would282 seem404 to261 belong243 , but330 only517 as113 the19 Anak375 of89 the19 tribe273 . CHAPTER293 6087 The19 Line25 With449 reference116 to261 the19 whaling155 scene228 shortly425 to261 be341 described483 , as113 well263 as113 for190 the19 better34 understanding523 of89 all145 similar101 scenes339 elsewhere154 presented320 , I482 have254 here135 to261 speak337 of89 the19 magical359 , sometimes77 horrible398 whale422 -line25 . The19 line25 originally367 used102 in107 the19 fishery136 was454 of89 the19 best315 hemp245 , slightly238 vapored367 with449 tar59 , not518 impregnated393 with449 it162 , as113 in107 the19 case346 of89 ordinary225 ropes461 ; for190 while55 tar59 , as113 ordinarily250 used102 , makes32 the19 hemp245 more348 pliable296 to261 the19 rope265 -maker, and236 also119 renders249 the19 rope265 itself312 more348 convenient470 to261 the19 sailor561 for190 common304 ship438 use176 ; yet443 , not518 only517 would282 the19 ordinary225 quantity316 too11 much61 stiffen53 the19 whale422 -line25 for190 the19 close65 coiling105 to261 which16 it162 must226 be341 subjected43 ; but330 as113 most216 seamen6 are314 beginning188 to261 learn341 , tar59 in107 general37 by406 no235 means502 adds225 to261 the19 rope265 's483 durability402 or519 strength168 , however44 much61 it162 may236 give142 it162 compactness4 and236 gloss399 . Of89 late351 years116 the19 Manilla283 rope265 has399 in107 the19 American272 fishery136 almost518 entirely148 superseded557 hemp245 as113 a10 material161 for190 whale422 -lines241 ; for190 , though400 not518 so281 durable212 as113 hemp245 , it162 is487 stronger234 , and236 far258 more348 soft226 and236 elastic370 ; and236 I482 will584 add236 (since374 there340 is487 an138 aesthetics165 in107 all145 things4 ), is487 much61 more348 handsome66 and236 becoming460 to261 the19 boat439 , than77 hemp245 . Hemp245 is487 a10 dusky98 , dark471 fellow369 , a10 sort42 of89 Indian303 ; but330 Manilla283 is487 as113 a10 golden508 -haired439 Circassian269 to261 behold525 . The19 whale422 -line25 is487 only517 two527 thirds141 of89 an138 inch65 in107 thickness280 . At65 first13 sight365 , you227 would282 not518 think424 it162 so281 strong145 as113 it162 really406 is487 . By406 experiment40 its234 one470 and236 fifty406 yarns122 will584 each520 suspend71 a10 weight213 of89 one470 hundred93 and236 twenty433 pounds74 ; so281 that14 the19 whole199 rope265 will584 bear48 a10 strain468 nearly575 equal261 to261 three329 tons363 . In107 length202 , the19 common304 sperm26 whale422 -line25 measures359 something181 over82 two527 hundred93 fathoms375 . Towards417 the19 stern442 of89 the19 boat439 it162 is487 spirally111 coiled4 away443 in107 the19 tub339 , not518 like410 the19 worm128 -pipe124 of89 a10 still278 though400 , but330 so281 as113 to261 form238 one470 round287 , cheese10 -shaped151 mass36 of89 densely2 bedded237 "sheaves149 ," or519 layers451 of89 concentric129 spiralizations, without309 any501 hollow511 but330 the19 "heart470 ," or519 minute236 vertical397 tube295 formed294 at65 the19 axis20 of89 the19 cheese10 . As113 the19 least453 tangle151 or519 kink232 in107 the19 coiling105 would282 , in107 running296 out66 , infallibly426 take279 somebody387 's483 arm25 , leg331 , or519 entire230 body348 off111 , the19 utmost43 precaution174 is487 used102 in107 stowing98 the19 line25 in107 its234 tub339 . Some265 harpooneers will584 consume403 almost518 an138 entire230 morning417 in107 this256 business168 , carrying103 the19 line25 high361 aloft276 and236 then45 reeving98 it162 downwards468 through295 a10 block275 towards417 the19 tub339 , so281 as113 in107 the19 act10 of89 coiling105 to261 free483 it162 from316 all145 possible277 wrinkles318 and236 twists308 . In107 the19 English69 boats83 two527 tubs410 are314 used102 instead398 of89 one470 ; the19 same541 line25 being264 continuously410 coiled4 in107 both558 tubs410 . There340 is487 some265 advantage169 in107 this256 ; because540 these527 twin492 -tubs410 being264 so281 small350 they382 fit12 more348 readily467 into554 the19 boat439 , and236 do353 not518 strain468 it162 so281 much61 ; whereas18 , the19 American272 tub339 , nearly575 three329 feet349 in107 diameter350 and236 of89 proportionate181 depth474 , makes32 a10 rather178 bulky11 freight409 for190 a10 craft187 whose286 planks284 are314 but330 one470 -half157 inch65 in107 thickness280 ; for190 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 whale422 -boat439 is487 like410 critical38 ice443 , which16 will584 bear48 up405 a10 considerable75 distributed474 weight213 , but330 not518 very515 much61 of89 a10 concentrated208 one470 . When189 the19 painted340 canvas557 cover172 is487 clapped423 on392 the19 american272 line25 -tub339 , the19 boat439 looks150 as113 if141 it162 were324 pulling217 off111 with449 a10 prodigious223 great259 wedding377 -cake to261 present112 to261 the19 whales331 . Both558 ends301 of89 the19 line25 are314 exposed356 ; the19 lower47 end149 terminating159 in107 an138 eye220 -splice4 or519 loop316 coming140 up405 from316 the19 bottom461 against417 the19 side246 of89 the19 tub339 , and236 hanging222 over82 its234 edge323 completely385 disengaged410 from316 everything233 . This256 arrangement211 of89 the19 lower47 end149 is487 necessary145 on392 two527 accounts311 . First13 : In107 order343 to261 facilitate211 the19 fastening180 to261 it162 of89 an138 additional131 line25 from316 a10 neighboring399 boat439 , in107 case346 the19 stricken328 whale422 should255 sound181 so281 deep483 as113 to261 threaten113 to261 carry160 off111 the19 entire230 line25 originally367 attached211 to261 the19 harpoon67 . In107 these527 instances252 , the19 whale422 of89 course171 is487 shifted167 like410 a10 mug479 of89 ale213 , as113 it162 were324 , from316 the19 one470 boat439 to261 the19 other282 ; though400 the19 first13 boat439 always367 hovers162 at65 hand252 to261 assist7 its234 consort94 . Second386 : This256 arrangement211 is487 indispensable470 for190 common304 safety388 's483 sake523 ; for190 were324 the19 lower47 end149 of89 the19 line25 in107 any501 way435 attached211 to261 the19 boat439 , and236 were324 the19 whale422 then45 to261 run172 the19 line25 out66 to261 the19 end149 almost518 in107 a10 single77 , smoking470 minute236 as113 he362 sometimes77 does565 , he362 would282 not518 stop48 there340 , for190 the19 doomed54 boat439 would282 infallibly426 be341 dragged460 down133 after358 him248 into554 the19 profundity19 of89 the19 sea67 ; and236 in107 that14 case346 no235 town172 -crier42 would282 ever208 find138 her400 again52 . Before344 lowering240 the19 boat439 for190 the19 chase89 , the19 upper403 end149 of89 the19 line25 is487 taken222 aft2 from316 the19 tub339 , and236 passing147 round287 the19 loggerhead117 there340 , is487 again52 carried232 forward364 the19 entire230 length202 of89 the19 boat439 , resting455 crosswise350 upon419 the19 loom280 or519 handle546 of89 every389 man17 's415 oar61 , so281 that14 it162 jogs305 against417 his433 wrist117 in107 rowing375 ; and236 also119 passing147 between77 the19 men62 , as113 they382 alternately185 sit215 at65 the19 opposite107 gunwales42 , to261 the19 leaded210 chocks39 or519 grooves189 in107 the19 extreme31 pointed413 prow451 of89 the19 boat439 , where579 a10 wooden35 pin486 or519 skewer327 the19 size503 of89 a10 common304 quill305 , prevents185 it162 from316 slipping522 out66 . From316 the19 chocks39 it162 hangs170 in107 a10 slight259 festoon28 over82 the19 bows460 , and236 is487 then45 passed87 inside438 the19 boat439 again52 ; and236 some265 ten198 or519 twenty433 fathoms375 (called237 box226 -line25 ) being264 coiled4 upon419 the19 box226 in107 the19 bows460 , it162 continues540 its234 way435 to261 the19 gunwale198 still278 a10 little554 further53 aft2 , and236 is487 then45 attached211 to261 the19 short522 -warp382 -- the19 rope265 which16 is487 immediately172 connected202 with449 the19 harpoon67 ; but330 previous376 to261 that14 connexion400 , the19 short522 -warp382 goes205 through295 sundry53 mystifications83 too11 tedious235 to261 detail41 . Thus362 the19 whale422 -line25 folds367 the19 whole199 boat439 in107 its234 complicated64 coils259 , twisting445 and236 writhing12 around66 it162 in107 almost518 every389 direction67 . All145 the19 oarsmen59 are314 involved149 in107 its234 perilous141 contortions96 ; so281 that14 to261 the19 timid197 eye220 of89 the19 landsman331 , they382 seem404 as113 Indian303 jugglers364 , with449 the19 deadliest29 snakes462 sportively84 festooning78 their219 limbs315 . Nor137 can450 any501 son26 of89 mortal371 woman448 , for190 the19 first13 time577 , seat88 himself282 amid240 those427 hempen451 intricacies223 , and236 while55 straining107 his433 utmost43 at65 the19 oar61 , bethink51 him248 that14 at65 any501 unknown10 instant279 the19 harpoon67 may236 be341 darted362 , and236 all145 these527 horrible398 contortions96 be341 put190 in107 play89 like410 ringed379 lightnings174 ; he362 cannot be341 thus362 circumstanced64 without309 a10 shudder17 that14 makes32 the19 very515 marrow318 in107 his433 bones5 to261 quiver38 in107 him248 like410 a10 shaken23 jelly497 . Yet443 habit169 --strange440 thing309 ! what243 cannot habit169 accomplish254 ?--Gayer366 sallies142 , more348 merry486 mirth457 , better34 jokes235 , and236 brighter260 repartees83 , you227 never206 heard444 over82 your162 mahogany389 , than77 you227 will584 hear386 over82 the19 half119 -inch65 white82 cedar330 of89 the19 whaleboat39 , when189 thus362 hung479 in107 hangman83 's483 nooses366 ; and236 , like410 the19 six415 burghers273 of89 Calais243 before344 King324 Edward130 , the19 six415 men62 composing460 the19 crew126 pull35 into554 the19 jaws341 of89 death543 , with449 a10 halter237 around66 every389 neck239 , as113 you227 may236 say306 . Perhaps75 a10 very515 little554 thought186 will584 now20 enable93 you227 to261 account102 for190 those427 repeated381 whaling155 disasters138 --some265 few49 of89 which16 are314 casually181 chronicled226 --of89 this256 man17 or519 that14 man17 being264 taken222 out66 of89 the19 boat439 by406 the19 line25 , and236 lost308 . For190 , when189 the19 line25 is487 darting147 out66 , to261 be341 seated158 then45 in107 the19 boat439 , is487 like410 being264 seated158 in107 the19 midst533 of89 the19 manifold14 whizzings of89 a10 steam106 -engine in107 full414 play89 , when189 every389 flying354 beam298 , and236 shaft56 , and236 wheel135 , is487 grazing310 you227 . It162 is487 worse561 ; for190 you227 cannot sit215 motionless498 in107 the19 heart470 of89 these527 perils140 , because540 the19 boat439 is487 rocking6 like410 a10 cradle484 , and236 you227 are314 pitched101 one470 way435 and236 the19 other282 , without309 the19 slightest44 warning531 ; and236 only517 by406 a10 certain31 self442 -adjusting buoyancy15 and236 simultaneousness380 of89 volition431 and236 action102 , can450 you227 escape565 being264 made563 a10 Mazeppa273 of89 , and236 run172 away443 with449 where579 the19 all145 -seeing426 sun397 himself282 could375 never206 pierce259 you227 out66 . Again52 : as113 the19 profound371 calm39 which16 only517 apparently261 precedes249 and236 prophesies465 of89 the19 storm218 , is487 perhaps75 more348 awful539 than77 the19 storm218 itself312 ; for190 , indeed522 , the19 calm39 is487 but330 the19 wrapper344 and236 envelope155 of89 the19 storm218 ; and236 contains81 it162 in107 itself312 , as113 the19 seemingly261 harmless268 rifle303 holds92 the19 fatal460 powder5 , and236 the19 ball141 , and236 the19 explosion311 ; so281 the19 graceful403 repose463 of89 the19 line25 , as113 it162 silently533 serpentines141 about123 the19 oarsmen59 before344 being264 brought85 into554 actual143 play89 -- this256 is487 a10 thing309 which16 carries440 more348 of89 true483 terror85 than77 any501 other282 aspect147 of89 this256 dangerous2 affair388 . But330 why177 say306 more348 ? All145 men62 live554 enveloped28 in107 whale422 -lines241 . All145 are314 born236 with449 halters78 round287 their219 necks279 ; but330 it162 is487 only517 when189 caught105 in107 the19 swift376 , sudden309 turn17 of89 death543 , that14 mortals72 realize293 the19 silent382 , subtle143 , everpresent perils140 of89 life71 . And236 if141 you227 be341 a10 philosopher19 , though400 seated158 in107 the19 whale422 -boat439 , you227 would282 not518 at65 heart470 feel461 one470 whit367 more348 of89 terror85 , than77 though400 seated158 before344 your162 evening581 fire559 with449 a10 poker167 , and236 not518 a10 harpoon67 , by406 your162 side246 . CHAPTER293 61411 Stubb Kills261 a10 Whale422 If141 to261 Starbuck the19 apparition143 of89 the19 Squid318 was454 a10 thing309 of89 portents306 , to261 Queequeg it162 was454 quite327 a10 different276 object100 . "When189 you227 see370 him248 'quid58 ," said252 the19 savage398 , honing26 his433 harpoon67 in107 the19 bow146 of89 his433 hoisted367 boat439 , "then45 you227 quick241 see370 him248 'parm whale422 ." The19 next27 day112 was454 exceedingly257 still278 and236 sultry403 , and236 with449 nothing324 special326 to261 engage134 them146 , the19 Pequod288 's483 crew126 could375 hardly182 resist298 the19 spell416 of89 sleep233 induced45 by406 such420 a10 vacant367 sea67 . For190 this256 part207 of89 the19 Indian303 Ocean224 through295 which16 we465 then45 were324 voyaging102 is487 not518 what243 whalemen451 call259 a10 lively272 ground127 ; that14 is487 , it162 affords153 fewer262 glimpses446 of89 porpoises298 , dolphins192 , flying354 -fish187 , and236 other282 vivacious347 denizens367 of89 more348 stirring130 waters556 , than77 those427 off111 the19 Rio31 de404 la417 Plata120 , or519 the19 in107 -shore280 ground127 off111 Peru19 . It162 was454 my36 turn17 to261 stand530 at65 the19 foremast331 -head219 ; and236 with449 my36 shoulders476 leaning559 against417 the19 slackened31 royal161 shrouds264 , to261 and236 fro183 I482 idly188 swayed136 in107 what243 seemed132 an138 enchanted229 air209 . No235 resolution91 could375 withstand263 it162 ; in107 that14 dreamy247 mood547 losing205 all145 consciousness539 , at65 last436 my36 soul428 went516 out66 of89 my36 body348 ; though400 my36 body348 still278 continued44 to261 sway497 as113 a10 pendulum5 will584 , long544 after358 the19 power145 which16 first13 moved492 it162 is487 withdrawn35 . Ere83 forgetfulness170 altogether31 came549 over82 me2 , I482 had364 noticed157 that14 the19 seamen6 at65 the19 main501 and236 mizzen4 mast44 -heads279 were324 already93 drowsy203 . So281 that14 at65 last436 all145 three329 of89 us569 lifelessly339 swung205 from316 the19 spars15 , and236 for190 every389 swing311 that14 we465 made563 there340 was454 a10 nod133 from316 below397 from316 the19 slumbering107 helmsman457 . The19 waves443 , too11 , nodded22 their219 indolent53 crests171 ; and236 across129 the19 wide465 trance202 of89 the19 sea67 , east524 nodded22 to261 west569 , and236 the19 sun397 over82 all145 . Suddenly193 bubbles552 seemed132 bursting288 beneath320 my36 closed523 eyes125 ; like410 vices125 my36 hands87 grasped101 the19 shrouds264 ; some265 invisible186 , gracious375 agency189 preserved335 me2 ; with449 a10 shock44 I482 came549 back457 to261 life71 . And236 lo418 ! close65 under533 our234 lee472 , not518 forty525 fathoms375 off111 , a10 gigantic157 Sperm26 Whale422 lay62 rolling253 in107 the19 water520 like410 the19 capsized42 hull323 of89 a10 frigate44 , his433 broad267 , glossy318 back457 , of89 an138 Ethiopian305 hue296 , glistening24 in107 the19 sun397 's483 rays43 like410 a10 mirror543 . But330 lazily347 undulating521 in107 the19 trough143 of89 the19 sea67 , and236 ever208 and236 anon88 tranquilly83 spouting81 his433 vapory112 jet423 , the19 whale422 looked232 like410 a10 portly149 burgher10 smoking470 his433 pipe124 of89 a10 warm178 afternoon128 . But330 that14 pipe124 , poor533 whale422 , was454 thy43 last436 . As113 if141 struck441 by406 some265 enchanter86 's483 wand450 , the19 sleepy452 ship438 and236 every389 sleeper136 in107 it162 all145 at65 once248 started492 into554 wakefulness253 ; and236 more348 than77 a10 score124 of89 voices386 from316 all145 parts470 of89 the19 vessel155 , simultaneously558 with449 the19 three329 notes45 from316 aloft276 , shouted300 forth152 the19 accustomed295 cry561 , as113 the19 great259 fish187 slowly149 and236 regularly37 spouted395 the19 sparkling42 brine488 into554 the19 air209 . "Clear408 away443 the19 boats83 ! Luff2 !" cried506 Ahab232 . And236 obeying163 his433 own248 order343 , he362 dashed304 the19 helm285 down133 before344 the19 helmsman457 could375 handle546 the19 spokes447 . The19 sudden309 exclamations278 of89 the19 crew126 must226 have254 alarmed344 the19 whale422 ; and236 ere83 the19 boats83 were324 down133 , majestically435 turning69 , he362 swam111 away443 to261 the19 leeward265 , but330 with449 such420 a10 steady21 tranquillity516 , and236 making415 so281 few49 ripples434 as113 he362 swam111 , that14 thinking385 after358 all145 he362 might496 not518 as113 yet443 be341 alarmed344 , Ahab232 gave572 orders199 that14 not518 an138 oar61 should255 be341 used102 , and236 no235 man17 must226 speak337 but330 in107 whispers336 . So281 seated158 like410 Ontario383 Indians99 on392 the19 gunwales42 of89 the19 boats83 , we465 swiftly441 but330 silently533 paddled454 along423 ; the19 calm39 not518 admitting158 of89 the19 noiseless21 sails344 being264 set422 . Presently166 , as113 we465 thus362 glided152 in107 chase89 , the19 monster480 perpendicularly41 flitted102 his433 tail102 forty525 feet349 into554 the19 air209 , and236 then45 sank310 out66 of89 sight365 like410 a10 tower36 swallowed104 up405 . "There340 go20 flukes155 !" was454 the19 cry561 , an138 announcement457 immediately172 followed234 by406 Stubb's483 producing1 his433 match441 and236 igniting423 his433 pipe124 , for190 now20 a10 respite124 was454 granted317 . After358 the19 full414 interval114 of89 his433 sounding331 had364 elapsed172 , the19 whale422 rose449 again52 , and236 being264 now20 in107 advance70 of89 the19 smoker78 's483 boat439 , and236 much61 nearer303 to261 it162 than77 to261 any501 of89 the19 others317 , Stubb counted81 upon419 the19 honor497 of89 the19 capture361 . It162 was454 obvious147 , now20 , that14 the19 whale422 had364 at65 length202 become548 aware174 of89 his433 pursuers196 . All145 silence309 of89 cautiousness568 was454 therefore94 no235 longer559 of89 use176 . Paddles78 were324 dropped2 , and236 oars398 came549 loudly275 into554 play89 . And236 still278 puffing4 at65 his433 pipe124 , Stubb cheered406 on392 his433 crew126 to261 the19 assault223 . Yes143 , a10 mighty2 change386 had364 come420 over82 the19 fish187 . All145 alive298 to261 his433 jeopardy95 , he362 was454 going227 "head219 out66 "; that14 part207 obliquely122 projecting336 from316 the19 mad235 yeast275 which16 he362 brewed293 .* *It162 will584 be341 seen154 in107 some265 other282 place107 of89 what243 a10 very515 light382 substance316 the19 entire230 interior163 of89 the19 sperm26 whale422 's483 enormous327 head219 consists303 . Though400 apparently261 the19 most216 massive232 , it162 is487 by406 far258 the19 most216 buoyant159 part207 about123 him248 . So281 that14 with449 ease387 he362 elevates336 it162 in107 the19 air209 , and236 invariably55 does565 so281 when189 going227 at65 his433 utmost43 speed468 . Besides465 , such420 is487 the19 breadth252 of89 the19 upper403 part207 of89 the19 front196 of89 his433 head219 , and236 such420 the19 tapering416 cut310 -water520 formation44 of89 the19 lower47 part207 , that14 by406 obliquely122 elevating222 his433 head219 , he362 thereby190 may236 be341 said252 to261 transform123 himself282 from316 a10 bluff4 -bowed26 sluggish134 galliot410 into554 a10 sharppointed New36 York523 pilot559 -boat243 . "Start117 her400 , start117 her400 , my36 men62 ! Don280 't500 hurry183 yourselves192 ; take279 plenty406 of89 time577 --but330 start117 her400 ; start117 her400 like410 thunder356 -claps519 , that14 's76 all145 ," cried506 Stubb, spluttering449 out66 the19 smoke99 as113 he362 spoke185 . "Start117 her400 , now20 ; give142 'em the19 long544 and236 strong145 stroke436 , Tashtego. Start117 her400 , Tash299 , my36 boy110 -- start117 her400 , all145 ; but330 keep381 cool102 , keep381 cool102 --cucumbers4 is487 the19 word486 -- easy281 , easy281 --only517 start117 her400 like410 grim19 death543 and236 grinning424 devils377 , and236 raise265 the19 buried205 dead568 perpendicular83 out66 of89 their219 graves350 , boys22 -- that14 's76 all145 . Start117 her400 !" "Woo-hoo! Wa-hee!" screamed251 the19 Gay323 -Header in107 reply271 , raising99 some265 old447 war169 -whoop to261 the19 skies30 ; as113 every389 oarsman60 in107 the19 strained516 boat439 involuntarily124 bounced260 forward364 with449 the19 one470 tremendous376 leading59 stroke436 which16 the19 eager516 Indian303 gave572 . But330 his433 wild230 screams536 were324 answered100 by406 others317 quite327 as113 wild230 . "Kee-hee! Kee-hee!" yelled61 Daggoo, straining107 forwards528 and236 backwards143 on392 his433 seat88 , like410 a10 pacing253 tiger293 in107 his433 cage41 . "Ka-la417 ! Koo-loo!" howled333 Queequeg, as113 if141 smacking350 his433 lips585 over82 a10 mouthful98 of89 Grenadier4 's483 steak252 . And236 thus362 with449 oars398 and236 yells284 the19 keels394 cut310 the19 sea67 . Meanwhile282 , Stubb, retaining390 his433 place107 in107 the19 van164 , still278 encouraged364 his433 men62 to261 the19 onset292 , all145 the19 while55 puffing4 the19 smoke99 from316 his433 mouth414 . Like410 desperadoes92 they382 tugged40 and236 they382 strained516 , till181 the19 welcome2 cry561 was454 heard444 --"Stand530 up405 , Tashtego!--give142 it162 to261 him248 !" The19 harpoon67 was454 hurled46 . "Stern442 all145 !" The19 oarsmen59 backed270 water520 ; the19 same541 moment258 something181 went516 hot424 and236 hissing403 along423 every389 one470 of89 their219 wrists260 . It162 was454 the19 magical359 line25 . An138 instant279 before344 , Stubb had364 swiftly441 caught105 two527 additional131 turns136 with449 it162 round287 the19 loggerhead117 , whence494 , by406 reason238 of89 its234 increased406 rapid321 circlings132 , a10 hempen451 blue240 smoke99 now20 jetted182 up405 and236 mingled203 with449 the19 steady21 fumes413 from316 his433 pipe124 . As113 the19 line25 passed87 round287 and236 round287 the19 loggerhead117 ; so281 also119 , just108 before344 reaching141 that14 point438 , it162 blisteringly passed87 through295 and236 through295 both558 of89 Stubb's483 hands87 , from316 which16 the19 hand252 -cloths, or519 squares239 of89 quilted252 canvas557 sometimes77 worn174 at65 these527 times121 , had364 accidentally166 dropped2 . It162 was454 like410 holding311 an138 enemy431 's483 sharp427 two527 -edged324 sword273 by406 the19 blade83 , and236 that14 enemy431 all145 the19 time577 striving388 to261 wrest253 it162 out66 of89 your162 clutch14 . "Wet299 the19 line25 ! wet299 the19 line25 !" cried506 Stubb to261 the19 tub339 oarsman60 (him248 seated158 by406 the19 tub339 ) who319 , snatching111 off111 his433 hat107 , dashed304 the19 sea67 -water520 into554 it162 .* More348 turns136 were324 taken222 , so281 that14 the19 line25 began132 holding311 its234 place107 . The19 boat439 now20 flew424 through295 the19 boiling99 water520 like410 a10 shark4 all145 fins556 . Stubb and236 Tashtego here135 changed21 places423 --stem493 for190 stern442 --a10 staggering235 business168 truly530 in107 that14 rocking6 commotion155 . *Partly311 to261 show460 the19 indispensableness of89 this256 act10 , it162 may236 here135 be341 stated543 , that14 , in107 the19 old447 Dutch325 fishery136 , a10 mop104 was454 used102 to261 dash355 the19 running296 line25 with449 water520 ; in107 many282 other282 ships21 , a10 wooden35 piggin390 , or519 bailer26 , is487 set422 apart526 for190 that14 purpose514 . Your162 hat107 , however44 , is487 the19 most216 convenient470 . From316 the19 vibrating436 line25 extending231 the19 entire230 length202 of89 the19 upper403 part207 of89 the19 boat439 , and236 from316 its234 now20 being264 more348 tight369 than77 a10 harpstring, you227 would282 have254 thought186 the19 craft187 had364 two527 keels394 --one470 cleaving403 the19 water520 , the19 other282 the19 air209 --as113 the19 boat439 churned26 on392 through295 both558 opposing402 elements225 at65 once248 . A10 continual222 cascade451 played172 at65 the19 bows460 ; a10 ceaseless25 whirling122 eddy446 in107 her400 wake205 ; and236 , at65 the19 slightest44 motion544 from316 within503 , even198 but330 of89 a10 little554 finger190 , the19 vibrating436 , cracking203 craft187 canted438 over82 her400 spasmodic303 gunwale198 into554 the19 sea67 . Thus362 they382 rushed199 ; each520 man17 with449 might496 and236 main501 clinging232 to261 his433 seat88 , to261 prevent491 being264 tossed227 to261 the19 foam160 ; and236 the19 tall373 form238 of89 Tashtego at65 the19 steering252 oar61 crouching451 almost518 double20 , in107 order343 to261 bring173 down133 his433 centre389 of89 gravity430 . Whole199 Atlantics and236 Pacifics399 seemed132 passed87 as113 they382 shot443 on392 their219 way435 , till181 at65 length202 the19 whale422 somewhat77 slackened31 his433 flight306 . "Haul19 in107 --haul19 in107 !" cried506 Stubb to261 the19 bowsman290 ! and236 , facing68 round287 towards417 the19 whale422 , all145 hands87 began132 pulling217 the19 boat439 up405 to261 him248 , while55 yet443 the19 boat439 was454 being264 towed376 on392 . Soon18 ranging261 up405 by406 his433 flank434 , Stubb, firmly308 planting362 his433 knee235 in107 the19 clumsy394 cleat98 , darted362 dart293 after358 dart293 into554 the19 flying354 fish187 ; at65 the19 word486 of89 command190 , the19 boat439 alternately185 sterning out66 of89 the19 way435 of89 the19 whale422 's483 horrible398 wallow252 , and236 then45 ranging261 up405 for190 another269 fling335 . The19 red293 tide523 now20 poured476 from316 all145 sides331 of89 the19 monster480 like410 brooks452 down133 a10 hill219 . His433 tormented256 body348 rolled226 not518 in107 brine488 but330 in107 blood208 , which16 bubbled155 and236 seethed426 for190 furlongs24 behind80 in107 their219 wake205 . The19 slanting522 sun397 playing471 upon419 this256 crimson26 pond350 in107 the19 sea67 , sent411 back457 its234 reflection266 into554 every389 face556 , so281 that14 they382 all145 glowed110 to261 each520 other282 like410 red293 men62 . And236 all145 the19 while55 , jet423 after358 jet423 of89 white82 smoke99 was454 agonizingly40 shot443 from316 the19 spiracle4 of89 the19 whale422 , and236 vehement424 puff82 after358 puff82 from316 the19 mouth414 of89 the19 excited283 headsman143 ; as113 at65 every389 dart293 , hauling149 in107 upon419 his433 crooked236 lance76 (by406 the19 line25 attached211 to261 it162 ), Stubb straightened346 it162 again52 and236 again52 , by406 a10 few49 rapid321 blows361 against417 the19 gunwale198 , then45 again52 and236 again52 sent411 it162 into554 the19 whale422 . "Pull35 up405 --pull35 up405 !" he362 now20 cried506 to261 the19 bowsman290 , as113 the19 waning442 whale422 relaxed2 in107 his433 wrath450 . "Pull35 up405 !--close65 to261 !" and236 the19 boat439 ranged435 along423 the19 fish187 's483 flank434 . When189 reaching141 far258 over82 the19 bow146 , Stubb slowly149 churned26 his433 long544 sharp427 lance76 into554 the19 fish187 , and236 kept290 it162 there340 , carefully374 churning367 and236 churning367 , as113 if141 cautiously286 seeking427 to261 feel461 after358 some265 gold231 watch89 that14 the19 whale422 might496 have254 swallowed104 , and236 which16 he362 was454 fearful183 of89 breaking6 ere83 he362 could375 hook157 it162 out66 . But330 that14 gold231 watch89 he362 sought82 was454 the19 innermost27 life71 of89 the19 fish187 . And236 now20 it162 is487 struck441 ; for190 , starting423 from316 his433 trance202 into554 that14 unspeakable4 thing309 called237 his433 "flurry406 ," the19 monster480 horribly375 wallowed41 in107 his433 blood208 , overwrapped402 himself282 in107 impenetrable219 , mad235 , boiling99 spray76 , so281 that14 the19 imperilled393 craft187 , instantly186 dropping279 astern39 , had364 much61 ado124 blindly219 to261 struggle447 out66 from316 that14 phrensied314 twilight158 into554 the19 clear408 air209 of89 the19 day112 . And236 now20 abating295 in107 his433 flurry406 , the19 whale422 once248 more348 rolled226 out66 into554 view370 ! surging403 from316 side246 to261 side246 ; spasmodically203 dilating434 and236 contracting521 his433 spout224 -hole73 , with449 sharp427 , cracking203 , agonized40 respirations98 . At65 last436 , gush203 after358 gush203 of89 clotted378 red293 gore551 , as113 if141 it162 had364 been185 the19 purple167 lees163 of89 red293 wine102 , shot443 into554 the19 frightened172 air209 ; and236 falling498 back457 again52 , ran391 dripping92 down133 his433 motionless498 flanks46 into554 the19 sea67 . His433 heart470 had364 burst174 ! "He362 's483 dead568 , Mr219 . Stubb," said252 Daggoo. "Yes143 ; both558 pipes17 smoked60 out66 !" and236 withdrawing152 his433 own248 from316 his433 mouth414 , Stubb scattered17 the19 dead568 ashes243 over82 the19 water520 ; and236 , for190 a10 moment258 , stood1 thoughtfully310 eyeing49 the19 vast43 corpse133 he362 had364 made563 . CHAPTER293 62181 The19 Dart293 A10 word486 concerning368 an138 incident339 in107 the19 last436 chapter293 . According281 to261 the19 invariable261 usage454 of89 the19 fishery136 , the19 whale422 -boat439 pushes116 off111 from316 the19 ship438 , with449 the19 headsman143 or519 whale422 -killer429 as113 temporary235 steersman290 , and236 the19 harpooneer or519 whale422 -fastener pulling217 the19 foremost61 oar61 , the19 one470 known86 as113 the19 harpooneer-oar61 . Now20 it162 needs41 a10 strong145 , nervous154 arm25 to261 strike374 the19 first13 iron169 into554 the19 fish187 ; for190 often227 , in107 what243 is487 called237 a10 long544 dart293 , the19 heavy421 implement72 has399 to261 be341 flung255 to261 the19 distance264 of89 twenty433 or519 thirty521 feet349 . But330 however44 prolonged246 and236 exhausting361 the19 chase89 , the19 harpooneer is487 expected96 to261 pull35 his433 oar61 meanwhile282 to261 the19 uttermost129 ; indeed522 , he362 is487 expected96 to261 set422 an138 example479 of89 superhuman264 activity293 to261 the19 rest302 , not518 only517 by406 incredible98 rowing375 , but330 by406 repeated381 loud556 and236 intrepid127 exclamations278 ; and236 what243 it162 is487 to261 keep381 shouting421 at65 the19 top70 of89 one470 's483 compass463 , while55 all145 the19 other282 muscles101 are314 strained516 and236 half119 started492 -- what243 that14 is487 none365 know60 but330 those427 who319 have254 tried73 it162 . For190 one470 , I482 cannot bawl174 very515 heartily254 and236 work385 very515 recklessly72 at65 one470 and236 the19 same541 time577 . In107 this256 straining107 , bawling350 state135 , then45 , with449 his433 back457 to261 the19 fish187 , all145 at65 once248 the19 exhausted552 harpooneer hears561 the19 exciting152 cry561 --"Stand530 up405 , and236 give142 it162 to261 him248 !" He362 now20 has399 to261 drop22 and236 secure92 his433 oar61 , turn17 round287 on392 his433 centre389 half119 way435 , seize445 his433 harpoon67 from316 the19 crotch111 , and236 with449 what243 little554 strength168 may236 remain326 , he362 essays272 to261 pitch115 it162 somehow425 into554 the19 whale422 . No235 wonder76 , taking146 the19 whole199 fleet206 of89 whalemen451 in107 a10 body348 , that14 out66 of89 fifty406 fair320 chances400 for190 a10 dart293 , not518 five103 are314 successful1 ; no235 wonder76 that14 so281 many282 hapless483 harpooneers are314 madly218 cursed441 and236 disrated42 ; no235 wonder76 that14 some265 of89 them146 actually69 burst174 their219 blood208 -vessels467 in107 the19 boat439 ; no235 wonder76 that14 some265 sperm26 whalemen451 are314 absent122 four175 years116 with449 four175 barrels368 ; no235 wonder76 that14 to261 many282 ship438 owners208 , whaling155 is487 but330 a10 losing205 concern180 ; for190 it162 is487 the19 harpooneer that14 makes32 the19 voyage137 , and236 if141 you227 take279 the19 breath150 out66 of89 his433 body348 how19 can450 you227 expect275 to261 find138 it162 there340 when189 most216 wanted85 ! Again52 , if141 the19 dart293 be341 successful1 , then45 at65 the19 second386 critical38 instant279 , that14 is487 , when189 the19 whale422 starts248 to261 run172 , the19 boatheader and236 harpooneer likewise193 start117 to261 running296 fore259 and236 aft2 , to261 the19 imminent22 jeopardy95 of89 themselves510 and236 every389 one470 else212 . It162 is487 then45 they382 change386 places423 ; and236 the19 headsman143 , the19 chief156 officer70 of89 the19 little554 craft187 , takes362 his433 proper249 station80 in107 the19 bows460 of89 the19 boat439 . Now20 , I482 care307 not518 who319 maintains261 the19 contrary166 , but330 all145 this256 is487 both558 foolish509 and236 unnecessary444 . The19 headsman143 should255 stay238 in107 the19 bows460 from316 first13 to261 last436 ; he362 should255 both558 dart293 the19 harpoon67 and236 the19 lance76 , and236 no235 rowing375 whatever38 should255 be341 expected96 of89 him248 , except545 under533 circumstances267 obvious147 to261 any501 fisherman18 . I482 know60 that14 this256 would282 sometimes77 involve34 a10 slight259 loss223 of89 speed468 in107 the19 chase89 ; but330 long544 experience127 in107 various183 whalemen451 of89 more348 than77 one470 nation466 has399 convinced469 me2 that14 in107 the19 vast43 majority45 of89 failures165 in107 the19 fishery136 , it162 has399 not518 by406 any501 means502 been185 so281 much61 the19 speed468 of89 the19 whale422 as113 the19 before344 described483 exhaustion430 of89 the19 harpooneer that14 has399 caused308 them146 . To261 insure339 the19 greatest479 efficiency150 in107 the19 dart293 , the19 harpooneers of89 this256 world126 must226 start117 to261 their219 feet349 from316 out66 of89 idleness191 , and236 not518 from316 out66 of89 toil89 . CHAPTER293 6321 The19 Crotch111 Out66 of89 the19 trunk389 , the19 branches364 grow163 ; out66 of89 them146 , the19 twigs224 . So281 , in107 productive480 subjects122 , grow163 the19 chapters185 . The19 crotch111 alluded231 to261 on392 a10 previous376 page425 deserves229 independent330 mention510 . It162 is487 a10 notched252 stick50 of89 a10 peculiar291 form238 , some265 two527 feet349 in107 length202 , which16 is487 perpendicularly41 inserted102 into554 the19 starboard309 gunwale198 near70 the19 bow146 , for190 the19 purpose514 of89 furnishing471 a10 rest302 for190 the19 wooden35 extremity410 of89 the19 harpoons6 , whose286 other282 naked70 , barbed27 end149 slopingly projects124 from316 the19 prow451 . Thereby190 the19 weapon223 is487 instantly186 at65 hand252 to261 its234 hurler372 , who319 snatches366 it162 up405 as113 readily467 from316 its234 rest302 as113 a10 backwoodsman299 swings31 his433 rifle303 from316 the19 wall509 . It162 is487 customary79 to261 have254 two527 harpoons6 reposing57 in107 the19 crotch111 , respectively254 called237 the19 first13 and236 second386 irons363 . But330 these527 two527 harpoons6 , each520 by406 its234 own248 cord96 , are314 both558 connected202 with449 the19 line25 ; the19 object100 being264 this256 : to261 dart293 them146 both558 , if141 possible277 , one470 instantly186 after358 the19 other282 into554 the19 same541 whale422 ; so281 that14 if141 , in107 the19 coming140 drag426 , one470 should255 draw106 out66 , the19 other282 may236 still278 retain153 a10 hold204 . It162 is487 a10 doubling361 of89 the19 chances400 . But330 it162 very515 often227 happens143 that14 owing98 to261 the19 instantaneous322 , violent336 , convulsive250 running296 of89 the19 whale422 upon419 receiving124 the19 first13 iron169 , it162 becomes314 impossible305 for190 the19 harpooneer, however44 lightning171 -like410 in107 his433 movements299 , to261 pitch115 the19 second386 iron169 into554 him248 . Nevertheless104 , as113 the19 second386 iron169 is487 already93 connected202 with449 the19 line25 , and236 the19 line25 is487 running296 , hence503 that14 weapon223 must226 , at65 all145 events390 , be341 anticipatingly tossed227 out66 of89 the19 boat439 , somehow425 and236 somewhere201 ; else212 the19 most216 terrible132 jeopardy95 would282 involve34 all145 hands87 . Tumbled494 into554 the19 water520 , it162 accordingly249 is487 in107 such420 cases108 ; the19 spare295 coils259 of89 box226 line25 (mentioned149 in107 a10 preceding44 chapter293 ) making415 this256 feat1 , in107 most216 instances252 , prudently26 practicable292 . But330 this256 critical38 act10 is487 not518 always367 unattended359 with449 the19 saddest235 and236 most216 fatal460 casualties347 . Furthermore181 : you227 must226 know60 that14 when189 the19 second386 iron169 is487 thrown359 overboard247 , it162 thenceforth362 becomes314 a10 dangling318 , sharp427 -edged61 terror85 , skittishly166 curvetting25 about123 both558 boat439 and236 whale422 , entangling427 the19 lines241 , or519 cutting454 them146 , and236 making415 a10 prodigious223 sensation286 in107 all145 directions124 . Nor137 , in107 general37 , is487 it162 possible277 to261 secure92 it162 again52 until316 the19 whale422 is487 fairly211 captured126 and236 a10 corpse133 . Consider259 , now20 , how19 it162 must226 be341 in107 the19 case346 of89 four175 boats83 all145 engaging86 one470 unusually35 strong145 , active54 , and236 knowing240 whale422 ; when189 owing98 to261 these527 qualities21 in107 him248 , as113 well263 as113 to261 the19 thousand586 concurring320 accidents122 of89 such420 an138 audacious142 enterprise106 , eight316 or519 ten198 loose159 second386 irons363 may236 be341 simultaneously558 dangling318 about123 him248 . For190 , of89 course171 , each520 boat439 is487 supplied338 with449 several479 harpoons6 to261 bend434 on392 to261 the19 line25 should255 the19 first13 one470 be341 ineffectually282 darted362 without309 recovery405 . All145 these527 particulars230 are314 faithfully350 narrated283 here135 , as113 they382 will584 not518 fail126 to261 elucidate223 several479 most216 important104 however44 intricate227 passages270 , in107 scenes339 hereafter479 to261 be341 painted340 . CHAPTER293 64270 Stubb's483 Supper4 Stubb's483 whale422 had364 been185 killed409 some265 distance264 from316 the19 ship438 . It162 was454 a10 calm39 ; so281 , forming354 a10 tandem406 of89 three329 boats83 , we465 commenced8 the19 slow96 business168 of89 towing78 the19 trophy463 to261 the19 Pequod288 . And236 now20 , as113 we465 eighteen387 men62 with449 our234 thirty521 -six415 arms536 , and236 one470 hundred93 and236 eighty148 thumbs223 and236 fingers345 , slowly149 toiled411 hour384 after358 hour384 upon419 that14 inert155 , sluggish134 corpse133 in107 the19 sea67 ; and236 it162 seemed132 hardly182 to261 budge278 at65 all145 , except545 at65 long544 intervals295 ; good221 evidence17 was454 hereby196 furnished201 of89 the19 enormousness193 of89 the19 mass36 we465 moved492 . For190 , upon419 the19 great259 canal29 of89 Hang253 -Ho31 , or519 whatever38 they382 call259 it162 , in107 China253 , four175 or519 five103 laborers247 on392 the19 foot467 -path234 will584 draw106 a10 bulky11 freighted12 junk92 at65 the19 rate515 of89 a10 mile295 an138 hour384 ; but330 this256 grand229 argosy27 we465 towed376 heavily227 forged119 along423 , as113 if141 laden126 with449 piglead in107 bulk181 . Darkness493 came549 on392 ; but330 three329 lights59 up405 and236 down133 in107 the19 Pequod288 's483 main501 -rigging516 dimly298 guided284 our234 way435 ; till181 drawing407 nearer303 we465 saw113 Ahab232 dropping279 one470 of89 several479 more348 lanterns362 over82 the19 bulwarks411 . Vacantly423 eyeing49 the19 heaving174 whale422 for190 a10 moment258 , he362 issued146 the19 usual278 orders199 for190 securing93 it162 for190 the19 night108 , and236 then45 handing353 his433 lantern220 to261 a10 seaman166 , went516 his433 way435 into554 the19 cabin192 , and236 did444 not518 come420 forward364 again52 until316 morning417 . Though400 , in107 overseeing12 the19 pursuit305 of89 this256 whale422 , Captain295 Ahab232 had364 evinced94 his433 customary79 activity293 , to261 call259 it162 so281 ; yet443 now20 that14 the19 creature82 was454 dead568 , some265 vague70 dissatisfaction92 , or519 impatience153 , or519 despair187 , seemed132 working113 in107 him248 ; as113 if141 the19 sight365 of89 that14 dead568 body348 reminded25 him248 that14 Moby362 Dick25 was454 yet443 to261 be341 slain268 ; and236 though400 a10 thousand586 other282 whales331 were324 brought85 to261 his433 ship438 , all145 that14 would282 not518 one470 jot9 advance70 his433 grand229 , monomaniac336 object100 . Very515 soon18 you227 would282 have254 thought186 from316 the19 sound181 on392 the19 Pequod288 's483 decks386 , that14 all145 hands87 were324 preparing52 to261 cast99 anchor141 in107 the19 deep483 ; for190 heavy421 chains446 are314 being264 dragged460 along423 the19 deck505 , and236 thrust379 rattling282 out66 of89 the19 port409 -holes41 . But330 by406 those427 clanking250 links333 , the19 vast43 corpse133 itself312 , not518 the19 ship438 , is487 to261 be341 moored379 . Tied101 by406 the19 head219 to261 the19 stern442 , and236 by406 the19 tail102 to261 the19 bows460 , the19 whale422 now20 lies27 with449 its234 black581 hull323 close65 to261 the19 vessel155 's483 , and236 seen154 through295 the19 darkness493 of89 the19 night108 , which16 obscured4 the19 spars15 and236 rigging516 aloft276 , the19 two527 --ship438 and236 whale422 , seemed132 yoked417 together440 like410 colossal396 bullocks168 , whereof422 one470 reclines128 while55 the19 other282 remains324 standing144 .* *A10 little554 item60 may236 as113 well263 be341 related377 here135 . The19 strongest426 and236 most216 reliable111 hold204 which16 the19 ship438 has399 upon419 the19 whale422 when189 moored379 alongside540 , is487 by406 the19 flukes155 or519 tail102 ; and236 as113 from316 its234 greater505 density26 that14 part207 is487 relatively241 heavier317 than77 any501 other282 (excepting289 the19 side246 -fins556 ), its234 flexibility25 even198 in107 death543 , causes427 it162 to261 sink190 low407 beneath320 the19 surface328 ; so281 that14 with449 the19 hand252 you227 cannot get126 at65 it162 from316 the19 boat439 , in107 order343 to261 put190 the19 chain159 round287 it162 . But330 this256 difficulty263 is487 ingeniously332 overcome21 : a10 small350 , strong145 line25 is487 prepared59 with449 a10 wooden35 float231 at65 its234 outer359 end149 , and236 a10 weight213 in107 its234 middle39 , while55 the19 other282 end149 is487 secured284 to261 the19 ship438 . By406 adroit83 management97 the19 wooden35 float231 is487 made563 to261 rise251 on392 the19 other282 side246 of89 the19 mass36 , so281 that14 now20 having69 girdled312 the19 whale422 , the19 chain159 is487 readily467 made563 to261 follow408 suit373 ; and236 being264 slipped227 along423 the19 body348 , is487 at65 last436 locked105 fast208 round287 the19 smallest443 part207 of89 the19 tail102 , at65 the19 point438 of89 junction582 with449 its234 broad267 flukes155 or519 lobes290 . If141 moody447 Ahab232 was454 now20 all145 quiescence127 , at65 least453 so281 far258 as113 could375 be341 known86 on392 deck505 , Stubb, his433 second386 mate508 , flushed72 with449 conquest277 , betrayed498 an138 unusual322 but330 still278 good221 -natured excitement60 . Such420 an138 unwonted481 bustle26 was454 he362 in107 that14 the19 staid419 Starbuck, his433 official283 superior479 , quietly380 resigned410 to261 him248 for190 the19 time577 the19 sole462 management97 of89 affairs492 . One470 small350 , helping9 cause220 of89 all145 this256 liveliness284 in107 Stubb, was454 soon18 made563 strangely155 manifest257 . Stubb was454 a10 high361 liver442 ; he362 was454 somewhat77 intemperately492 fond174 of89 the19 whale422 as113 a10 flavorish thing309 to261 his433 palate58 . "A10 steak252 , a10 steak252 , ere83 I482 sleep233 ! You227 , Daggoo! overboard247 you227 go20 , and236 cut310 me2 one470 from316 his433 small350 !" Here135 be341 it162 known86 , that14 though400 these527 wild230 fishermen24 do353 not518 , as113 a10 general37 thing309 , and236 according281 to261 the19 great259 military317 maxim499 , make175 the19 enemy431 defray237 the19 current52 expenses451 of89 the19 war169 (at65 least453 before344 realizing250 the19 proceeds215 of89 the19 voyage137 ), yet443 now20 and236 then45 you227 find138 some265 of89 these527 Nantucketers who319 have254 a10 genuine44 relish22 for190 that14 particular336 part207 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 designated41 by406 Stubb; comprising243 the19 tapering416 extremity410 of89 the19 body348 . About123 midnight539 that14 steak252 was454 cut310 and236 cooked191 ; and236 lighted422 by406 two527 lanterns362 of89 sperm26 oil118 , Stubb stoutly109 stood1 up405 to261 his433 spermaceti283 supper4 at65 the19 capstan241 -head364 , as113 if141 that14 capstan241 were324 a10 sideboard41 . Nor137 was454 Stubb the19 only517 banqueter336 on392 whale422 's483 flesh331 that14 night108 . Mingling75 their219 mumblings12 with449 his433 own248 mastications, thousands7 on392 thousands7 of89 sharks206 , swarming41 round287 the19 dead568 leviathan384 , smackingly feasted125 on392 its234 fatness448 . The19 few49 sleepers367 below397 in107 their219 bunks25 were324 often227 startled475 by406 the19 sharp427 slapping91 of89 their219 tails490 against417 the19 hull323 , within503 a10 few49 inches301 of89 the19 sleepers367 ' hearts431 . Peering446 over82 the19 side246 you227 could375 just108 see370 them146 (as113 before344 you227 heard444 them146 ) wallowing218 in107 the19 sullen335 , black581 waters556 , and236 turning69 over82 on392 their219 backs480 as113 they382 scooped296 out66 huge132 globular203 pieces283 of89 the19 whale422 of89 the19 bigness330 of89 a10 human43 head219 . This256 particular336 feat1 of89 the19 shark4 seems19 all145 but330 miraculous276 . How19 at65 such420 an138 apparently261 unassailable133 surface328 , they382 contrive311 to261 gouge247 out66 such420 symmetrical336 mouthfuls35 , remains324 a10 part207 of89 the19 universal397 problem28 of89 all145 things4 . The19 mark169 they382 thus362 leave450 on392 the19 whale422 , may236 best315 be341 likened356 to261 the19 hollow511 made563 by406 a10 carpenter262 in107 countersinking for190 a10 screw243 . Though400 amid240 all145 the19 smoking470 horror134 and236 diabolism479 of89 a10 sea67 -fight330 , sharks206 will584 be341 seen154 longingly204 gazing117 up405 to261 the19 ship438 's483 decks386 , like410 hungry235 dogs393 round287 a10 table572 where579 red293 meat160 is487 being264 carved455 , ready464 to261 bolt156 down133 every389 killed409 man17 that14 is487 tossed227 to261 them146 ; and236 though400 , while55 the19 valiant359 butchers102 over82 the19 deck505 -table572 are314 thus362 cannibally142 carving54 each520 other282 's483 live554 meat160 with449 carving54 -knives140 all145 gilded41 and236 tasselled388 , the19 sharks206 , also119 , with449 their219 jewel-hilted mouths26 , are314 quarrelsomely carving54 away443 under533 the19 table572 at65 the19 dead568 meat160 ; and236 though400 , were324 you227 to261 turn17 the19 whole199 affair388 upside261 down133 , it162 would282 still278 be341 pretty252 much61 the19 same541 thing309 , that14 is487 to261 say306 , a10 shocking270 sharkish51 business168 enough217 for190 all145 parties162 ; and236 though400 sharks206 also119 are314 the19 invariable261 outriders59 of89 all145 slave126 ships21 crossing402 the19 Atlantic198 , systematically102 trotting27 alongside540 , to261 be341 handy270 in107 case346 a10 parcel295 is487 to261 be341 carried232 anywhere436 , or519 a10 dead568 slave126 to261 be341 decently149 buried205 ; and236 though400 one470 or519 two527 other282 like410 instances252 might496 be341 set422 down133 , touching80 the19 set422 terms297 , places423 , and236 occasions115 , when189 sharks206 do353 most216 socially161 congregate20 , and236 most216 hilariously86 feast330 ; yet443 is487 there340 no235 conceivable147 time577 or519 occasion211 when189 you227 will584 find138 them146 in107 such420 countless111 numbers285 , and236 in107 gayer366 or519 more348 jovial296 spirits471 , than77 around66 a10 dead568 sperm26 whale422 , moored379 by406 night108 to261 a10 whaleship31 at65 sea67 . If141 you227 have254 never206 seen154 that14 sight365 , then45 suspend71 your162 decision249 about123 the19 propriety22 of89 devil411 -worship48 , and236 the19 expediency316 of89 conciliating38 the19 devil411 . But330 , as113 yet443 , Stubb heeded47 not518 the19 mumblings12 of89 the19 banquet105 that14 was454 going227 on392 so281 nigh254 him248 , no235 more348 than77 the19 sharks206 heeded47 the19 smacking350 of89 his433 own248 epicurean59 lips585 . "Cook41 , cook41 !--where579 's483 that14 old447 Fleece462 ?" he362 cried506 at65 length202 , widening44 his433 legs108 still278 further53 , as113 if141 to261 form238 a10 more348 secure92 base258 for190 his433 supper4 ; and236 , at65 the19 same541 time577 darting147 his433 fork342 into554 the19 dish278 , as113 if141 stabbing300 with449 his433 lance76 ; "cook41 , you227 cook41 !-- sail218 this256 way435 , cook41 !" The19 old447 black581 , not518 in107 any501 very515 high361 glee350 at65 having69 been185 previously250 routed337 from316 his433 warm178 hammock323 at65 a10 most216 unseasonable249 hour384 , came549 shambling174 along423 from316 his433 galley140 , for190 , like410 many282 old447 blacks83 , there340 was454 something181 the19 matter176 with449 his433 knee235 -pans330 , which16 he362 did444 not518 keep381 well263 scoured23 like410 his433 other282 pans330 ; this256 old447 Fleece462 , as113 they382 called237 him248 , came549 shuffling60 and236 limping439 along423 , assisting86 his433 step204 with449 his433 tongs127 , which16 , after358 a10 clumsy394 fashion467 , were324 made563 of89 straightened346 iron169 hoops170 ; this256 old447 Ebony59 floundered182 along423 , and236 in107 obedience74 to261 the19 word486 of89 command190 , came549 to261 a10 dead568 stop48 on392 the19 opposite107 side246 of89 Stubb's483 sideboard41 ; when189 , with449 both558 hands87 folded305 before344 him248 , and236 resting455 on392 his433 two527 -legged cane69 , he362 bowed26 his433 arched4 back457 still278 further53 over82 , at65 the19 same541 time577 sideways496 inclining181 his433 head219 , so281 as113 to261 bring173 his433 best315 ear515 into554 play89 . "Cook41 ," said252 Stubb, rapidly116 lifting100 a10 rather178 reddish72 morsel232 to261 his433 mouth414 , "don280 't500 you227 think424 this256 steak252 is487 rather178 overdone25 ? You227 've477 been185 beating124 this256 steak252 too11 much61 , cook41 ; it162 's483 too11 tender454 . Don280 't500 I482 always367 say306 that14 to261 be341 good221 , a10 whale422 -steak252 must226 be341 tough241 ? There340 are314 those427 sharks206 now20 over82 the19 side246 , don280 't500 you227 see370 they382 prefer473 it162 tough241 and236 rare296 ? What243 a10 shindy364 they382 are314 kicking116 up405 ! Cook41 , go20 and236 talk173 to261 'em; tell392 'em they382 are314 welcome2 to261 help526 themselves510 civilly147 , and236 in107 moderation18 , but330 they382 must226 keep381 quiet337 . Blast13 me2 , if141 I482 can450 hear386 my36 own248 voice233 . Away443 , cook41 , and236 deliver492 my36 message15 . Here135 , take279 this256 lantern220 ," snatching111 one470 from316 his433 sideboard41 ; "now20 then45 , go20 and236 preach18 to261 them146 !" Sullenly361 taking146 the19 offered336 lantern220 , old447 Fleece462 limped253 across129 the19 deck505 to261 the19 bulwarks411 ; and236 then45 , with449 one470 hand252 drooping279 his433 light382 low407 over82 the19 sea67 , so281 as113 to261 get126 a10 good221 view370 of89 his433 congregation23 , with449 the19 other282 hand252 he362 solemnly200 flourished102 his433 tongs127 , and236 leaning559 far258 over82 the19 side246 in107 a10 mumbling278 voice233 began132 addressing54 the19 sharks206 , while55 Stubb, softly461 crawling318 behind80 , overheard512 all145 that14 was454 said252 . "Fellow369 -critters: I482 'se152 ordered143 here135 to261 say306 dat142 you227 must226 stop48 dat142 dam434 noise254 dare11 . You227 hear386 ? Stop48 dat142 dam434 smackin415 ' ob100 de404 lips585 ! Massa487 Stubb say306 dat142 you227 can450 fill380 your162 dam434 bellies192 up405 to261 de404 hatchings513 , but330 by406 Gor171 ! you227 must226 stop48 dat142 dam434 racket4 !" "Cook41 ," here135 interposed478 Stubb, accompanying371 the19 word486 with449 a10 sudden309 slap332 on392 the19 shoulder168 ,--Cook41 ! why177 , damn468 your162 eyes125 , you227 mustn't500 swear322 that14 way435 when189 you227 're155 preaching304 . That14 's76 no235 way435 to261 convert296 sinners196 , Cook41 ! Who319 dat142 ? Den299 preach18 to261 him248 yourself176 ," sullenly361 turning69 to261 go20 . No235 , Cook41 ; go20 on392 , go20 on392 ." "Well263 , den299 , Belubed fellow369 -critters:"-- "Right499 !" exclaimed281 Stubb, approvingly96 , "coax339 'em to261 it162 , try266 that14 ," and236 Fleece462 continued44 . "Do353 you227 is487 all145 sharks206 , and236 by406 natur83 wery192 woracious, yet443 I482 zay76 to261 you227 , fellow369 -critters, dat142 dat142 woraciousness--'top70 dat142 dam434 slappin83 ' ob100 de404 tail102 ! How19 you227 tink4 to261 hear386 , 'spose50 you227 keep381 up405 such420 a10 dam434 slapping91 and236 bitin278 ' dare11 ?" "Cook41 ," cried506 Stubb, collaring10 him248 , "I482 won't500 have254 that14 swearing40 . Talk173 to261 'em gentlemanly86 ." Once248 more348 the19 sermon167 proceeded121 . "Your162 woraciousness, fellow369 -critters. I482 don280 't500 blame337 ye483 so281 much61 for190 ; dat142 is487 natur83 , and236 can450 't500 be341 helped204 ; but330 to261 gobern dat142 wicked5 natur83 , dat142 is487 de404 pint48 . You227 is487 sharks206 , sartin26 ; but330 if141 you227 gobern de404 shark4 in107 you227 , why177 den299 you227 be341 angel63 ; for190 all145 angel63 is487 not518 'ing more348 dan363 de404 shark4 well263 goberned. Now20 , look523 here135 , bred128 'ren, just108 try266 wonst80 to261 be341 cibil, a10 helping9 yourselbs from316 dat142 whale422 . Don280 't500 be341 tearin83 ' de404 blubber232 out66 your162 neighbour310 's483 mout66 , I482 say306 . Is487 not518 one470 shark4 dood576 right499 as113 toder152 to261 dat142 whale422 ? And236 , by406 Gor171 , none365 on392 you227 has399 de404 right499 to261 dat142 whale422 ; dat142 whale422 belong243 to261 some265 one470 else212 . I482 know60 some265 o24 ' you227 has399 berry172 brig98 mout66 , brigger dan363 oders561 ; but330 den299 de404 brig98 mouts290 sometimes77 has399 de404 small350 bellies192 ; so281 dat142 de404 brigness of89 de404 mout66 is487 not518 to261 swallar wid290 , but330 to261 bit72 off111 de404 blubber232 for190 de404 small350 fry387 ob100 sharks206 , dat142 can450 't500 get126 into554 de404 scrouge522 to261 help526 demselves320 ." "Well263 done135 , old447 Fleece462 !" cried506 Stubb, "that14 's76 Christianity103 ; go20 on392 ." "No235 use176 goin88 ' on392 ; de404 dam434 willains will584 keep381 a10 scrougin278 ' and236 slappin83 ' each520 oder29 , Massa487 Stubb; dey400 don280 't500 hear386 one470 word486 ; no235 use176 a10 -preaching304 to261 such420 dam434 g'uttons as113 you227 call259 'em, till181 dare11 bellies192 is487 full414 , and236 dare11 bellies192 is487 bottomless376 ; and236 when189 dey400 do353 get126 'em full414 , dey400 wont268 hear386 you227 den299 ; for190 den299 dey400 sink190 in107 de404 sea67 , go20 fast208 to261 sleep233 on392 de404 coral22 , and236 can450 't500 hear386 noting72 at65 all145 , no235 more348 , for190 eber251 and236 eber251 ." "Upon419 my36 soul428 , I482 am375 about123 of89 the19 same541 opinion316 ; so281 give142 the19 benediction26 , Fleece462 , and236 I482 'll300 away443 to261 my36 supper4 ." Upon419 this256 , Fleece462 , holding311 both558 hands87 over82 the19 fishy369 mob308 , raised493 his433 shrill238 voice233 , and236 cried506 -- "Cussed17 fellow369 -critters! Kick16 up405 de404 damndest167 row328 as113 ever208 you227 can450 ; fill380 your162 dam434 bellies192 'till181 dey400 bust181 --and236 den299 die229 ." "Now20 , cook41 ," said252 Stubb, resuming283 his433 supper4 at65 the19 capstan241 ; Stand530 just108 where579 you227 stood1 before344 , there340 , over82 against417 me2 , and236 pay496 particular336 attention518 ." "All145 'dention," said252 Fleece462 , again52 stooping492 over82 upon419 his433 tongs127 in107 the19 desired480 position383 . "Well263 ," said252 Stubb, helping9 himself282 freely386 meanwhile282 ; "I482 shall66 now20 go20 back457 to261 the19 subject382 of89 this256 steak252 . In107 the19 first13 place107 , how19 old447 are314 you227 , cook41 ?" "What243 dat142 do353 wid290 de404 'teak, " said252 the19 old447 black581 , testily402 . "Silence309 ! How19 old447 are314 you227 , cook41 ?" "'Bout ninety2 , dey400 say306 ," he362 gloomily452 muttered180 . And236 have254 you227 have254 lived415 in107 this256 world126 hard337 upon419 one470 hundred93 years116 , cook41 , and236 don280 't500 know60 yet443 how19 to261 cook41 a10 whale422 -steak252 ?" rapidly116 bolting454 another269 mouthful98 at65 the19 last436 word486 , so281 that14 that14 morsel232 seemed132 a10 continuation93 of89 the19 question562 . "Where579 were324 you227 born236 , cook41 ?" "'Hind110 de404 hatchway64 , in107 ferry-boat122 , goin88 ' ober270 de404 Roanoke518 ." "Born236 in107 a10 ferry-boat122 ! That14 's76 queer156 , too11 . But330 I482 want350 to261 know60 what243 country362 you227 were324 born236 in107 , cook41 !" "Didn't500 I482 say306 de404 Roanoke518 country362 ?" he362 cried506 sharply135 . "No235 , you227 didn't500 , cook41 ; but330 I482 'll300 tell392 you227 what243 I482 'm250 coming140 to261 , cook41 . You227 must226 go20 home450 and236 be341 born236 over82 again52 ; you227 don280 't500 know60 how19 to261 cook41 a10 whale422 -steak252 yet443 ." "Bress152 my36 soul428 , if141 I482 cook41 noder one470 ," he362 growled479 , angrily465 , turning69 round287 to261 depart297 . "Come420 back457 here135 , cook41 ;--here135 , hand252 me2 those427 tongs127 ;--now20 take279 that14 bit72 of89 steak252 there340 , and236 tell392 me2 if141 you227 think424 that14 steak252 cooked191 as113 it162 should255 be341 ? Take279 it162 , I482 say306 "--holding311 the19 tongs127 towards417 him248 --"take279 it162 , and236 taste134 it162 ." Faintly20 smacking350 his433 withered14 lips585 over82 it162 for190 a10 moment258 , the19 old447 negro102 muttered180 , "Best315 cooked191 'teak I482 eber251 taste134 ; joosy, berry172 joosy." "Cook41 ," said252 Stubb, squaring419 himself282 once248 more348 ; "do353 you227 belong243 to261 the19 church317 ?" "Passed87 one470 once248 in107 Cape23 -Down133 ," said252 the19 old447 man17 sullenly361 . "And236 you227 have254 once248 in107 your162 life71 passed87 a10 holy61 church317 in107 Cape23 -Town172 , where579 you227 doubtless101 overheard512 a10 holy61 parson18 addressing54 his433 hearers440 as113 his433 beloved169 fellow369 -creatures5 , have254 you227 , cook41 ! And236 yet443 you227 come420 here135 , and236 tell392 me2 such420 a10 dreadful405 lie212 as113 you227 did444 just108 now20 , eh76 ?" said252 Stubb. "Where579 do353 you227 expect275 to261 go20 to261 , cook41 ?" "Go20 to261 bed273 berry172 soon18 ," he362 mumbled29 , half119 -turning69 as113 he362 spoke185 . "Avast279 ! heave308 to261 ! I482 mean504 when189 you227 die229 , cook41 . It162 's483 an138 awful539 question562 . Now20 what243 's483 your162 answer164 ?" "When189 dis23 old447 brack290 man17 dies384 ," said252 the19 negro102 slowly149 , changing219 his433 whole199 air209 and236 demeanor196 , "he362 hisself181 won't500 go20 nowhere209 ; but330 some265 bressed152 angel63 will584 come420 and236 fetch261 him248 ." "Fetch261 him248 ? How19 ? In107 a10 coach188 and236 four175 , as113 they382 fetched127 Elijah160 ? And236 fetch261 him248 where579 ?" "Up405 dere44 ," said252 Fleece462 , holding311 his433 tongs127 straight346 over82 his433 head219 , and236 keeping482 it162 there340 very515 solemnly200 . "So281 , then45 , you227 expect275 to261 go20 up405 into554 our234 main501 -top70 , do353 you227 , cook41 , when189 you227 are314 dead568 ? But330 don280 't500 you227 know60 the19 higher574 you227 climb80 , the19 colder325 it162 gets27 ? Main501 -top70 , eh76 ?" "Didn't500 say306 dat142 t500 'all145 ," said252 Fleece462 , again52 in107 the19 sulks86 . "You227 said252 up405 there340 , didn't500 you227 ? and236 now20 look523 yourself176 , and236 see370 where579 your162 tongs127 are314 pointing295 . But330 , perhaps75 you227 expect275 to261 get126 into554 heaven163 by406 crawling318 through295 the19 lubber191 's483 hole73 , cook41 ; but330 , no235 , no235 , cook41 , you227 don280 't500 get126 there340 , except545 you227 go20 the19 regular400 way435 , round287 by406 the19 rigging516 . It162 's483 a10 ticklish57 business168 , but330 must226 be341 done135 , or519 else212 it162 's483 no235 go20 . But330 none365 of89 us569 are314 in107 heaven163 yet443 . Drop22 your162 tongs127 , cook41 , and236 hear386 my36 orders199 . Do353 ye483 hear386 ? Hold204 your162 hat107 in107 one470 hand252 , and236 clap225 t500 'other282 a10 'top70 of89 your162 heart470 , when189 I482 'm250 giving207 my36 orders199 , cook41 . What243 ! that14 your162 heart470 , there340 ?-- that14 's76 your162 gizzard10 ! Aloft276 ! aloft276 !--that14 's76 it162 --now20 you227 have254 it162 . Hold204 it162 there340 now20 , and236 pay496 attention518 ." "All145 'dention," said252 the19 old447 black581 , with449 both558 hands87 placed556 as113 desired480 , vainly116 wriggling305 his433 grizzled34 head219 , as113 if141 to261 get126 both558 ears560 in107 front196 at65 one470 and236 the19 same541 time577 . "Well263 then45 , cook41 , you227 see370 this256 whale422 -steak252 of89 yours256 was454 so281 very515 bad458 , that14 I482 have254 put190 it162 out66 of89 sight365 as113 soon18 as113 possible277 ; you227 see370 that14 , don280 't500 you227 ? Well263 , for190 the19 future44 , when189 you227 cook41 another269 whale422 -steak252 for190 my36 private541 table572 here135 , the19 capstan241 , I482 'll300 tell392 you227 what243 to261 do353 so281 as113 not518 to261 spoil181 it162 by406 overdoing45 . Hold204 the19 steak252 in107 one470 hand252 , and236 show460 a10 live554 coal127 to261 it162 with449 the19 other282 ; that14 done135 , dish278 it162 ; d67 'ye163 hear386 ? And236 now20 to261 -morrow376 , cook41 , when189 we465 are314 cutting454 in107 the19 fish187 , be341 sure41 you227 stand530 by406 to261 get126 the19 tips22 of89 his433 fins556 ; have254 them146 put190 in107 pickle110 . As113 for190 the19 ends301 of89 the19 flukes155 , have254 them146 soused63 , cook41 . There340 , now20 ye483 may236 go20 ." But330 Fleece462 had364 hardly182 got286 three329 paces212 off111 , when189 he362 was454 recalled346 . "Cook41 , give142 me2 cutlets95 for190 supper4 to261 -morrow376 night108 in107 the19 mid84 -watch89 . D67 'ye163 hear386 ? away443 you227 sail218 then45 .--Halloa83 ! stop48 ! make175 a10 bow146 before344 you227 go20 .-- Avast279 heaving174 again52 ! Whale422 -balls264 for190 breakfast408 --don280 't500 forget426 ." "Wish95 , by406 gor171 ! whale422 eat286 him248 , 'stead of89 him248 eat286 whale422 . I482 'm250 bressed152 if141 he362 ain't500 more348 of89 shark4 dan363 Massa487 Shark4 hisself181 ," muttered180 the19 old447 man17 , limping439 away443 ; with449 which16 sage500 ejaculation282 he362 went516 to261 his433 hammock323 . CHAPTER293 65163 The19 Whale422 as113 a10 Dish278 That14 mortal371 man17 should255 feed252 upon419 the19 creature82 that14 feeds304 his433 lamp330 , and236 , like410 Stubb, eat286 him248 by406 his433 own248 light382 , as113 you227 may236 say306 ; this256 seems19 so281 outlandish292 a10 thing309 that14 one470 must226 needs41 go20 a10 little554 into554 the19 history183 and236 philosophy14 of89 it162 . It162 is487 upon419 record571 , that14 three329 centuries168 ago141 the19 tongue375 of89 the19 Right499 Whale422 was454 esteemed235 a10 great259 delicacy201 in107 France54 , and236 commanded571 large385 prices367 there340 . Also119 , that14 in107 Henry466 VIIIth330 's483 time577 , a10 certain31 cook41 of89 the19 court243 obtained186 a10 handsome66 reward116 for190 inventing384 an138 admirable267 sauce510 to261 be341 eaten172 with449 barbacued18 porpoises298 , which16 , you227 remember499 , are314 a10 species69 of89 whale422 . Porpoises298 , indeed522 , are314 to261 this256 day112 considered484 fine333 eating22 . The19 meat160 is487 made563 into554 balls264 about123 the19 size503 of89 billiard110 balls264 , and236 being264 well263 seasoned4 and236 spiced498 might496 be341 taken222 for190 turtle-balls264 or519 veal22 balls264 . The19 old447 monks399 of89 Dunfermline541 were324 very515 fond174 of89 them146 . They382 had364 a10 great259 porpoise487 grant328 from316 the19 crown463 . The19 fact12 is487 , that14 among483 his433 hunters423 at65 least453 , the19 whale422 would282 by406 all145 hands87 be341 considered484 a10 noble226 dish278 , were324 there340 not518 so281 much61 of89 him248 ; but330 when189 you227 come420 to261 sit215 down133 before344 a10 meat160 -pie86 nearly575 one470 hundred93 feet349 long544 , it162 takes362 away443 your162 appetite97 . Only517 the19 most216 unprejudiced44 of89 men62 like410 Stubb, nowadays444 partake448 of89 cooked191 whales331 ; but330 the19 Esquimaux162 are314 not518 so281 fastidious361 . We465 all145 know60 how19 they382 live554 upon419 whales331 , and236 have254 rare296 old447 vintages377 of89 prime425 old447 train127 oil118 . Zogranda, one470 of89 their219 most216 famous254 doctors407 , recommends54 strips163 of89 blubber232 for190 infants413 , as113 being264 exceedingly257 juicy374 and236 nourishing170 . And236 this256 reminds430 me2 that14 certain31 Englishmen189 , who319 long544 ago141 were324 accidentally166 left159 in107 Greenland110 by406 a10 whaling155 vessel155 -- that14 these527 men62 actually69 lived415 for190 several479 months17 on392 the19 mouldy508 scraps250 of89 whales331 which16 had364 been185 left159 ashore122 after358 trying83 out66 the19 blubber232 . Among483 the19 Dutch325 whalemen451 these527 scraps250 are314 called237 "fritters292 "; which16 , indeed522 , they382 greatly460 resemble405 , being264 brown446 and236 crisp519 , and236 smelling160 something181 like410 old447 Amsterdam345 housewives449 ' dough-nuts415 or519 oly-cooks, when189 fresh540 . They382 have254 such420 an138 eatable423 look523 that14 the19 most216 self442 -denying426 stranger233 can450 hardly182 keep381 his433 hands87 off111 . But330 what243 further53 depreciates229 the19 whale422 as113 a10 civilized441 dish278 , is487 his433 exceeding320 richness403 . He362 is487 the19 great259 prize74 ox413 of89 the19 sea67 , too11 fat351 to261 be341 delicately336 good221 . Look523 at65 his433 hump20 , which16 would282 be341 as113 fine333 eating22 as113 the19 buffalo299 's483 (which16 is487 esteemed235 a10 rare296 dish278 ), were324 it162 not518 such420 a10 solid494 pyramid310 of89 fat351 . But330 the19 spermaceti283 itself312 , how19 bland284 and236 creamy205 that14 is487 ; like410 the19 transparent129 , half119 jellied83 , white82 meat160 of89 a10 cocoanut76 in107 the19 third301 month438 of89 its234 growth160 , yet443 far258 too11 rich531 to261 supply283 a10 substitute53 for190 butter536 . Nevertheless104 , many282 whalemen451 have254 a10 method146 of89 absorbing263 it162 into554 some265 other282 substance316 , and236 then45 partaking196 of89 it162 . In107 the19 long544 try266 watches458 of89 the19 night108 it162 is487 a10 common304 thing309 for190 the19 seamen6 to261 dip19 their219 ship438 -biscuit369 into554 the19 huge132 oil118 -pots184 and236 let66 them146 fry387 there340 awhile16 . Many282 a10 good221 supper4 have254 I482 thus362 made563 . In107 the19 case346 of89 a10 small350 Sperm26 Whale422 the19 brains279 are314 accounted480 a10 fine333 dish278 . The19 casket167 of89 the19 skull9 is487 broken255 into554 with449 an138 axe288 , and236 the19 two527 plump105 , whitish362 lobes290 being264 withdrawn35 (precisely217 resembling445 two527 large385 puddings221 ), they382 are314 then45 mixed459 with449 flour14 , and236 cooked191 into554 a10 most216 delectable161 mess253 , in107 flavor69 somewhat77 resembling445 calves21 ' head219 , which16 is487 quite327 a10 dish278 among483 some265 epicures338 ; and236 every389 one470 knows286 that14 some265 young389 bucks104 among483 the19 epicures338 , by406 continually303 dining260 upon419 calves21 ' brains279 , by406 and236 by406 get126 to261 have254 a10 little554 brains279 of89 their219 own248 , so281 as113 to261 be341 able362 to261 tell392 a10 calf83 's483 head219 from316 their219 own248 heads366 ; which16 , indeed522 , requires205 uncommon88 discrimination173 . And236 that14 is487 the19 reason238 why177 a10 young389 buck318 with449 an138 intelligent346 looking318 calf83 's483 head219 before344 him248 , is487 somehow425 one470 of89 the19 saddest235 sights24 you227 can450 see370 . The19 head219 looks150 a10 sort42 of89 reproachfully275 at65 him248 , with449 an138 "Et243 tu278 Brute73 !" expression115 . It162 is487 not518 , perhaps75 , entirely148 because540 the19 whale422 is487 so281 excessively86 unctuous322 that14 landsmen117 seem404 to261 regard448 the19 eating22 of89 him248 with449 abhorrence86 ; that14 appears268 to261 result115 , in107 some265 way435 , from316 the19 consideration196 before344 mentioned149 : i482 .e443 . that14 a10 man17 should255 eat286 a10 newly318 murdered273 thing309 of89 the19 sea67 , and236 eat286 it162 too11 by406 its234 own248 light382 . But330 no235 doubt71 the19 first13 man17 that14 ever208 murdered273 an138 ox413 was454 regarded393 as113 a10 murderer498 ; perhaps75 he362 was454 hung479 ; and236 if141 he362 had364 been185 put190 on392 his433 trial103 by406 oxen23 , he362 certainly124 would282 have254 been185 ; and236 he362 certainly124 deserved111 it162 if141 any501 murderer498 does565 . Go20 to261 the19 meat160 -market286 of89 a10 Saturday22 night108 and236 see370 the19 crowds451 of89 live554 bipeds6 staring523 up405 at65 the19 long544 rows375 of89 dead568 quadrupeds553 . Does565 not518 that14 sight365 take279 a10 tooth108 out66 of89 the19 cannibal180 's483 jaw213 ? Cannibals27 ? who319 is487 not518 a10 cannibal180 ? I482 tell392 you227 it162 will584 be341 more348 tolerable198 for190 the19 Fejee122 that14 salted212 down133 a10 lean279 missionary170 in107 his433 cellar93 against417 a10 coming140 famine460 ; it162 will584 be341 more348 tolerable198 for190 that14 provident336 Fejee122 , I482 say306 , in107 the19 day112 of89 judgment83 , than77 for190 thee15 , civilized441 and236 enlightened29 gourmand264 , who319 nailest geese111 to261 the19 ground127 and236 feastest on392 their219 bloated110 livers83 in107 thy43 pate-de404 -foie-gras. But330 Stubb, he362 eats47 the19 whale422 by406 its234 own248 light382 , does565 he362 ? and236 that14 is487 adding169 insult38 to261 injury396 , is487 it162 ? Look523 at65 your162 knife503 -handle546 , there340 , my36 civilized441 and236 enlightened29 gourmand264 , dining260 off111 that14 roast120 beef303 , what243 is487 that14 handle546 made563 of89 ?--what243 but330 the19 bones5 of89 the19 brother46 of89 the19 very515 ox413 you227 are314 eating22 ? And236 what243 do353 you227 pick447 your162 teeth82 with449 , after358 devouring354 that14 fat351 goose184 ? With449 a10 feather127 of89 the19 same541 fowl11 . And236 with449 what243 quill305 did444 the19 Secretary21 of89 the19 Society520 for190 the19 Suppression24 of89 Cruelty44 to261 Ganders97 formally446 indite43 his433 circulars301 ? It162 is487 only517 within503 the19 last436 month438 or519 two527 that14 that14 society520 passed87 a10 resolution91 to261 patronize83 nothing324 but330 steel184 pens307 . CHAPTER293 66403 The19 Shark4 Massacre288 When189 in107 the19 Southern187 Fishery136 a10 captured126 Sperm26 Whale422 , after358 long544 and236 weary306 toil89 , is487 brought85 alongside540 late351 at65 night108 , it162 is487 not518 , as113 a10 general37 thing309 at65 least453 , customary79 to261 proceed367 at65 once248 to261 the19 business168 of89 cutting454 him248 in107 . For190 that14 business168 is487 an138 exceedingly257 laborious17 one470 ; is487 not518 very515 soon18 completed102 ; and236 requires205 all145 hands87 to261 set422 about123 it162 . Therefore94 , the19 common304 usage454 is487 to261 take279 in107 all145 sail218 ; lash266 the19 helm285 a10 'lee472 ; and236 then45 send536 every389 one470 below397 to261 his433 hammock323 till181 daylight155 , with449 the19 reservation85 that14 , until316 that14 time577 , anchor141 -watches458 shall66 be341 kept290 ; that14 is487 , two527 and236 two527 for190 an138 hour384 , each520 couple261 , the19 crew126 in107 rotation102 shall66 mount34 the19 deck505 to261 see370 that14 all145 goes205 well263 . But330 sometimes77 , especially371 upon419 the19 Line25 in107 the19 Pacific294 , this256 plan99 will584 not518 answer164 at65 all145 ; because540 such420 incalculable305 hosts62 of89 sharks206 gather311 round287 the19 moored379 carcase366 , that14 were324 he362 left159 so281 for190 six415 hours127 , say306 , on392 a10 stretch318 , little554 more348 than77 the19 skeleton231 would282 be341 visible94 by406 morning417 . In107 most216 other282 parts470 of89 the19 ocean224 , however44 , where579 these527 fish187 do353 not518 so281 largely211 abound15 , their219 wondrous30 voracity92 can450 be341 at65 times121 considerably110 diminished163 , by406 vigorously167 stirring130 them146 up405 with449 sharp427 whaling155 -spades135 , a10 procedure276 notwithstanding387 , which16 , in107 some265 instances252 , only517 seems19 to261 tickle238 them146 into554 still278 greater505 activity293 . But330 it162 was454 not518 thus362 in107 the19 present112 case346 with449 the19 Pequod288 's483 sharks206 ; though400 , to261 be341 sure41 , any501 man17 unaccustomed261 to261 such420 sights24 , to261 have254 looked232 over82 her400 side246 that14 night108 , would282 have254 almost518 thought186 the19 whole199 round287 sea67 was454 one470 huge132 cheese10 , and236 those427 sharks206 the19 maggots143 in107 it162 . Nevertheless104 , upon419 Stubb setting151 the19 anchor141 -watch89 after358 his433 supper4 was454 concluded157 ; and236 when189 , accordingly249 Queequeg and236 a10 forecastle367 seaman166 came549 on392 deck505 , no235 small350 excitement60 was454 created37 among483 the19 sharks206 ; for190 immediately172 suspending368 the19 cutting454 stages83 over82 the19 side246 , and236 lowering240 three329 lanterns362 , so281 that14 they382 cast99 long544 gleams34 of89 light382 over82 the19 turbid171 sea67 , these527 two527 mariners347 , darting147 their219 long544 whaling155 -spades135 ,* kept290 up405 an138 incessant91 murdering141 of89 the19 sharks206 , by406 striking22 the19 keen202 steel184 deep483 into554 their219 skulls136 , seemingly261 their219 only517 vital204 part207 . But330 in107 the19 foamy352 confusion495 of89 their219 mixed459 and236 struggling107 hosts62 , the19 marksmen299 could375 not518 always367 hit322 their219 mark169 ; and236 this256 brought85 about123 new36 revelations103 of89 the19 incredible98 ferocity424 of89 the19 foe479 . They382 viciously494 snapped459 , not518 only517 at65 each520 other282 's483 disembowelments, but330 like410 flexible283 bows460 , bent406 round287 , and236 bit72 their219 own248 ; till181 those427 entrails409 seemed132 swallowed104 over82 and236 over82 again52 by406 the19 same541 mouth414 , to261 be341 oppositely290 voided419 by406 the19 gaping59 wound342 . Nor137 was454 this256 all145 . It162 was454 unsafe152 to261 meddle217 with449 the19 corpses88 and236 ghosts44 of89 these527 creatures5 . A10 sort42 of89 generic152 or519 Pantheistic210 vitality204 seemed132 to261 lurk246 in107 their219 very515 joints401 and236 bones5 , after358 what243 might496 be341 called237 the19 individual233 life71 had364 departed467 . Killed409 and236 hoisted367 on392 deck505 for190 the19 sake523 of89 his433 skin428 , one470 of89 these527 sharks206 almost518 took68 poor533 Queequeg's483 hand252 off111 , when189 he362 tried73 to261 shut59 down133 the19 dead568 lid157 of89 his433 murderous86 jaw213 . *The19 whaling155 -spade19 used102 for190 cutting454 -in107 is487 made563 of89 the19 very515 best315 steel184 ; is487 about123 the19 bigness330 of89 a10 man17 's415 spread348 hand252 ; and236 in107 general37 shape99 , corresponds198 to261 the19 garden121 implement72 after358 which16 it162 is487 named312 ; only517 its234 sides331 are314 perfectly26 flat445 , and236 its234 upper403 end149 considerably110 narrower316 than77 the19 lower47 . This256 weapon223 is487 always367 kept290 as113 sharp427 as113 possible277 ; and236 when189 being264 used102 is487 occasionally509 honed, just108 like410 a10 razor471 . In107 its234 socket43 , a10 stiff549 pole20 , from316 twenty433 to261 thirty521 feet349 long544 , is487 inserted102 for190 a10 handle546 . "Queequeg no235 care307 what243 god185 made563 him248 shark4 ," said252 the19 savage398 , agonizingly40 lifting100 his433 hand252 up405 and236 down133 ; "wedder278 Fejee122 god185 or519 Nantucket283 god185 ; but330 de404 god185 wat30 made563 shark4 must226 be341 one470 dam434 Ingin." CHAPTER293 6751 Cutting454 In107 It162 was454 a10 Saturday22 night108 , and236 such420 a10 Sabbath280 as113 followed234 ! Ex144 officio92 professors104 of89 Sabbath280 breaking6 are314 all145 whalemen451 . The19 ivory76 Pequod288 was454 turned492 into554 what243 seemed132 a10 shamble364 ; every389 sailor561 a10 butcher294 . You227 would282 have254 thought186 we465 were324 offering18 up405 ten198 thousand586 red293 oxen23 to261 the19 sea67 gods325 . In107 the19 first13 place107 , the19 enormous327 cutting454 tackles278 , among483 other282 ponderous213 things4 comprising243 a10 cluster465 of89 blocks6 generally402 painted340 green549 , and236 which16 no235 single77 man17 can450 possibly201 lift229 --this256 vast43 bunch100 of89 grapes69 was454 swayed136 up405 to261 the19 main501 -top70 and236 firmly308 lashed97 to261 the19 lower47 mast44 -head116 , the19 strongest426 point438 anywhere436 above502 a10 ship438 's483 deck505 . The19 end149 of89 the19 hawser379 -like410 rope265 winding486 through295 these527 intricacies223 , was454 then45 conducted269 to261 the19 windlass231 , and236 the19 huge132 lower47 block275 of89 the19 tackles278 was454 swung205 over82 the19 whale422 ; to261 this256 block275 the19 great259 blubber232 hook157 , weighing503 some265 one470 hundred93 pounds74 , was454 attached211 . And236 now20 suspended245 in107 stages83 over82 the19 side246 , Starbuck and236 Stubb, the19 mates264 , armed299 with449 their219 long544 spades135 , began132 cutting454 a10 hole73 in107 the19 body348 for190 the19 insertion86 of89 the19 hook157 just108 above502 the19 nearest26 of89 the19 two527 side246 -fins556 . This256 done135 , a10 broad267 , semicircular261 line25 is487 cut310 round287 the19 hole73 , the19 hook157 is487 inserted102 , and236 the19 main501 body348 of89 the19 crew126 striking22 up405 a10 wild230 chorus98 , now20 commence308 heaving174 in107 one470 dense481 crowd16 at65 the19 windlass231 . When189 instantly186 , the19 entire230 ship438 careens over82 on392 her400 side246 ; every389 bolt156 in107 her400 starts248 like410 the19 nailheads364 of89 an138 old447 house499 in107 frosty58 weather405 ; she391 trembles175 , quivers522 , and236 nods407 her400 frighted191 mast44 -heads279 to261 the19 sky331 . More348 and236 more348 she391 leans8 over82 to261 the19 whale422 , while55 every389 gasping363 heave308 of89 the19 windlass231 is487 answered100 by406 a10 helping9 heave308 from316 the19 billows295 ; till181 at65 last436 , a10 swift376 , startling221 snap110 is487 heard444 ; with449 a10 great259 swash152 the19 ship438 rolls475 upwards110 and236 backwards143 from316 the19 whale422 , and236 the19 triumphant436 tackle346 rises215 into554 sight365 dragging248 after358 it162 the19 disengaged410 semicircular261 end149 of89 the19 first13 strip396 of89 blubber232 . Now20 as113 the19 blubber232 envelopes402 the19 whale422 precisely217 as113 the19 rind257 does565 an138 orange23 , so281 is487 it162 stripped301 off111 from316 the19 body348 precisely217 as113 an138 orange23 is487 sometimes77 stripped301 by406 spiralizing it162 . For190 the19 strain468 constantly344 kept290 up405 by406 the19 windlass231 continually303 keeps20 the19 whale422 rolling253 over82 and236 over82 in107 the19 water520 , and236 as113 the19 blubber232 in107 one470 strip396 uniformly384 peels143 off111 along423 the19 line25 called237 the19 "scarf145 ," simultaneously558 cut310 by406 the19 spades135 of89 Starbuck and236 Stubb, the19 mates264 ; and236 just108 as113 fast208 as113 it162 is487 thus362 peeled160 off111 , and236 indeed522 by406 that14 very515 act10 itself312 , it162 is487 all145 the19 time577 being264 hoisted367 higher574 and236 higher574 aloft276 till181 its234 upper403 end149 grazes218 the19 main501 -top70 ; the19 men62 at65 the19 windlass231 then45 cease143 heaving174 , and236 for190 a10 moment258 or519 two527 the19 prodigious223 blood208 -dripping92 mass36 sways305 to261 and236 fro183 as113 if141 let66 down133 from316 the19 sky331 , and236 every389 one470 present112 must226 take279 good221 heed163 to261 dodge472 it162 when189 it162 swings31 , else212 it162 may236 box226 his433 ears560 and236 pitch115 him248 headlong4 overboard247 . One470 of89 the19 attending416 harpooneers now20 advances510 with449 a10 long544 , keen202 weapon223 called237 a10 boarding155 -sword273 , and236 watching330 his433 chance292 he362 dexterously45 slices135 out66 a10 considerable75 hole73 in107 the19 lower47 part207 of89 the19 swaying315 mass36 . Into554 this256 hole73 , the19 end149 of89 the19 second386 alternating83 great259 tackle346 is487 then45 hooked91 so281 as113 to261 retain153 a10 hold204 upon419 the19 blubber232 , in107 order343 to261 prepare265 for190 what243 follows195 . Whereupon44 , this256 accomplished225 swordsman533 , warning531 all145 hands87 to261 stand530 off111 , once248 more348 makes32 a10 scientific435 dash355 at65 the19 mass36 , and236 with449 a10 few49 sidelong203 , desperate316 , lunging280 , slicings, severs362 it162 completely385 in107 twain313 ; so281 that14 while55 the19 short522 lower47 part207 is487 still278 fast208 , the19 long544 upper403 strip396 , called237 a10 blanket115 -piece121 , swings31 clear408 , and236 is487 all145 ready464 for190 lowering240 . The19 heavers325 forward364 now20 resume369 their219 song12 , and236 while55 the19 one470 tackle346 is487 peeling117 and236 hoisting50 a10 second386 strip396 from316 the19 whale422 , the19 other282 is487 slowly149 slackened31 away443 , and236 down133 goes205 the19 first13 strip396 through295 the19 main501 hatchway64 right499 beneath320 , into554 an138 unfurnished205 parlor522 called237 the19 blubber232 -room65 . Into554 this256 twilight158 apartment18 sundry53 nimble169 hands87 keep381 coiling105 away443 the19 long544 blanket115 -piece121 as113 if141 it162 were324 a10 great259 live554 mass36 of89 plaited82 serpents403 . And236 thus362 the19 work385 proceeds215 ; the19 two527 tackles278 hoisting50 and236 lowering240 simultaneously558 ; both558 whale422 and236 windlass231 heaving174 , the19 heavers325 singing288 , the19 blubber232 -room65 gentlemen340 coiling105 , the19 mates264 scarfing3 , the19 ship438 straining107 , and236 all145 hands87 swearing40 occasionally509 , by406 way435 of89 assuaging354 the19 general37 friction240 . CHAPTER293 68245 The19 Blanket115 I482 have254 given141 no235 small350 attention518 to261 that14 not518 unvexed348 subject382 , the19 skin428 of89 the19 whale422 . I482 have254 had364 controversies173 about123 it162 with449 experienced93 whalemen451 afloat2 , and236 learned277 naturalists140 ashore122 . My36 original463 opinion316 remains324 unchanged403 ; but330 it162 is487 only517 an138 opinion316 . The19 question562 is487 , what243 and236 where579 is487 the19 skin428 of89 the19 whale422 . Already93 you227 know60 what243 his433 blubber232 is487 . That14 blubber232 is487 something181 of89 the19 consistence191 of89 firm415 , close65 -grained beef303 , but330 tougher27 , more348 elastic370 and236 compact446 , and236 ranges425 from316 eight316 or519 ten198 to261 twelve293 and236 fifteen289 inches301 in107 thickness280 . Now20 , however44 preposterous107 it162 may236 at65 first13 seem404 to261 talk173 of89 any501 creature82 's96 skin428 as113 being264 of89 that14 sort42 of89 consistence191 and236 thickness280 , yet443 in107 point438 of89 fact12 these527 are314 no235 arguments138 against417 such420 a10 presumption225 ; because540 you227 cannot raise265 any501 other282 dense481 enveloping273 layer296 from316 the19 whale422 's483 body348 but330 that14 same541 blubber232 ; and236 the19 outermost430 enveloping273 layer296 of89 any501 animal22 , if141 reasonably102 dense481 , what243 can450 that14 be341 but330 the19 skin428 ? True483 , from316 the19 unmarred12 dead568 body348 of89 the19 whale422 , you227 may236 scrape455 off111 with449 your162 hand252 an138 infinitely70 thin445 , transparent129 substance316 , somewhat77 resembling445 the19 thinnest240 shreds249 of89 isinglass25 , only517 it162 is487 almost518 as113 flexible283 and236 soft226 as113 satin114 ; that14 is487 , previous376 to261 being264 dried331 , when189 it162 not518 only517 contracts479 and236 thickens338 , but330 becomes314 rather178 hard337 and236 brittle36 . I482 have254 several479 such420 dried331 bits256 , which16 I482 use176 for190 marks226 in107 my36 whale422 -books525 . It162 is487 transparent129 , as113 I482 said252 before344 ; and236 being264 laid181 upon419 the19 printed199 page425 , I482 have254 sometimes77 pleased282 myself99 with449 fancying249 it162 exerted292 a10 magnifying4 influence299 . At65 any501 rate515 , it162 is487 pleasant233 to261 read98 about123 whales331 through295 their219 own248 spectacles410 , as113 you227 may236 say306 . But330 what243 I482 am375 driving280 at65 here135 is487 this256 . That14 same541 infinitely70 thin445 , isinglass25 substance316 , which16 , I482 admit321 , invests25 the19 entire230 body348 of89 the19 whale422 , is487 not518 so281 much61 to261 be341 regarded393 as113 the19 skin428 of89 the19 creature82 , as113 the19 skin428 of89 the19 skin428 , so281 to261 speak337 ; for190 it162 were324 simply142 ridiculous92 to261 say306 , that14 the19 proper249 skin428 of89 the19 tremendous376 whale422 is487 thinner516 and236 more348 tender454 than77 the19 skin428 of89 a10 new36 -born320 child451 . But330 no235 more348 of89 this256 . Assuming330 the19 blubber232 to261 be341 the19 skin428 of89 the19 whale422 ; then45 , when189 this256 skin428 , as113 in107 the19 case346 of89 a10 very515 large385 Sperm26 Whale422 , will584 yield39 the19 bulk181 of89 one470 hundred93 barrels368 of89 oil118 ; and236 , when189 it162 is487 considered484 that14 , in107 quantity316 , or519 rather178 weight213 , that14 oil118 , in107 its234 expressed21 state135 , is487 only517 three329 fourths477 , and236 not518 the19 entire230 substance316 of89 the19 coat7 ; some265 idea250 may236 hence503 be341 had364 of89 the19 enormousness193 of89 that14 animated143 mass36 , a10 mere393 part207 of89 whose286 mere393 integument445 yields124 such420 a10 lake43 of89 liquid345 as113 that14 . Reckoning541 ten198 barrels368 to261 the19 ton8 , you227 have254 ten198 tons363 for190 the19 net23 weight213 of89 only517 three329 quarters336 of89 the19 stuff471 of89 the19 whale422 's483 skin428 . In107 life71 , the19 visible94 surface328 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 is487 not518 the19 least453 among483 the19 many282 marvels25 he362 presents256 . Almost518 invariably55 it162 is487 all145 over82 obliquely122 crossed202 and236 re-crossed273 with449 numberless4 straight346 marks226 in107 thick502 array86 , something181 like410 those427 in107 the19 finest66 Italian396 line25 engravings237 . But330 these527 marks226 do353 not518 seem404 to261 be341 impressed4 upon419 the19 isinglass25 substance316 above502 mentioned149 , but330 seem404 to261 be341 seen154 through295 it162 , as113 if141 they382 were324 engraved25 upon419 the19 body348 itself312 . Nor137 is487 this256 all145 . In107 some265 instances252 , to261 the19 quick241 , observant296 eye220 , those427 linear161 marks226 , as113 in107 a10 veritable282 engraving125 , but330 afford282 the19 ground127 for190 far258 other282 delineations75 . These527 are314 hieroglyphical283 ; that14 is487 , if141 you227 call259 those427 mysterious304 cyphers140 on392 the19 walls116 of89 pyramids202 hieroglyphics99 , then45 that14 is487 the19 proper249 word486 to261 use176 in107 the19 present112 connexion400 . By406 my36 retentive208 memory333 of89 the19 hieroglyphics99 upon419 one470 Sperm26 Whale422 in107 particular336 , I482 was454 much61 struck441 with449 a10 plate396 representing118 the19 old447 Indian303 characters277 chiselled253 on392 the19 famous254 hieroglyphic171 palisades155 on392 the19 banks145 of89 the19 Upper403 Mississippi83 . Like410 those427 mystic455 rocks265 , too11 , the19 mystic455 -marked67 whale422 remains324 undecipherable15 . This256 allusion88 to261 the19 Indian303 rocks265 reminds430 me2 of89 another269 thing309 . Besides465 all145 the19 other282 phenomena261 which16 the19 exterior451 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 presents256 , he362 not518 seldom140 displays295 the19 back457 , and236 more348 especially371 his433 flanks46 , effaced396 in107 great259 part207 of89 the19 regular400 linear161 appearance138 , by406 reason238 of89 numerous558 rude474 scratches345 , altogether31 of89 an138 irregular430 , random439 aspect147 . I482 should255 say306 that14 those427 New36 England348 rocks265 on392 the19 seacoast138 , which16 Agassiz281 imagines236 to261 bear48 the19 marks226 of89 violent336 scraping276 contact263 with449 vast43 floating30 icebergs210 --I482 should255 say306 , that14 those427 rocks265 must226 not518 a10 little554 resemble405 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 in107 this256 particular336 . It162 also119 seems19 to261 me2 that14 such420 scratches345 in107 the19 whale422 are314 probably244 made563 by406 hostile224 contact263 with449 other282 whales331 ; for190 I482 have254 most216 remarked98 them146 in107 the19 large385 , full414 -grown299 bulls78 of89 the19 species69 . A10 word486 or519 two527 more348 concerning368 this256 matter176 of89 the19 skin428 or519 blubber232 of89 the19 whale422 . It162 has399 already93 been185 said252 , that14 it162 is487 stript292 from316 him248 in107 long544 pieces283 , called237 blanket115 -pieces283 . Like410 most216 sea67 -terms297 , this256 one470 is487 very515 happy416 and236 significant143 . For190 the19 whale422 is487 indeed522 wrapt401 up405 in107 his433 blubber232 as113 in107 a10 real305 blanket115 or519 counterpane65 ; or519 , still278 better34 , an138 Indian303 poncho155 slipt237 over82 his433 head219 , and236 skirting145 his433 extremity410 . It162 is487 by406 reason238 of89 this256 cosy230 blanketing292 of89 his433 body348 , that14 the19 whale422 is487 enabled54 to261 keep381 himself282 comfortable402 in107 all145 weathers284 , in107 all145 seas350 , times121 , and236 tides36 . What243 would282 become548 of89 a10 Greenland110 whale422 , say306 , in107 those427 shuddering143 , icy155 seas350 of89 the19 North174 , if141 unsupplied129 with449 his433 cosy230 surtout19 ? True483 , other282 fish187 are314 found260 exceedingly257 brisk142 in107 those427 Hyperborean26 waters556 ; but330 these527 , be341 it162 observed340 , are314 your162 cold330 -blooded466 , lungless fish187 , whose286 very515 bellies192 are314 refrigerators25 ; creatures5 , that14 warm178 themselves510 under533 the19 lee472 of89 an138 iceberg279 , as113 a10 traveller258 in107 winter317 would282 bask327 before344 an138 inn190 fire559 ; whereas18 , like410 man17 , the19 whale422 has399 lungs40 and236 warm178 blood208 . Freeze143 his433 blood208 , and236 he362 dies384 . How19 wonderful291 is487 it162 then45 --except545 after358 explanation291 --that14 this256 great259 monster480 , to261 whom324 corporeal355 warmth284 is487 as113 indispensable470 as113 it162 is487 to261 man17 ; how19 wonderful291 that14 he362 should255 be341 found260 at65 home450 , immersed95 to261 his433 lips585 for190 life71 in107 those427 Arctic364 waters556 ! where579 , when189 seamen6 fall90 overboard247 , they382 are314 sometimes77 found260 , months17 afterwards418 , perpendicularly41 frozen446 into554 the19 hearts431 of89 fields64 of89 ice443 , as113 a10 fly324 is487 found260 glued120 in107 amber255 . But330 more348 surprising359 is487 it162 to261 know60 , as113 has399 been185 proved312 by406 experiment40 , that14 the19 blood208 of89 a10 Polar25 whale422 is487 warmer60 than77 that14 of89 a10 Borneo25 negro102 in107 summer408 . It162 does565 seem404 to261 me2 , that14 herein264 we465 see370 the19 rare296 virtue16 of89 a10 strong145 individual233 vitality204 , and236 the19 rare296 virtue16 of89 thick502 walls116 , and236 the19 rare296 virtue16 of89 interior163 spaciousness25 . Oh367 , man17 ! admire399 and236 model413 thyself402 after358 the19 whale422 ! Do353 thou173 , too11 , remain326 warm178 among483 ice443 . Do353 thou173 , too11 , live554 in107 this256 world126 without309 being264 of89 it162 . Be341 cool102 at65 the19 equator136 ; keep381 thy43 blood208 fluid212 at65 the19 Pole20 . Like410 the19 great259 dome125 of89 St193 . Peter419 's483 , and236 like410 the19 great259 whale422 , retain153 , O24 man17 ! in107 all145 seasons192 a10 temperature423 of89 thine72 own248 . But330 how19 easy281 and236 how19 hopeless189 to261 teach250 these527 fine333 things4 ! Of89 erections87 , how19 few49 are314 domed188 like410 St193 . Peter419 's483 ! of89 creatures5 , how19 few49 vast43 as113 the19 whale422 ! CHAPTER293 69257 The19 Funeral390 Haul19 in107 the19 chains446 ! Let66 the19 carcase366 go20 astern39 ! The19 vast43 tackles278 have254 now20 done135 their219 duty468 . The19 peeled160 white82 body348 of89 the19 beheaded62 whale422 flashes12 like410 a10 marble364 sepulchre75 ; though400 changed21 in107 hue296 , it162 has399 not518 perceptibly266 lost308 anything480 in107 bulk181 . It162 is487 still278 colossal396 . Slowly149 it162 floats36 more348 and236 more348 away443 , the19 water520 round287 it162 torn237 and236 splashed434 by406 the19 insatiate218 sharks206 , and236 the19 air209 above502 vexed340 with449 rapacious503 flights154 of89 screaming64 fowls206 , whose286 beaks509 are314 like410 so281 many282 insulting380 poniards141 in107 the19 whale422 .The19 vast43 white82 headless504 phantom101 floats36 further53 and236 further53 from316 the19 ship438 , and236 every389 rod216 that14 it162 so281 floats36 , what243 seem404 square302 roods4 of89 sharks206 and236 cubic386 roods4 of89 fowls206 , augment41 the19 murderous86 din190 . For190 hours127 and236 hours127 from316 the19 almost518 stationary360 ship438 that14 hideous298 sight365 is487 seen154 . Beneath320 the19 unclouded468 and236 mild117 azure154 sky331 , upon419 the19 fair320 face556 of89 the19 pleasant233 sea67 , wafted115 by406 the19 joyous396 breezes127 , that14 great259 mass36 of89 death543 floats36 on392 and236 on392 , till181 lost308 in107 infinite503 perspectives346 . There340 's483 a10 most216 doleful223 and236 most216 mocking315 funeral390 ! The19 sea67 -vultures107 all145 in107 pious237 mourning337 , the19 air209 -sharks206 all145 punctiliously480 in107 black581 or519 speckled331 . In107 life71 but330 few49 of89 them146 would282 have254 helped204 the19 whale422 , I482 ween218 , if141 peradventure375 he362 had364 needed133 it162 ; but330 upon419 the19 banquet105 of89 his433 funeral390 they382 most216 piously13 do353 pounce286 . Oh367 , horrible398 vulturism of89 earth513 ! from316 which16 not518 the19 mightiest395 whale422 is487 free483 . Nor137 is487 this256 the19 end149 . Desecrated367 as113 the19 body348 is487 , a10 vengeful504 ghost246 survives378 and236 hovers162 over82 it162 to261 scare75 . Espied320 by406 some265 timid197 man17 -of89 -war6 or519 blundering400 discovery416 -vessel155 from316 afar26 , when189 the19 distance264 obscuring78 the19 swarming41 fowls206 , nevertheless104 still278 shows364 the19 white82 mass36 floating30 in107 the19 sun397 , and236 the19 white82 spray76 heaving174 high361 against417 it162 ; straightway210 the19 whale422 's483 unharming122 corpse133 , with449 trembling280 fingers345 is487 set422 down133 in107 the19 log127 --shoals340 , rocks265 , and236 breakers317 hereabouts116 : beware255 ! And236 for190 years116 afterwards418 , perhaps75 , ships21 shun349 the19 place107 ; leaping397 over82 it162 as113 silly314 sheep45 leap342 over82 a10 vacuum44 , because540 their219 leader353 originally367 leaped314 there340 when189 a10 stick50 was454 held212 . There340 's483 your162 law231 of89 precedents312 ; there340 's483 your162 utility259 of89 traditions489 ; there340 's483 the19 story197 of89 your162 obstinate64 survival373 of89 old447 beliefs54 never206 bottomed368 on392 the19 earth513 , and236 now20 not518 even198 hovering520 in107 the19 air209 ! There340 's483 orthodoxy54 ! Thus362 , while55 in107 the19 life71 the19 great259 whale422 's483 body348 may236 have254 been185 a10 real305 terror85 to261 his433 foes247 , in107 his433 death543 his433 ghost246 becomes314 a10 powerless165 panic285 to261 a10 world126 . Are314 you227 a10 believer154 in107 ghosts44 , my36 friend179 ? There340 are314 other282 ghosts44 than77 the19 Cock519 -Lane29 one470 , and236 far258 deeper253 men62 than77 Doctor81 Johnson69 who319 believe191 in107 them146 . CHAPTER293 70448 The19 Sphynx116 It162 should255 not518 have254 been185 omitted117 that14 previous376 to261 completely385 stripping362 the19 body348 of89 the19 leviathan384 , he362 was454 beheaded62 . Now20 , the19 beheading83 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 is487 a10 scientific435 anatomical68 feat1 , upon419 which16 experienced93 whale422 surgeons101 very515 much61 pride279 themselves510 : and236 not518 without309 reason238 . Consider259 that14 the19 whale422 has399 nothing324 that14 can450 properly93 be341 called237 a10 neck239 ; on392 the19 contrary166 , where579 his433 head219 and236 body348 seem404 to261 join61 , there340 , in107 that14 very515 place107 , is487 the19 thickest316 part207 of89 him248 . Remember499 , also119 , that14 the19 surgeon135 must226 operate518 from316 above502 , some265 eight316 or519 ten198 feet349 intervening371 between77 him248 and236 his433 subject382 , and236 that14 subject382 almost518 hidden78 in107 a10 discolored426 , rolling253 , and236 oftentimes30 tumultuous355 and236 bursting288 sea67 . Bear48 in107 mind118 , too11 , that14 under533 these527 untoward32 circumstances267 he362 has399 to261 cut310 many282 feet349 deep483 in107 the19 flesh331 ; and236 in107 that14 subterraneous6 manner153 , without309 so281 much61 as113 getting369 one470 single77 peep222 into554 the19 ever208 -contracting521 gash293 thus362 made563 , he362 must226 skilfully165 steer426 clear408 of89 all145 adjacent118 , interdicted29 parts470 , and236 exactly315 divide80 the19 spine236 at65 a10 critical38 point438 hard337 by406 its234 insertion86 into554 the19 skull9 . Do353 you227 not518 marvel41 , then45 , at65 Stubb's483 boast335 , that14 he362 demanded223 but330 ten198 minutes368 to261 behead312 a10 sperm26 whale422 ? When189 first13 severed232 , the19 head219 is487 dropped2 astern39 and236 held212 there340 by406 a10 cable41 till181 the19 body348 is487 stripped301 . That14 done135 , if141 it162 belong243 to261 a10 small350 whale422 it162 is487 hoisted367 on392 deck505 to261 be341 deliberately336 disposed154 of89 . But330 , with449 a10 full414 grown299 leviathan384 this256 is487 impossible305 ; for190 the19 sperm26 whale422 's483 head219 embraces296 nearly575 one470 third301 of89 his433 entire230 bulk181 , and236 completely385 to261 suspend71 such420 a10 burden382 as113 that14 , even198 by406 the19 immense301 tackles278 of89 a10 whaler91 , this256 were324 as113 vain216 a10 thing309 as113 to261 attempt385 weighing503 a10 Dutch325 barn66 in107 jewellers253 ' scales543 . The19 Pequod288 's483 whale422 being264 decapitated18 and236 the19 body348 stripped301 , the19 head219 was454 hoisted367 against417 the19 ship438 's483 side246 --about123 half119 way435 out66 of89 the19 sea67 , so281 that14 it162 might496 yet443 in107 great259 part207 be341 buoyed26 up405 by406 its234 native399 element38 . And236 there340 with449 the19 strained516 craft187 steeply245 leaning559 over82 to261 it162 , by406 reason238 of89 the19 enormous327 downward157 drag426 from316 the19 lower47 mast44 -head116 , and236 every389 yard258 -arm25 on392 that14 side246 projecting336 like410 a10 crane110 over82 the19 waves443 ; there340 , that14 blood208 -dripping92 head219 hung479 to261 the19 Pequod288 's483 waist52 like410 the19 giant110 Holofernes243 's483 from316 the19 girdle9 of89 Judith144 . When189 this256 last436 task482 was454 accomplished225 it162 was454 noon445 , and236 the19 seamen6 went516 below397 to261 their219 dinner322 . Silence309 reigned208 over82 the19 before344 tumultuous355 but330 now20 deserted178 deck505 . An138 intense89 copper300 calm39 , like410 a10 universal397 yellow95 lotus34 , was454 more348 and236 more348 unfolding123 its234 noiseless21 measureless102 leaves441 upon419 the19 sea67 . A10 short522 space468 elapsed172 , and236 up405 into554 this256 noiselessness152 came549 Ahab232 alone2 from316 his433 cabin192 . Taking146 a10 few49 turns136 on392 the19 quarter6 -deck505 , he362 paused390 to261 gaze568 over82 the19 side246 , then45 slowly149 getting369 into554 the19 main501 -chains283 he362 took68 Stubb's483 long544 spade19 still278 remaining64 there340 after358 the19 whale422 's483 decapitation18 and236 striking22 it162 into554 the19 lower47 part207 of89 the19 half119 -suspended245 mass36 , placed556 its234 other282 end149 crutchwise under533 one470 arm25 , and236 so281 stood1 leaning559 over82 with449 eyes125 attentively102 fixed564 on392 this256 head219 . It162 was454 a10 black581 and236 hooded374 head219 ; and236 hanging222 there340 in107 the19 midst533 of89 so281 intense89 a10 calm39 , it162 seemed132 the19 Sphynx116 's483 in107 the19 desert255 . "Speak337 , thou173 vast43 and236 venerable57 head219 ," muttered180 Ahab232 , "which16 , though400 ungarnished4 with449 a10 beard23 , yet443 here135 and236 there340 lookest169 hoary29 with449 mosses28 ; speak337 , mighty2 head219 , and236 tell392 us569 the19 secret409 thing309 that14 is487 in107 thee15 . Of89 all145 divers213 , thou173 hast174 dived149 the19 deepest494 . That14 head219 upon419 which16 the19 upper403 sun397 now20 gleams34 , has399 moved492 amid240 this256 world126 's483 foundations499 . Where579 unrecorded337 names360 and236 navies27 rust19 , and236 untold4 hopes36 and236 anchors273 rot232 ; where579 in107 her400 murderous86 hold204 this256 frigate44 earth513 is487 ballasted141 with449 bones5 of89 millions208 of89 the19 drowned83 ; there340 , in107 that14 awful539 water520 -land406 , there340 was454 thy43 most216 familiar139 home450 . Thou173 hast174 been185 where579 bell28 or519 diver120 never206 went516 ; hast174 slept172 by406 many282 a10 sailor561 's483 side246 , where579 sleepless59 mothers98 would282 give142 their219 lives245 to261 lay62 them146 down133 . Thou173 saw113 'st193 the19 locked105 lovers88 when189 leaping397 from316 their219 flaming269 ship438 ; heart470 to261 heart470 they382 sank310 beneath320 the19 exulting521 wave556 ; true483 to261 each520 other282 , when189 heaven163 seemed132 false490 to261 them146 . Thou173 saw113 'st193 the19 murdered273 mate508 when189 tossed227 by406 pirates19 from316 the19 midnight539 deck505 ; for190 hours127 he362 fell421 into554 the19 deeper253 midnight539 of89 the19 insatiate218 maw314 ; and236 his433 murderers205 still278 sailed248 on392 unharmed92 -- while55 swift376 lightnings174 shivered34 the19 neighboring399 ship438 that14 would282 have254 borne493 a10 righteous530 husband207 to261 outstretched48 , longing292 arms536 . O24 head219 ! thou173 hast174 seen154 enough217 to261 split148 the19 planets110 and236 make175 an138 infidel183 of89 Abraham124 , and236 not518 one470 syllable374 is487 thine72 !" "Sail218 ho31 !" cried506 a10 triumphant436 voice233 from316 the19 main501 -mast44 -head116 . "Aye86 ? Well263 , now20 , that14 's76 cheering371 ," cried506 Ahab232 , suddenly193 erecting15 himself282 , while55 whole199 thunder356 -clouds342 swept305 aside408 from316 his433 brow474 . "That14 lively272 cry561 upon419 this256 deadly49 calm39 might496 almost518 convert296 a10 better34 man17 .--Where579 away443 ?" "Three329 points245 on392 the19 starboard309 bow146 , sir271 , and236 bringing9 down133 her400 breeze227 to261 us569 ! "Better34 and236 better34 , man17 . Would282 now20 St193 . Paul368 would282 come420 along423 that14 way435 , and236 to261 my36 breezelessness bring173 his433 breeze227 ! O24 Nature159 , and236 O24 soul428 of89 man17 ! how19 far258 beyond421 all145 utterance400 are314 your162 linked155 analogies547 ; not518 the19 smallest443 atom573 stirs161 or519 lives245 on392 matter176 , but330 has399 its234 cunning198 duplicate294 in107 mind118 ." CHAPTER293 7169 The19 Jeroboam257 's483 Story197 Hand252 in107 hand252 , ship438 and236 breeze227 blew234 on392 ; but330 the19 breeze227 came549 faster371 than77 the19 ship438 , and236 soon18 the19 Pequod288 began132 to261 rock264 . By406 and236 by406 , through295 the19 glass27 the19 stranger233 's483 boats83 and236 manned282 mast44 -heads279 proved312 her400 a10 whale422 -ship98 . But330 as113 she391 was454 so281 far258 to261 windward170 , and236 shooting225 by406 , apparently261 making415 a10 passage285 to261 some265 other282 ground127 , the19 Pequod288 could375 not518 hope211 to261 reach43 her400 . So281 the19 signal264 was454 set422 to261 see370 what243 response7 would282 be341 made563 . Here135 be341 it162 said252 , that14 like410 the19 vessels150 of89 military317 marines294 , the19 ships21 of89 the19 American272 Whale422 Fleet206 have254 each520 a10 private541 signal264 ; all145 which16 signals314 being264 collected472 in107 a10 book230 with449 the19 names360 of89 the19 respective348 vessels150 attached211 , every389 captain295 is487 provided100 with449 it162 . Thereby190 , the19 whale422 commanders117 are314 enabled54 to261 recognise363 each520 other282 upon419 the19 ocean224 , even198 at65 considerable75 distance264 , and236 with449 no235 small350 facility285 . The19 Pequod288 's483 signal264 was454 at65 last436 responded337 to261 by406 the19 stranger233 's483 setting151 her400 own248 ; which16 proved312 the19 ship438 to261 be341 the19 Jeroboam257 of89 Nantucket283 . Squaring419 her400 yards386 , she391 bore27 down133 , ranged435 abeam83 under533 the19 Pequod288 's483 lee472 , and236 lowered279 a10 boat439 ; it162 soon18 drew175 nigh254 ; but330 , as113 the19 side246 -ladder391 was454 being264 rigged340 by406 Starbuck's483 order343 to261 accommodate223 the19 visiting402 captain295 , the19 stranger233 in107 question562 waved366 his433 hand252 from316 his433 boat439 's483 stern442 in107 token502 of89 that14 proceeding422 being264 entirely148 unnecessary444 . It162 turned492 out66 that14 the19 Jeroboam257 had364 a10 malignant23 epidemic163 on392 board540 , and236 that14 Mayhew252 , her400 captain295 , was454 fearful183 of89 infecting474 the19 Pequod288 's483 company280 . For190 , though400 himself282 and236 the19 boat439 's483 crew126 remained72 untainted441 , and236 though400 his433 ship438 was454 half119 a10 rifle303 -shot443 off111 , and236 an138 incorruptible493 sea67 and236 air209 rolling253 and236 flowing298 between77 ; yet443 conscientiously22 adhering163 to261 the19 timid197 quarantine41 of89 the19 land406 , he362 peremptorily235 refused412 to261 come420 into554 direct314 contact263 with449 the19 Pequod288 . But330 this256 did444 by406 no235 means502 prevent491 all145 communications296 . Preserving129 an138 interval114 of89 some265 few49 yards386 between77 itself312 and236 the19 ship438 , the19 Jeroboam257 's483 boat439 by406 the19 occasional202 use176 of89 its234 oars398 contrived179 to261 keep381 parallel78 to261 the19 Pequod288 , as113 she391 heavily227 forged119 through295 the19 sea67 (for190 by406 this256 time577 it162 blew234 very515 fresh540 ), with449 her400 main501 -topsail aback23 ; though400 , indeed522 , at65 times121 by406 the19 sudden309 onset292 of89 a10 large385 rolling253 wave556 , the19 boat439 would282 be341 pushed189 some265 way435 ahead5 ; but330 would282 be341 soon18 skilfully165 brought85 to261 her400 proper249 bearings292 again52 . Subject382 to261 this256 , and236 other282 the19 like410 interruptions561 now20 and236 then45 , a10 conversation222 was454 sustained283 between77 the19 two527 parties162 ; but330 at65 intervals295 not518 without309 still278 another269 interruption57 of89 a10 very515 different276 sort42 . Pulling217 an138 oar61 in107 the19 Jeroboam257 's483 boat439 , was454 a10 man17 of89 a10 singular216 appearance138 , even198 in107 that14 wild230 whaling155 life71 where579 individual233 notabilities315 make175 up405 all145 totalities. He362 was454 a10 small350 , short522 , youngish238 man17 , sprinkled18 all145 over82 his433 face556 with449 freckles260 , and236 wearing166 redundant172 yellow95 hair237 . A10 long544 -skirted141 , cabalistically-cut310 coat7 of89 a10 faded69 walnut97 tinge261 enveloped28 him248 ; the19 overlapping25 sleeves363 of89 which16 were324 rolled226 up405 on392 his433 wrists260 . A10 deep483 , settled540 , fanatic346 delirium106 was454 in107 his433 eyes125 . So281 soon18 as113 this256 figure55 had364 been185 first13 descried313 , Stubb had364 exclaimed281 -- "That14 's76 he362 ! that14 's76 he362 !--the19 long544 -togged scaramouch110 the19 Town172 -Ho31 's483 company280 told82 us569 of89 !" Stubb here135 alluded231 to261 a10 strange440 story197 told82 of89 the19 Jeroboam257 , and236 a10 certain31 man17 among483 her400 crew126 , some265 time577 previous376 when189 the19 Pequod288 spoke185 the19 Town172 -Ho31 . According281 to261 this256 account102 and236 what243 was454 subsequently342 learned277 , it162 seemed132 that14 the19 scaramouch110 in107 question562 had364 gained290 a10 wonderful291 ascendency480 over82 almost518 everybody77 in107 the19 Jeroboam257 . His433 story197 was454 this256 : He362 had364 been185 originally367 nurtured31 among483 the19 crazy418 society520 of89 Neskyeuna Shakers192 , where579 he362 had364 been185 a10 great259 prophet25 ; in107 their219 cracked423 , secret409 meetings279 having69 several479 times121 descended99 from316 heaven163 by406 the19 way435 of89 a10 trapdoor377 , announcing337 the19 speedy282 opening306 of89 the19 seventh31 vial82 , which16 he362 carried232 in107 his433 vest315 -pocket461 ; but330 , which16 , instead398 of89 containing247 gunpowder161 , was454 supposed423 to261 be341 charged103 with449 laudanum65 . A10 strange440 , apostolic105 whim44 having69 seized337 him248 , he362 had364 left159 Neskyeuna for190 Nantucket283 , where579 , with449 that14 cunning198 peculiar291 to261 craziness279 , he362 assumed460 a10 steady21 , common304 sense85 exterior451 , and236 offered336 himself282 as113 a10 green549 -hand98 candidate368 for190 the19 Jeroboam257 's483 whaling155 voyage137 . They382 engaged479 him248 ; but330 straightway210 upon419 the19 ship438 's483 getting369 out66 of89 sight365 of89 land406 , his433 insanity115 broke356 out66 in107 a10 freshet284 . He362 announced451 himself282 as113 the19 archangel82 Gabriel152 , and236 commanded571 the19 captain295 to261 jump50 overboard247 . He362 published393 his433 manifesto13 , whereby358 he362 set422 himself282 forth152 as113 the19 deliverer271 of89 the19 isles425 of89 the19 sea67 and236 vicar-general37 of89 all145 Oceanica94 . The19 unflinching92 earnestness256 with449 which16 he362 declared29 these527 things4 ;--the19 dark471 , daring322 play89 of89 his433 sleepless59 , excited283 imagination131 , and236 all145 the19 preternatural385 terrors192 of89 real305 delirium106 , united419 to261 invest308 this256 Gabriel152 in107 the19 minds244 of89 the19 majority45 of89 the19 ignorant136 crew126 , with449 an138 atmosphere64 of89 sacredness384 . Moreover326 , they382 were324 afraid248 of89 him248 . As113 such420 a10 man17 , however44 , was454 not518 of89 much61 practical74 use176 in107 the19 ship438 , especially371 as113 he362 refused412 to261 work385 except545 when189 he362 pleased282 , the19 incredulous361 captain295 would282 fain264 have254 been185 rid367 of89 him248 ; but330 apprised92 that14 that14 individual233 's483 intention272 was454 to261 land406 him248 in107 the19 first13 convenient470 port409 , the19 archangel82 forthwith198 opened461 all145 his433 seals221 and236 vials192 --devoting416 the19 ship438 and236 all145 hands87 to261 unconditional25 perdition431 , in107 case346 this256 intention272 was454 carried232 out66 . So281 strongly168 did444 he362 work385 upon419 his433 disciples85 among483 the19 crew126 , that14 at65 last436 in107 a10 body348 they382 went516 to261 the19 captain295 and236 told82 him248 if141 Gabriel152 was454 sent411 from316 the19 ship438 , not518 a10 man17 of89 them146 would282 remain326 . He362 was454 therefore94 forced28 to261 relinquish261 his433 plan99 . Nor137 would282 they382 permit256 Gabriel152 to261 be341 any501 way435 maltreated83 , say306 or519 do353 what243 he362 would282 ; so281 that14 it162 came549 to261 pass153 that14 Gabriel152 had364 the19 complete191 freedom88 of89 the19 ship438 . The19 consequence111 of89 all145 this256 was454 , that14 the19 archangel82 cared95 little554 or519 nothing324 for190 the19 captain295 and236 mates264 ; and236 since374 the19 epidemic163 had364 broken255 out66 , he362 carried232 a10 higher574 hand252 than77 ever208 ; declaring412 that14 the19 plague133 , as113 he362 called237 it162 , was454 at65 his433 sole462 command190 ; nor137 should255 it162 be341 stayed117 but330 according281 to261 his433 good221 pleasure145 . The19 sailors64 , mostly190 poor533 devils377 , cringed279 , and236 some265 of89 them146 fawned27 before344 him248 ; in107 obedience74 to261 his433 instructions93 , sometimes77 rendering155 him248 personal492 homage92 , as113 to261 a10 god185 . Such420 things4 may236 seem404 incredible98 ; but330 , however44 wondrous30 , they382 are314 true483 . Nor137 is487 the19 history183 of89 fanatics31 half119 so281 striking22 in107 respect441 to261 the19 measureless102 self442 -deception7 of89 the19 fanatic346 himself282 , as113 his433 measureless102 power145 of89 deceiving448 and236 bedevilling350 so281 many282 others317 . But330 it162 is487 time577 to261 return407 to261 the19 Pequod288 . "I482 fear103 not518 thy43 epidemic163 , man17 ," said252 Ahab232 from316 the19 bulwarks411 , to261 Captain295 Mayhew252 , who319 stood1 in107 the19 boat439 's483 stern442 ; "come420 on392 board540 ." But330 now20 Gabriel152 started492 to261 his433 feet349 . "Think424 , think424 of89 the19 fevers295 , yellow95 and236 bilious235 ! Beware255 of89 the19 horrible398 plague133 !" "Gabriel152 ! Gabriel152 !" cried506 Captain295 Mayhew252 ; "thou173 must226 either45 -" But330 that14 instant279 a10 headlong4 wave556 shot443 the19 boat439 far258 ahead5 , and236 its234 seethings drowned83 all145 speech378 . "Hast174 thou173 seen154 the19 White82 Whale422 ?" demanded223 Ahab232 , when189 the19 boat439 drifted17 back457 . "Think424 , think424 of89 thy43 whale422 -boat439 , stoven and236 sunk336 ! Beware255 of89 the19 horrible398 tail102 !" "I482 tell392 thee15 again52 , Gabriel152 , that14 -" But330 again52 the19 boat439 tore493 ahead5 as113 if141 dragged460 by406 fiends270 . Nothing324 was454 said252 for190 some265 moments434 , while55 a10 succession17 of89 riotous448 waves443 rolled226 by406 which16 by406 one470 of89 those427 occasional202 caprices137 of89 the19 seas350 were324 tumbling10 , not518 heaving174 it162 . Meantime210 , the19 hoisted367 sperm26 whale422 's483 head219 jogged299 about123 very515 violently340 , and236 Gabriel152 was454 seen154 eyeing49 it162 with449 rather178 more348 apprehensiveness4 than77 his433 archangel82 nature159 seemed132 to261 warrant105 . When189 this256 interlude201 was454 over82 , Captain295 Mayhew252 began132 a10 dark471 story197 concerning368 Moby362 Dick25 ; not518 , however44 , without309 frequent430 interruptions561 from316 Gabriel152 , whenever15 his433 name477 was454 mentioned149 , and236 the19 crazy418 sea67 that14 seemed132 leagued128 with449 him248 . It162 seemed132 that14 the19 Jeroboam257 had364 not518 long544 left159 home450 , when189 upon419 speaking22 a10 whale422 -ship98 , her400 people482 were324 reliably26 apprised92 of89 the19 existence187 of89 Moby362 Dick25 , and236 the19 havoc172 he362 had364 made563 . Greedily111 sucking373 in107 this256 intelligence30 , Gabriel152 solemnly200 warned508 the19 captain295 against417 attacking258 the19 White82 Whale422 , in107 case346 the19 monster480 should255 be341 seen154 ; in107 his433 gibbering72 insanity115 , pronouncing330 the19 White82 Whale422 to261 be341 no235 less261 a10 being264 than77 the19 Shaker213 God185 incarnated161 ; the19 Shakers192 receiving124 the19 Bible253 . But330 when189 , some265 year347 or519 two527 afterwards418 , Moby362 Dick25 was454 fairly211 sighted105 from316 the19 mast44 -heads279 , Macey315 , the19 chief156 mate508 , burned389 with449 ardor393 to261 encounter250 him248 ; and236 the19 captain295 himself282 being264 not518 unwilling299 to261 let66 him248 have254 the19 opportunity256 , despite519 all145 the19 archangel82 's483 denunciations213 and236 forewarnings181 , Macey315 succeeded76 in107 persuading491 five103 men62 to261 man17 his433 boat439 . With449 them146 he362 pushed189 off111 ; and236 , after358 much61 weary306 pulling217 , and236 many282 perilous141 , unsuccessful503 onsets107 , he362 at65 last436 succeeded76 in107 getting369 one470 iron169 fast208 . Meantime210 , Gabriel152 , ascending116 to261 the19 main501 -royal161 mast44 -head116 , was454 tossing213 one470 arm25 in107 frantic211 gestures258 , and236 hurling292 forth152 prophecies174 of89 speedy282 doom73 to261 the19 sacrilegious261 assailants273 of89 his433 divinity486 . Now20 , while55 Macey315 , the19 mate508 , was454 standing144 up405 in107 his433 boat439 's483 bow146 , and236 with449 all145 the19 reckless240 energy182 of89 his433 tribe273 was454 venting341 his433 wild230 exclamations278 upon419 the19 whale422 , and236 essaying479 to261 get126 a10 fair320 chance292 for190 his433 poised198 lance76 , lo418 ! a10 broad267 white82 shadow438 rose449 from316 the19 sea67 ; by406 its234 quick241 , fanning363 motion544 , temporarily22 taking146 the19 breath150 out66 of89 the19 bodies392 of89 the19 oarsmen59 . Next27 instant279 , the19 luckless122 mate508 , so281 full414 of89 furious89 life71 , was454 smitten83 bodily172 into554 the19 air209 , and236 making415 a10 long544 arc174 in107 his433 descent181 , fell421 into554 the19 sea67 at65 the19 distance264 of89 about123 fifty406 yards386 . Not518 a10 chip157 of89 the19 boat439 was454 harmed199 , nor137 a10 hair237 of89 any501 oarsman60 's483 head219 ; but330 the19 mate508 for190 ever208 sank310 . It162 is487 well263 to261 parenthesize here135 , that14 of89 the19 fatal460 accidents122 in107 the19 Sperm26 -Whale422 Fishery136 , this256 kind451 is487 perhaps75 almost518 as113 frequent430 as113 any501 . Sometimes77 , nothing324 is487 injured298 but330 the19 man17 who319 is487 thus362 annihilated133 ; oftener222 the19 boat439 's483 bow146 is487 knocked49 off111 , or519 the19 thigh108 -board540 , on392 which16 the19 headsman143 stands256 , is487 torn237 from316 its234 place107 and236 accompanies11 the19 body348 . But330 strangest86 of89 all145 is487 the19 circumstance407 , that14 in107 more348 instances252 than77 one470 , when189 the19 body348 has399 been185 recovered234 , not518 a10 single77 mark169 of89 violence486 is487 discernible136 the19 man17 being264 stark376 dead568 . The19 whole199 calamity138 , with449 the19 falling498 form238 of89 Macey315 , was454 plainly450 descried313 from316 the19 ship438 . Raising99 a10 piercing305 shriek27 --"The19 vial82 ! the19 vial82 !" Gabriel152 called237 off111 the19 terror85 -stricken328 crew126 from316 the19 further53 hunting45 of89 the19 whale422 . This256 terrible132 event28 clothed63 the19 archangel82 with449 added52 influence299 ; because540 his433 credulous74 disciples85 believed214 that14 he362 had364 specifically31 fore259 -announced451 it162 , instead398 of89 only517 making415 a10 general37 prophecy147 , which16 any501 one470 might496 have254 done135 , and236 so281 have254 chanced424 to261 hit322 one470 of89 many282 marks226 in107 the19 wide465 margin173 allowed339 . He362 became70 a10 nameless427 terror85 to261 the19 ship438 . Mayhew252 having69 concluded157 his433 narration402 , Ahab232 put190 such420 questions300 to261 him248 , that14 the19 stranger233 captain295 could375 not518 forbear511 inquiring24 whether454 he362 intended495 to261 hunt418 the19 White82 Whale422 , if141 opportunity256 should255 offer422 . To261 which16 Ahab232 answered100 --"Aye86 ." Straightway210 , then45 , Gabriel152 once248 more348 started492 to261 his433 feet349 , glaring23 upon419 the19 old447 man17 , and236 vehemently201 exclaimed281 , with449 downward157 pointed413 finger190 --"Think424 , think424 of89 the19 blasphemer60 -- dead568 , and236 down133 there340 !--beware255 of89 the19 blasphemer60 's483 end149 !" Ahab232 stolidly323 turned492 aside408 ; then45 said252 to261 Mayhew252 , "Captain295 , I482 have254 just108 bethought422 me2 of89 my36 letter539 -bag141 ; there340 is487 a10 letter539 for190 one470 of89 thy43 officers439 , if141 I482 mistake471 not518 . Starbuck, look523 over82 the19 bag141 ." Every389 whale422 -ship98 takes362 out66 a10 goodly151 number196 of89 letters170 for190 various183 ships21 , whose286 delivery5 to261 the19 persons5 to261 whom324 they382 may236 be341 addressed169 , depends568 upon419 the19 mere393 chance292 of89 encountering332 them146 in107 the19 four175 oceans60 . Thus362 , most216 letters170 never206 reach43 their219 mark169 ; and236 many282 are314 only517 received12 after358 attaining399 an138 age157 of89 two527 or519 three329 years116 or519 more348 . Soon18 Starbuck returned214 with449 a10 letter539 in107 his433 hand252 . It162 was454 sorely76 tumbled494 , damp264 , and236 covered452 with449 a10 dull546 , spotted122 , green549 mould208 , in107 consequence111 of89 being264 kept290 in107 a10 dark471 locker26 of89 the19 cabin192 . Of89 such420 a10 letter539 , Death543 himself282 might496 well263 have254 been185 the19 post2 -boy110 . "Can450 'st193 not518 read98 it162 ?" cried506 Ahab232 . "Give142 it162 me2 , man17 . Aye86 , aye86 , aye86 it162 's483 but330 a10 dim14 scrawl292 ;--what243 's483 this256 ?" As113 he362 was454 studying67 it162 out66 , Starbuck took68 a10 long544 cutting454 -spade19 pole20 , and236 with449 his433 knife503 slightly238 split148 the19 end149 , to261 insert431 the19 letter539 there340 , and236 in107 that14 way435 , hand252 it162 to261 the19 boat439 , without309 its234 coming140 any501 closer111 to261 the19 ship438 . Meantime210 , Ahab232 holding311 the19 letter539 , muttered180 , "Mr219 . Har479 -- yes143 , Mr219 . Harry70 --(a10 woman448 's483 pinny147 hand252 ,--the19 man17 's415 wife37 , I482 'll300 wager560 )--Aye86 --Mr219 . Harry70 Macey315 , Ship438 Jeroboam257 ; why177 it162 's483 Macey315 , and236 he362 's483 dead568 !" "Poor533 fellow369 ! poor533 fellow369 ! and236 from316 his433 wife37 ," sighed445 Mayhew252 ; "but330 let66 me2 have254 it162 ." "Nay358 , keep381 it162 thyself402 ," cried506 Gabriel152 to261 Ahab232 ; "thou173 art462 soon18 going227 that14 way435 ." "Curses497 throttle367 thee15 !" yelled61 Ahab232 . "Captain295 Mayhew252 , stand530 by406 now20 to261 receive327 it162 "; and236 taking146 the19 fatal460 missive34 from316 Starbuck's483 hands87 , he362 caught105 it162 in107 the19 slit430 of89 the19 pole20 , and236 reached386 it162 over82 towards417 the19 boat439 . But330 as113 he362 did444 so281 , the19 oarsmen59 expectantly284 desisted227 from316 rowing375 ; the19 boat439 drifted17 a10 little554 towards417 the19 ship438 's483 stern442 ; so281 that14 , as113 if141 by406 magic54 , the19 letter539 suddenly193 ranged435 along423 with449 Gabriel152 's483 eager516 hand252 . He362 clutched169 it162 in107 an138 instant279 , seized337 the19 boat439 -knife503 , and236 impaling310 the19 letter539 on392 it162 , sent411 it162 thus362 loaded55 back457 into554 the19 ship438 . It162 fell421 at65 Ahab232 's483 feet349 . Then45 Gabriel152 shrieked151 out66 to261 his433 comrades410 to261 give142 way435 with449 their219 oars398 , and236 in107 that14 manner153 the19 mutinous102 boat439 rapidly116 shot443 away443 from316 the19 Pequod288 . As113 , after358 this256 interlude201 , the19 seamen6 resumed7 their219 work385 upon419 the19 jacket481 of89 the19 whale422 , many282 strange440 things4 were324 hinted253 in107 reference116 to261 this256 wild230 affair388 . CHAPTER293 72152 The19 Monkey335 -Rope265 In107 the19 tumultuous355 business168 of89 cutting454 -in107 and236 attending416 to261 a10 whale422 , there340 is487 much61 running296 backwards143 and236 forwards528 among483 the19 crew126 . Now20 hands87 are314 wanted85 here135 , and236 then45 again52 hands87 are314 wanted85 there340 . There340 is487 no235 staying266 in107 any501 one470 place107 ; for190 at65 one470 and236 the19 same541 time577 everything233 has399 to261 be341 done135 everywhere469 . It162 is487 much61 the19 same541 with449 him248 who319 endeavors212 the19 description396 of89 the19 scene228 . We465 must226 now20 retrace155 our234 way435 a10 little554 . It162 was454 mentioned149 that14 upon419 first13 breaking6 ground127 in107 the19 whale422 's483 back457 , the19 blubber232 -hook157 was454 inserted102 into554 the19 original463 hole73 there340 cut310 by406 the19 spades135 of89 the19 mates264 . But330 how19 did444 so281 clumsy394 and236 weighty503 a10 mass36 as113 that14 same541 hook157 get126 fixed564 in107 that14 hole73 ? It162 was454 inserted102 there340 by406 my36 particular336 friend179 Queequeg, whose286 duty468 it162 was454 , as113 harpooneer, to261 descend252 upon419 the19 monster480 's483 back457 for190 the19 special326 purpose514 referred350 to261 . But330 in107 very515 many282 cases108 , circumstances267 require228 that14 the19 harpooneer shall66 remain326 on392 the19 whale422 till181 the19 whole199 tensing or519 stripping362 operation261 is487 concluded157 . The19 whale422 , be341 it162 observed340 , lies27 almost518 entirely148 submerged402 , excepting289 the19 immediate388 parts470 operated201 upon419 . So281 down133 there340 , some265 ten198 feet349 below397 the19 level378 of89 the19 deck505 , the19 poor533 harpooneer flounders218 about123 , half119 on392 the19 whale422 and236 half119 in107 the19 water520 , as113 the19 vast43 mass36 revolves20 like410 a10 tread252 -mill22 beneath320 him248 . On392 the19 occasion211 in107 question562 , Queequeg figured201 in107 the19 Highland173 costume223 -- a10 shirt413 and236 socks479 --in107 which16 to261 my36 eyes125 , at65 least453 , he362 appeared88 to261 uncommon88 advantage169 ; and236 no235 one470 had364 a10 better34 chance292 to261 observe213 him248 , as113 will584 presently166 be341 seen154 . Being264 the19 savage398 's483 bowsman290 , that14 is487 , the19 person550 who319 pulled213 the19 bow146 -oar61 in107 his433 boat439 (the19 second386 one470 from316 forward364 ), it162 was454 my36 cheerful391 duty468 to261 attend120 upon419 him248 while55 taking146 that14 hard337 -scrabble scramble4 upon419 the19 dead568 whale422 's483 back457 . You227 have254 seen154 Italian396 organ336 -boys22 holding311 a10 dancing192 -ape318 by406 a10 long544 cord96 . Just108 so281 , from316 the19 ship438 's483 steep108 side246 , did444 I482 hold204 Queequeg down133 there340 in107 the19 sea67 , by406 what243 is487 technically247 called237 in107 the19 fishery136 a10 monkey335 -rope265 , attached211 to261 a10 strong145 strip396 of89 canvas557 belted114 round287 his433 waist52 . It162 was454 a10 humorously265 perilous141 business168 for190 both558 of89 us569 . For190 , before344 we465 proceed367 further53 , it162 must226 be341 said252 that14 the19 monkey335 -rope265 was454 fast208 at65 both558 ends301 ; fast208 to261 Queequeg's483 broad267 canvas557 belt323 , and236 fast208 to261 my36 narrow140 leather303 one470 . So281 that14 for190 better34 or519 for190 worse561 , we465 two527 , for190 the19 time577 , were324 wedded489 ; and236 should255 poor533 Queequeg sink190 to261 rise251 no235 more348 , then45 both558 usage454 and236 honor497 demanded223 , that14 instead398 of89 cutting454 the19 cord96 , it162 should255 drag426 me2 down133 in107 his433 wake205 . So281 , then45 , an138 elongated142 Siamese26 ligature4 united419 us569 . Queequeg was454 my36 own248 inseparable88 twin492 brother46 ; nor137 could375 I482 any501 way435 get126 rid367 of89 the19 dangerous2 liabilities239 which16 the19 hempen451 bond174 entailed392 . So281 strongly168 and236 metaphysically81 did444 I482 conceive133 of89 my36 situation331 then45 , that14 while55 earnestly98 watching330 his433 motions62 , I482 seemed132 distinctly26 to261 perceive131 that14 my36 own248 individuality15 was454 now20 merged210 in107 a10 joint65 stock437 company280 of89 two527 ; that14 my36 free483 will584 had364 received12 a10 mortal371 wound342 ; and236 that14 another269 's483 mistake471 or519 misfortune340 might496 plunge234 innocent156 me2 into554 unmerited41 disaster47 and236 death543 . Therefore94 , I482 saw113 that14 here135 was454 a10 sort42 of89 interregnum261 in107 Providence112 ; for190 its234 even198 -handed189 equity400 never206 could375 have254 so281 gross36 an138 injustice380 . And236 yet443 still278 further53 pondering280 --while55 I482 jerked481 him248 now20 and236 then45 from316 between77 the19 whale422 and236 ship438 , which16 would282 threaten113 to261 jam141 him248 --still278 further53 pondering280 , I482 say306 , I482 saw113 that14 this256 situation331 of89 mine482 was454 the19 precise158 situation331 of89 every389 mortal371 that14 breathes410 ; only517 , in107 most216 cases108 , he362 , one470 way435 or519 other282 , has399 this256 Siamese26 connexion400 with449 a10 plurality350 of89 other282 mortals72 . If141 your162 banker93 breaks522 , you227 snap110 ; if141 your162 apothecary438 by406 mistake471 sends192 you227 poison24 in107 your162 pills70 , you227 die229 . True483 , you227 may236 say306 that14 , by406 exceeding320 caution162 , you227 may236 possibly201 escape565 these527 and236 the19 multitudinous317 other282 evil2 chances400 of89 life71 . But330 handle546 Queequeg's483 monkey335 -rope265 heedfully84 as113 I482 would282 , sometimes77 he362 jerked481 it162 so281 , that14 I482 came549 very515 near70 sliding540 overboard247 . Nor137 could375 I482 possibly201 forget426 that14 , do353 what243 I482 would282 , I482 only517 had364 the19 management97 of89 one470 end149 of89 it162 .* *The19 monkey335 -rope265 is487 found260 in107 all145 whalers116 ; but330 it162 was454 only517 in107 the19 Pequod288 that14 the19 monkey335 and236 his433 holder156 were324 ever208 tied101 together440 . This256 improvement74 upon419 the19 original463 usage454 was454 introduced265 by406 no235 less261 a10 man17 than77 Stubb, in107 order343 to261 afford282 to261 the19 imperilled393 harpooneer the19 strongest426 possible277 guarantee423 for190 the19 faithfulness249 and236 vigilance124 of89 his433 monkey335 -rope265 holder156 . I482 have254 hinted253 that14 I482 would282 often227 jerk451 poor533 Queequeg from316 between77 the19 whale422 and236 the19 ship438 --where579 he362 would282 occasionally509 fall90 , from316 the19 incessant91 rolling253 and236 swaying315 of89 both558 . But330 this256 was454 not518 the19 only517 jamming310 jeopardy95 he362 was454 exposed356 to261 . Unappalled104 by406 the19 massacre288 made563 upon419 them146 during309 the19 night108 , the19 sharks206 now20 freshly506 and236 more348 keenly270 allured15 by406 the19 before344 pent314 blood208 which16 began132 to261 flow44 from316 the19 carcass398 --the19 rabid133 creatures5 swarmed12 round287 it162 like410 bees350 in107 a10 beehive3 . And236 right499 in107 among483 those427 sharks206 was454 Queequeg; who319 often227 pushed189 them146 aside408 with449 his433 floundering283 feet349 . A10 thing309 altogether31 incredible98 were324 it162 not518 that14 attracted36 by406 such420 prey347 as113 a10 dead568 whale422 , the19 otherwise542 miscellaneously223 carnivorous34 shark4 will584 seldom140 touch486 a10 man17 . Nevertheless104 , it162 may236 well263 be341 believed214 that14 since374 they382 have254 such420 a10 ravenous29 finger190 in107 the19 pie336 , it162 is487 deemed17 but330 wise16 to261 look523 sharp427 to261 them146 . Accordingly249 , besides465 the19 monkey335 -rope265 , with449 which16 I482 now20 and236 then45 jerked481 the19 poor533 fellow369 from316 too11 close65 a10 vicinity208 to261 the19 maw314 of89 what243 seemed132 a10 peculiarly182 ferocious448 shark4 --he362 was454 provided100 with449 still278 another269 protection71 . Suspended245 over82 the19 side246 in107 one470 of89 the19 stages83 , Tashtego and236 Daggoo continually303 flourished102 over82 his433 head219 a10 couple261 of89 keen202 whale422 -spades135 , wherewith157 they382 slaughtered133 as113 many282 sharks206 as113 they382 could375 reach43 . This256 procedure276 of89 theirs137 , to261 be341 sure41 , was454 very515 disinterested129 and236 benevolent67 of89 them146 . They382 meant157 Queequeg's483 best315 happiness344 , I482 admit321 ; but330 in107 their219 hasty183 zeal57 to261 befriend223 him248 , and236 from316 the19 circumstance407 that14 both558 he362 and236 the19 sharks206 were324 at65 times121 half119 hidden78 by406 the19 blood208 -muddled water520 , those427 indiscreet93 spades135 of89 theirs137 would282 come420 nearer303 amputating183 a10 leg331 than77 a10 tall373 . But330 poor533 Queequeg, I482 suppose120 , straining107 and236 gasping363 there340 with449 that14 great259 iron169 hook157 --poor533 Queequeg, I482 suppose120 , only517 prayed460 to261 his433 Yojo, and236 gave572 up405 his433 life71 into554 the19 hands87 of89 his433 gods325 . Well263 , well263 , my36 dear333 comrade148 and236 twin492 -brother46 , thought186 I482 , as113 I482 drew175 in107 and236 then45 slacked193 off111 the19 rope265 to261 every389 swell280 of89 the19 sea67 -- what243 matters515 it162 , after358 all145 ? Are314 you227 not518 the19 precious234 image74 of89 each520 and236 all145 of89 us569 men62 in107 this256 whaling155 world126 ? That14 unsounded253 ocean224 you227 gasp310 in107 , is487 Life71 ; those427 sharks206 , your162 foes247 ; those427 spades135 , your162 friends169 ; and236 what243 between77 sharks206 and236 spades135 you227 are314 in107 a10 sad341 pickle110 and236 peril565 , poor533 lad342 . But330 courage48 ! there340 is487 good221 cheer337 in107 store420 for190 you227 , Queequeg. For190 now20 , as113 with449 blue240 lips585 and236 blood208 -shot443 eyes125 the19 exhausted552 savage398 at65 last436 climbs157 up405 the19 chains446 and236 stands256 all145 dripping92 and236 involuntarily124 trembling280 over82 the19 side246 ; the19 steward82 advances510 , and236 with449 a10 benevolent67 , consolatory361 glance362 hands87 him248 --what243 ? Some265 hot424 Cognac2 ? No235 ! hands87 him248 , ye483 gods325 ! hands87 him248 a10 cup13 of89 tepid166 ginger449 and236 water520 ! "Ginger449 ? Do353 I482 smell124 ginger449 ?" suspiciously310 asked369 Stubb, coming140 near70 . "Yes143 , this256 must226 be341 ginger449 ," peering446 into554 the19 as113 yet443 untasted309 cup13 . Then45 standing144 as113 if141 incredulous361 for190 a10 while55 , he362 calmly170 walked92 towards417 the19 astonished260 steward82 slowly149 saying9 , "Ginger449 ? ginger449 ? and236 will584 you227 have254 the19 goodness64 to261 tell392 me2 , Mr219 . Dough-Boy110 , where579 lies27 the19 virtue16 of89 ginger449 ? Ginger449 ! is487 ginger449 the19 sort42 of89 fuel84 you227 use176 , Dough-boy110 , to261 kindle113 a10 fire559 in107 this256 shivering559 cannibal180 ? Ginger449 !--what243 the19 devil411 is487 ginger449 ?-- sea67 -coal127 ? firewood269 ?--lucifer212 matches279 ?--tinder106 ?--gunpowder161 ?--what243 the19 devil411 is487 ginger449 , I482 say306 , that14 you227 offer422 this256 cup13 to261 our234 poor533 Queequeg here135 ." "There340 is487 some265 sneaking252 Temperance125 Society520 movement128 about123 this256 business168 ," he362 suddenly193 added52 , now20 approaching271 Starbuck, who319 had364 just108 come420 from316 forward364 . "Will584 you227 look523 at65 that14 kannakin, sir271 ; smell124 of89 it162 , if141 you227 please153 ." Then45 watching330 the19 mate508 's483 countenance553 , he362 added52 , "The19 steward82 , Mr219 . Starbuck, had364 the19 face556 to261 offer422 that14 calomel42 and236 jalap78 to261 Queequeg, there340 , this256 instant279 off111 the19 whale422 . Is487 the19 steward82 an138 apothecary438 , sir271 ? and236 may236 I482 ask238 whether454 this256 is487 the19 sort42 of89 bitters70 by406 which16 he362 blows361 back457 the19 life71 into554 a10 half119 -drowned244 man17 ?" "I482 trust495 not518 ," said252 Starbuck, "it162 is487 poor533 stuff471 enough217 ." "Aye86 , aye86 , steward82 ," cried506 Stubb, "we465 'll300 teach250 you227 to261 drug31 it162 harpooneer; none365 of89 your162 apothecary438 's483 medicine167 here135 ; you227 want350 to261 poison24 us569 , do353 ye483 ? You227 have254 got286 out66 insurances358 on392 our234 lives245 and236 want350 to261 give142 way435 with449 their219 oars398 , and236 pocket461 the19 proceeds215 , do353 ye483 ?" "It162 was454 not518 me2 ," cried506 Dough-Boy110 , "it162 was454 Aunt272 Charity221 that14 brought85 the19 ginger449 on392 board540 ; and236 bade411 me2 never206 give142 the19 harpooneers any501 spirits471 , but330 only517 this256 ginger449 -jub--so281 she391 called237 it162 ." "Ginger449 -jub! you227 gingerly43 rascal231 ! take279 that14 ! and236 run172 along423 with449 ye483 to261 the19 lockers98 , and236 get126 something181 better34 . I482 hope211 I482 do353 no235 wrong70 , Mr219 . Starbuck. It162 is487 the19 captain295 's483 orders199 -- grog98 for190 the19 harpooneer on392 a10 whale422 ." "Enough217 ," replied163 Starbuck, "only517 don280 't500 hit322 him248 again52 , but330 -" "Oh367 , I482 never206 hurt145 when189 I482 hit322 , except545 when189 I482 hit322 a10 whale422 or519 something181 of89 that14 sort42 ; and236 this256 fellow369 's483 a10 weazel191 . What243 were324 you227 about123 saying9 , sir271 ?" "Only517 this256 : go20 down133 with449 him248 , and236 get126 what243 thou173 wantest280 thyself402 ." When189 Stubb reappeared59 , he362 came549 with449 a10 dark471 flask199 in107 one470 hand252 , and236 a10 sort42 of89 tea521 -caddy in107 the19 other282 . The19 first13 contained275 strong145 spirits471 , and236 was454 handed189 to261 Queequeg; the19 second386 was454 Aunt272 Charity221 's483 gift213 , and236 that14 was454 freely386 given141 to261 the19 waves443 . CHAPTER293 73270 Stubb and236 Flask199 Kill219 a10 Right499 Whale422 ; and236 Then45 Have254 a10 Talk173 Over82 Him248 It162 must226 be341 borne493 in107 mind118 that14 all145 this256 time577 we465 have254 a10 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 prodigious223 head219 hanging222 to261 the19 Pequod288 's483 side246 . But330 we465 must226 let66 it162 continue225 hanging222 there340 a10 while55 till181 we465 can450 get126 a10 chance292 to261 attend120 to261 it162 . For190 the19 present112 other282 matters515 press91 , and236 the19 best315 we465 can450 do353 now20 for190 the19 head219 , is487 to261 pray311 heaven163 the19 tackles278 may236 hold204 . Now20 , during309 the19 past111 night108 and236 forenoon92 , the19 Pequod288 had364 gradually355 drifted17 into554 a10 sea67 , which16 , by406 its234 occasional202 patches461 of89 yellow95 brit20 , gave572 unusual322 tokens473 of89 the19 vicinity208 of89 Right499 Whales331 , a10 species69 of89 the19 Leviathan384 that14 but330 few49 supposed423 to261 be341 at65 this256 particular336 time577 lurking89 anywhere436 near70 . And236 though400 all145 hands87 commonly431 disdained165 the19 capture361 of89 those427 inferior84 creatures5 ; and236 though400 the19 Pequod288 was454 not518 commissioned102 to261 cruise117 for190 them146 at65 all145 , and236 though400 she391 had364 passed87 numbers285 of89 them146 near70 the19 Crozetts without309 lowering240 a10 boat439 ; yet443 now20 that14 a10 Sperm26 Whale422 had364 been185 brought85 alongside540 and236 beheaded62 , to261 the19 surprise125 of89 all145 , the19 announcement457 was454 made563 that14 a10 Right499 Whale422 should255 be341 captured126 that14 day112 , if141 opportunity256 offered336 . Nor137 was454 this256 long544 wanting361 . Tall373 spouts75 were324 seen154 to261 leeward265 ; and236 two527 boats83 , Stubb's483 and236 Flask199 's483 , were324 detached5 in107 pursuit305 . Pulling217 further53 and236 further53 away443 , they382 at65 last436 became70 almost518 invisible186 to261 the19 men62 at65 the19 masthead265 . But330 suddenly193 in107 the19 distance264 , they382 saw113 a10 great259 heap31 of89 tumultuous355 white82 water520 , and236 soon18 after358 news314 came549 from316 aloft276 that14 one470 or519 both558 the19 boats83 must226 be341 fast208 . An138 interval114 passed87 and236 the19 boats83 were324 in107 plain28 sight365 , in107 the19 act10 of89 being264 dragged460 right499 towards417 the19 ship438 by406 the19 towing78 whale422 . So281 close65 did444 the19 monster480 come420 to261 the19 hull323 , that14 at65 first13 it162 seemed132 as113 if141 he362 meant157 it162 malice157 ; but330 suddenly193 going227 down133 in107 a10 maelstrom367 , within503 three329 rods242 of89 the19 planks284 , he362 wholly497 disappeared5 from316 view370 , as113 if141 diving279 under533 the19 keel39 . "Cut310 , cut310 !" was454 the19 cry561 from316 the19 ship438 to261 the19 boats83 , which16 , for190 one470 instant279 , seemed132 on392 the19 point438 of89 being264 brought85 with449 a10 deadly49 dash355 against417 the19 vessel155 's483 side246 . But330 having69 plenty406 of89 line25 yet443 in107 the19 tubs410 , and236 the19 whale422 not518 sounding331 very515 rapidly116 , they382 paid490 out66 abundance154 of89 rope265 , and236 at65 the19 same541 time577 pulled213 with449 all145 their219 might496 so281 as113 to261 get126 ahead5 of89 the19 ship438 . For190 a10 few49 minutes368 the19 struggle447 was454 intensely102 critical38 ; for190 while55 they382 still278 slacked193 out66 the19 tightened25 line25 in107 one470 direction67 , and236 still278 plied24 their219 oars398 in107 another269 , the19 contending13 strain468 threatened110 to261 take279 them146 under533 . But330 it162 was454 only517 a10 few49 feet349 advance70 they382 sought82 to261 gain101 . And236 they382 stuck120 to261 it162 till181 they382 did444 gain101 it162 ; when189 instantly186 , a10 swift376 tremor356 was454 felt440 running296 like410 lightning171 along423 the19 keel39 , as113 the19 strained516 line25 , scraping276 beneath320 the19 ship438 , suddenly193 rose449 to261 view370 under533 her400 bows460 , snapping88 and236 quivering336 ; and236 so281 flinging389 off111 its234 drippings296 , that14 the19 drops6 fell421 like410 bits256 of89 broken255 glass27 on392 the19 water520 , while55 the19 whale422 beyond421 also119 rose449 to261 sight365 , and236 once248 more348 the19 boats83 were324 free483 to261 fly324 . But330 the19 fagged17 whale422 abated122 his433 speed468 , and236 blindly219 altering436 his433 course171 , went516 round287 the19 stern442 of89 the19 ship438 towing78 the19 two527 boats83 after358 him248 , so281 that14 they382 performed38 a10 complete191 circuit212 . Meantime210 , they382 hauled80 more348 and236 more348 upon419 their219 lines241 , till181 close65 flanking27 him248 on392 both558 sides331 , Stubb answered100 Flask199 with449 lance76 for190 lance76 ; and236 thus362 round287 and236 round287 the19 Pequod288 the19 battle105 went516 , while55 the19 multitudes218 of89 sharks206 that14 had364 before344 swum214 round287 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 body348 , rushed199 to261 the19 fresh540 blood208 that14 was454 spilled434 , thirstily83 drinking453 at65 every389 new36 gash293 , as113 the19 eager516 Israelites270 did444 at65 the19 new36 bursting288 fountains170 that14 poured476 from316 the19 smitten83 rock264 . At65 last436 his433 spout224 grew5 thick502 , and236 with449 a10 frightful190 roll473 and236 vomit434 , he362 turned492 upon419 his433 back457 a10 corpse133 . While55 the19 two527 headsmen51 were324 engaged479 in107 making415 fast208 cords388 to261 his433 flukes155 , and236 in107 other282 ways101 getting369 the19 mass36 in107 readiness420 for190 towing78 , some265 conversation222 ensued337 between77 them146 . "I482 wonder76 what243 the19 old447 man17 wants418 with449 this256 lump396 of89 foul528 lard117 ," said252 Stubb, not518 without309 some265 disgust201 at65 the19 thought186 of89 having69 to261 do353 with449 so281 ignoble38 a10 leviathan384 . "Wants418 with449 it162 ?" said252 Flask199 , coiling105 some265 spare295 line25 in107 the19 boat439 's483 bow146 , "did444 you227 never206 hear386 that14 the19 ship438 which16 but330 once248 has399 a10 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 head219 hoisted367 on392 her400 starboard309 side246 , and236 at65 the19 same541 time577 a10 Right499 Whale422 's483 on392 the19 larboard203 ; did444 you227 never206 hear386 , Stubb, that14 that14 ship438 can450 never206 afterwards418 capsize305 ?" "Why177 not518 ? "I482 don280 't500 know60 , but330 I482 heard444 that14 gamboge7 ghost246 of89 a10 Fedallah saying9 so281 , and236 he362 seems19 to261 know60 all145 about123 ships21 ' charms153 . But330 I482 sometimes77 think424 he362 'll300 charm251 the19 ship438 to261 no235 good221 at65 last436 . I482 don280 't500 half119 like410 that14 chap287 , Stubb. Did444 you227 ever208 notice76 how19 that14 tusk159 of89 his433 is487 a10 sort42 of89 carved455 into554 a10 snake364 's483 head219 , Stubb?" "Sink190 him248 ! I482 never206 look523 at65 him248 at65 all145 ; but330 if141 ever208 I482 get126 a10 chance292 of89 a10 dark471 night108 , and236 he362 standing144 hard337 by406 the19 bulwarks411 , and236 no235 one470 by406 ; look523 down133 there340 , Flask199 "--pointing295 into554 the19 sea67 with449 a10 peculiar291 motion544 of89 both558 hands87 --"Aye86 , will584 I482 ! Flask199 , I482 take279 that14 Fedallah to261 be341 the19 devil411 in107 disguise219 . Do353 you227 believe191 that14 cock519 and236 bull76 story197 about123 his433 having69 been185 stowed434 away443 on392 board540 ship438 ? He362 's483 the19 devil411 , I482 say306 . The19 reason238 why177 you227 don280 't500 see370 his433 tail102 , is487 because540 he362 tucks105 it162 up405 out66 of89 sight365 ; he362 carries440 it162 coiled4 away443 in107 his433 pocket461 , I482 guess304 . Blast13 him248 ! now20 that14 I482 think424 of89 it162 , he362 's483 always367 wanting361 oakum4 to261 stuff471 into554 the19 toes557 of89 his433 boots497 ." "He362 sleeps136 in107 his433 boots497 , don280 't500 he362 ? He362 hasn't500 got286 any501 hammock323 ; but330 I482 've149 seen154 him248 lay62 of89 nights224 in107 a10 coil32 of89 rigging516 ." "No235 doubt71 , and236 it162 's483 because540 of89 his433 cursed441 tail102 ; he362 coils259 it162 down133 , do353 ye483 see370 , in107 the19 eye220 of89 the19 rigging516 ." "What243 's483 the19 old447 man17 have254 so281 much61 to261 do353 with449 him248 for190 ?" "Striking22 up405 a10 swap292 or519 a10 bargain378 , I482 suppose120 ." "Bargain378 ?--about123 what243 ?" "Why177 , do353 ye483 see370 , the19 old447 man17 is487 hard337 bent406 after358 that14 White82 Whale422 , and236 the19 devil411 there340 is487 trying83 to261 come420 round287 him248 , and236 get126 him248 to261 swap292 away443 his433 silver205 watch89 , or519 his433 soul428 , or519 something181 of89 that14 sort42 , and236 then45 he362 'll300 surrender314 Moby362 Dick25 ." "Pooh193 ! Stubb, you227 are314 skylarking364 ; how19 can450 Fedallah do353 that14 ?" "I482 don280 't500 know60 , Flask199 , but330 the19 devil411 is487 a10 curious264 chap287 , and236 a10 wicked5 one470 , I482 tell392 ye483 . Why177 , they382 say306 as113 how19 he362 went516 a10 sauntering107 into554 the19 old447 flag270 -ship152 once248 , switching85 his433 tail102 about123 devilish181 easy281 and236 gentlemanlike449 , and236 inquiring24 if141 the19 old447 governor191 was454 at65 home450 . Well263 , he362 was454 at65 home450 , and236 asked369 the19 devil411 what243 he362 wanted85 . The19 devil411 , switching85 his433 hoofs524 , up405 and236 says424 , 'I482 want350 John416 .' 'What243 for190 ?' says424 the19 old447 governor191 . 'What243 business168 is487 that14 of89 yours256 ,' says424 the19 devil411 , getting369 mad235 ,--'I482 want350 to261 use176 him248 .' 'Take279 him248 ,' says424 the19 governor191 -- and236 by406 the19 Lord106 , Flask199 , if141 the19 devil411 didn't500 give142 John416 the19 Asiatic16 cholera41 before344 he362 got286 through295 with449 him248 , I482 'll300 eat286 this256 whale422 in107 one470 mouthful98 . But330 look523 sharp427 --ain't500 you227 all145 ready464 there340 ? Well263 , then45 , pull35 ahead5 , and236 let66 's483 get126 the19 whale422 alongside540 ." "I482 think424 I482 remember499 some265 such420 story197 as113 you227 were324 telling196 ," said252 Flask199 , when189 at65 last436 the19 two527 boats83 were324 slowly149 advancing444 with449 their219 burden382 towards417 the19 ship438 , "but330 I482 can450 't500 remember499 where579 ." "Three329 Spaniards117 ? Adventures266 of89 those427 three329 bloody357 -minded335 soldadoes65 ? Did444 ye483 read98 it162 there340 , Flask199 ? I482 guess304 ye483 did444 ?" "No235 : never206 saw113 such420 a10 book230 ; heard444 of89 it162 , though400 . But330 now20 , tell392 me2 , Stubb, do353 you227 suppose120 that14 that14 devil411 you227 was454 speaking22 of89 just108 now20 , was454 the19 same541 you227 say306 is487 now20 on392 board540 the19 Pequod288 ?" "Am375 I482 the19 same541 man17 that14 helped204 kill219 this256 whale422 ? Doesn't500 the19 devil411 live554 for190 ever208 ; who319 ever208 heard444 that14 the19 devil411 was454 dead568 ? Did444 you227 ever208 see370 any501 parson18 a10 wearing166 mourning337 for190 the19 devil411 ? And236 if141 the19 devil411 has399 a10 latch-key140 to261 get126 into554 the19 admiral25 's483 cabin192 , don280 't500 you227 suppose120 he362 can450 crawl445 into554 a10 porthole240 ? Tell392 me2 that14 , Mr219 . Flask199 ?" "How19 old447 do353 you227 suppose120 Fedallah is487 , Stubb?" "Do353 you227 see370 that14 mainmast323 there340 ?" pointing295 to261 the19 ship438 ; "well263 , that14 's76 the19 figure55 one470 ; now20 take279 all145 the19 hoops170 in107 the19 Pequod288 's483 hold204 , and236 string446 'em along423 in107 a10 row328 with449 that14 mast44 , for190 oughts50 , do353 you227 see370 ; well263 , that14 wouldn't500 begin183 to261 be341 Fedallah's483 age157 . Nor137 all145 the19 coopers26 in107 creation182 couldn't500 show460 hoops170 enough217 to261 make175 oughts50 enough217 ." "But330 see370 here135 , Stubb, I482 thought186 you227 a10 little554 boasted346 just108 now20 , that14 you227 meant157 to261 give142 Fedallah a10 sea67 -toss237 , if141 you227 got286 a10 good221 chance292 . Now20 , if141 he362 's483 so281 old447 as113 all145 those427 hoops170 of89 yours256 come420 to261 , and236 if141 he362 is487 going227 to261 live554 for190 ever208 , what243 good221 will584 it162 do353 to261 pitch115 him248 overboard247 -- tell392 me2 that14 ? "Give142 him248 a10 good221 ducking156 , anyhow370 ." "But330 he362 'd67 crawl445 back457 ." "Duck455 him248 again52 ; and236 keep381 ducking156 him248 ." "Suppose120 he362 should255 take279 it162 into554 his433 head219 to261 duck455 you227 , though400 -- yes143 , and236 drown522 you227 --what243 then45 ?" "I482 should255 like410 to261 see370 him248 try266 it162 ; I482 'd67 give142 him248 such420 a10 pair106 of89 black581 eyes125 that14 he362 wouldn't500 dare11 to261 show460 his433 face556 in107 the19 admiral25 's483 cabin192 again52 for190 a10 long544 while55 , let66 alone2 down133 in107 the19 orlop241 there340 , where579 he362 lives245 , and236 hereabouts116 on392 the19 upper403 decks386 where579 he362 sneaks86 so281 much61 . Damn468 the19 devil411 , Flask199 ; do353 you227 suppose120 I482 'm250 afraid248 of89 the19 devil411 ? Who319 's483 afraid248 of89 him248 , except545 the19 old447 governor191 who319 daresn't500 catch523 him248 and236 put190 him248 in107 double20 -darbies, as113 he362 deserves229 , but330 lets217 him248 go20 about123 kidnapping8 people482 ; aye86 , and236 signed181 a10 bond174 with449 him248 , that14 all145 the19 people482 the19 devil411 kidnapped52 , he362 'd67 roast120 for190 him248 ? There340 's483 a10 governor191 !" "Do353 you227 suppose120 Fedallah wants418 to261 kidnap187 Captain295 Ahab232 ?" "Do353 I482 suppose120 it162 ? You227 'll300 know60 it162 before344 long544 , Flask199 . But330 I482 am375 going227 now20 to261 keep381 a10 sharp427 look523 -out66 on392 him248 ; and236 if141 I482 see370 anything480 very515 suspicious312 going227 on392 , I482 'll300 just108 take279 him248 by406 the19 nape403 of89 his433 neck239 , and236 say306 --Look523 here135 , Beelzebub541 , you227 don280 't500 do353 it162 ; and236 if141 he362 makes32 any501 fuss286 , by406 the19 Lord106 I482 'll300 make175 a10 grab455 into554 his433 pocket461 for190 his433 tail102 , take279 it162 to261 the19 capstan241 , and236 give142 him248 such420 a10 wrenching361 and236 heaving174 , that14 his433 tail102 will584 come420 short522 off111 at65 the19 stump277 --do353 you227 see370 ; and236 then45 , I482 rather178 guess304 when189 he362 finds455 himself282 docked105 in107 that14 queer156 fashion467 , he362 'll300 sneak308 off111 without309 the19 poor533 satisfaction500 of89 feeling384 his433 tail102 between77 his433 legs108 ." "And236 what243 will584 you227 do353 with449 the19 tail102 , Stubb?" "Do353 with449 it162 ? Sell298 it162 for190 an138 ox413 whip190 when189 we465 get126 home450 ;--what243 else212 ?" "Now20 , do353 you227 mean504 what243 you227 say306 , and236 have254 been185 saying9 all145 along423 , Stubb?" "Mean504 or519 not518 mean504 , here135 we465 are314 at65 the19 ship438 ." The19 boats83 were324 here135 hailed411 , to261 tow160 the19 whale422 on392 the19 larboard203 side246 , where579 fluke415 chains446 and236 other282 necessaries117 were324 already93 prepared59 for190 securing93 him248 . "Didn't500 I482 tell392 you227 so281 ?" said252 Flask199 ; "yes143 , you227 'll300 soon18 see370 this256 right499 whale422 's483 head219 hoisted367 up405 opposite107 that14 parmacety's483 ." In107 good221 time577 , Flask199 's483 saying9 proved312 true483 . As113 before344 , the19 Pequod288 steeply245 leaned265 over82 towards417 the19 sperm26 whale422 's483 head219 , now20 , by406 the19 counterpoise161 of89 both558 heads366 , she391 regained102 her400 even198 keel39 ; though400 sorely76 strained516 , you227 may236 well263 believe191 . So281 , when189 on392 one470 side246 you227 hoist9 in107 Locke413 's483 head219 , you227 go20 over82 that14 way435 ; but330 now20 , on392 the19 other282 side246 , hoist9 in107 Kant320 's483 and236 you227 come420 back457 again52 ; but330 in107 very515 poor533 plight215 . Thus362 , some265 minds244 for190 ever208 keep381 trimming57 boat439 . Oh367 , ye483 foolish509 ! throw345 all145 these527 thunder356 -heads366 overboard247 , and236 then45 you227 will584 float231 light382 and236 right499 . In107 disposing223 of89 the19 body348 of89 a10 right499 whale422 , when189 brought85 alongside540 the19 ship438 , the19 same541 preliminary32 proceedings121 commonly431 take279 place107 as113 in107 the19 case346 of89 a10 sperm26 whale422 ; only517 , in107 the19 latter497 instance141 , the19 head219 is487 cut310 off111 whole199 , but330 in107 the19 former157 the19 lips585 and236 tongue375 are314 separately350 removed447 and236 hoisted367 on392 deck505 , with449 all145 the19 well263 known86 black581 bone184 attached211 to261 what243 is487 called237 the19 crown463 -piece225 . But330 nothing324 like410 this256 , in107 the19 present112 case346 , had364 been185 done135 . The19 carcases21 of89 both558 whales331 had364 dropped2 astern39 ; and236 the19 head219 -laden126 ship438 not518 a10 little554 resembled172 a10 mule461 carrying103 a10 pair106 of89 overburdening357 panniers89 . Meantime210 , Fedallah was454 calmly170 eyeing49 the19 right499 whale422 's483 head219 , and236 ever208 and236 anon88 glancing18 from316 the19 deep483 wrinkles318 there340 to261 the19 lines241 in107 his433 own248 hand252 . And236 Ahab232 chanced424 so281 to261 stand530 , that14 the19 Parsee18 occupied262 his433 shadow438 ; while55 , if141 the19 Parsee18 's483 shadow438 was454 there340 at65 all145 it162 seemed132 only517 to261 blend22 with449 , and236 lengthen31 Ahab232 's483 . As113 the19 crew126 toiled411 on392 , Laplandish speculations189 were324 bandied231 among483 them146 , concerning368 all145 these527 passing147 things4 . CHAPTER293 7419 The19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 Head219 - Contrasted38 View370 Here135 , now20 , are314 two527 great259 whales331 , laying116 their219 heads366 together440 ; let66 us569 join61 them146 , and236 lay62 together440 our234 own248 . Of89 the19 grand229 order343 of89 folio172 leviathans336 , the19 Sperm26 Whale422 and236 the19 Right499 Whale422 are314 by406 far258 the19 most216 noteworthy489 . They382 are314 the19 only517 whales331 regularly37 hunted439 by406 man17 . To261 the19 Nantucketer, they382 present112 the19 two527 extremes393 of89 all145 the19 known86 varieties23 of89 the19 whale422 . As113 the19 external386 difference3 between77 them146 is487 mainly34 observable345 in107 their219 heads366 ; and236 as113 a10 head219 of89 each520 is487 this256 moment258 hanging222 from316 the19 Pequod288 's483 side246 ; and236 as113 we465 may236 freely386 go20 from316 one470 to261 the19 other282 , by406 merely57 stepping299 across129 the19 deck505 :--where579 , I482 should255 like410 to261 know60 , will584 you227 obtain238 a10 better34 chance292 to261 study252 practical74 cetology than77 here135 ? In107 the19 first13 place107 , you227 are314 struck441 by406 the19 general37 contrast205 between77 these527 heads366 . Both558 are314 massive232 enough217 in107 all145 conscience75 ; but330 , there340 is487 a10 certain31 mathematical368 symmetry454 in107 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 which16 the19 Right499 Whale422 's483 sadly75 lacks396 . There340 is487 more348 character239 in107 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 head219 . As113 you227 behold525 it162 , you227 involuntarily124 yield39 the19 immense301 superiority507 to261 him248 , in107 point438 of89 pervading140 dignity338 . In107 the19 present112 instance141 , too11 , this256 dignity338 is487 heightened53 by406 the19 pepper316 and236 salt183 color13 of89 his433 head219 at65 the19 summit347 , giving207 token502 of89 advanced55 age157 and236 large385 experience127 . In107 short522 , he362 is487 what243 the19 fishermen24 technically247 call259 a10 "grey491 -headed124 whale422 ." Let66 us569 now20 note59 what243 is487 least453 dissimilar273 in107 these527 heads366 -- namely324 , the19 two527 most216 important104 organs410 , the19 eye220 and236 the19 ear515 . Far258 back457 on392 the19 side246 of89 the19 head219 , and236 low407 down133 , near70 the19 angle205 of89 either45 whale422 's483 jaw213 , if141 you227 narrowly57 search352 , you227 will584 at65 last436 see370 a10 lashless eye220 , which16 you227 would282 fancy396 to261 be341 a10 young389 colt230 's483 eye220 ; so281 out66 of89 all145 proportion160 is487 it162 to261 the19 magnitude203 of89 the19 head219 . Now20 , from316 this256 peculiar291 sideway279 position383 of89 the19 whale422 's483 eyes125 , it162 is487 plain28 that14 he362 can450 never206 see370 an138 object100 which16 is487 exactly315 ahead5 , no235 more348 than77 he362 can450 one470 exactly315 astern39 . In107 a10 word486 , the19 position383 of89 the19 whale422 's483 eyes125 corresponds198 to261 that14 of89 a10 man17 's415 ears560 ; and236 you227 may236 fancy396 , for190 yourself176 , how19 it162 would282 fare19 with449 you227 , did444 you227 sideways496 survey192 objects326 through295 your162 ears560 . You227 would282 find138 that14 you227 could375 only517 command190 some265 thirty521 degrees31 of89 vision304 in107 advance70 of89 the19 straight346 side246 -line25 of89 sight365 ; and236 about123 thirty521 more348 behind80 it162 . If141 your162 bitterest197 foe479 were324 walking523 straight346 towards417 you227 , with449 dagger245 uplifted533 in107 broad267 day112 , you227 would282 not518 be341 able362 to261 see370 him248 , any501 more348 than77 if141 he362 were324 stealing342 upon419 you227 from316 behind80 . In107 a10 word486 , you227 would282 have254 two527 backs480 , so281 to261 speak337 ; but330 , at65 the19 same541 time577 , also119 , two527 fronts22 (side246 fronts22 ): for190 what243 is487 it162 that14 makes32 the19 front196 of89 a10 man17 -- what243 , indeed522 , but330 his433 eyes125 ? Moreover326 , while55 in107 most216 other282 animals440 that14 I482 can450 now20 think424 of89 , the19 eyes125 are314 so281 planted82 as113 imperceptibly38 to261 blend22 their219 visual507 power145 , so281 as113 to261 produce494 one470 picture264 and236 not518 two527 to261 the19 brain158 ; the19 peculiar291 position383 of89 the19 whale422 's483 eyes125 , effectually7 divided469 as113 they382 are314 by406 many282 cubic386 feet349 of89 solid494 head219 , which16 towers506 between77 them146 like410 a10 great259 mountain231 separating105 two527 lakes157 in107 valleys289 ; this256 , of89 course171 , must226 wholly497 separate495 the19 impressions110 which16 each520 independent330 organ336 imparts217 . The19 whale422 , therefore94 , must226 see370 one470 distinct259 picture264 on392 this256 side246 , and236 another269 distinct259 picture264 on392 that14 side246 ; while55 all145 between77 must226 be341 profound371 darkness493 and236 nothingness304 to261 him248 . Man17 may236 , in107 effect215 , be341 said252 to261 look523 out66 on392 the19 world126 from316 a10 sentry364 -box226 with449 two527 joined210 sashes172 for190 his433 window8 . But330 with449 the19 whale422 , these527 two527 sashes172 are314 separately350 inserted102 , making415 two527 distinct259 windows115 , but330 sadly75 impairing152 the19 view370 . This256 peculiarity211 of89 the19 whale422 's483 eyes125 is487 a10 thing309 always367 to261 be341 borne493 in107 mind118 in107 the19 fishery136 ; and236 to261 be341 remembered66 by406 the19 reader243 in107 some265 subsequent312 scenes339 . A10 curious264 and236 most216 puzzling76 question562 might496 be341 started492 concerning368 this256 visual507 matter176 as113 touching80 the19 Leviathan384 . But330 I482 must226 be341 content7 with449 a10 hint335 . So281 long544 as113 a10 man17 's415 eyes125 are314 open464 in107 the19 light382 , the19 act10 of89 seeing426 is487 involuntary3 ; that14 is487 , he362 cannot then45 help526 mechanically143 seeing426 whatever38 objects326 are314 before344 him248 . Nevertheless104 , any501 one470 's483 experience127 will584 teach250 him248 , that14 though400 he362 can450 take279 in107 an138 undiscriminating4 sweep471 of89 things4 at65 one470 glance362 , it162 is487 quite327 impossible305 for190 him248 , attentively102 , and236 completely385 , to261 examine203 any501 two527 things4 --however44 large385 or519 however44 small350 -- at65 one470 and236 the19 same541 instant279 of89 time577 ; never206 mind118 if141 they382 lie212 side246 by406 side246 and236 touch486 each520 other282 . But330 if141 you227 now20 come420 to261 separate495 these527 two527 objects326 , and236 surround129 each520 by406 a10 circle282 of89 profound371 darkness493 ; then45 , in107 order343 to261 see370 one470 of89 them146 , in107 such420 a10 manner153 as113 to261 bring173 your162 mind118 to261 bear48 on392 it162 , the19 other282 will584 be341 utterly46 excluded89 from316 your162 contemporary145 consciousness539 . How19 is487 it162 , then45 , with449 the19 whale422 ? True483 , both558 his433 eyes125 , in107 themselves510 , must226 simultaneously558 act10 ; but330 is487 his433 brain158 so281 much61 more348 comprehensive152 , combining41 , and236 subtle143 than77 man17 's415 , that14 he362 can450 at65 the19 same541 moment258 of89 time577 attentively102 examine203 two527 distinct259 prospects212 , one470 on392 one470 side246 of89 him248 , and236 the19 other282 in107 an138 exactly315 opposite107 direction67 ? If141 he362 can450 , then45 is487 it162 as113 marvellous35 a10 thing309 in107 him248 , as113 if141 a10 man17 were324 able362 simultaneously558 to261 go20 through295 the19 demonstrations354 of89 two527 distinct259 problems112 in107 Euclid221 . Nor137 , strictly303 investigated262 , is487 there340 any501 incongruity292 in107 this256 comparison255 . It162 may236 be341 but330 an138 idle519 whim44 , but330 it162 has399 always367 seemed132 to261 me2 , that14 the19 extraordinary346 vacillations27 of89 movement128 displayed179 by406 some265 whales331 when189 beset126 by406 three329 or519 four175 boats83 ; the19 timidity315 and236 liability203 to261 queer156 frights74 , so281 common304 to261 such420 whales331 ; I482 think424 that14 all145 this256 indirectly155 proceeds215 from316 the19 helpless26 perplexity107 of89 volition431 , in107 which16 their219 divided469 and236 diametrically241 opposite107 powers140 of89 vision304 must226 involve34 them146 . But330 the19 ear515 of89 the19 whale422 is487 full414 as113 curious264 as113 the19 eye220 . If141 you227 are314 an138 entire230 stranger233 to261 their219 race392 , you227 might496 hunt418 over82 these527 two527 heads366 for190 hours127 , and236 never206 discover291 that14 organ336 . The19 ear515 has399 no235 external386 leaf434 whatever38 ; and236 into554 the19 hole73 itself312 you227 can450 hardly182 insert431 a10 quill305 , so281 wondrously394 minute236 is487 it162 . It162 is487 lodged238 a10 little554 behind80 the19 eye220 . With449 respect441 to261 their219 ears560 , this256 important104 difference3 is487 to261 be341 observed340 between77 the19 sperm26 whale422 and236 the19 right499 . While55 the19 ears560 of89 the19 former157 has399 an138 external386 opening306 , that14 of89 the19 latter497 is487 entirely148 and236 evenly305 covered452 over82 with449 a10 membrane20 , so281 as113 to261 be341 quite327 imperceptible40 from316 without309 . Is487 it162 not518 curious264 , that14 so281 vast43 a10 being264 as113 the19 whale422 should255 see370 the19 world126 through295 so281 small350 an138 eye220 , and236 hear386 the19 thunder356 through295 an138 ear515 which16 is487 smaller236 than77 a10 hare294 's483 ? But330 if141 his433 eyes125 were324 broad267 as113 the19 lens78 of89 Herschel289 's483 great259 telescope26 ; and236 his433 ears560 capacious449 as113 the19 porches284 of89 cathedrals214 ; would282 that14 make175 him248 any501 longer559 of89 sight365 , or519 sharper339 of89 hearing325 ? Not518 at65 all145 .--Why177 then45 do353 you227 try266 to261 "enlarge568 " your162 mind118 ? Subtilize141 it162 . Let66 us569 now20 with449 whatever38 levers492 and236 steam106 -engines we465 have254 at65 hand252 , cant355 over82 the19 sperm26 whale422 's483 head219 , so281 , that14 it162 may236 lie212 bottom461 up405 ; then45 , ascending116 by406 a10 ladder391 to261 the19 summit347 , have254 a10 peep222 down133 the19 mouth414 ; and236 were324 it162 not518 that14 the19 body348 is487 now20 completely385 separated384 from316 it162 , with449 a10 lantern220 we465 might496 descend252 into554 the19 great259 Kentucky252 Mammoth288 Cave84 of89 his433 stomach274 . But330 let66 us569 hold204 on392 here135 by406 this256 tooth108 , and236 look523 about123 us569 where579 we465 are314 . What243 a10 really406 beautiful239 and236 chaste-looking318 mouth414 ! from316 floor418 to261 ceiling30 , lined88 , or519 rather178 papered284 with449 a10 glistening24 white82 membrane20 , glossy318 as113 bridal23 satins51 . But330 come420 out66 now20 , and236 look523 at65 this256 portentous125 lower47 jaw213 , which16 seems19 like410 the19 long544 narrow140 lid157 of89 an138 immense301 snuff-box231 , with449 the19 hinge526 at65 one470 end149 , instead398 of89 one470 side246 . If141 you227 pry505 it162 up405 , so281 as113 to261 get126 it162 overhead7 , and236 expose58 its234 rows375 of89 teeth82 , it162 seems19 a10 terrific315 portcullis63 ; and236 such420 , alas129 ! it162 proves376 to261 many282 a10 poor533 wight232 in107 the19 fishery136 , upon419 whom324 these527 spikes60 fall90 with449 impaling310 force406 . But330 far258 more348 terrible132 is487 it162 to261 behold525 , when189 fathoms375 down133 in107 the19 sea67 , you227 see370 some265 sulky316 whale422 , floating30 there340 suspended245 , with449 his433 prodigious223 jaw213 , some265 fifteen289 feet349 long544 , hanging222 straight346 down133 at65 right499 -angles198 with449 his433 body348 ; for190 all145 the19 world126 like410 a10 ship438 's483 jibboom. This256 whale422 is487 not518 dead568 ; he362 is487 only517 dispirited140 ; out66 of89 sorts354 , perhaps75 ; hypochondriac29 ; and236 so281 supine367 , that14 the19 hinges339 of89 his433 jaw213 have254 relaxed2 , leaving231 him248 there340 in107 that14 ungainly52 sort42 of89 plight215 , a10 reproach174 to261 all145 his433 tribe273 , who319 must226 , no235 doubt71 , imprecate45 lock297 -jaws341 upon419 him248 . In107 most216 cases108 this256 lower47 jaw213 --being264 easily45 unhinged70 by406 a10 practised190 artist292 -- is487 disengaged410 and236 hoisted367 on392 deck505 for190 the19 purpose514 of89 extracting41 the19 ivory76 teeth82 , and236 furnishing471 a10 supply283 of89 that14 hard337 white82 whalebone290 with449 which16 the19 fishermen24 fashion467 all145 sorts354 of89 curious264 articles259 including123 canes165 , umbrella371 -stocks425 , and236 handles314 to261 riding61 -whips466 . With449 a10 long544 , weary306 hoist9 the19 jaw213 is487 dragged460 on392 board540 , as113 if141 it162 were324 an138 anchor141 ; and236 when189 the19 proper249 time577 comes268 -- some265 few49 days351 after358 the19 other282 work385 --Queequeg, Daggoo, and236 Tashtego, being264 all145 accomplished225 dentists31 , are314 set422 to261 drawing407 teeth82 . With449 a10 keen202 cutting454 -spade19 , Queequeg lances8 the19 gums172 ; then45 the19 jaw213 is487 lashed97 down133 to261 ringbolts282 , and236 a10 tackle346 being264 rigged340 from316 aloft276 , they382 drag426 out66 these527 teeth82 , as113 Michigan507 oxen23 drag426 stumps78 of89 old447 oaks481 out66 of89 wild230 woodlands75 . There340 are314 generally402 forty525 -two527 teeth82 in107 all145 ; in107 old447 whales331 , much61 worn174 down133 , but330 undecayed378 ; nor137 filled232 after358 our234 artificial310 fashion467 . The19 jaw213 is487 afterwards418 sawn446 into554 slabs231 , and236 piled126 away443 like410 joists311 for190 building260 houses166 . CHAPTER293 7584 The19 Right499 Whale422 's483 Head219 - Contrasted38 View370 Crossing402 the19 deck505 , let66 us569 now20 have254 a10 good221 long544 look523 at65 the19 the19 Right499 Whale422 's483 head219 . As113 in107 general37 shape99 the19 noble226 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 head219 may236 be341 compared357 to261 a10 Roman333 war169 -chariot (especially371 in107 front196 , where579 it162 is487 so281 broadly202 rounded23 ); so281 , at65 a10 broad267 view370 , the19 Right499 Whale422 's483 head219 bears97 a10 rather178 inelegant15 resemblance128 to261 a10 gigantic157 galliot410 -toed shoe323 . Two527 hundred93 years116 ago141 an138 old447 Dutch325 voyager25 likened356 its234 shape99 to261 that14 of89 a10 shoemaker499 's483 last436 . And236 in107 this256 same541 last436 or519 shoe323 , that14 old447 woman448 of89 the19 nursery163 tale132 with449 the19 swarming41 brood232 , might496 very515 comfortably147 be341 lodged238 , she391 and236 all145 her400 progeny196 . But330 as113 you227 come420 nearer303 to261 this256 great259 head219 it162 begins374 to261 assume191 different276 aspects322 , according281 to261 your162 point438 of89 view370 . If141 you227 stand530 on392 its234 summit347 and236 look523 at65 these527 two527 f-shaped151 spout224 -holes41 , you227 would282 take279 the19 whole199 head219 for190 an138 enormous327 bass225 viol524 , and236 these527 spiracles111 , the19 apertures83 in107 its234 soundingboard. Then45 , again52 , if141 you227 fix430 your162 eye220 upon419 this256 strange440 , crested296 , comblike incrustation27 on392 the19 top70 of89 the19 mass36 --this256 green549 , barnacled thing309 , which16 the19 Greenlanders270 call259 the19 "crown463 ," and236 the19 Southern187 fishers192 the19 "bonnet292 " of89 the19 Right499 Whale422 ; fixing76 your162 eyes125 solely41 on392 this256 , you227 would282 take279 the19 head219 for190 the19 trunk389 of89 some265 huge132 oak170 , with449 a10 bird443 's483 nest454 in107 its234 crotch111 . At65 any501 rate515 , when189 you227 watch89 those427 live554 crabs331 that14 nestle83 here135 on392 this256 bonnet292 , such420 an138 idea250 will584 be341 almost518 sure41 to261 occur512 to261 you227 ; unless54 , indeed522 , your162 fancy396 has399 been185 fixed564 by406 the19 technical240 term416 "crown463 " also119 bestowed157 upon419 it162 ; in107 which16 case346 you227 will584 take279 great259 interest323 in107 thinking385 how19 this256 mighty2 monster480 is487 actually69 a10 diademed253 king324 of89 the19 sea67 , whose286 green549 crown463 has399 been185 put190 together440 for190 him248 in107 this256 marvellous35 manner153 . But330 if141 this256 whale422 be341 a10 king324 , he362 is487 a10 very515 sulky316 looking318 fellow369 to261 grace174 a10 diadem4 . Look523 at65 that14 hanging222 lower47 lip318 ! what243 a10 huge132 sulk155 and236 pout49 is487 there340 ! a10 sulk155 and236 pout49 , by406 carpenter262 's483 measurement367 , about123 twenty433 feet349 long544 and236 five103 feet349 deep483 ; a10 sulk155 and236 pout49 that14 will584 yield39 you227 some265 500377 gallons141 of89 oil118 and236 more348 . A10 great259 pity270 , now20 , that14 this256 unfortunate327 whale422 should255 be341 hare294 -lipped. The19 fissure283 is487 about123 a10 foot467 across129 . Probably244 the19 mother276 during309 an138 important104 interval114 was454 sailing232 down133 the19 Peruvian25 coast287 , when189 earthquakes511 caused308 the19 beach183 to261 gape223 . Over82 this256 lip318 , as113 over82 a10 slippery204 threshold21 , we465 now20 slide118 into554 the19 mouth414 . Upon419 my36 word486 were324 I482 at65 Mackinaw333 , I482 should255 take279 this256 to261 be341 the19 inside438 of89 an138 Indian303 wigwam318 . Good221 Lord106 ! is487 this256 the19 road533 that14 Jonah41 went516 ? The19 roof259 is487 about123 twelve293 feet349 high361 , and236 runs399 to261 a10 pretty252 sharp427 angle205 , as113 if141 there340 were324 a10 regular400 ridge435 -pole212 there340 ; while55 these527 ribbed246 , arched4 , hairy284 sides331 , present112 us569 with449 those427 wondrous30 , half119 vertical397 , scimitar-shaped111 slats25 of89 whalebone290 , say306 three329 hundred93 on392 a10 side246 , which16 depending471 from316 the19 upper403 part207 of89 the19 head219 or519 crown463 bone184 , form238 those427 Venetian59 blinds34 which16 have254 elsewhere154 been185 cursorily4 mentioned149 . The19 edges15 of89 these527 bones5 are314 fringed325 with449 hairy284 fibres45 , through295 which16 the19 Right499 Whale422 strains135 the19 water520 , and236 in107 whose286 intricacies223 he362 retains169 the19 small350 fish187 , when189 openmouthed4 he362 goes205 through295 the19 seas350 of89 brit20 in107 feeding367 time577 . In107 the19 central229 blinds34 of89 bone184 , as113 they382 stand530 in107 their219 natural298 order343 , there340 are314 certain31 curious264 marks226 , curves315 , hollows111 , and236 ridges132 , whereby358 some265 whalemen451 calculate325 the19 creature82 's96 age157 , as113 the19 age157 of89 an138 oak170 by406 its234 circular21 rings25 . Though400 the19 certainty400 of89 this256 criterion102 is487 far258 from316 demonstrable189 , yet443 it162 has399 the19 savor402 of89 analogical93 probability377 . At65 any501 rate515 , if141 we465 yield39 to261 it162 , we465 must226 grant328 a10 far258 greater505 age157 to261 the19 Right499 Whale422 than77 at65 first13 glance362 will584 seem404 reasonable88 . In107 old447 times121 , there340 seem404 to261 have254 prevailed233 the19 most216 curious264 fancies190 concerning368 these527 blinds34 . One470 voyager25 in107 Purchas274 calls15 them146 the19 wondrous30 "whiskers42 " inside438 of89 the19 whale422 's483 mouth414 ;* another269 , "hogs29 ' bristles275 "; a10 third301 old447 gentleman399 in107 Hackluyt125 uses282 the19 following181 elegant194 language322 : "There340 are314 about123 two527 hundred93 and236 fifty406 fins556 growing66 on392 each520 side246 of89 his433 upper403 chop221 , which16 arch198 over82 his433 tongue375 on392 each520 side246 of89 his433 mouth414 ." *This256 reminds430 us569 that14 the19 Right499 Whale422 really406 has399 a10 sort42 of89 whisker143 , or519 rather178 a10 moustache145 , consisting399 of89 a10 few49 scattered17 white82 hairs47 on392 the19 upper403 part207 of89 the19 outer359 end149 of89 the19 lower47 jaw213 . Sometimes77 these527 tufts160 impart237 a10 rather178 brigandish expression115 to261 his433 otherwise542 solemn303 countenance553 . As113 every389 one470 knows286 , these527 same541 "hogs29 ' bristles275 ," "fins556 ," "whiskers42 ," "blinds34 ," or519 whatever38 you227 please153 , furnish160 to261 the19 ladies66 their219 busks411 and236 other282 stiffening434 contrivances99 . But330 in107 this256 particular336 , the19 demand320 has399 long544 been185 on392 the19 decline570 . It162 was454 in107 Queen443 Anne263 's483 time577 that14 the19 bone184 was454 in107 its234 glory173 , the19 farthingale4 being264 then45 all145 the19 fashion467 . And236 as113 those427 ancient463 dames244 moved492 about123 gaily275 , though400 in107 the19 jaws341 of89 the19 whale422 , as113 you227 may236 say306 ; even198 so281 , in107 a10 shower143 , with449 the19 like410 thoughtlessness287 , do353 we465 nowadays444 fly324 under533 the19 same541 jaws341 for190 protection71 ; the19 umbrella371 being264 a10 tent359 spread348 over82 the19 same541 bone184 . But330 now20 forget426 all145 about123 blinds34 and236 whiskers42 for190 a10 moment258 , and236 , standing144 in107 the19 Right499 Whale422 's483 mouth414 , look523 around66 you227 afresh59 . Seeing426 all145 these527 colonnades7 of89 bone184 so281 methodically178 ranged435 about123 , would282 you227 not518 think424 you227 were324 inside438 of89 the19 great259 Haarlem133 organ336 , and236 gazing117 upon419 its234 thousand586 pipes17 ? For190 a10 carpet446 to261 the19 organ336 we465 have254 a10 rug14 of89 the19 softest97 Turkey339 --the19 tongue375 , which16 is487 glued120 , as113 it162 were324 , to261 the19 floor418 of89 the19 mouth414 . It162 is487 very515 fat351 and236 tender454 , and236 apt40 to261 tear146 in107 pieces283 in107 hoisting50 it162 on392 deck505 . This256 particular336 tongue375 now20 before344 us569 ; at65 a10 passing147 glance362 I482 should255 say306 it162 was454 a10 six415 -barreler; that14 is487 , it162 will584 yield39 you227 about123 that14 amount11 of89 oil118 . Ere83 this256 , you227 must226 have254 plainly450 seen154 the19 truth350 of89 what243 I482 started492 with449 -- that14 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 and236 the19 Right499 Whale422 have254 almost518 entirely148 different276 heads366 . To261 sum213 up405 , then45 : in107 the19 Right499 Whale422 's483 there340 is487 no235 great259 well263 of89 sperm26 ; no235 ivory76 teeth82 at65 all145 ; no235 long544 , slender122 mandible265 of89 a10 lower47 jaw213 , like410 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 . Nor137 in107 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 are314 there340 any501 of89 those427 blinds34 of89 bone184 ; no235 huge132 lower47 lip318 ; and236 scarcely71 anything480 of89 a10 tongue375 . Again52 , the19 Right499 Whale422 has399 two527 external386 spout224 -holes41 , the19 Sperm26 Whale422 only517 one470 . Look523 your162 last436 now20 , on392 these527 venerable57 hooded374 heads366 , while55 they382 yet443 lie212 together440 ; for190 one470 will584 soon18 sink190 , unrecorded337 , in107 the19 sea67 ; the19 other282 will584 not518 be341 very515 long544 in107 following181 . Can450 you227 catch523 the19 expression115 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 there340 ? It162 is487 the19 same541 he362 died575 with449 , only517 some265 of89 the19 longer559 wrinkles318 in107 the19 forehead380 seem404 now20 faded69 away443 . I482 think424 his433 broad267 brow474 to261 be341 full414 of89 a10 prairie214 -like410 placidity204 , born236 of89 a10 speculative355 indifference111 as113 to261 death543 . But330 mark169 the19 other282 head219 's483 expression115 . See370 that14 amazing306 lower47 lip318 , pressed323 by406 accident210 against417 the19 vessel155 's483 side246 , so281 as113 firmly308 to261 embrace281 the19 jaw213 . Does565 not518 this256 whole199 head219 seem404 to261 speak337 of89 an138 enormous327 practical74 resolution91 in107 facing68 death543 ? This256 Right499 Whale422 I482 take279 to261 have254 been185 a10 Stoic161 ; the19 Sperm26 Whale422 , a10 Platonian, who319 might496 have254 taken222 up405 Spinoza326 in107 his433 latter497 years116 . CHAPTER293 76522 The19 Battering193 -Ram323 Ere83 quitting155 , for190 the19 nonce251 , the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 head219 , I482 would282 have254 you227 , as113 a10 sensible154 physiologist413 , simply142 --particularly106 remark325 its234 front196 aspect147 , in107 all145 its234 compacted137 collectedness507 . I482 would282 have254 you227 investigate83 it162 now20 with449 the19 sole462 view370 of89 forming354 to261 yourself176 some265 unexaggerated138 , intelligent346 estimate398 of89 whatever38 battering193 -ram323 power145 may236 be341 lodged238 there340 . Here135 is487 a10 vital204 point438 ; for190 you227 must226 either45 satisfactorily444 settle92 this256 matter176 with449 yourself176 , or519 for190 ever208 remain326 an138 infidel183 as113 to261 one470 of89 the19 most216 appalling282 , but330 not518 the19 less261 true483 events390 , perhaps75 anywhere436 to261 be341 found260 in107 all145 recorded84 history183 . You227 observe213 that14 in107 the19 ordinary225 swimming367 position383 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 , the19 front196 of89 his433 head219 presents256 an138 almost518 wholly497 vertical397 plane451 to261 the19 water520 ; you227 observe213 that14 the19 lower47 part207 of89 that14 front196 slopes84 considerably110 backwards143 , so281 as113 to261 furnish160 more348 of89 a10 retreat506 for190 the19 long544 socket43 which16 receives80 the19 boom333 -like410 lower47 jaw213 ; you227 observe213 that14 the19 mouth414 is487 entirely148 under533 the19 head219 , much61 in107 the19 same541 way435 , indeed522 , as113 though400 your162 own248 mouth414 were324 entirely148 under533 your162 chin49 . Moreover326 you227 observe213 that14 the19 whale422 has399 no235 external386 nose176 ; and236 that14 what243 nose176 he362 has399 --his433 spout224 hole73 -- is487 on392 the19 top70 of89 his433 head219 ; you227 observe213 that14 his433 eyes125 and236 ears560 are314 at65 the19 sides331 of89 his433 head219 ; nearly575 one470 third301 of89 his433 entire230 length202 from316 the19 front196 . Wherefore220 , you227 must226 now20 have254 perceived76 that14 the19 front196 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 head219 is487 a10 dead568 , blind375 wall509 , without309 a10 single77 organ336 or519 tender454 prominence36 of89 any501 sort42 whatsoever268 . Furthermore181 , you227 are314 now20 to261 consider259 that14 only517 in107 the19 extreme31 , lower47 , backward19 sloping135 part207 of89 the19 front196 of89 the19 head219 , is487 there340 the19 slightest44 vestige31 of89 bone184 ; and236 not518 till181 you227 get126 near70 twenty433 feet349 from316 the19 forehead380 do353 you227 come420 to261 the19 full414 cranial25 development112 . So281 that14 this256 whole199 enormous327 boneless120 mass36 is487 as113 one470 wad352 . Finally69 , though400 , as113 will584 soon18 be341 revealed530 , its234 contents347 partly311 comprise321 the19 most216 delicate34 oil118 ; yet443 , you227 are314 now20 to261 be341 apprised92 of89 the19 nature159 of89 the19 substance316 which16 so281 impregnably27 invests25 all145 that14 apparent203 effeminacy173 . In107 some265 previous376 place107 I482 have254 described483 to261 you227 how19 the19 blubber232 wraps83 the19 body348 of89 the19 whale422 , as113 the19 rind257 wraps83 an138 orange23 . Just108 so281 with449 the19 head219 ; but330 with449 this256 difference3 : about123 the19 head219 this256 envelope155 , though400 not518 so281 thick502 is487 of89 a10 boneless120 toughness26 , inestimable441 by406 any501 man17 who319 has399 not518 handled241 it162 . The19 severest240 pointed413 harpoon67 , the19 sharpest269 lance76 darted362 by406 the19 strongest426 human43 arm25 , impotently5 rebounds295 from316 it162 . It162 is487 as113 though400 the19 forehead380 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 were324 paved97 with449 horses189 ' hoofs524 . I482 do353 not518 think424 that14 any501 sensation286 lurks115 in107 it162 . Bethink51 yourself176 also119 of89 another269 thing309 . When189 two527 large385 , loaded55 Indian303 -men62 chance292 to261 crowd16 and236 crush482 towards417 each520 other282 in107 the19 docks99 , what243 do353 the19 sailors64 do353 ? They382 do353 not518 suspend71 between77 them146 , at65 the19 point438 of89 coming140 contact263 , any501 merely57 hard337 substance316 , like410 iron169 or519 wood46 . No235 , they382 hold204 there340 a10 large385 , round287 wad352 of89 tow160 and236 cork4 , enveloped28 in107 the19 thickest316 and236 toughest98 of89 ox413 -hide266 . That14 bravely155 and236 uninjured31 takes362 the19 jam141 which16 would282 have254 snapped459 all145 their219 oaken492 handspikes209 and236 iron169 crow151 -bars435 . By406 itself312 this256 sufficiently12 illustrates386 the19 obvious147 fact12 I482 drive548 at65 . But330 supplementary210 to261 this256 , it162 has399 hypothetically27 occurred205 to261 me2 , that14 as113 ordinary225 fish187 possess35 what243 is487 called237 a10 swimming367 bladder70 in107 them146 , capable424 , at65 will584 , of89 distension140 or519 contraction107 ; and236 as113 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 , as113 far258 as113 I482 know60 , has399 no235 such420 provision367 in107 him248 ; considering115 , too11 , the19 otherwise542 inexplicable367 manner153 in107 which16 he362 now20 depresses392 his433 head219 altogether31 beneath320 the19 surface328 , and236 anon88 swims403 with449 it162 high361 elevated541 out66 of89 the19 water520 ; considering115 the19 unobstructed92 elasticity425 of89 its234 envelope155 ; considering115 the19 unique141 interior163 of89 his433 head219 ; it162 has399 hypothetically27 occurred205 to261 me2 , I482 say306 , that14 those427 mystical493 lung92 -celled honeycombs318 there340 may236 possibly201 have254 some265 hitherto533 unknown10 and236 unsuspected427 connexion400 with449 the19 outer359 air209 , so281 as113 to261 be341 susceptible25 to261 atmospheric83 distension140 and236 contraction107 . If141 this256 be341 so281 , fancy396 the19 irresistibleness of89 that14 might496 , to261 which16 the19 most216 impalpable211 and236 destructive293 of89 all145 elements225 contributes529 . Now20 , mark169 . Unerringly240 impelling26 this256 dead568 , impregnable410 , uninjurable186 wall509 , and236 this256 most216 buoyant159 thing309 within503 ; there340 swims403 behind80 it162 all145 a10 mass36 of89 tremendous376 life71 , only517 to261 be341 adequately367 estimated5 as113 piled126 wood46 is487 -- by406 the19 cord96 ; and236 all145 obedient170 to261 one470 volition431 , as113 the19 smallest443 insect171 . So281 that14 when189 I482 shall66 hereafter479 detail41 to261 you227 all145 the19 specialities7 and236 concentrations7 of89 potency26 everywhere469 lurking89 in107 this256 expansive44 monster480 ; when189 I482 shall66 show460 you227 some265 of89 his433 more348 inconsiderable568 braining398 feats224 ; I482 trust495 you227 will584 have254 renounced482 all145 ignorant136 incredulity143 , and236 be341 ready464 to261 abide237 by406 this256 ; that14 though400 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 stove373 a10 passage285 through295 the19 Isthmus95 of89 Darien224 , and236 mixed459 the19 Atlantic198 with449 the19 Pacific294 , you227 would282 not518 elevate102 one470 hair237 of89 your162 eye220 -brow474 . For190 unless54 you227 own248 the19 whale422 , you227 are314 but330 a10 provincial111 and236 sentimentalist26 in107 Truth350 . But330 clear408 Truth350 is487 a10 thing309 for190 salamander23 giants321 only517 to261 encounter250 ; how19 small350 the19 chances400 for190 the19 provincials348 then45 ? What243 befell129 the19 weakling204 youth327 lifting100 the19 dread251 goddess366 's483 veil69 at65 Lais144 ? CHAPTER293 77129 The19 Great259 Heidelburgh Tun345 Now20 comes268 the19 Baling369 of89 the19 Case346 . But330 to261 comprehend301 it162 aright366 , you227 must226 know60 something181 of89 the19 curious264 internal241 structure235 of89 the19 thing309 operated201 upon419 . Regarding23 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 head219 as113 a10 solid494 oblong111 , you227 may236 , on392 an138 inclined76 plane451 , sideways496 divide80 it162 into554 two527 quoins276 ,* whereof422 the19 lower47 is487 the19 bony23 structure235 , forming354 the19 cranium24 and236 jaws341 , and236 the19 upper403 an138 unctuous322 mass36 wholly497 free483 from316 bones5 ; its234 broad267 forward364 end149 forming354 the19 expanded507 vertical397 apparent203 forehead380 of89 the19 whale422 . At65 the19 middle39 of89 the19 forehead380 horizontally389 subdivide92 this256 upper403 quoin, and236 then45 you227 have254 two527 almost518 equal261 parts470 , which16 before344 were324 naturally362 divided469 by406 an138 internal241 wall509 of89 a10 thick502 tendinous25 substance316 . *Quoin is487 not518 a10 Euclidean term416 . It162 belongs402 to261 the19 pure61 nautical42 mathematics431 . I482 know60 not518 that14 it162 has399 been185 defined288 before344 . A10 quoin is487 a10 solid494 which16 differs296 from316 a10 wedge309 in107 having69 its234 sharp427 end149 formed294 by406 the19 steep108 inclination283 of89 one470 side246 , instead398 of89 the19 mutual35 tapering416 of89 both558 sides331 . The19 lower47 subdivided107 part207 , called237 the19 junk92 , is487 one470 immense301 honeycomb40 of89 oil118 , formed294 by406 the19 crossing402 and236 recrossing86 , into554 ten198 thousand586 infiltrated357 cells102 , of89 tough241 elastic370 white82 fibres45 throughout159 its234 whole199 extent144 . The19 upper403 part207 , known86 as113 the19 Case346 , may236 be341 regarded393 as113 the19 great259 Heidelburgh Tun345 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 . And236 as113 that14 famous254 great259 tierce384 is487 mystically152 carved455 in107 front196 , so281 the19 whale422 's483 vast43 plaited82 forehead380 forms48 innumerable256 strange440 devices285 for190 the19 emblematical244 adornment389 of89 his433 wondrous30 tun345 . Moreover326 , as113 that14 of89 Heidelburgh was454 always367 replenished198 with449 the19 most216 excellent161 of89 the19 wines160 of89 the19 Rhenish46 valleys289 , so281 the19 tun345 of89 the19 whale422 contains81 by406 far258 the19 most216 precious234 of89 all145 his433 oily212 vintages377 ; namely324 , the19 highly52 -prized27 spermaceti283 , in107 its234 absolutely518 pure61 , limpid143 , and236 odoriferous487 state135 . Nor137 is487 this256 precious234 substance316 found260 unalloyed104 in107 any501 other282 part207 of89 the19 creature82 . Though400 in107 life71 it162 remains324 perfectly26 fluid212 , yet443 , upon419 exposure31 to261 the19 air209 , after358 death543 , it162 soon18 begins374 to261 concrete53 ; sending1 forth152 beautiful239 crystalline354 shoots536 , as113 when189 the19 first13 thin445 delicate34 ice443 is487 just108 forming354 in107 water520 . A10 large385 whale422 's483 case346 generally402 yields124 about123 five103 hundred93 gallons141 of89 sperm26 , though400 from316 unavoidable74 circumstances267 , considerable75 of89 it162 is487 spilled434 , leaks106 , and236 dribbles26 away443 , or519 is487 otherwise542 irrevocably83 lost308 in107 the19 ticklish57 business168 of89 securing93 what243 you227 can450 . I482 know60 not518 with449 what243 fine333 and236 costly189 material161 the19 Heidelburgh Tun345 was454 coated60 within503 , but330 in107 superlative35 richness403 that14 coating115 could375 not518 possibly201 have254 compared357 with449 the19 silken488 pearl357 -colored213 membrane20 , like410 the19 lining55 of89 a10 fine333 pelisse454 , forming354 the19 inner204 surface328 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 case346 . It162 will584 have254 been185 seen154 that14 the19 Heidelburgh Tun345 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 embraces296 the19 entire230 length202 of89 the19 entire230 top70 of89 the19 head219 ; and236 since374 --as113 has399 been185 elsewhere154 set422 forth152 --the19 head219 embraces296 one470 third301 of89 the19 whole199 length202 of89 the19 creature82 , then45 setting151 that14 length202 down133 at65 eighty148 feet349 for190 a10 good221 sized133 whale422 , you227 have254 more348 than77 twenty433 -six256 feet349 for190 the19 depth474 of89 the19 tun345 , when189 it162 is487 lengthwise288 hoisted367 up405 and236 down133 against417 a10 ship438 's483 side246 . As113 in107 decapitating146 the19 whale422 , the19 operator350 's483 instrument464 is487 brought85 close65 to261 the19 spot46 where579 an138 entrance237 is487 subsequently342 forced28 into554 the19 spermaceti283 magazine388 ; he362 has399 , therefore94 , to261 be341 uncommonly194 heedful133 , lest499 a10 careless27 , untimely189 stroke436 should255 invade239 the19 sanctuary426 and236 wastingly let66 out66 its234 invaluable2 contents347 . It162 is487 this256 decapitated18 end149 of89 the19 head219 , also119 , which16 is487 at65 last436 elevated541 out66 of89 the19 water520 , and236 retained155 in107 that14 position383 by406 the19 enormous327 cutting454 tackles278 , whose286 hempen451 combinations336 , on392 one470 side246 , make175 quite327 a10 wilderness396 of89 ropes461 in107 that14 quarter6 . Thus362 much61 being264 said252 , attend120 now20 , I482 pray311 you227 , to261 that14 marvellous35 and236 -- in107 this256 particular336 instance141 --almost518 fatal460 operation261 whereby358 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 great259 Heidelburgh Tun345 is487 tapped68 . CHAPTER293 78290 Cistern141 and236 Buckets157 Nimble169 as113 a10 cat10 , Tashtego mounts280 aloft276 ; and236 without309 altering436 his433 erect245 posture347 , runs399 straight346 out66 upon419 the19 overhanging161 mainyard191 -arm25 , to261 the19 part207 where579 it162 exactly315 projects124 over82 the19 hoisted367 Tun345 . He362 has399 carried232 with449 him248 a10 light382 tackle346 called237 a10 whip190 , consisting399 of89 only517 two527 parts470 , travelling113 through295 a10 single77 -sheaved block275 . Securing93 this256 block275 , so281 that14 it162 hangs170 down133 from316 the19 yard258 -arm25 , he362 swings31 one470 end149 of89 the19 rope265 , till181 it162 is487 caught105 and236 firmly308 held212 by406 a10 hand252 on392 the19 deck505 . Then45 , hand252 -over82 -hand252 , down133 the19 other282 part207 , the19 Indian303 drops6 through295 the19 air209 , till181 dexterously45 he362 lands436 on392 the19 summit347 of89 the19 head219 . There340 --still278 high361 elevated541 above502 the19 rest302 of89 the19 company280 , to261 whom324 he362 vivaciously213 cries104 -- he362 seems19 some265 Turkish124 Muezzin399 calling56 the19 good221 people482 to261 prayers173 from316 the19 top70 of89 a10 tower36 . A10 short522 -handled241 sharp427 spade19 being264 sent411 up405 to261 him248 , he362 diligently344 searches378 for190 the19 proper249 place107 to261 begin183 breaking6 into554 the19 Tun345 . In107 this256 business168 he362 proceeds215 very515 heedfully84 , like410 a10 treasure31 -hunter287 in107 some265 old447 house499 , sounding331 the19 walls116 to261 find138 where579 the19 gold231 is487 masoned in107 . By406 the19 time577 this256 cautious406 search352 is487 over82 , a10 stout29 ironbound461 bucket170 , precisely217 like410 a10 well263 -bucket170 , has399 been185 attached211 to261 one470 end149 of89 the19 whip190 ; while55 the19 other282 end149 , being264 stretched63 across129 the19 deck505 , is487 there340 held212 by406 two527 or519 three329 alert396 hands87 . These527 last436 now20 hoist9 the19 bucket170 within503 grasp332 of89 the19 Indian303 , to261 whom324 another269 person550 has399 reached386 up405 a10 very515 long544 pole20 . Inserting357 this256 pole20 into554 the19 bucket170 , Tashtego downward157 guides171 the19 bucket170 into554 the19 Tun345 , till181 it162 entirely148 disappears293 ; then45 giving207 the19 word486 to261 the19 seamen6 at65 the19 whip190 , up405 comes268 the19 bucket170 again52 , all145 bubbling261 like410 a10 dairy44 -maid192 's483 pail313 of89 new36 milk362 . Carefully374 lowered279 from316 its234 height20 , the19 full414 -freighted12 vessel155 is487 caught105 by406 an138 appointed82 hand252 , and236 quickly183 emptied311 into554 a10 large385 tub339 . Then45 remounting23 aloft276 , it162 again52 goes205 through295 the19 same541 round287 until316 the19 deep483 cistern141 will584 yield39 no235 more348 . Towards417 the19 end149 , Tashtego has399 to261 ram375 his433 long544 pole20 harder46 and236 harder46 , and236 deeper253 and236 deeper253 into554 the19 Tun345 , until316 some265 twenty433 feet349 of89 the19 pole20 have254 gone190 down133 . Now20 , the19 people482 of89 the19 Pequod288 had364 been185 baling369 some265 time577 in107 this256 way435 ; several479 tubs410 had364 been185 filled232 with449 the19 fragrant336 sperm26 ; when189 all145 at65 once248 a10 queer156 accident210 happened156 . Whether454 it162 was454 that14 Tashtego, that14 wild230 Indian303 , was454 so281 heedless376 and236 reckless240 as113 to261 let66 go20 for190 a10 moment258 his433 one470 -handed189 hold204 on392 the19 great259 cabled303 tackles278 suspending368 the19 head219 ; or519 whether454 the19 place107 where579 he362 stood1 was454 so281 treacherous166 and236 oozy286 ; or519 whether454 the19 Evil2 One470 himself282 would282 have254 it162 to261 fall90 out66 so281 , without309 stating521 his433 particular336 reasons186 ; how19 it162 was454 exactly315 , there340 is487 no235 telling196 now20 ; but330 , on392 a10 sudden309 , as113 the19 eightieth165 or519 ninetieth97 bucket170 came549 suckingly up405 --my36 God185 ! poor533 Tashtego-- like410 the19 twin492 reciprocating25 bucket170 in107 a10 veritable282 well263 , dropped2 head219 -foremost73 down133 into554 this256 great259 Tun345 of89 Heidelburgh, and236 with449 a10 horrible398 oily212 gurgling26 , went516 clean26 out66 of89 sight365 ! "Man17 overboard247 !" cried506 Daggoo, who319 amid240 the19 general37 consternation52 first13 came549 to261 his433 senses161 . "Swing311 the19 bucket170 this256 way435 !" and236 putting243 one470 foot467 into554 it162 , so281 as113 the19 better34 to261 secure92 his433 slippery204 hand252 -hold204 on392 the19 whip190 itself312 the19 hoisters250 ran391 him248 high361 up405 to261 the19 top70 of89 the19 head219 , almost518 before344 Tashtego could375 have254 reached386 its234 interior163 bottom461 . Meantime210 , there340 was454 a10 terrible132 tumult269 . Looking318 over82 the19 side246 , they382 saw113 the19 before344 lifeless19 head219 throbbing335 and236 heaving174 just108 below397 the19 surface328 of89 the19 sea67 , as113 if141 that14 moment258 seized337 with449 some265 momentous150 idea250 ; whereas18 it162 was454 only517 the19 poor533 Indian303 unconsciously59 revealing451 by406 those427 struggles161 the19 perilous141 depth474 to261 which16 he362 had364 sunk336 . At65 this256 instant279 , while55 Daggoo, on392 the19 summit347 of89 the19 head219 , was454 clearing84 the19 whip190 --which16 had364 somehow425 got286 foul528 of89 the19 great259 cutting454 tackles278 -- a10 sharp427 cracking203 noise254 was454 heard444 ; and236 to261 the19 unspeakable4 horror134 of89 all145 , one470 of89 the19 two527 enormous327 hooks561 suspending368 the19 head219 tore493 out66 , and236 with449 a10 vast43 vibration78 the19 enormous327 mass36 sideways496 swung205 , till181 the19 drunk213 ship438 reeled429 and236 shook161 as113 if141 smitten83 by406 an138 iceberg279 . The19 one470 remaining64 hook157 , upon419 which16 the19 entire230 strain468 now20 depended178 , seemed132 every389 instant279 to261 be341 on392 the19 point438 of89 giving207 way435 ; an138 event28 still278 more348 likely181 from316 the19 violent336 motions62 of89 the19 head219 . "Come420 down133 , come420 down133 !" yelled61 the19 seamen6 to261 Daggoo, but330 with449 one470 hand252 holding311 on392 to261 the19 heavy421 tackles278 , so281 that14 if141 the19 head219 should255 drop22 , he362 would282 still278 remain326 suspended245 ; the19 negro102 having69 cleared241 the19 foul528 line25 , rammed78 down133 the19 bucket170 into554 the19 now20 collapsed230 well263 , meaning62 that14 the19 buried205 harpooneer should255 grasp332 it162 , and236 so281 be341 hoisted367 out66 . "In107 heaven163 's483 name477 , man17 ," cried506 Stubb, "are314 you227 ramming120 home450 a10 cartridge4 there340 ?--Avast279 ! How19 will584 that14 help526 him248 ; jamming310 that14 iron169 -bound108 bucket170 on392 top70 of89 his433 head219 ? Avast279 , will584 ye483 !" "Stand530 clear408 of89 the19 tackle346 !" cried506 a10 voice233 like410 the19 bursting288 of89 a10 rocket357 . Almost518 in107 the19 same541 instant279 , with449 a10 thunder356 -boom333 , the19 enormous327 mass36 dropped2 into554 the19 sea67 , like410 Niagara438 's483 Table572 -Rock264 into554 the19 whirlpool23 ; the19 suddenly193 relieved158 hull323 rolled226 away443 from316 it162 , to261 far258 down133 her400 glittering144 copper300 ; and236 all145 caught105 their219 breath150 , as113 half119 swinging379 --now20 over82 the19 sailors64 ' heads366 , and236 now20 over82 the19 water520 --Daggoo, through295 a10 thick502 mist322 of89 spray76 , was454 dimly298 beheld132 clinging232 to261 the19 pendulous325 tackles278 , while55 poor533 , buried205 -alive298 Tashtego was454 sinking60 utterly46 down133 to261 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 sea67 ! But330 hardly182 had364 the19 blinding298 vapor85 cleared241 away443 , when189 a10 naked70 figure55 with449 a10 boardingsword in107 his433 hand252 , was454 for190 one470 swift376 moment258 seen154 hovering520 over82 the19 bulwarks411 . The19 next27 , a10 loud556 splash310 announced451 that14 my36 brave218 Queequeg had364 dived149 to261 the19 rescue59 . One470 packed55 rush6 was454 made563 to261 the19 side246 , and236 every389 eye220 counted81 every389 ripple85 , as113 moment258 followed234 moment258 , and236 no235 sign8 of89 either45 the19 sinker25 or519 the19 diver120 could375 be341 seen154 . Some265 hands87 now20 jumped499 into554 a10 boat439 alongside540 , and236 pushed189 a10 little554 off111 from316 the19 ship438 . "Ha387 ! ha387 !" cried506 Daggoo, all145 at65 once248 , from316 his433 now20 quiet337 , swinging379 perch295 overhead7 ; and236 looking318 further53 off111 from316 the19 side246 , we465 saw113 an138 arm25 thrust379 upright145 from316 the19 blue240 waves443 ; a10 sight365 strange440 to261 see370 , as113 an138 arm25 thrust379 forth152 from316 the19 grass418 over82 a10 grave344 . "Both558 ! both558 !--it162 is487 both558 !"-cried506 Daggoo again52 with449 a10 joyful435 shout299 ; and236 soon18 after358 , Queequeg was454 seen154 boldly445 striking22 out66 with449 one470 hand252 , and236 with449 the19 other282 clutching248 the19 long544 hair237 of89 the19 Indian303 . Drawn564 into554 the19 waiting201 boat439 , they382 were324 quickly183 brought85 to261 the19 deck505 ; but330 Tashtego was454 long544 in107 coming140 to261 , and236 Queequeg did444 not518 look523 very515 brisk142 . Now20 , how19 had364 this256 noble226 rescue59 been185 accomplished225 ? Why177 , diving279 after358 the19 slowly149 descending181 head219 , Queequeg with449 his433 keen202 sword273 had364 made563 side246 lunges182 near70 its234 bottom461 , so281 as113 to261 scuttle27 a10 large385 hole73 there340 ; then45 dropping279 his433 sword273 , had364 thrust379 his433 long544 arm25 far258 inwards317 and236 upwards110 , and236 so281 hauled80 out66 our234 poor533 Tash299 by406 the19 head219 . He362 averred141 , that14 upon419 first13 thrusting100 in107 for190 him248 , a10 leg331 was454 presented320 ; but330 well263 knowing240 that14 that14 was454 not518 as113 it162 ought170 to261 be341 , and236 might496 occasion211 great259 trouble328 ;--he362 had364 thrust379 back457 the19 leg331 , and236 by406 a10 dexterous25 heave308 and236 toss237 , had364 wrought22 a10 somerset271 upon419 the19 Indian303 ; so281 that14 with449 the19 next27 trial103 , he362 came549 forth152 in107 the19 good221 old447 way435 -- head219 foremost61 . As113 for190 the19 great259 head219 itself312 , that14 was454 doing227 as113 well263 as113 could375 be341 expected96 . And236 thus362 , through295 the19 courage48 and236 great259 skill502 in107 obstetrics26 of89 Queequeg, the19 deliverance283 , or519 rather178 , delivery5 of89 Tashtego, was454 successfully412 accomplished225 , in107 the19 teeth82 , too11 , of89 the19 most216 untoward32 and236 apparently261 hopeless189 impediments507 ; which16 is487 a10 lesson147 by406 no235 means502 to261 be341 forgotten170 . Midwifery158 should255 be341 taught564 in107 the19 same541 course171 with449 fencing36 and236 boxing235 , riding61 and236 rowing375 . I482 know60 that14 this256 queer156 adventure44 of89 the19 Gay323 -Header's483 will584 be341 sure41 to261 seem404 incredible98 to261 some265 landsmen117 , though400 they382 themselves510 may236 have254 either45 seen154 or519 heard444 of89 some265 one470 's483 falling498 into554 a10 cistern141 ashore122 ; an138 accident210 which16 not518 seldom140 happens143 , and236 with449 much61 less261 reason238 too11 than77 the19 Indian303 's483 , considering115 the19 exceeding320 slipperiness141 of89 the19 curb355 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 well263 . But330 , peradventure375 , it162 may236 be341 sagaciously213 urged436 , how19 is487 this256 ? We465 thought186 the19 tissued192 , infiltrated357 head219 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 , was454 the19 lightest117 and236 most216 corky501 part207 about123 him248 ; and236 yet443 thou173 makest486 it162 sink190 in107 an138 element38 of89 a10 far258 greater505 specific383 gravity430 than77 itself312 . We465 have254 thee15 there340 . Not518 at65 all145 , but330 I482 have254 ye483 ; for190 at65 the19 time577 poor533 Tash299 fell421 in107 , the19 case346 had364 been185 nearly575 emptied311 of89 its234 lighter415 contents347 , leaving231 little554 but330 the19 dense481 tendinous25 wall509 of89 the19 well263 --a10 double20 welded102 , hammered193 substance316 , as113 I482 have254 before344 said252 , much61 heavier317 than77 the19 sea67 water520 , and236 a10 lump396 of89 which16 sinks124 in107 it162 like410 lead362 almost518 . But330 the19 tendency68 to261 rapid321 sinking60 in107 this256 substance316 was454 in107 the19 present112 instance141 materially125 counteracted431 by406 the19 other282 parts470 of89 the19 head219 remaining64 undetached from316 it162 , so281 that14 it162 sank310 very515 slowly149 and236 deliberately336 indeed522 , affording206 Queequeg a10 fair320 chance292 for190 performing444 his433 agile101 obstetrics26 on392 the19 run172 , as113 you227 may236 say306 . Yes143 , it162 was454 a10 running296 delivery5 , so281 it162 was454 . Now20 , had364 Tashtego perished264 in107 that14 head219 , it162 had364 been185 a10 very515 precious234 perishing60 ; smothered307 in107 the19 very515 whitest463 and236 daintiest89 of89 fragrant336 spermaceti283 ; coffined27 , hearsed207 , and236 tombed364 in107 the19 secret409 inner204 chamber330 and236 sanctum225 sanctorum25 of89 the19 whale422 . Only517 one470 sweeter152 end149 can450 readily467 be341 recalled346 --the19 delicious142 death543 of89 an138 Ohio242 honey519 -hunter287 , who319 seeking427 honey519 in107 the19 crotch111 of89 a10 hollow511 tree482 , found260 such420 exceeding320 store420 of89 it162 , that14 leaning559 too11 far258 over82 , it162 sucked355 him248 in107 , so281 that14 he362 died575 embalmed59 . How19 many282 , think424 ye483 , have254 likewise193 fallen40 into554 Plato281 's483 honey519 head219 , and236 sweetly92 perished264 there340 ? CHAPTER293 79245 The19 Prairie214 To261 scan347 the19 lines241 of89 his433 face556 , or519 feel461 the19 bumps232 on392 the19 head219 of89 this256 Leviathan384 ; this256 is487 a10 thing309 which16 no235 Physiognomist140 or519 Phrenologist17 has399 as113 yet443 undertaken29 . Such420 an138 enterprise106 would282 seem404 almost518 as113 hopeful138 as113 for190 Lavater548 to261 have254 scrutinized25 the19 wrinkles318 on392 the19 Rock264 of89 Gibraltar136 , or519 for190 Gall229 to261 have254 mounted191 a10 ladder391 and236 manipulated196 the19 Dome125 of89 the19 Pantheon165 . Still278 , in107 that14 famous254 work385 of89 his433 , Lavater548 not518 only517 treats262 of89 the19 various183 faces97 of89 men62 , but330 also119 attentively102 studies279 the19 faces97 of89 horses189 , birds332 , serpents403 , and236 fish187 ; and236 dwells464 in107 detail41 upon419 the19 modifications79 of89 expression115 discernible136 therein68 . Nor137 have254 Gall229 and236 his433 disciple409 Spurzheim325 failed564 to261 throw345 out66 some265 hints260 touching80 the19 phrenological259 characteristics364 of89 other282 beings6 than77 man17 . Therefore94 , though400 I482 am375 but330 ill236 qualified210 for190 a10 pioneer165 , in107 the19 application258 of89 these527 two527 semi-sciences76 to261 the19 whale422 , I482 will584 do353 my36 endeavor41 . I482 try266 all145 things4 ; I482 achieve161 what243 I482 can450 . Physiognomically regarded393 , the19 Sperm26 Whale422 is487 an138 anomalous277 creature82 . He362 has399 no235 proper249 nose176 . And236 since374 the19 nose176 is487 the19 central229 and236 most216 conspicuous460 of89 the19 features150 ; and236 since374 it162 perhaps75 most216 modifies124 and236 finally69 controls81 their219 combined265 expression115 ; hence503 it162 would282 seem404 that14 its234 entire230 absence484 , as113 an138 external386 appendage354 , must226 very515 largely211 affect298 the19 countenance553 of89 the19 whale422 . For190 as113 in107 landscape192 gardening156 , a10 spire461 , cupola216 , monument45 , or519 tower36 of89 some265 sort42 , is487 deemed17 almost518 indispensable470 to261 the19 completion104 of89 the19 scene228 ; so281 no235 face556 can450 be341 physiognomically in107 keeping482 without309 the19 elevated541 open464 -work159 belfry64 of89 the19 nose176 . Dash355 the19 nose176 from316 Phidias46 's483 marble364 Jove274 , and236 what243 a10 sorry147 remainder270 ! Nevertheless104 , Leviathan384 is487 of89 so281 mighty2 a10 magnitude203 , all145 his433 proportions143 are314 so281 stately344 , that14 the19 same541 deficiency185 which16 in107 the19 sculptured161 Jove274 were324 hideous298 , in107 him248 is487 no235 blemish404 at65 all145 . Nay358 , it162 is487 an138 added52 grandeur436 . A10 nose176 to261 the19 whale422 would282 have254 been185 impertinent241 . As113 on392 your162 physiognomical102 voyage137 you227 sail218 round287 his433 vast43 head219 in107 your162 jollyboat283 , your162 noble226 conceptions399 of89 him248 are314 never206 insulted25 by406 the19 reflection266 that14 he362 has399 a10 nose176 to261 be341 pulled213 . A10 pestilent377 conceit58 , which16 so281 often227 will584 insist50 upon419 obtruding107 even198 when189 beholding248 the19 mightiest395 royal161 beadle353 on392 his433 throne332 . In107 some265 particulars230 , perhaps75 the19 most216 imposing365 physiognomical102 view370 to261 be341 had364 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 , is487 that14 of89 the19 full414 front196 of89 his433 head219 . This256 aspect147 is487 sublime76 . In107 thought186 , a10 fine333 human43 brow474 is487 like410 the19 East524 when189 troubled327 with449 the19 morning417 . In107 the19 repose463 of89 the19 pasture330 , the19 curled253 brow474 of89 the19 bull76 has399 a10 touch486 of89 the19 grand229 in107 it162 . Pushing39 heavy421 cannon515 up405 mountain231 defiles244 , the19 elephant72 's483 brow474 is487 majestic13 . Human43 or519 animal22 , the19 mystical493 brow474 is487 as113 that14 great259 golden508 seal40 affixed125 by406 the19 German264 Emperors247 to261 their219 decrees161 . It162 signifies8 --"God185 : done135 this256 day112 by406 my36 hand252 ." But330 in107 most216 creatures5 , nay358 in107 man17 himself282 , very515 often227 the19 brow474 is487 but330 a10 mere393 strip396 of89 alpine75 land406 lying204 along423 the19 snow498 line25 . Few49 are314 the19 foreheads451 which16 like410 Shakespeare247 's483 or519 Melancthon430 's483 rise251 so281 high361 , and236 descend252 so281 low407 , that14 the19 eyes125 themselves510 seem404 clear408 , eternal155 , tideless428 mountain231 lakes157 ; and236 all145 above502 them146 in107 the19 forehead380 's483 wrinkles318 , you227 seem404 to261 track169 the19 antlered111 thoughts26 descending181 there340 to261 drink117 , as113 the19 Highland173 hunters423 track169 the19 snow498 prints441 of89 the19 deer465 . But330 in107 the19 great259 Sperm26 Whale422 , this256 high361 and236 mighty2 god185 -like410 dignity338 inherent18 in107 the19 brow474 is487 so281 immensely122 amplified354 , that14 gazing117 on392 it162 , in107 that14 full414 front196 view370 , you227 feel461 the19 Deity220 and236 the19 dread251 powers140 more348 forcibly252 than77 in107 beholding248 any501 other282 object100 in107 living117 nature159 . For190 you227 see370 no235 one470 point438 precisely217 ; not518 one470 distinct259 feature400 is487 revealed530 ; no235 nose176 , eyes125 , ears560 , or519 mouth414 ; no235 face556 ; he362 has399 none365 , proper249 ; nothing324 but330 that14 one470 broad267 firmament181 of89 a10 forehead380 , pleated479 with449 riddles322 ; dumbly104 lowering240 with449 the19 doom73 of89 boats83 , and236 ships21 , and236 men62 . Nor137 , in107 profile34 , does565 this256 wondrous30 brow474 diminish340 ; though400 that14 way435 viewed41 its234 grandeur436 does565 not518 domineer255 upon419 you227 so281 . In107 profile34 , you227 plainly450 perceive131 that14 horizontal252 , semi-crescentic4 depression235 in107 the19 forehead380 's483 middle39 , which16 , in107 a10 man17 , is487 Lavater548 's483 mark169 of89 genius162 . But330 how19 ? Genius162 in107 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 ? Has399 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 ever208 written388 a10 book230 , spoken507 a10 speech378 ? No235 , his433 great259 genius162 is487 declared29 in107 his433 doing227 nothing324 particular336 to261 prove396 it162 . It162 is487 moreover326 declared29 in107 his433 pyramidical8 silence309 . And236 this256 reminds430 me2 that14 had364 the19 great259 Sperm26 Whale422 been185 known86 to261 the19 young389 Orient462 World126 , he362 would282 have254 been185 deified127 by406 their219 child451 -magian183 thoughts26 . They382 deified127 the19 crocodile183 of89 the19 Nile553 , because540 the19 crocodile183 is487 tongueless174 ; and236 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 has399 no235 tongue375 , or519 at65 least453 it162 is487 so281 exceedingly257 small350 , as113 to261 be341 incapable181 of89 protrusion111 . If141 hereafter479 any501 highly52 cultured115 , poetical93 nation466 shall66 lure274 back457 to261 their219 birth215 -right499 , the19 merry486 May236 -day65 gods325 of89 old447 ; and236 livingly434 enthrone83 them146 again52 in107 the19 now20 egotistical345 sky331 ; in107 the19 now20 unhaunted hill219 ; then45 be341 sure41 , exalted13 to261 Jove274 's483 high361 seat88 , the19 great259 Sperm26 Whale422 shall66 lord106 it162 . Champollion161 deciphered506 the19 wrinkled259 granite192 hieroglyphics99 . But330 there340 is487 no235 Champollion161 to261 decipher30 the19 Egypt116 of89 every389 man17 's415 and236 every389 being264 's483 face556 . Physiognomy283 , like410 every389 other282 human43 science317 , is487 but330 a10 passing147 fable18 . If141 then45 , Sir271 William166 Jones573 , who319 read98 in107 thirty521 languages314 , could375 not518 read98 the19 simplest322 peasant61 's483 face556 in107 its234 profounder217 and236 more348 subtle143 meanings186 , how19 may236 unlettered393 Ishmael196 hope211 to261 read98 the19 awful539 Chaldee45 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 brow474 ? I482 but330 put190 that14 brow474 before344 you227 . Read98 if141 it162 if141 you227 can450 . CHAPTER293 80174 The19 Nut142 If141 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 be341 physiognomically a10 Sphinx102 , to261 the19 phrenologist17 his433 brain158 seems19 that14 geometrical102 circle282 which16 it162 is487 impossible305 to261 square302 . In107 the19 full414 -grown299 creature82 the19 skull9 will584 measure520 at65 least453 twenty433 feet349 in107 length202 . Unhinge81 the19 lower47 jaw213 , and236 the19 side246 view370 of89 this256 skull9 is487 as113 the19 side246 view370 of89 a10 moderately70 inclined76 plane451 resting455 throughout159 on392 a10 level378 base258 . But330 in107 life71 --as113 we465 have254 elsewhere154 seen154 --this256 inclined76 plane451 is487 angularly141 filled232 up405 , and236 almost518 squared141 by406 the19 enormous327 superincumbent210 mass36 of89 the19 junk92 and236 sperm26 . At65 the19 high361 end149 the19 skull9 forms48 a10 crater369 to261 bed273 that14 part207 of89 the19 mass36 ; while55 under533 the19 long544 floor418 of89 this256 crater369 --in107 another269 cavity4 seldom140 exceeding320 ten198 inches301 in107 length202 and236 as113 many282 in107 depth474 reposes23 the19 mere393 handful330 of89 this256 monster480 's483 brain158 . The19 brain158 is487 at65 least453 twenty433 feet349 from316 his433 apparent203 forehead380 in107 life71 ; it162 is487 hidden78 away443 behind80 its234 vast43 outworks13 , like410 the19 innermost27 citadel23 within503 the19 amplified354 fortifications82 of89 Quebec361 . So281 like410 a10 choice340 casket167 is487 it162 secreted323 in107 him248 , that14 I482 have254 known86 some265 whalemen451 who319 peremptorily235 deny346 that14 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 has399 any501 other282 brain158 than77 that14 palpable255 semblance490 of89 one470 formed294 by406 the19 cubic386 -yards386 of89 his433 sperm26 magazine388 . Lying204 in107 strange440 folds367 , courses139 , and236 convolutions83 , to261 their219 apprehensions361 , it162 seems19 more348 in107 keeping482 with449 the19 idea250 of89 his433 general37 might496 to261 regard448 that14 mystic455 part207 of89 him248 as113 the19 seat88 of89 his433 intelligence30 . It162 is487 plain28 , then45 , that14 phrenologically282 the19 head219 of89 this256 Leviathan384 , in107 the19 creature82 's96 living117 intact86 state135 , is487 an138 entire230 delusion12 . As113 for190 his433 true483 brain158 , you227 can450 then45 see370 no235 indications180 of89 it162 , nor137 feel461 any501 . The19 whale422 , like410 all145 things4 that14 are314 mighty2 , wears270 a10 false490 brow474 to261 the19 common304 world126 . If141 you227 unload135 his433 skull9 of89 its234 spermy heaps86 and236 then45 take279 a10 rear252 view370 of89 its234 rear252 end149 , which16 is487 the19 high361 end149 , you227 will584 be341 struck441 by406 its234 resemblance128 to261 the19 human43 skull9 , beheld132 in107 the19 same541 situation331 , and236 from316 the19 same541 point438 of89 view370 . Indeed522 , place107 this256 reversed227 skull9 (scaled83 down133 to261 the19 human43 magnitude203 ) among483 a10 plate396 of89 men62 's483 skulls136 , and236 you227 would282 involuntarily124 confound224 it162 with449 them146 ; and236 remarking345 the19 depressions232 on392 one470 part207 of89 its234 summit347 , in107 phrenological259 phrase22 you227 would282 say306 --This256 man17 had364 no235 self442 -esteem304 , and236 no235 veneration107 . And236 by406 those427 negations15 , considered484 along423 with449 the19 affirmative206 fact12 of89 his433 prodigious223 bulk181 and236 power145 , you227 can450 best315 form238 to261 yourself176 the19 truest481 , though400 not518 the19 most216 exhilarating310 conception150 of89 what243 the19 most216 exalted13 potency26 is487 . But330 if141 from316 the19 comparative87 dimensions400 of89 the19 whale422 's483 proper249 brain158 , you227 deem126 it162 incapable181 of89 being264 adequately367 charted135 , then45 I482 have254 another269 idea250 for190 you227 . If141 you227 attentively102 regard448 almost518 any501 quadruped398 's483 spine236 , you227 will584 be341 struck441 with449 the19 resemblance128 of89 its234 vertebrae258 to261 a10 strung20 necklace327 of89 dwarfed211 skulls136 , all145 bearing354 rudimental111 resemblance128 to261 the19 skull9 proper249 . It162 is487 a10 German264 conceit58 , that14 the19 vertebrae258 are314 absolutely518 undeveloped322 skulls136 . But330 the19 curious264 external386 resemblance128 , I482 take279 it162 the19 Germans190 were324 not518 the19 first13 men62 to261 perceive131 . A10 foreign198 friend179 once248 pointed413 it162 out66 to261 me2 , in107 the19 skeleton231 of89 a10 foe479 he362 had364 slain268 , and236 with449 the19 vertebrae258 of89 which16 he362 was454 inlaying327 , in107 a10 sort42 of89 basso-relieve83 , the19 beaked290 prow451 of89 his433 canoe290 . Now20 , I482 consider259 that14 the19 phrenologists160 have254 omitted117 an138 important104 thing309 in107 not518 pushing39 their219 investigations29 from316 the19 cerebellum336 through295 the19 spinal7 canal29 . For190 I482 believe191 that14 much61 of89 a10 man17 's415 character239 will584 be341 found260 betokened205 in107 his433 backbone25 . I482 would282 rather178 feel461 your162 spine236 than77 your162 skull9 , whoever23 you227 are314 . A10 thin445 joist279 of89 a10 spine236 never206 yet443 upheld301 a10 full414 and236 noble226 soul428 . I482 rejoice375 in107 my36 spine236 , as113 in107 the19 firm415 audacious142 staff391 of89 that14 flag270 which16 I482 fling335 half119 out66 to261 the19 world126 . Apply555 this256 spinal7 branch384 of89 phrenology306 to261 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 . His433 cranial25 cavity4 is487 continuous447 with449 the19 first13 neck239 -vertebra55 ; and236 in107 that14 vertebra55 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 spinal7 canal29 will584 measure520 ten198 inches301 across129 , being264 eight316 in107 height20 , and236 of89 a10 triangular498 figure55 with449 the19 base258 downwards468 . As113 it162 passes350 through295 the19 remaining64 vertebrae258 the19 canal29 tapers362 in107 size503 , but330 for190 a10 considerable75 distance264 remains324 of89 large385 capacity23 . Now20 , of89 course171 , this256 canal29 is487 filled232 with449 much61 the19 same541 strangely155 fibrous212 substance316 --the19 spinal7 cord96 --as113 the19 brain158 ; and236 directly58 communicates389 with449 the19 brain158 . And236 what243 is487 still278 more348 , for190 many282 feet349 after358 emerging350 from316 the19 brain158 's483 cavity4 , the19 spinal7 cord96 remains324 of89 an138 undecreasing girth106 , almost518 equal261 to261 that14 of89 the19 brain158 . Under533 all145 these527 circumstances267 , would282 it162 be341 unreasonable70 to261 survey192 and236 map38 out66 the19 whale422 's483 spine236 phrenologically282 ? For190 , viewed41 in107 this256 light382 , the19 wonderful291 comparative87 smallness362 of89 his433 brain158 proper249 is487 more348 than77 compensated399 by406 the19 wonderful291 comparative87 magnitude203 of89 his433 spinal7 cord96 . But330 leaving231 this256 hint335 to261 operate518 as113 it162 may236 with449 the19 phrenologists160 , I482 would282 merely57 assume191 the19 spinal7 theory60 for190 a10 moment258 , in107 reference116 to261 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 hump20 . This256 august29 hump20 , if141 I482 mistake471 not518 , rises215 over82 one470 of89 the19 larger50 vertebrae258 , and236 is487 , therefore94 , in107 some265 sort42 , the19 outer359 convex111 mould208 of89 it162 . From316 its234 relative310 situation331 then45 , I482 should255 call259 this256 high361 hump20 the19 organ336 of89 firmness386 or519 indomitableness25 in107 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 . And236 that14 the19 great259 monster480 is487 indomitable129 , you227 will584 yet443 have254 reason238 to261 know60 . CHAPTER293 81125 The19 Pequod288 Meets518 The19 Virgin317 The19 predestinated332 day112 arrived553 , and236 we465 duly163 met130 the19 ship438 Jungfrau102 , Derick De404 Deer465 , master131 , of89 Bremen83 . At65 one470 time577 the19 greatest479 whaling155 people482 in107 the19 world126 , the19 Dutch325 and236 Germans190 are314 now20 among483 the19 least453 ; but330 here135 and236 there340 at65 very515 wide465 intervals295 of89 latitude258 and236 longitude239 , you227 still278 occasionally509 meet16 with449 their219 flag270 in107 the19 Pacific294 . For190 some265 reason238 , the19 Jungfrau102 seemed132 quite327 eager516 to261 pay496 her400 respects403 . While55 yet443 some265 distance264 from316 the19 Pequod288 , she391 rounded23 to261 , and236 dropping279 a10 boat439 , her400 captain295 was454 impelled104 towards417 us569 , impatiently374 standing144 in107 the19 bows460 instead398 of89 the19 stern442 . "What243 has399 he362 in107 his433 hand252 there340 ?" cried506 Starbuck, pointing295 to261 something181 wavingly held212 by406 the19 German264 . "Impossible305 !--a10 lamp330 -feeder!" "Not518 that14 ," said252 Stubb, "no235 , no235 , it162 's483 a10 coffee331 -pot209 , Mr219 . Starbuck; he362 's483 coming140 off111 to261 make175 us569 our234 coffee331 , is487 the19 Yarman; don280 't500 you227 see370 that14 big245 tin254 can450 there340 alongside540 of89 him248 ?--that14 's76 his433 boiling99 water520 . Oh367 ! he362 's483 all145 right499 , is487 the19 Yarman." "Go20 along423 with449 you227 ," cried506 Flask199 , "it162 's483 a10 lamp330 -feeder and236 an138 oil118 -can450 . He362 's483 out66 of89 oil118 , and236 has399 come420 a10 -begging104 ." However44 curious264 it162 may236 seem404 for190 an138 oil118 -ship438 to261 be341 borrowing197 oil118 on392 the19 whale422 -ground127 , and236 however44 much61 it162 may236 invertedly10 contradict442 the19 old447 proverb204 about123 carrying103 coals163 to261 Newcastle359 , yet443 sometimes77 such420 a10 thing309 really406 happens143 ; and236 in107 the19 present112 case346 Captain295 Derick De404 Deer465 did444 indubitably198 conduct161 a10 lamp330 -feeder as113 Flask199 did444 declare167 . As113 he362 mounted191 the19 deck505 , Ahab232 abruptly506 accosted137 him248 , without309 at65 all145 heeding18 what243 he362 had364 in107 his433 hand252 ; but330 in107 his433 broken255 lingo320 , the19 German264 soon18 evinced94 his433 complete191 ignorance211 of89 the19 White82 Whale422 ; immediately172 turning69 the19 conversation222 to261 his433 lamp330 -feeder and236 oil118 can450 , with449 some265 remarks512 touching80 his433 having69 to261 turn17 into554 his433 hammock323 at65 night108 in107 profound371 darkness493 --his433 last436 drop22 of89 Bremen83 oil118 being264 gone190 , and236 not518 a10 single77 flying354 -fish187 yet443 captured126 to261 supply283 the19 deficiency185 ; concluding84 by406 hinting73 that14 his433 ship438 was454 indeed522 what243 in107 the19 Fishery136 is487 technically247 called237 a10 clean26 one470 (that14 is487 , an138 empty450 one470 ), well263 deserving127 the19 name477 of89 Jungfrau102 or519 the19 Virgin317 . His433 necessities43 supplied338 , Derick departed467 ; but330 he362 had364 not518 gained290 his433 ship438 's483 side246 , when189 whales331 were324 almost518 simultaneously558 raised493 from316 the19 mast44 -heads279 of89 both558 vessels150 ; and236 so281 eager516 for190 the19 chase89 was454 Derick, that14 without309 pausing19 to261 put190 his433 oil118 -can450 and236 lamp330 -feeder aboard298 , he362 slewed6 round287 his433 boat439 and236 made563 after358 the19 leviathan384 lamp330 -feeders. Now20 , the19 game233 having69 risen280 to261 leeward265 , he362 and236 the19 other282 three329 German264 boats83 that14 soon18 followed234 him248 , had364 considerably110 the19 start117 of89 the19 Pequod288 's483 keels394 . There340 were324 eight316 whales331 , an138 average147 pod25 . Aware174 of89 their219 danger383 , they382 were324 going227 all145 abreast127 with449 great259 speed468 straight346 before344 the19 wind262 , rubbing120 their219 flanks46 as113 closely218 as113 so281 many282 spans424 of89 horses189 in107 harness241 . They382 left159 a10 great259 , wide465 wake205 , as113 though400 continually303 unrolling202 a10 great259 wide465 parchment127 upon419 the19 sea67 . Full414 in107 this256 rapid321 wake205 , and236 many282 fathoms375 in107 the19 rear252 , swam111 a10 huge132 , humped25 old447 bull76 , which16 by406 his433 comparatively203 slow96 progress538 , as113 well263 as113 by406 the19 unusual322 yellowish203 incrustations217 over82 -growing66 him248 , seemed132 afflicted83 with449 the19 jaundice236 , or519 some265 other282 infirmity108 . Whether454 this256 whale422 belonged455 to261 the19 pod25 in107 advance70 , seemed132 questionable152 ; for190 it162 is487 not518 customary79 for190 such420 venerable57 leviathans336 to261 be341 at65 all145 social149 . Nevertheless104 , he362 stuck120 to261 their219 wake205 , though400 indeed522 their219 back457 water520 must226 have254 retarded211 him248 , because540 the19 white82 -bone184 or519 swell280 at65 his433 broad267 muzzle246 was454 a10 dashed304 one470 , like410 the19 swell280 formed294 when189 two527 hostile224 currents218 meet16 . His433 spout224 was454 short522 , slow96 , and236 laborious17 ; coming140 forth152 with449 a10 choking243 sort42 of89 gush203 , and236 spending348 itself312 in107 torn237 shreds249 , followed234 by406 strange440 subterranean105 commotions364 in107 him248 , which16 seemed132 to261 have254 egress213 at65 his433 other282 buried205 extremity410 , causing258 the19 waters556 behind80 him248 to261 upbubble. "Who319 's483 got286 some265 paregoric4 ?" said252 Stubb, "he362 has399 the19 stomach274 -ache377 , I482 'm250 afraid248 . Lord106 , think424 of89 having69 half119 an138 acre279 of89 stomach274 -ache377 ! Adverse67 winds399 are314 holding311 mad235 Christmas206 in107 him248 , boys22 . It162 's483 the19 first13 foul528 wind262 I482 ever208 knew480 to261 blow230 from316 astern39 ; but330 look523 , did444 ever208 whale422 yaw471 so281 before344 ? it162 must226 be341 , he362 's483 lost308 his433 tiller445 ." As113 an138 overladen295 Indiaman438 bearing354 down133 the19 Hindostan16 coast287 with449 a10 deck505 load310 of89 frightened172 horses189 , careens, buries417 , rolls475 , and236 wallows318 on392 her400 way435 ; so281 did444 this256 old447 whale422 heave308 his433 aged361 bulk181 , and236 now20 and236 then45 partly311 turning69 over82 on392 his433 cumbrous140 rib84 -ends301 , expose58 the19 cause220 of89 his433 devious350 wake205 in107 the19 unnatural111 stump277 of89 his433 starboard309 fin286 . Whether454 he362 had364 lost308 that14 fin286 in107 battle105 , or519 had364 been185 born236 without309 it162 , it162 were324 hard337 to261 say306 . "Only517 wait315 a10 bit72 , old447 chap287 , and236 I482 'll300 give142 ye483 a10 sling448 for190 that14 wounded396 arm25 ," cried506 cruel529 Flask199 , pointing295 to261 the19 whale422 -line25 near70 him248 . "Mind118 he362 don280 't500 sling448 thee15 with449 it162 ," cried506 Starbuck. "Give142 way435 , or519 the19 German264 will584 have254 him248 ." With449 one470 intent359 all145 the19 combined265 rival315 boats83 were324 pointed413 for190 this256 one470 fish187 , because540 not518 only517 was454 he362 the19 largest139 , and236 therefore94 the19 most216 valuable72 whale422 , but330 he362 was454 nearest26 to261 them146 , and236 the19 other282 whales331 were324 going227 with449 such420 great259 velocity397 , moreover326 , as113 almost518 to261 defy214 pursuit305 for190 the19 time577 . At65 this256 juncture53 , the19 Pequod288 's483 keels394 had364 shot443 by406 the19 three329 German264 boats83 last436 lowered279 ; but330 from316 the19 great259 start117 he362 had364 had364 , Derick's483 boat439 still278 led46 the19 chase89 , though400 every389 moment258 neared61 by406 his433 foreign198 rivals501 . The19 only517 thing309 they382 feared39 , was454 , that14 from316 being264 already93 so281 nigh254 to261 his433 mark169 , he362 would282 be341 enabled54 to261 dart293 his433 iron169 before344 they382 could375 completely385 overtake410 and236 pass153 him248 . As113 for190 Derick, he362 seemed132 quite327 confident122 that14 this256 would282 be341 the19 case346 , and236 occasionally509 with449 a10 deriding255 gesture323 shook161 his433 lamp330 -feeder at65 the19 other282 boats83 . "The19 ungracious336 and236 ungrateful389 dog322 !" cried506 Starbuck; "he362 mocks256 and236 dares138 me2 with449 the19 very515 poor533 -box256 I482 filled232 for190 him248 not518 five103 minutes368 ago141 !"-- Then45 in107 his433 old447 intense89 whisper315 --"give142 way435 , greyhounds212 ! Dog322 to261 it162 !" "I482 tell392 ye483 what243 it162 is487 , men62 "--cried506 Stubb to261 his433 crew126 --It162 's483 against417 my36 religion354 to261 get126 mad235 ; but330 I482 'd67 like410 to261 eat286 that14 villainous124 Yarman--Pull35 -- won't500 ye483 ? Are314 ye483 going227 to261 let66 that14 rascal231 beat449 ye483 ? Do353 ye483 love391 brandy39 ? A10 hogshead519 of89 brandy39 , then45 , to261 the19 best315 man17 . Come420 , why177 don280 't500 some265 of89 ye483 burst174 a10 blood208 -vessel155 ? Who319 's483 that14 been185 dropping279 an138 anchor141 overboard247 -- we465 don280 't500 budge278 an138 inch65 --we465 're155 becalmed443 . Halloo4 , here135 's483 grass418 growing66 in107 the19 boat439 's483 bottom461 --and236 by406 the19 Lord106 , the19 mast44 there340 's483 budding362 . This256 won't500 do353 , boys22 . Look523 at65 that14 Yarman! The19 short522 and236 long544 of89 it162 is487 , men62 , will584 ye483 spit265 fire559 or519 not518 ?" "Oh367 ! see370 the19 suds367 he362 makes32 !" cried506 Flask199 , dancing192 up405 and236 down133 --"What243 a10 hump20 --Oh367 , do353 pile312 on392 the19 beef303 --lays361 like410 a10 log127 ! Oh367 ! my36 lads252 , do353 spring148 --slap332 -jacks484 and236 quahogs for190 supper4 , you227 know60 , my36 lads252 -- baked115 clams263 and236 muffins122 --oh367 , do353 , do353 , spring148 ,--he362 's483 a10 hundred93 barreler-- don280 't500 lose247 him248 now20 --don280 't500 oh367 , don280 't500 !--see370 that14 Yarman--Oh367 , won't500 ye483 pull35 for190 your162 duff211 , my36 lads252 --such420 a10 sog102 ! such420 a10 sogger! Don280 't500 ye483 love391 sperm26 ? There340 goes205 three329 thousand586 dollars201 , men62 !--a10 bank455 !--a10 whole199 bank455 ! The19 bank455 of89 England348 !--Oh367 , do353 , do353 , do353 !--What243 's483 that14 Yarman about123 now20 ?" At65 this256 moment258 Derick was454 in107 the19 act10 of89 pitching143 his433 lamp330 -feeder at65 the19 advancing444 boats83 , and236 also119 his433 oil118 -can450 ; perhaps75 with449 the19 double20 view370 of89 retarding53 his433 rivals501 ' way435 , and236 at65 the19 same541 time577 economically127 accelerating357 his433 own248 by406 the19 momentary102 impetus202 of89 the19 backward19 toss237 . "The19 unmannerly504 Dutch325 dogger4 !" cried506 Stubb. "Pull35 now20 , men62 , like410 fifty406 thousand586 line25 -of89 -battle105 -ship438 loads475 of89 red293 -haired57 devils377 . What243 d67 'ye163 say306 , Tashtego; are314 you227 the19 man17 to261 snap110 your162 spine236 in107 two527 -and236 -twenty433 pieces283 for190 the19 honor497 of89 old447 Gayhead? What243 d67 'ye163 say306 ?" "I482 say306 , pull35 like410 god185 -dam434 ,"--cried506 the19 Indian303 . Fiercely111 , but330 evenly305 incited25 by406 the19 taunts267 of89 the19 German264 , the19 Pequod288 's483 three329 boats83 now20 began132 ranging261 almost518 abreast127 ; and236 , so281 disposed154 , momentarily41 neared61 him248 . In107 that14 fine333 , loose159 , chivalrous40 attitude100 of89 the19 headsman143 when189 drawing407 near70 to261 his433 prey347 , the19 three329 mates264 stood1 up405 proudly345 , occasionally509 backing223 the19 after358 oarsman60 with449 an138 exhilarating310 cry561 of89 , "There340 she391 slides270 , now20 ! Hurrah277 for190 the19 white82 -ash481 breeze227 ! Down133 with449 the19 Yarman! Sail218 over82 him248 !" But330 so281 decided74 an138 original463 start117 had364 Derick had364 , that14 spite431 of89 all145 their219 gallantry57 , he362 would282 have254 proved312 the19 victor310 in107 this256 race392 , had364 not518 a10 righteous530 judgment83 descended99 upon419 him248 in107 a10 crab206 which16 caught105 the19 blade83 of89 his433 midship265 oarsman60 . While55 this256 clumsy394 lubber191 was454 striving388 to261 free483 his433 white82 -ash481 , and236 while55 , in107 consequence111 , Derick's483 boat439 was454 nigh254 to261 capsizing135 , and236 he362 thundering136 away443 at65 his433 men62 in107 a10 mighty2 rage293 ;--that14 was454 a10 good221 time577 for190 Starbuck, Stubb, and236 Flask199 . With449 a10 shout299 , they382 took68 a10 mortal371 start117 forwards528 , and236 slantingly68 ranged435 up405 on392 the19 German264 's483 quarter6 . An138 instant279 more348 , and236 all145 four175 boats83 were324 diagonically in107 the19 whale422 's483 immediate388 wake205 , while55 stretching413 from316 them146 , on392 both558 sides331 , was454 the19 foaming193 swell280 that14 he362 made563 . It162 was454 a10 terrific315 , most216 pitiable83 , and236 maddening359 sight365 . The19 whale422 was454 now20 going227 head219 out66 , and236 sending1 his433 spout224 before344 him248 in107 a10 continual222 tormented256 jet423 ; while55 his433 one470 poor533 fin286 beat449 his433 side246 in107 an138 agony242 of89 fright18 . Now20 to261 this256 hand252 , now20 to261 that14 , he362 yawed2 in107 his433 faltering369 flight306 , and236 still278 at65 every389 billow510 that14 he362 broke356 , he362 spasmodically203 sank310 in107 the19 sea67 , or519 sideways496 rolled226 towards417 the19 sky331 his433 one470 beating124 fin286 . So281 have254 I482 seen154 a10 bird443 with449 clipped151 wing101 , making415 affrighted35 broken255 circles3 in107 the19 air209 , vainly116 striving388 to261 escape565 the19 piratical403 hawks53 . But330 the19 bird443 has399 a10 voice233 , and236 with449 plaintive101 cries104 will584 make175 known86 her400 fear103 ; but330 the19 fear103 of89 this256 vast43 dumb371 brute73 of89 the19 sea67 , was454 chained492 up405 and236 enchanted229 in107 him248 ; he362 had364 no235 voice233 , save556 that14 choking243 respiration113 through295 his433 spiracle4 , and236 this256 made563 the19 sight365 of89 him248 unspeakably102 pitiable83 ; while55 still278 , in107 his433 amazing306 bulk181 , portcullis63 jaw213 , and236 omnipotent448 tail102 , there340 was454 enough217 to261 appal180 the19 stoutest480 man17 who319 so281 pitied340 . Seeing426 now20 that14 but330 a10 very515 few49 moments434 more348 would282 give142 the19 Pequod288 's483 boats83 the19 advantage169 , and236 rather178 than77 be341 thus362 foiled399 of89 his433 game233 , Derick chose155 to261 hazard202 what243 to261 him248 must226 have254 seemed132 a10 most216 unusually35 long544 dart293 , ere83 the19 last436 chance292 would282 for190 ever208 escape565 . But330 no235 sooner338 did444 his433 harpooneer stand530 up405 for190 the19 stroke436 , than77 all145 three329 tigers20 --Queequeg, Tashtego, Daggoo--instinctively210 sprang253 to261 their219 feet349 , and236 standing144 in107 a10 diagonal20 row328 , simultaneously558 pointed413 their219 barbs226 ; and236 darted362 over82 the19 head219 of89 the19 German264 harpooneer, their219 three329 Nantucket283 irons363 entered447 the19 whale422 . Blinding298 vapors99 of89 foam160 and236 white82 -fire559 ! The19 three329 boats83 , in107 the19 first13 fury30 of89 the19 whale422 's483 headlong4 rush6 , bumped151 the19 German264 's483 aside408 with449 such420 force406 , that14 both558 Derick and236 his433 baffled181 harpooneer were324 spilled434 out66 , and236 sailed248 over82 by406 the19 three329 flying354 keels394 . "Don280 't500 be341 afraid248 , my36 butter536 -boxes381 ," cried506 Stubb, casting19 a10 passing147 glance362 upon419 them146 as113 he362 shot443 by406 ; "ye483 'll300 be341 picked129 up405 presently166 -- all145 right499 --I482 saw113 some265 sharks206 astern39 --St193 . Bernard359 's483 dogs393 , you227 know60 -- relieve83 distressed40 travellers491 . Hurrah277 ! this256 is487 the19 way435 to261 sail218 now20 . Every389 keel39 a10 sunbeam99 ! Hurrah277 !--Here135 we465 go20 like410 three329 tin254 kettles172 at65 the19 tail102 of89 a10 mad235 cougar4 ! This256 puts146 me2 in107 mind118 of89 fastening180 to261 an138 elephant72 in107 a10 tilbury266 on392 a10 plain28 -- makes32 the19 wheelspokes26 fly324 , boys22 , when189 you227 fasten476 to261 him248 that14 way435 ; and236 there340 's483 danger383 of89 being264 pitched101 out66 too11 , when189 you227 strike374 a10 hill219 . Hurrah277 ! this256 is487 the19 way435 a10 fellow369 feels450 when189 he362 's483 going227 to261 Davy136 Jones573 --all145 a10 rush6 down133 an138 endless489 inclined76 plane451 ! Hurrah277 ! this256 whale422 carries440 the19 everlasting249 mail382 !" But330 the19 monster480 's483 run172 was454 a10 brief59 one470 . Giving207 a10 sudden309 gasp310 , he362 tumultuously127 sounded163 . With449 a10 grating451 rush6 , the19 three329 lines241 flew424 round287 the19 loggerheads301 with449 such420 a10 force406 as113 to261 gouge247 deep483 grooves189 in107 them146 ; while55 so281 fearful183 were324 the19 harpooneers that14 this256 rapid321 sounding331 would282 soon18 exhaust202 the19 lines241 , that14 using14 all145 their219 dexterous25 might496 , they382 caught105 repeated381 smoking470 turns136 with449 the19 rope265 to261 hold204 on392 ; till181 at65 last436 --owing98 to261 the19 perpendicular83 strain468 from316 the19 lead362 -lined88 chocks39 of89 the19 boats83 , whence494 the19 three329 ropes461 went516 straight346 down133 into554 the19 blue240 --the19 gunwales42 of89 the19 bows460 were324 almost518 even198 with449 the19 water520 , while55 the19 three329 sterns98 tilted41 high361 in107 the19 air209 . And236 the19 whale422 soon18 ceasing389 to261 sound181 , for190 some265 time577 they382 remained72 in107 that14 attitude100 , fearful183 of89 expending237 more348 line25 , though400 the19 position383 was454 a10 little554 ticklish57 . But330 though400 boats83 have254 been185 taken222 down133 and236 lost308 in107 this256 way435 , yet443 it162 is487 this256 "holding311 on392 ," as113 it162 is487 called237 ; this256 hooking26 up405 by406 the19 sharp427 barbs226 of89 his433 live554 flesh331 from316 the19 back457 ; this256 it162 is487 that14 often227 torments427 the19 Leviathan384 into554 soon18 rising464 again52 to261 meet16 the19 sharp427 lance76 of89 his433 foes247 . Yet443 not518 to261 speak337 of89 the19 peril565 of89 the19 thing309 , it162 is487 to261 be341 doubted279 whether454 this256 course171 is487 always367 the19 best315 ; for190 it162 is487 but330 reasonable88 to261 presume212 , that14 the19 longer559 the19 stricken328 whale422 stays324 under533 water520 , the19 more348 he362 is487 exhausted552 . Because540 , owing98 to261 the19 enormous327 surface328 of89 him248 -- in107 a10 full414 grown299 sperm26 whale422 something181 less261 than77 2000517 square302 feet349 -- the19 pressure102 of89 the19 water520 is487 immense301 . We465 all145 know60 what243 an138 astonishing80 atmospheric83 weight213 we465 ourselves15 stand530 up405 under533 ; even198 here135 , above502 -ground127 , in107 the19 air209 ; how19 vast43 , then45 , the19 burden382 of89 a10 whale422 , bearing354 on392 his433 back457 a10 column265 of89 two527 hundred93 fathoms375 of89 ocean224 ! It162 must226 at65 least453 equal261 the19 weight213 of89 fifty406 atmospheres335 . One470 whaleman98 has399 estimated5 it162 at65 the19 weight213 of89 twenty433 line25 -of89 -battle105 ships21 , with449 all145 their219 guns225 , and236 stores292 , and236 men62 on392 board540 . As113 the19 three329 boats83 lay62 there340 on392 that14 gently284 rolling253 sea67 , gazing117 down133 into554 its234 eternal155 blue240 noon445 ; and236 as113 not518 a10 single77 groan45 or519 cry561 of89 any501 sort42 , nay358 , not518 so281 much61 as113 a10 ripple85 or519 a10 bubble81 came549 up405 from316 its234 depths416 ; what243 landsman331 would282 have254 thought186 , that14 beneath320 all145 that14 silence309 and236 placidity204 , the19 utmost43 monster480 of89 the19 seas350 was454 writhing12 and236 wrenching361 in107 agony242 ! Not518 eight316 inches301 of89 perpendicular83 rope265 were324 visible94 at65 the19 bows460 . Seems19 it162 credible444 that14 by406 three329 such420 thin445 threads19 the19 great259 Leviathan384 was454 suspended245 like410 the19 big245 weight213 to261 an138 eight316 day112 clock489 . Suspended245 ? and236 to261 what243 ? To261 three329 bits256 of89 board540 . Is487 this256 the19 creature82 of89 whom324 it162 was454 once248 so281 triumphantly388 said252 --"Canst502 thou173 fill380 his433 skin428 with449 barbed27 irons363 ? or519 his433 head219 with449 fish187 -spears450 ? The19 sword273 of89 him248 that14 layeth141 at65 him248 cannot hold204 , the19 spear188 , the19 dart293 , nor137 the19 habergeon324 : he362 esteemeth220 iron169 as113 straw152 ; the19 arrow44 cannot make175 him248 flee440 ; darts337 are314 counted81 as113 stubble253 ; he362 laugheth454 at65 the19 shaking206 of89 a10 spear188 !" This256 the19 creature82 ? this256 he362 ? Oh367 ! that14 unfulfilments should255 follow408 the19 prophets8 . For190 with449 the19 strength168 of89 a10 thousand586 thighs84 in107 his433 tail102 , Leviathan384 had364 run172 his433 head219 under533 the19 mountains202 of89 the19 sea67 , to261 hide266 him248 from316 the19 Pequod288 's483 fishspears! In107 that14 sloping135 afternoon128 sunlight333 , the19 shadows480 that14 the19 three329 boats83 sent411 down133 beneath320 the19 surface328 , must226 have254 been185 long544 enough217 and236 broad267 enough217 to261 shade116 half119 Xerxes158 ' army32 . Who319 can450 tell392 how19 appalling282 to261 the19 wounded396 whale422 must226 have254 been185 such420 huge132 phantoms13 flitting411 over82 his433 head219 ! "Stand530 by406 , men62 ; he362 stirs161 ," cried506 Starbuck, as113 the19 three329 lines241 suddenly193 vibrated376 in107 the19 water520 , distinctly26 conducting259 upwards110 to261 them146 , as113 by406 magnetic181 wires26 , the19 life71 and236 death543 throbs497 of89 the19 whale422 , so281 that14 every389 oarsman60 felt440 them146 in107 his433 seat88 . The19 next27 moment258 , relieved158 in107 a10 great259 part207 from316 the19 downward157 strain468 at65 the19 bows460 , the19 boats83 gave572 a10 sudden309 bounce571 upwards110 , as113 a10 small350 icefield will584 , when189 a10 dense481 herd69 of89 white82 bears97 are314 scared92 from316 it162 into554 the19 sea67 . "Haul19 in107 ! Haul19 in107 !" cried506 Starbuck again52 ; "he362 's483 rising464 ." The19 lines241 , of89 which16 , hardly182 an138 instant279 before344 , not518 one470 hand252 's483 breadth252 could375 have254 been185 gained290 , were324 now20 in107 long544 quick241 coils259 flung255 back457 all145 dripping92 into554 the19 boats83 , and236 soon18 the19 whale422 broke356 water520 within503 two527 ship438 's483 length202 of89 the19 hunters423 . His433 motions62 plainly450 denoted86 his433 extreme31 exhaustion430 . In107 most216 land406 animals440 there340 are314 certain31 valves433 or519 flood167 -gates253 in107 many282 of89 their219 veins395 , whereby358 when189 wounded396 , the19 blood208 is487 in107 some265 degree209 at65 least453 instantly186 shut59 off111 in107 certain31 directions124 . Not518 so281 with449 the19 whale422 ; one470 of89 whose286 peculiarities38 it162 is487 , to261 have254 an138 entire230 non438 -valvular structure235 of89 the19 blood208 -vessels467 , so281 that14 when189 pierced197 even198 by406 so281 small350 a10 point438 as113 a10 harpoon67 , a10 deadly49 drain4 is487 at65 once248 begun243 upon419 his433 whole199 arterial189 system480 ; and236 when189 this256 is487 heightened53 by406 the19 extraordinary346 pressure102 of89 water520 at65 a10 great259 distance264 below397 the19 surface328 , his433 life71 may236 be341 said252 to261 pour415 from316 him248 in107 incessant91 streams15 . Yet443 so281 vast43 is487 the19 quantity316 of89 blood208 in107 him248 , and236 so281 distant353 and236 numerous558 its234 interior163 fountains170 , that14 he362 will584 keep381 thus362 bleeding230 and236 bleeding230 for190 a10 considerable75 period196 ; even198 as113 in107 a10 drought36 a10 river201 will584 flow44 , whose286 source254 is487 in107 the19 well263 -springs83 of89 far258 -off111 and236 indiscernible507 hills352 . Even198 now20 , when189 the19 boats83 pulled213 upon419 this256 whale422 , and236 perilously426 drew175 over82 his433 swaying315 flukes155 , and236 the19 lances8 were324 darted362 into554 him248 , they382 were324 followed234 by406 steady21 jets6 from316 the19 new36 made563 wound342 , which16 kept290 continually303 playing471 , while55 the19 natural298 spout224 -hole73 in107 his433 head219 was454 only517 at65 intervals295 , however44 rapid321 , sending1 its234 affrighted35 moisture116 into554 the19 air209 . From316 this256 last436 vent363 no235 blood208 yet443 came549 , because540 no235 vital204 part207 of89 him248 had364 thus362 far258 been185 struck441 . His433 life71 , as113 they382 significantly23 call259 it162 , was454 untouched151 . As113 the19 boats83 now20 more348 closely218 surrounded75 him248 , the19 whole199 upper403 part207 of89 his433 form238 , with449 much61 of89 it162 that14 is487 ordinarily250 submerged402 , was454 plainly450 revealed530 . His433 eyes125 , or519 rather178 the19 places423 where579 his433 eyes125 had364 been185 , were324 beheld132 . As113 strange440 misgrown masses361 gather311 in107 the19 knot403 -holes248 of89 the19 noblest140 oaks481 when189 prostrate251 , so281 from316 the19 points245 which16 the19 whale422 's483 eyes125 had364 once248 occupied262 , now20 protruded282 blind375 bulbs290 , horribly375 pitiable83 to261 see370 . But330 pity270 there340 was454 none365 . For190 all145 his433 old447 age157 , and236 his433 one470 arm25 , and236 his433 blind375 eyes125 , he362 must226 die229 the19 death543 and236 be341 murdered273 , in107 order343 to261 light382 the19 gay323 bridals174 and236 other282 merry486 -makings of89 men62 , and236 also119 to261 illuminate243 the19 solemn303 churches44 that14 preach18 unconditional25 inoffensiveness53 by406 all145 to261 all145 . Still278 rolling253 in107 his433 blood208 , at65 last436 he362 partially263 disclosed446 a10 strangely155 discolored426 bunch100 or519 protuberance105 , the19 size503 of89 a10 bushel10 , low407 down133 on392 the19 flank434 . "A10 nice2 spot46 ," cried506 Flask199 ; "just108 let66 me2 prick189 him248 there340 once248 ." "Avast279 !" cried506 Starbuck, "there340 's483 no235 need32 of89 that14 !" But330 humane365 Starbuck was454 too11 late351 . At65 the19 instant279 of89 the19 dart293 an138 ulcerous186 jet423 shot443 from316 this256 cruel529 wound342 , and236 goaded221 by406 it162 into554 more348 than77 sufferable343 anguish75 , the19 whale422 now20 spouting81 thick502 blood208 , with449 swift376 fury30 blindly219 darted362 at65 the19 craft187 , bespattering127 them146 and236 their219 glorying181 crews559 all145 over82 with449 showers128 of89 gore551 , capsizing135 Flask199 's483 boat439 and236 marring212 the19 bows460 . It162 was454 his433 death543 stroke436 . For190 , by406 this256 time577 , so281 spent329 was454 he362 by406 loss223 of89 blood208 , that14 he362 helplessly100 rolled226 away443 from316 the19 wreck171 he362 had364 made563 ; lay62 panting553 on392 his433 side246 , impotently5 flapped155 with449 his433 stumped335 fin286 , then45 over82 and236 over82 slowly149 revolved75 like410 a10 waning442 world126 ; turned492 up405 the19 white82 secrets107 of89 his433 belly511 ; lay62 like410 a10 log127 , and236 died575 . It162 was454 most216 piteous219 , that14 last436 expiring399 spout224 . As113 when189 by406 unseen173 hands87 the19 water520 is487 gradually355 drawn564 off111 from316 some265 mighty2 fountain524 , and236 with449 half119 -stifled143 melancholy398 gurglings259 the19 spray76 -column265 lowers169 and236 lowers169 to261 the19 ground127 -- so281 the19 last436 long544 dying69 spout224 of89 the19 whale422 . Soon18 , while55 the19 crews559 were324 awaiting408 the19 arrival274 of89 the19 ship438 , the19 body348 showed507 symptoms128 of89 sinking60 with449 all145 its234 treasures202 unrifled125 . Immediately172 , by406 Starbuck's483 orders199 , lines241 were324 secured284 to261 it162 at65 different276 points245 , so281 that14 ere83 long544 every389 boat439 was454 a10 buoy84 ; the19 sunken83 whale422 being264 suspended245 a10 few49 inches301 beneath320 them146 by406 the19 cords388 . By406 very515 heedful133 management97 , when189 the19 ship438 drew175 nigh254 , the19 whale422 was454 transferred8 to261 her400 side246 , and236 was454 strongly168 secured284 there340 by406 the19 stiffest354 fluke415 -chains446 , for190 it162 was454 plain28 that14 unless54 artificially199 upheld301 , the19 body348 would282 at65 once248 sink190 to261 the19 bottom461 . It162 so281 chanced424 that14 almost518 upon419 first13 cutting454 into554 him248 with449 the19 spade19 , the19 entire230 length202 of89 a10 corroded348 harpoon67 was454 found260 imbedded160 in107 his433 flesh331 , on392 the19 lower47 part207 of89 the19 bunch100 before344 described483 . But330 as113 the19 stumps78 of89 harpoons6 are314 frequently475 found260 in107 the19 dead568 bodies392 of89 captured126 whales331 , with449 the19 flesh331 perfectly26 healed157 around66 them146 , and236 no235 prominence36 of89 any501 kind451 to261 denote493 their219 place107 ; therefore94 , there340 must226 needs41 have254 been185 some265 other282 unknown10 reason238 in107 the19 present112 case346 fully530 to261 account102 for190 the19 ulceration337 alluded231 to261 . But330 still278 more348 curious264 was454 the19 fact12 of89 a10 lance76 -head197 of89 stone398 being264 found260 in107 him248 , not518 far258 from316 the19 buried205 iron169 , the19 flesh331 perfectly26 firm415 about123 it162 . Who319 had364 darted362 that14 stone398 lance76 ? And236 when189 ? It162 might496 have254 been185 darted362 by406 some265 Nor137 ' West569 Indian303 long544 before344 America133 was454 discovered36 . What243 other282 marvels25 might496 have254 been185 rummaged522 out66 of89 this256 monstrous395 cabinet46 there340 is487 no235 telling196 . But330 a10 sudden309 stop48 was454 put190 to261 further53 discoveries5 , by406 the19 ship438 's483 being264 unprecedentedly354 dragged460 over82 sideways496 to261 the19 sea67 , owing98 to261 the19 body348 's483 immensely122 increasing329 tendency68 to261 sink190 . However44 , Starbuck, who319 had364 the19 ordering264 of89 affairs492 , hung479 on392 to261 it162 to261 the19 last436 ; hung479 on392 to261 it162 so281 resolutely255 , indeed522 , that14 when189 at65 length202 the19 ship438 would282 have254 been185 capsized42 , if141 still278 persisting301 in107 locking188 arms536 with449 the19 body348 ; then45 , when189 the19 command190 was454 given141 to261 break483 clear408 from316 it162 , such420 was454 the19 immovable214 strain468 upon419 the19 timber59 -heads366 to261 which16 the19 fluke415 -chains446 and236 cables25 were324 fastened426 , that14 it162 was454 impossible305 to261 cast99 them146 off111 . Meantime210 everything233 in107 the19 Pequod288 was454 aslant422 . To261 cross416 to261 the19 other282 side246 of89 the19 deck505 was454 like410 walking523 up405 the19 steep108 gabled319 roof259 of89 a10 house499 . The19 ship438 groaned233 and236 gasped552 . Many282 of89 the19 ivory76 inlayings10 of89 her400 bulwarks411 and236 cabins331 were324 started492 from316 their219 places423 , by406 the19 unnatural111 dislocation423 . In107 vain216 handspikes209 and236 crows140 were324 brought85 to261 bear48 upon419 the19 immovable214 fluke415 -chains446 , to261 pry505 them146 adrift350 from316 the19 timberheads; and236 so281 low407 had364 the19 whale422 now20 settled540 that14 the19 submerged402 ends301 could375 not518 be341 at65 all145 approached93 , while55 every389 moment258 whole199 tons363 of89 ponderosity95 seemed132 added52 to261 the19 sinking60 bulk181 , and236 the19 ship438 seemed132 on392 the19 point438 of89 going227 over82 . "Hold204 on392 , hold204 on392 , won't500 ye483 ?" cried506 Stubb to261 the19 body348 , "don280 't500 be341 in107 such420 a10 devil411 of89 a10 hurry183 to261 sink190 ! By406 thunder356 , men62 , we465 must226 do353 something181 or519 go20 for190 it162 . No235 use176 prying513 there340 ; avast279 , I482 say306 with449 your162 handspikes209 , and236 run172 one470 of89 ye483 for190 a10 prayer377 book230 and236 a10 pen105 -knife503 , and236 cut310 the19 big245 chains446 ." "Knife503 ? Aye86 , aye86 ," cried506 Queequeg, and236 seizing327 the19 carpenter262 's483 heavy421 hatchet273 , he362 leaned265 out66 of89 a10 porthole240 , and236 steel184 to261 iron169 , began132 slashing41 at65 the19 largest139 fluke415 -chains446 . But330 a10 few49 strokes455 , full414 of89 sparks183 , were324 given141 , when189 the19 exceeding320 strain468 effected142 the19 rest302 . With449 a10 terrific315 snap110 , every389 fastening180 went516 adrift350 ; the19 ship438 righted240 , the19 carcase366 sank310 . Now20 , this256 occasional202 inevitable113 sinking60 of89 the19 recently128 killed409 Sperm26 Whale422 is487 a10 very515 curious264 thing309 ; nor137 has399 any501 fisherman18 yet443 adequately367 accounted480 for190 it162 . Usually211 the19 dead568 Sperm26 Whale422 floats36 with449 great259 buoyancy15 , with449 its234 side246 or519 belly511 considerably110 elevated541 above502 the19 surface328 . If141 the19 only517 whales331 that14 thus362 sank310 were324 old447 , meagre438 , and236 broken255 -hearted83 creatures5 , their219 pads259 of89 lard117 diminished163 and236 all145 their219 bones5 heavy421 and236 rheumatic238 ; then45 you227 might496 with449 some265 reason238 assert354 that14 this256 sinking60 is487 caused308 by406 an138 uncommon88 specific383 gravity430 in107 the19 fish187 so281 sinking60 , consequent61 upon419 this256 absence484 of89 buoyant159 matter176 in107 him248 . But330 it162 is487 not518 so281 . For190 young389 whales331 , in107 the19 highest575 health231 , and236 swelling414 with449 noble226 aspirations72 , prematurely374 cut310 off111 in107 the19 warm178 flush356 and236 May236 of89 life71 , with449 all145 their219 panting553 lard117 about123 them146 ! even198 these527 brawny364 , buoyant159 heroes295 do353 sometimes77 sink190 . Be341 it162 said252 , however44 , that14 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 is487 far258 less261 liable520 to261 this256 accident210 than77 any501 other282 species69 . Where579 one470 of89 that14 sort42 go20 down133 , twenty433 Right499 Whales331 do353 . This256 difference3 in107 the19 species69 is487 no235 doubt71 imputable237 in107 no235 small350 degree209 to261 the19 greater505 quantity316 of89 bone184 in107 the19 Right499 Whale422 ; his433 Venetian59 blinds34 alone2 sometimes77 weighing503 more348 than77 a10 ton8 ; from316 this256 incumbrance84 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 is487 wholly497 free483 . But330 there340 are314 instances252 where579 , after358 the19 lapse125 of89 many282 hours127 or519 several479 days351 , the19 sunken83 whale422 again52 rises215 , more348 buoyant159 than77 in107 life71 . But330 the19 reason238 of89 this256 is487 obvious147 . Gases265 are314 generated231 in107 him248 ; he362 swells446 to261 a10 prodigious223 magnitude203 ; becomes314 a10 sort42 of89 animal22 balloon181 . A10 line25 -of89 -battle105 ship438 could375 hardly182 keep381 him248 under533 then45 . In107 the19 Shore280 Whaling155 , on392 soundings99 , among483 the19 Bays138 of89 New36 Zealand115 , when189 a10 Right499 Whale422 gives529 token502 of89 sinking60 , they382 fasten476 buoys400 to261 him248 , with449 plenty406 of89 rope265 ; so281 that14 when189 the19 body348 has399 gone190 down133 , they382 know60 where579 to261 look523 for190 it162 when189 it162 shall66 have254 ascended302 again52 . It162 was454 not518 long544 after358 the19 sinking60 of89 the19 body348 that14 a10 cry561 was454 heard444 from316 the19 Pequod288 's483 mast44 -heads279 , announcing337 that14 the19 Jungfrau102 was454 again52 lowering240 her400 boats83 ; though400 the19 only517 spout224 in107 sight365 was454 that14 of89 a10 Fin286 -Back457 , belonging168 to261 the19 species69 of89 uncapturable143 whales331 , because540 of89 its234 incredible98 power145 of89 swimming367 . Nevertheless104 , the19 Fin286 -Back457 's483 spout224 is487 so281 similar101 to261 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 , that14 by406 unskilful113 fishermen24 it162 is487 often227 mistaken49 for190 it162 . And236 consequently441 Derick and236 all145 his433 host5 were324 now20 in107 valiant359 chase89 of89 this256 unnearable brute73 . The19 Virgin317 crowding283 all145 sail218 , made563 after358 her400 four175 young389 keels394 , and236 thus362 they382 all145 disappeared5 far258 to261 leeward265 , still278 in107 bold356 , hopeful138 chase89 . Oh367 ! many282 are314 the19 Fin286 -Backs480 , and236 many282 are314 the19 Dericks, my36 friend179 . CHAPTER293 82462 The19 Honor497 and236 Glory173 of89 Whaling155 There340 are314 some265 enterprises119 in107 which16 a10 careful252 disorderliness136 is487 the19 true483 method146 . The19 more348 I482 dive316 into554 this256 matter176 of89 whaling155 , and236 push278 my36 researches368 up405 to261 the19 very515 spring148 -head43 of89 it162 so281 much61 the19 more348 am375 I482 impressed4 with449 its234 great259 honorableness and236 antiquity354 ; and236 especially371 when189 I482 find138 so281 many282 great259 demi-gods325 and236 heroes295 , prophets8 of89 all145 sorts354 , who319 one470 way435 or519 other282 have254 shed155 distinction301 upon419 it162 , I482 am375 transported546 with449 the19 reflection266 that14 I482 myself99 belong243 , though400 but330 subordinately83 , to261 so281 emblazoned110 a10 fraternity227 . The19 gallant323 Perseus170 , a10 son26 of89 Jupiter430 , was454 the19 first13 whaleman98 ; and236 to261 the19 eternal155 honor497 of89 our234 calling56 be341 it162 said252 , that14 the19 first13 whale422 attacked507 by406 our234 brotherhood138 was454 not518 killed409 with449 any501 sordid167 intent359 . Those427 were324 the19 knightly63 days351 of89 our234 profession202 , when189 we465 only517 bore27 arms536 to261 succor243 the19 distressed40 , and236 not518 to261 fill380 men62 's483 lamp330 -feeders. Every389 one470 knows286 the19 fine333 story197 of89 Perseus170 and236 Andromeda45 ; how19 the19 lovely126 Andromeda45 , the19 daughter302 of89 a10 king324 , was454 tied101 to261 a10 rock264 on392 the19 sea67 -coast287 , and236 as113 Leviathan384 was454 in107 the19 very515 act10 of89 carrying103 her400 off111 , Perseus170 , the19 prince63 of89 whalemen451 , intrepidly127 advancing444 , harpooned290 the19 monster480 , and236 delivered120 and236 married306 the19 maid128 . It162 was454 an138 admirable267 artistic370 exploit438 , rarely227 achieved251 by406 the19 best315 harpooneers of89 the19 present112 day112 ; inasmuch110 as113 this256 Leviathan384 was454 slain268 at65 the19 very515 first13 dart293 . And236 let66 no235 man17 doubt71 this256 Arkite8 story197 ; for190 in107 the19 ancient463 Joppa189 , now20 Jaffa76 , on392 the19 Syrian314 coast287 , in107 one470 of89 the19 Pagan118 temples381 , there340 stood1 for190 many282 ages146 the19 vast43 skeleton231 of89 a10 whale422 , which16 the19 city82 's483 legends445 and236 all145 the19 inhabitants110 asserted128 to261 be341 the19 identical351 bones5 of89 the19 monster480 that14 Perseus170 slew137 . When189 the19 Romans54 took68 Joppa189 , the19 same541 skeleton231 was454 carried232 to261 Italy157 in107 triumph191 . What243 seems19 most216 singular216 and236 suggestively354 important104 in107 this256 story197 , is487 this256 : it162 was454 from316 Joppa189 that14 Jonah41 set422 sail218 . Akin273 to261 the19 adventure44 of89 Perseus170 and236 Andromeda45 --indeed522 , by406 some265 supposed423 to261 be341 indirectly155 derived494 from316 it162 --is487 that14 famous254 story197 of89 St193 . George110 and236 the19 Dragon225 ; which16 dragon225 I482 maintain357 to261 have254 been185 a10 whale422 ; for190 in107 many282 old447 chronicles105 whales331 and236 dragons199 are314 strangely155 jumbled256 together440 , and236 often227 stand530 for190 each520 other282 . "Thou173 art462 as113 a10 lion84 of89 the19 waters556 , and236 as113 a10 dragon225 of89 the19 sea67 ," said252 Ezekiel29 ; hereby196 , plainly450 meaning62 a10 whale422 ; in107 truth350 , some265 versions151 of89 the19 Bible253 use176 that14 word486 itself312 . Besides465 , it162 would282 much61 subtract13 from316 the19 glory173 of89 the19 exploit438 had364 St193 . George110 but330 encountered102 a10 crawling318 reptile242 of89 the19 land406 , instead398 of89 doing227 battle105 with449 the19 great259 monster480 of89 the19 deep483 . Any501 man17 may236 kill219 a10 snake364 , but330 only517 a10 Perseus170 , a10 St193 . George110 , a10 Coffin284 , have254 the19 heart470 in107 them146 to261 march396 boldly445 up405 to261 a10 whale422 . Let66 not518 the19 modern446 paintings479 of89 this256 scene228 mislead192 us569 ; for190 though400 the19 creature82 encountered102 by406 that14 valiant359 whaleman98 of89 old447 is487 vaguely230 represented107 of89 a10 griffin-like410 shape99 , and236 though400 the19 battle105 is487 depicted46 on392 land406 and236 the19 saint324 on392 horseback197 , yet443 considering115 the19 great259 ignorance211 of89 those427 times121 , when189 the19 true483 form238 of89 the19 whale422 was454 unknown10 to261 artists161 ; and236 considering115 that14 as113 in107 Perseus170 ' case346 , St193 . George110 's483 whale422 might496 have254 crawled386 up405 out66 of89 the19 sea67 on392 the19 beach183 ; and236 considering115 that14 the19 animal22 ridden282 by406 St193 . George110 might496 have254 been185 only517 a10 large385 seal40 , or519 sea67 -horse409 ; bearing354 all145 this256 in107 mind118 , it162 will584 not518 appear443 altogether31 incompatible320 with449 the19 sacred32 legend188 and236 the19 ancientest45 draughts52 of89 the19 scene228 , to261 hold204 this256 so281 -called237 dragon225 no235 other282 than77 the19 great259 Leviathan384 himself282 . In107 fact12 , placed556 before344 the19 strict284 and236 piercing305 truth350 , this256 whole199 story197 will584 fare19 like410 that14 fish187 , flesh331 , and236 fowl11 idol191 of89 the19 Philistines170 , Dagon81 by406 name477 ; who319 being264 planted82 before344 the19 ark25 of89 Israel8 , his433 horse409 's483 head219 and236 both558 the19 palms173 of89 his433 hands87 fell421 off111 from316 him248 , and236 only517 the19 stump277 or519 fishy369 part207 of89 him248 remained72 . Thus362 , then45 , one470 of89 our234 own248 noble226 stamp292 , even198 a10 whaleman98 , is487 the19 tutelary168 guardian153 of89 England348 ; and236 by406 good221 rights462 , we465 harpooneers of89 Nantucket283 should255 be341 enrolled13 in107 the19 most216 noble226 order343 of89 St193 . George110 . And236 therefore94 , let66 not518 the19 knights468 of89 that14 honorable15 company280 (none365 of89 whom324 , I482 venture40 to261 say306 , have254 ever208 had364 to261 do353 with449 a10 whale422 like410 their219 great259 patron307 ), let66 them146 never206 eye220 a10 Nantucketer with449 disdain256 , since374 even198 in107 our234 woollen27 frocks282 and236 tarred489 trowsers206 we465 are314 much61 better34 entitled189 to261 St193 . George110 's483 decoration204 than77 they382 . Whether454 to261 admit321 Hercules301 among483 us569 or519 not518 , concerning368 this256 I482 long544 remained72 dubious170 : for190 though400 according281 to261 the19 Greek261 mythologies188 , that14 antique58 Crockett92 and236 Kit136 Carson31 --that14 brawny364 doer227 of89 rejoicing226 good221 deeds159 , was454 swallowed104 down133 and236 thrown359 up405 by406 a10 whale422 ; still278 , whether454 that14 strictly303 makes32 a10 whaleman98 of89 him248 , that14 might496 be341 mooted4 . It162 nowhere209 appears268 that14 he362 ever208 actually69 harpooned290 his433 fish187 , unless54 , indeed522 , from316 the19 inside438 . Nevertheless104 , he362 may236 be341 deemed17 a10 sort42 of89 involuntary3 whaleman98 ; at65 any501 rate515 the19 whale422 caught105 him248 , if141 he362 did444 not518 the19 whale422 . I482 claim217 him248 for190 one470 of89 our234 clan51 . But330 , by406 the19 best315 contradictory189 authorities322 , this256 Grecian103 story197 of89 Hercules301 and236 the19 whale422 is487 considered484 to261 be341 derived494 from316 the19 still278 more348 ancient463 Hebrew99 story197 of89 Jonah41 and236 the19 whale422 ; and236 vice443 versa555 ; certainly124 they382 are314 very515 similar101 . If141 I482 claim217 the19 demigod266 then45 , why177 not518 the19 prophet25 ? Nor137 do353 heroes295 , saints85 , demigods441 , and236 prophets8 alone2 comprise321 the19 whole199 roll473 of89 our234 order343 . Our234 grand229 master131 is487 still278 to261 be341 named312 ; for190 like410 royal161 kings474 of89 old447 times121 , we465 find138 the19 head219 -waters556 of89 our234 fraternity227 in107 nothing324 short522 of89 the19 great259 gods325 themselves510 . That14 wondrous30 oriental147 story197 is487 now20 to261 be341 rehearsed484 from316 the19 Shaster, which16 gives529 us569 the19 dread251 Vishnoo78 , one470 of89 the19 three329 persons5 in107 the19 godhead27 of89 the19 Hindoos402 ; gives529 us569 this256 divine216 Vishnoo78 himself282 for190 our234 Lord106 ;--Vishnoo78 , who319 , by406 the19 first13 of89 his433 ten198 earthly64 incarnations417 , has399 for190 ever208 set422 apart526 and236 sanctified186 the19 whale422 . When189 Brahma481 , or519 the19 God185 of89 Gods325 , saith419 the19 Shaster, resolved158 to261 recreate88 the19 world126 after358 one470 of89 its234 periodical358 dissolutions95 , he362 gave572 birth215 to261 Vishnoo78 , to261 preside41 over82 the19 work385 ; but330 the19 Vedas23 , or519 mystical493 books525 , whose286 perusal388 would282 seem404 to261 have254 been185 indispensable470 to261 Vishnoo78 before344 beginning188 the19 creation182 , and236 which16 therefore94 must226 have254 contained275 something181 in107 the19 shape99 of89 practical74 hints260 to261 young389 architects173 , these527 Vedas23 were324 lying204 at65 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 waters556 ; so281 Vishnoo78 became70 incarnate163 in107 a10 whale422 , and236 sounding331 down133 in107 him248 to261 the19 uttermost129 depths416 , rescued29 the19 sacred32 volumes158 . Was454 not518 this256 Vishnoo78 a10 whaleman98 , then45 ? even198 as113 a10 man17 who319 rides330 a10 horse409 is487 called237 a10 horseman253 ? Perseus170 , St193 . George110 , Hercules301 , Jonah41 , and236 Vishnoo78 ! there340 's483 a10 member333 -roll473 for190 you227 ! What243 club83 but330 the19 whaleman98 's483 can450 head219 off111 like410 that14 ? CHAPTER293 83487 Jonah41 Historically467 Regarded393 Reference116 was454 made563 to261 the19 historical243 story197 of89 Jonah41 and236 the19 whale422 in107 the19 preceding44 chapter293 . Now20 some265 Nantucketers rather178 distrust129 this256 historical243 story197 of89 Jonah41 and236 the19 whale422 . But330 then45 there340 were324 some265 sceptical445 Greeks489 and236 Romans54 , who319 , standing144 out66 from316 the19 orthodox425 pagans295 of89 their219 times121 , equally336 doubted279 the19 story197 of89 Hercules301 and236 the19 whale422 , and236 Arion562 and236 the19 dolphin110 ; and236 yet443 their219 doubting16 those427 traditions489 did444 not518 make175 those427 traditions489 one470 whit367 the19 less261 facts484 , for190 all145 that14 . One470 old447 Sag83 -Harbor289 whaleman98 's483 chief156 reason238 for190 questioning165 the19 Hebrew99 story197 was454 this256 :--He362 had364 one470 of89 those427 quaint315 old447 -fashioned432 Bibles296 , embellished27 with449 curious264 , unscientific6 plates115 ; one470 of89 which16 represented107 Jonah41 's483 whale422 with449 two527 spouts75 in107 his433 head219 --a10 peculiarity211 only517 true483 with449 respect441 to261 a10 species69 of89 the19 Leviathan384 (the19 Right499 Whale422 , and236 the19 varieties23 of89 that14 order343 ), concerning368 which16 the19 fishermen24 have254 this256 saying9 , "A10 penny78 roll473 would282 choke91 him248 "; his433 swallow195 is487 so281 very515 small350 . But330 , to261 this256 , Bishop129 Jebb170 's483 anticipative210 answer164 is487 ready464 . It162 is487 not518 necessary145 , hints260 the19 Bishop129 , that14 we465 consider259 Jonah41 as113 tombed364 in107 the19 whale422 's483 belly511 , but330 as113 temporarily22 lodged238 in107 some265 part207 of89 his433 mouth414 . And236 this256 seems19 reasonable88 enough217 in107 the19 good221 Bishop129 . For190 truly530 , the19 Right499 Whale422 's483 mouth414 would282 accommodate223 a10 couple261 of89 whist-tables13 , and236 comfortably147 seat88 all145 the19 players40 . Possibly201 , too11 , Jonah41 might496 have254 ensconced498 himself282 in107 a10 hollow511 tooth108 ; but330 , on392 second386 thoughts26 , the19 Right499 Whale422 is487 toothless141 . Another269 reason238 which16 Sag83 -Harbor289 (he362 went516 by406 that14 name477 ) urged436 for190 his433 want350 of89 faith511 in107 this256 matter176 of89 the19 prophet25 , was454 something181 obscurely193 in107 reference116 to261 his433 incarcerated475 body348 and236 the19 whale422 's483 gastric83 juices362 . But330 this256 objection431 likewise193 falls24 to261 the19 ground127 , because540 a10 German264 exegetist208 supposes103 that14 Jonah41 must226 have254 taken222 refuge154 in107 the19 floating30 body348 of89 a10 dead568 whale422 -- even198 as113 the19 French491 soldiers416 in107 the19 Russian300 campaign165 turned492 their219 dead568 horses189 into554 tents450 , and236 crawled386 into554 them146 . Besides465 , it162 has399 been185 divined250 by406 other282 continental389 commentators454 , that14 when189 Jonah41 was454 thrown359 overboard247 from316 the19 Joppa189 ship438 , he362 straightway210 effected142 his433 escape565 to261 another269 vessel155 near70 by406 , some265 vessel155 with449 a10 whale422 for190 a10 figure55 -head219 ; and236 , I482 would282 add236 , possibly201 called237 "The19 Whale422 ," as113 some265 craft187 are314 nowadays444 christened98 the19 "Shark4 ," the19 "Gull8 ," the19 "Eagle319 ." Nor137 have254 there340 been185 wanting361 learned277 exegetists208 who319 have254 opined269 that14 the19 whale422 mentioned149 in107 the19 book230 of89 Jonah41 merely57 meant157 a10 life71 -preserver--an138 inflated431 bag141 of89 wind262 --which16 the19 endangered350 prophet25 swam111 to261 , and236 so281 was454 saved446 from316 a10 watery59 doom73 . Poor533 Sag83 -Harbor289 , therefore94 , seems19 worsted208 all145 round287 . But330 he362 had364 still278 another269 reason238 for190 his433 want350 of89 faith511 . It162 was454 this256 , if141 I482 remember499 right499 : Jonah41 was454 swallowed104 by406 the19 whale422 in107 the19 Mediterranean241 Sea67 , and236 after358 three329 days351 ' he362 was454 vomited367 up405 somewhere201 within503 three329 days351 ' journey301 of89 Nineveh375 , a10 city82 on392 the19 Tigris377 , very515 much61 more348 than77 three329 days351 ' journey301 across129 from316 the19 nearest26 point438 of89 the19 Mediterranean241 coast287 . How19 is487 that14 ? But330 was454 there340 no235 other282 way435 for190 the19 whale422 to261 land406 the19 prophet25 within503 that14 short522 distance264 of89 Nineveh375 ? Yes143 . He362 might496 have254 carried232 him248 round287 by406 the19 way435 of89 the19 Cape23 of89 Good221 Hope211 . But330 not518 to261 speak337 of89 the19 passage285 through295 the19 whole199 length202 of89 the19 Mediterranean241 , and236 another269 passage285 up405 the19 Persian23 Gulf375 and236 Red293 Sea67 , such420 a10 supposition297 would282 involve34 the19 complete191 circumnavigation399 of89 all145 Africa269 in107 three329 days351 , not518 to261 speak337 of89 the19 Tigris377 waters556 , near70 the19 site273 of89 Nineveh375 , being264 too11 shallow397 for190 any501 whale422 to261 swim226 in107 . Besides465 , this256 idea250 of89 Jonah41 's483 weathering27 the19 Cape23 of89 Good221 Hope211 at65 so281 early92 a10 day112 would282 wrest253 the19 honor497 of89 the19 discovery416 of89 that14 great259 headland98 from316 Bartholomew410 Diaz31 , its234 reputed221 discoverer160 , and236 so281 make175 modern446 history183 a10 liar482 . But330 all145 these527 foolish509 arguments138 of89 old447 Sag83 -Harbor289 only517 evinced94 his433 foolish509 pride279 of89 reason238 --a10 thing309 still278 more348 reprehensible57 in107 him248 , seeing426 that14 he362 had364 but330 little554 learning219 except545 what243 he362 had364 picked129 up405 from316 the19 sun397 and236 the19 sea67 . I482 say306 it162 only517 shows364 his433 foolish509 , impious15 pride279 , and236 abominable156 , devilish181 rebellion486 against417 the19 reverend11 clergy437 . For190 by406 a10 Portuguese116 Catholic197 priest60 , this256 very515 idea250 of89 Jonah41 's483 going227 to261 Nineveh375 via173 the19 Cape23 of89 Good221 Hope211 was454 advanced55 as113 a10 signal264 magnification454 of89 the19 general37 miracle309 . And236 so281 it162 was454 . Besides465 , to261 this256 day112 , the19 highly52 enlightened29 Turks59 devoutly167 believe191 in107 the19 historical243 story197 of89 Jonah41 . And236 some265 three329 centuries168 ago141 , an138 English69 traveller258 in107 old447 Harris75 's483 Voyages368 , speaks454 of89 a10 Turkish124 Mosque52 built20 in107 honor497 of89 Jonah41 , in107 which16 Mosque52 was454 a10 miraculous276 lamp330 that14 burnt37 without309 any501 oil118 . CHAPTER293 84330 Pitchpoling To261 make175 them146 run172 easily45 and236 swiftly441 , the19 axles367 of89 carriages322 are314 anointed327 ; and236 for190 much61 the19 same541 purpose514 , some265 whalers116 perform312 an138 analogous185 operation261 upon419 their219 boat439 ; they382 grease43 the19 bottom461 . Nor137 is487 it162 to261 be341 doubted279 that14 as113 such420 a10 procedure276 can450 do353 no235 harm191 , it162 may236 possibly201 be341 of89 no235 contemptible178 advantage169 ; considering115 that14 oil118 and236 water520 are314 hostile224 ; that14 oil118 is487 a10 sliding540 thing309 , and236 that14 the19 object100 in107 view370 is487 to261 make175 the19 boat439 slide118 bravely155 . Queequeg believed214 strongly168 in107 anointing144 his433 boat439 , and236 one470 morning417 not518 long544 after358 the19 German264 ship438 Jungfrau102 disappeared5 , took68 more348 than77 customary79 pains97 in107 that14 occupation83 ; crawling318 under533 its234 bottom461 , where579 it162 hung479 over82 the19 side246 , and236 rubbing120 in107 the19 unctuousness83 as113 though400 diligently344 seeking427 to261 insure339 a10 crop170 of89 hair237 from316 the19 craft187 's483 bald117 keel39 . He362 seemed132 to261 be341 working113 in107 obedience74 to261 some265 particular336 presentiment236 . Nor137 did444 it162 remain326 unwarranted179 by406 the19 event28 . Towards417 noon445 whales331 were324 raised493 ; but330 so281 soon18 as113 the19 ship438 sailed248 down133 to261 them146 , they382 turned492 and236 fled434 with449 swift376 precipitancy172 ; a10 disordered181 flight306 , as113 of89 Cleopatra25 's483 barges364 from316 Actium246 . Nevertheless104 , the19 boats83 pursued460 , and236 Stubb's483 was454 foremost61 . By406 great259 exertion106 , Tashtego at65 last436 succeeded76 in107 planting362 one470 iron169 ; but330 the19 stricken328 whale422 , without309 at65 all145 sounding331 , still278 continued44 his433 horizontal252 flight306 , with449 added52 fleetness125 . Such420 unintermitted396 strainings upon419 the19 planted82 iron169 must226 sooner338 or519 later87 inevitably127 extract84 it162 . It162 became70 imperative373 to261 lance76 the19 flying354 whale422 , or519 be341 content7 to261 lose247 him248 . But330 to261 haul19 the19 boat439 up405 to261 his433 flank434 was454 impossible305 , he362 swam111 so281 fast208 and236 furious89 . What243 then45 remained72 ? Of89 all145 the19 wondrous30 devices285 and236 dexterities285 , the19 sleights362 of89 hand252 and236 countless111 subtleties24 , to261 which16 the19 veteran122 whaleman98 is487 so281 often227 forced28 , none365 exceed534 that14 fine333 manoeuvre240 with449 the19 lance76 called237 pitchpoling. Small350 sword273 , or519 broad267 sword273 , in107 all145 its234 exercises51 boasts161 nothing324 like410 it162 . It162 is487 only517 indispensable470 with449 an138 inveterate125 running296 whale422 ; its234 grand229 fact12 and236 feature400 is487 the19 wonderful291 distance264 to261 which16 the19 long544 lance76 is487 accurately173 darted362 from316 a10 violently340 rocking6 , jerking2 boat439 , under533 extreme31 headway492 . Steel184 and236 wood46 included559 , the19 entire230 spear188 is487 some265 ten198 or519 twelve293 feet349 in107 length202 ; the19 staff391 is487 much61 slighter173 than77 that14 of89 the19 harpoon67 , and236 also119 of89 a10 lighter415 material161 --pine54 . It162 is487 furnished201 with449 a10 small350 rope265 called237 a10 warp382 , of89 considerable75 length202 , by406 which16 it162 can450 be341 hauled80 back457 to261 the19 hand252 after358 darting147 . But330 before344 going227 further53 , it162 is487 important104 to261 mention510 here135 , that14 though400 the19 harpoon67 may236 be341 pitchpoled in107 the19 same541 way435 with449 the19 lance76 , yet443 it162 is487 seldom140 done135 ; and236 when189 done135 , is487 still278 less261 frequently475 successful1 , on392 account102 of89 the19 greater505 weight213 and236 inferior84 length202 of89 the19 harpoon67 as113 compared357 with449 the19 lance76 , which16 in107 effect215 become548 serious97 drawbacks367 . As113 a10 general37 thing309 , therefore94 , you227 must226 first13 get126 fast208 to261 a10 whale422 , before344 any501 pitchpoling comes268 into554 play89 . Look523 now20 at65 Stubb; a10 man17 who319 from316 his433 humorous7 , deliberate29 coolness38 and236 equanimity263 in107 the19 direst122 emergencies183 , was454 specially87 qualified210 to261 excel468 in107 pitchpoling. Look523 at65 him248 ; he362 stands256 upright145 in107 the19 tossed227 bow146 of89 the19 flying354 boat439 ; wrapt401 in107 fleecy78 foam160 , the19 towing78 whale422 is487 forty525 feet349 ahead5 . Handling135 the19 long544 lance76 lightly284 , glancing18 twice366 or519 thrice282 along423 its234 length202 to261 see370 if141 it162 be341 exactly315 straight346 , Stubb whistlingly gathers439 up405 the19 coil32 of89 the19 warp382 in107 one470 hand252 , so281 as113 to261 secure92 its234 free483 end149 in107 his433 grasp332 , leaving231 the19 rest302 unobstructed92 . Then45 holding311 the19 lance76 full414 before344 his433 waistband6 's483 middle39 , he362 levels211 it162 at65 the19 whale422 ; when189 , covering24 him248 with449 it162 , he362 steadily379 depresses392 the19 butt-end149 in107 his433 hand252 , thereby190 elevating222 the19 point438 till181 the19 weapon223 stands256 fairly211 balanced21 upon419 his433 palm114 , fifteen289 feet349 in107 the19 air209 . He362 minds244 you227 somewhat77 of89 a10 juggler138 , balancing39 a10 long544 staff391 on392 his433 chin49 . Next27 moment258 with449 a10 rapid321 , nameless427 impulse290 , in107 a10 superb44 lofty161 arch198 the19 bright205 steel184 spans424 the19 foaming193 distance264 , and236 quivers522 in107 the19 life71 spot46 of89 the19 whale422 . Instead398 of89 sparkling42 water520 , he362 now20 spouts75 red293 blood208 . "That14 drove427 the19 spigot174 out66 of89 him248 !" cried506 Stubb. "'Tis July's483 immortal15 Fourth399 ; all145 fountains170 must226 run172 wine102 today260 ! Would282 now20 , it162 were324 old447 Orleans136 whiskey83 , or519 old447 Ohio242 , or519 unspeakable4 old447 Monongahela136 ! Then45 , Tashtego, lad342 , I482 'd67 have254 ye483 hold204 a10 canakin4 to261 the19 jet423 , and236 we465 'd67 drink117 round287 it162 ! Yea204 , verily113 , hearts431 alive298 , we465 'd67 brew338 choice340 punch117 in107 the19 spread348 of89 his433 spout224 -hole73 there340 , and236 from316 that14 live554 punch117 -bowl418 quaff275 the19 living117 stuff471 ." Again52 and236 again52 to261 such420 gamesome110 talk173 , the19 dexterous25 dart293 is487 repeated381 , the19 spear188 returning53 to261 its234 master131 like410 a10 greyhound30 held212 in107 skilful41 leash437 . The19 agonized40 whale422 goes205 into554 his433 flurry406 ; the19 tow160 -line98 is487 slackened31 , and236 the19 pitchpoler dropping279 astern39 , folds367 his433 hands87 , and236 mutely102 watches458 the19 monster480 die229 . CHAPTER293 85251 The19 Fountain524 That14 for190 six415 thousand586 years116 --and236 no235 one470 knows286 how19 many282 millions208 of89 ages146 before344 --the19 great259 whales331 should255 have254 been185 spouting81 all145 over82 the19 sea67 , and236 sprinkling408 and236 mistifying the19 gardens435 of89 the19 deep483 , as113 with449 so281 many282 sprinkling408 or519 mistifying pots184 ; and236 that14 for190 some265 centuries168 back457 , thousands7 of89 hunters423 should255 have254 been185 close65 by406 the19 fountain524 of89 the19 whale422 , watching330 these527 sprinklings23 and236 spoutings27 -- that14 all145 this256 should255 be341 , and236 yet443 , that14 down133 to261 this256 blessed473 minute236 (fifteen289 and236 a10 quarter6 minutes368 past111 one470 o24 'clock489 P.M106 . of89 this256 sixteenth18 day112 of89 December490 , A10 .D236 . 1851430 ), it162 should255 still278 remain326 a10 problem28 , whether454 these527 spoutings27 are314 , after358 all145 , really406 water520 , or519 nothing324 but330 vapor85 --this256 is487 surely388 a10 noteworthy489 thing309 . Let66 us569 , then45 , look523 at65 this256 matter176 , along423 with449 some265 interesting409 items18 contingent310 . Every389 one470 knows286 that14 by406 the19 peculiar291 cunning198 of89 their219 gills111 , the19 finny468 tribes402 in107 general37 breathe393 the19 air209 which16 at65 all145 times121 is487 combined265 with449 the19 element38 in107 which16 they382 swim226 ; hence503 , a10 herring26 or519 a10 cod94 might496 live554 a10 century149 , and236 never206 once248 raise265 its234 head219 above502 the19 surface328 . But330 owing98 to261 his433 marked67 internal241 structure235 which16 gives529 him248 regular400 lungs40 , like410 a10 human43 being264 's483 , the19 whale422 can450 only517 live554 by406 inhaling380 the19 disengaged410 air209 in107 the19 open464 atmosphere64 . Wherefore220 the19 necessity81 for190 his433 periodical358 visits444 to261 the19 upper403 world126 . But330 he362 cannot in107 any501 degree209 breathe393 through295 his433 mouth414 , for190 , in107 his433 ordinary225 attitude100 , the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 mouth414 is487 buried205 at65 least453 eight316 feet349 beneath320 the19 surface328 ; and236 what243 is487 still278 more348 , his433 windpipe410 has399 no235 connexion400 with449 his433 mouth414 . No235 , he362 breathes410 through295 his433 spiracle4 alone2 ; and236 this256 is487 on392 the19 top70 of89 his433 head219 . If141 I482 say306 , that14 in107 any501 creature82 breathing403 is487 only517 a10 function353 indispensable470 to261 vitality204 , inasmuch110 as113 it162 withdraws470 from316 the19 air209 a10 certain31 element38 , which16 being264 subsequently342 brought85 into554 contact263 with449 the19 blood208 imparts217 to261 the19 blood208 its234 vivifying265 principle420 , I482 do353 not518 think424 I482 shall66 err247 ; though400 I482 may236 possibly201 use176 some265 superfluous152 scientific435 words107 . Assume191 it162 , and236 it162 follows195 that14 if141 all145 the19 blood208 in107 a10 man17 could375 be341 aerated333 with449 one470 breath150 , he362 might496 then45 seal40 up405 his433 nostrils42 and236 not518 fetch261 another269 for190 a10 considerable75 time577 . That14 is487 to261 say306 , he362 would282 then45 live554 without309 breathing403 . Anomalous277 as113 it162 may236 seem404 , this256 is487 precisely217 the19 case346 with449 the19 whale422 , who319 systematically102 lives245 , by406 intervals295 , his433 full414 hour384 and236 more348 (when189 at65 the19 bottom461 ) without309 drawing407 a10 single77 breath150 , or519 so281 much61 as113 in107 any501 way435 inhaling380 a10 particle26 of89 air209 ; for190 , remember499 , he362 has399 no235 gills111 . How19 is487 this256 ? Between77 his433 ribs92 and236 on392 each520 side246 of89 his433 spine236 he362 is487 supplied338 with449 a10 remarkable381 involved149 Cretan158 labyrinth57 of89 vermicelli-like410 vessels150 , which16 vessels150 , when189 he362 quits15 the19 surface328 , are314 completely385 distended106 with449 oxygenated25 blood208 . So281 that14 for190 an138 hour384 or519 more348 , a10 thousand586 fathoms375 in107 the19 sea67 , he362 carries440 a10 surplus266 stock437 of89 vitality204 in107 him248 , just108 as113 the19 camel82 crossing402 the19 waterless78 desert255 carries440 a10 surplus266 supply283 of89 drink117 for190 future44 use176 in107 its234 four175 supplementary210 stomachs342 . The19 anatomical68 fact12 of89 this256 labyrinth57 is487 indisputable568 ; and236 that14 the19 supposition297 founded113 upon419 it162 is487 reasonable88 and236 true483 , seems19 the19 more348 cogent222 to261 me2 , when189 I482 consider259 the19 otherwise542 inexplicable367 obstinacy6 of89 that14 leviathan384 in107 having69 his433 spoutings27 out66 , as113 the19 fishermen24 phrase22 it162 . This256 is487 what243 I482 mean504 . If141 unmolested410 , upon419 rising464 to261 the19 surface328 , the19 Sperm26 Whale422 will584 continue225 there340 for190 a10 period196 of89 time577 exactly315 uniform173 with449 all145 his433 other282 unmolested410 risings60 . Say306 he362 stays324 eleven556 minutes368 , and236 jets6 seventy156 times121 , that14 is487 , respires258 seventy156 breaths192 ; then45 whenever15 he362 rises215 again52 , he362 will584 be341 sure41 to261 have254 his433 seventy156 breaths192 over82 again52 , to261 a10 minute236 . Now20 , if141 after358 he362 fetches110 a10 few49 breaths192 you227 alarm178 him248 , so281 that14 he362 sounds394 , he362 will584 be341 always367 dodging213 up405 again52 to261 make175 good221 his433 regular400 allowance392 of89 air209 . And236 not518 till181 those427 seventy156 breaths192 are314 told82 , will584 he362 finally69 go20 down133 to261 stay238 out66 his433 full414 term416 below397 . Remark325 , however44 , that14 in107 different276 individuals298 these527 rates436 are314 different276 ; but330 in107 any501 one470 they382 are314 alike122 . Now20 , why177 should255 the19 whale422 thus362 insist50 upon419 having69 his433 spoutings27 out66 , unless54 it162 be341 to261 replenish163 his433 reservoir320 of89 air209 , ere83 descending181 for190 good221 ? How19 obvious147 it162 is487 it162 , too11 , that14 this256 necessity81 for190 the19 whale422 's483 rising464 exposes13 him248 to261 all145 the19 fatal460 hazards21 of89 the19 chase89 . For190 not518 by406 hook157 or519 by406 net23 could375 this256 vast43 leviathan384 be341 caught105 , when189 sailing232 a10 thousand586 fathoms375 beneath320 the19 sunlight333 . Not518 so281 much61 thy43 skill502 , then45 , O24 hunter287 , as113 the19 great259 necessities43 that14 strike374 the19 victory129 to261 thee15 ! In107 man17 , breathing403 is487 incessantly194 going227 on392 --one470 breath150 only517 serving480 for190 two527 or519 three329 pulsations225 ; so281 that14 whatever38 other282 business168 he362 has399 to261 attend120 to261 , waking428 or519 sleeping341 , breathe393 he362 must226 , or519 die229 he362 will584 . But330 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 only517 breathes410 about123 one470 seventh31 or519 Sunday151 of89 his433 time577 . It162 has399 been185 said252 that14 the19 whale422 only517 breathes410 through295 his433 spout224 -hole73 ; if141 it162 could375 truthfully44 be341 added52 that14 his433 spouts75 are314 mixed459 with449 water520 , then45 I482 opine27 we465 should255 be341 furnished201 with449 the19 reason238 why177 his433 sense85 of89 smell124 seems19 obliterated42 in107 him248 ; for190 the19 only517 thing309 about123 him248 that14 at65 all145 answers369 to261 his433 nose176 is487 that14 identical351 spout224 -hole73 ; and236 being264 so281 clogged23 with449 two527 elements225 , it162 could375 not518 be341 expected96 to261 have254 the19 power145 of89 smelling160 . But330 owing98 to261 the19 mystery254 of89 the19 spout224 --whether454 it162 be341 water520 or519 whether454 it162 be341 vapor85 --no235 absolute105 certainty400 can450 as113 yet443 be341 arrived553 at65 on392 this256 head219 . Sure41 it162 is487 , nevertheless104 , that14 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 has399 no235 proper249 olfactories127 . But330 what243 does565 he362 want350 of89 them146 ? No235 roses542 , no235 violets284 , no235 Cologne427 -water520 in107 the19 sea67 . Furthermore181 , as113 his433 windpipe410 solely41 opens189 into554 the19 tube295 of89 his433 spouting81 canal29 , and236 as113 that14 long544 canal29 --like410 the19 grand229 Erie541 Canal29 -- is487 furnished201 with449 a10 sort42 of89 locks445 (that14 open464 and236 shut59 ) for190 the19 downward157 retention165 of89 air209 or519 the19 upward557 exclusion11 of89 water520 , therefore94 the19 whale422 has399 no235 voice233 ; unless54 you227 insult38 him248 by406 saying9 , that14 when189 he362 so281 strangely155 rumbles5 , he362 talks158 through295 his433 nose176 . But330 then45 again52 , what243 has399 the19 whale422 to261 say306 ? Seldom140 have254 I482 known86 any501 profound371 being264 that14 had364 anything480 to261 say306 to261 this256 world126 , unless54 forced28 to261 stammer104 out66 something181 by406 way435 of89 getting369 a10 living117 . Oh367 ! happy416 that14 the19 world126 is487 such420 an138 excellent161 listener214 ! Now20 , the19 spouting81 canal29 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 , chiefly90 intended495 as113 it162 is487 for190 the19 conveyance520 of89 air209 , and236 for190 several479 feet349 laid181 along423 , horizontally389 , just108 beneath320 the19 upper403 surface328 of89 his433 head219 , and236 a10 little554 to261 one470 side246 ; this256 curious264 canal29 is487 very515 much61 like410 a10 gas-pipe41 laid181 down133 in107 a10 city82 on392 one470 side246 of89 a10 street100 . But330 the19 question562 returns520 whether454 this256 gas-pipe41 is487 also119 a10 water520 -pipe293 ; in107 other282 words107 , whether454 the19 spout224 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 is487 the19 mere393 vapor85 of89 the19 exhaled49 breath150 , or519 whether454 that14 exhaled49 breath150 is487 mixed459 with449 water520 taken222 in107 at65 the19 mouth414 , and236 discharged509 through295 the19 spiracle4 . It162 is487 certain31 that14 the19 mouth414 indirectly155 communicates389 with449 the19 spouting81 canal29 ; but330 it162 cannot be341 proved312 that14 this256 is487 for190 the19 purpose514 of89 discharging191 water520 through295 the19 spiracle4 . Because540 the19 greatest479 necessity81 for190 so281 doing227 would282 seem404 to261 be341 , when189 in107 feeding367 he362 accidentally166 takes362 in107 water520 . But330 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 food248 is487 far258 beneath320 the19 surface328 , and236 there340 he362 cannot spout224 even198 if141 he362 would282 . Besides465 , if141 you227 regard448 him248 very515 closely218 , and236 time577 him248 with449 your162 watch89 , you227 will584 find138 that14 when189 unmolested410 , there340 is487 an138 undeviating138 rhyme443 between77 the19 periods24 of89 his433 jets6 and236 the19 ordinary225 periods24 of89 respiration113 . But330 why177 pester213 one470 with449 all145 this256 reasoning68 on392 the19 subject382 ? Speak337 out66 ! You227 have254 seen154 him248 spout224 ; then45 declare167 what243 the19 spout224 is487 ; can450 you227 not518 tell392 water520 from316 air209 ? My36 dear333 sir271 , in107 this256 world126 it162 is487 not518 so281 easy281 to261 settle92 these527 plain28 things4 . I482 have254 ever208 found260 your162 plain28 things4 the19 knottiest316 of89 all145 . And236 as113 for190 this256 whale422 spout224 , you227 might496 almost518 stand530 in107 it162 , and236 yet443 be341 undecided25 as113 to261 what243 it162 is487 precisely217 . The19 central229 body348 of89 it162 is487 hidden78 in107 the19 snowy152 sparkling42 mist322 enveloping273 it162 ; and236 how19 can450 you227 certainly124 tell392 whether454 any501 water520 falls24 from316 it162 , when189 , always367 , when189 you227 are314 close65 enough217 to261 a10 whale422 to261 get126 a10 close65 view370 of89 his433 spout224 , he362 is487 in107 a10 prodigious223 commotion155 , the19 water520 cascading445 all145 around66 him248 . And236 if141 at65 such420 times121 you227 should255 think424 that14 you227 really406 perceived76 drops6 of89 moisture116 in107 the19 spout224 , how19 do353 you227 know60 that14 they382 are314 not518 merely57 condensed455 from316 its234 vapor85 ; or519 how19 do353 you227 know60 that14 they382 are314 not518 those427 identical351 drops6 superficially323 lodged238 in107 the19 spout224 -hole73 fissure283 , which16 is487 countersunk435 into554 the19 summit347 of89 the19 whale422 's483 head219 ? For190 even198 when189 tranquilly83 swimming367 through295 the19 mid84 -day112 sea67 in107 a10 calm39 , with449 his433 elevated541 hump20 sun397 -dried331 as113 a10 dromedary183 's483 in107 the19 desert255 ; even198 then45 , the19 whale422 always367 carries440 a10 small350 basin9 of89 water520 on392 his433 head219 , as113 under533 a10 blazing232 sun397 you227 will584 sometimes77 see370 a10 cavity4 in107 a10 rock264 filled232 up405 with449 rain190 . Nor137 is487 it162 at65 all145 prudent183 for190 the19 hunter287 to261 be341 over82 curious264 touching80 the19 precise158 nature159 of89 the19 whale422 spout224 . It162 will584 not518 do353 for190 him248 to261 be341 peering446 into554 it162 , and236 putting243 his433 face556 in107 it162 . You227 cannot go20 with449 your162 pitcher20 to261 this256 fountain524 and236 fill380 it162 , and236 bring173 it162 away443 . For190 even198 when189 coming140 into554 slight259 contact263 with449 the19 outer359 , vapory112 shreds249 of89 the19 jet423 , which16 will584 often227 happen352 , your162 skin428 will584 feverishly298 smart210 , from316 the19 acridness4 of89 the19 thing309 so281 touching80 it162 . And236 I482 know60 one470 , who319 coming140 into554 still278 closer111 contact263 with449 the19 spout224 , whether454 with449 some265 scientific435 object100 in107 view370 , or519 otherwise542 , I482 cannot say306 , the19 skin428 peeled160 off111 from316 his433 cheek327 and236 arm25 . Wherefore220 , among483 whalemen451 , the19 spout224 is487 deemed17 poisonous288 ; they382 try266 to261 evade25 it162 . Another269 thing309 ; I482 have254 heard444 it162 said252 , and236 I482 do353 not518 much61 doubt71 it162 , that14 if141 the19 jet423 is487 fairly211 spouted395 into554 your162 eyes125 , it162 will584 blind375 you227 . The19 wisest416 thing309 the19 investigator359 can450 do353 then45 , it162 seems19 to261 me2 , is487 to261 let66 this256 deadly49 spout224 alone2 . Still278 , we465 can450 hypothesize, even198 if141 we465 cannot prove396 and236 establish426 . My36 hypothesis262 is487 this256 : that14 the19 spout224 is487 nothing324 but330 mist322 . And236 besides465 other282 reasons186 , to261 this256 conclusion330 I482 am375 impelled104 , by406 considerations88 touching80 the19 great259 inherent18 dignity338 and236 sublimity112 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 ; I482 account102 him248 no235 common304 , shallow397 being264 , inasmuch110 as113 it162 is487 an138 undisputed122 fact12 that14 he362 is487 never206 found260 on392 soundings99 , or519 near70 shores116 ; all145 other282 whales331 sometimes77 are314 . He362 is487 both558 ponderous213 and236 profound371 . And236 I482 am375 convinced469 that14 from316 the19 heads366 of89 all145 ponderous213 profound371 beings6 , such420 as113 Plato281 , Pyrrho29 , the19 Devil411 , Jupiter430 , Dante107 , and236 so281 on392 , there340 always367 goes205 up405 a10 certain31 semi-visible94 steam106 , while55 in107 the19 act10 of89 thinking385 deep483 thoughts26 . While55 composing460 a10 little554 treatise117 on392 Eternity380 , I482 had364 the19 curiosity501 to261 place107 a10 mirror543 before344 me2 ; and236 ere83 long544 saw113 reflected479 there340 , a10 curious264 involved149 worming347 and236 undulation252 in107 the19 atmosphere64 over82 my36 head219 . The19 invariable261 moisture116 of89 my36 hair237 , while55 plunged340 in107 deep483 thought186 , after358 six415 cups58 of89 hot424 tea521 in107 my36 thin445 shingled129 attic234 , of89 an138 August29 noon445 ; this256 seems19 an138 additional131 argument195 for190 the19 above502 supposition297 . And236 how19 nobly308 it162 raises148 our234 conceit58 of89 the19 mighty2 , misty350 monster480 , to261 behold525 him248 solemnly200 sailing232 through295 a10 calm39 tropical92 sea67 ; his433 vast43 , mild117 head219 overhung19 by406 a10 canopy410 of89 vapor85 , engendered315 by406 his433 incommunicable38 contemplations229 , and236 that14 vapor85 -- as113 you227 will584 sometimes77 see370 it162 --glorified51 by406 a10 rainbow174 , as113 if141 Heaven163 itself312 had364 put190 its234 seal40 upon419 his433 thoughts26 . For190 d67 'ye163 see370 , rainbows20 do353 not518 visit229 the19 clear408 air209 ; they382 only517 irradiate110 vapor85 . And236 so281 , through295 all145 the19 thick502 mists241 of89 the19 dim14 doubts289 in107 my36 mind118 , divine216 intuitions396 now20 and236 then45 shoot316 , enkindling399 my36 fog554 with449 a10 heavenly375 ray105 . And236 for190 this256 I482 thank166 God185 ; for190 all145 have254 doubts289 ; many282 deny346 ; but330 doubts289 or519 denials25 , few49 along423 with449 them146 , have254 intuitions396 . Doubts289 of89 all145 things4 earthly64 , and236 intuitions396 of89 some265 things4 heavenly375 ; this256 combination358 makes32 neither74 believer154 nor137 infidel183 , but330 makes32 a10 man17 who319 regards5 them146 both558 with449 equal261 eye220 . CHAPTER293 86183 The19 Tail102 Other282 poets5 have254 warbled317 the19 praises41 of89 the19 soft226 eye220 of89 the19 antelope97 , and236 the19 lovely126 plumage206 of89 the19 bird443 that14 never206 alights411 ; less261 celestial437 , I482 celebrate41 a10 tail102 . Reckoning541 the19 largest139 sized133 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 tail102 to261 begin183 at65 that14 point438 of89 the19 trunk389 where579 it162 tapers362 to261 about123 the19 girth106 of89 a10 man17 , it162 comprises234 upon419 its234 upper403 surface328 alone2 , an138 area472 of89 at65 least453 fifty406 square302 feet349 . The19 compact446 round287 body348 of89 its234 root24 expands392 into554 two527 broad267 , firm415 , flat445 palms173 or519 flukes155 , gradually355 shoaling224 away443 to261 less261 than77 an138 inch65 in107 thickness280 . At65 the19 crotch111 or519 junction582 , these527 flukes155 slightly238 overlap111 , then45 sideways496 recede127 from316 each520 other282 like410 wings175 , leaving231 a10 wide465 vacancy11 between77 . In107 no235 living117 thing309 are314 the19 lines241 of89 beauty262 more348 exquisitely468 defined288 than77 in107 the19 crescentic4 borders133 of89 these527 flukes155 . At65 its234 utmost43 expansion43 in107 the19 full414 grown299 whale422 , the19 tail102 will584 considerably110 exceed534 twenty433 feet349 across129 . The19 entire230 member333 seems19 a10 dense481 webbed284 bed273 of89 welded102 sinews270 ; but330 cut310 into554 it162 , and236 you227 find138 that14 three329 distinct259 strata83 compose492 it162 :--upper403 , middle39 , and236 lower47 . The19 fibres45 in107 the19 upper403 and236 lower47 layers451 , are314 long544 and236 horizontal252 ; those427 of89 the19 middle39 one470 , very515 short522 , and236 running296 crosswise350 between77 the19 outside75 layers451 . This256 triune4 structure235 , as113 much61 as113 anything480 else212 , imparts217 power145 to261 the19 tail102 . To261 the19 student388 of89 old447 Roman333 walls116 , the19 middle39 layer296 will584 furnish160 a10 curious264 parallel78 to261 the19 thin445 course171 of89 tiles143 always367 alternating83 with449 the19 stone398 in107 those427 wonderful291 relics361 of89 the19 antique58 , and236 which16 undoubtedly503 contribute454 so281 much61 to261 the19 great259 strength168 of89 the19 masonry210 . But330 as113 if141 this256 vast43 local10 power145 in107 the19 tendinous25 tail102 were324 not518 enough217 , the19 whole199 bulk181 of89 the19 leviathan384 is487 knit160 over82 with449 a10 warp382 and236 woof414 of89 muscular110 fibres45 and236 filaments205 , which16 passing147 on392 either45 side246 the19 loins306 and236 running296 down133 into554 the19 flukes155 , insensibly433 blend22 with449 them146 , and236 largely211 contribute454 to261 their219 might496 ; so281 that14 in107 the19 tail102 the19 confluent25 measureless102 force406 of89 the19 whole199 whale422 seems19 concentrated208 to261 a10 point438 . Could375 annihilation138 occur512 to261 matter176 , this256 were324 the19 thing309 to261 do353 it162 . Nor137 does565 this256 --its234 amazing306 strength168 , at65 all145 tend151 to261 cripple12 the19 graceful403 flexion500 of89 its234 motions62 ; where579 infantileness of89 ease387 undulates116 through295 a10 Titanism of89 power145 . On392 the19 contrary166 , those427 motions62 derive414 their219 most216 appalling282 beauty262 from316 it162 . Real305 strength168 never206 impairs136 beauty262 or519 harmony550 , but330 it162 often227 bestows439 it162 ; and236 in107 everything233 imposingly116 beautiful239 , strength168 has399 much61 to261 do353 with449 the19 magic54 . Take279 away443 the19 tied101 tendons454 that14 all145 over82 seem404 bursting288 from316 the19 marble364 in107 the19 carved455 Hercules301 , and236 its234 charm251 would282 be341 gone190 . As113 devout292 Eckerman lifted448 the19 linen330 sheet327 from316 the19 naked70 corpse133 of89 Goethe258 , he362 was454 overwhelmed224 with449 the19 massive232 chest98 of89 the19 man17 , that14 seemed132 as113 a10 Roman333 triumphal564 arch198 . When189 Angelo29 paints142 even198 God185 the19 Father339 in107 human43 form238 , mark169 what243 robustness9 is487 there340 . And236 whatever38 they382 may236 reveal25 of89 the19 divine216 love391 in107 the19 Son26 , the19 soft226 , curled253 , hermaphroditical65 Italian396 pictures371 , in107 which16 his433 idea250 has399 been185 most216 successfully412 embodied128 ; these527 pictures371 , so281 destitute190 as113 they382 are314 of89 all145 brawniness, hint335 nothing324 of89 any501 power145 , but330 the19 mere393 negative384 , feminine259 one470 of89 submission249 and236 endurance9 , which16 on392 all145 hands87 it162 is487 conceded34 , form238 the19 peculiar291 practical74 virtues325 of89 his433 teachings396 . Such420 is487 the19 subtle143 elasticity425 of89 the19 organ336 I482 treat270 of89 , that14 whether454 wielded208 in107 sport171 , or519 in107 earnest495 , or519 in107 anger282 , whatever38 be341 the19 mood547 it162 be341 in107 , its234 flexions403 are314 invariably55 marked67 by406 exceeding320 grace174 . Therein68 no235 fairy272 's483 arm25 can450 transcend65 it162 . Five103 great259 motions62 are314 peculiar291 to261 it162 . First13 , when189 used102 as113 a10 fin286 for190 progression350 ; Second386 , when189 used102 as113 a10 mace273 in107 battle105 ; Third301 , in107 sweeping61 ; Fourth399 , in107 lobtailing; Fifth403 , in107 peaking565 flukes155 . First13 : Being264 horizontal252 in107 its234 position383 , the19 Leviathan384 's483 tail102 acts395 in107 a10 different276 manner153 from316 the19 tails490 of89 all145 other282 sea67 creatures5 . It162 never206 wriggles261 . In107 man17 or519 fish187 , wriggling305 is487 a10 sign8 of89 inferiority116 . To261 the19 whale422 his433 tail102 is487 the19 sole462 means502 of89 propulsion252 . Scroll62 -wise16 coiled4 forwards528 beneath320 the19 body348 , and236 then45 rapidly116 sprung376 backwards143 , it162 is487 this256 which16 gives529 that14 singular216 darting147 , leaping397 motion544 to261 the19 monster480 when189 furiously252 swimming367 . His433 side246 -fins556 only517 serve269 to261 steer426 by406 . Second386 : It162 is487 a10 little554 significant143 , that14 while55 one470 sperm26 whale422 only517 fights295 another269 sperm26 whale422 with449 his433 head219 and236 jaw213 , nevertheless104 , in107 his433 conflicts350 with449 man17 , he362 chiefly90 and236 contemptuously5 uses282 his433 tail102 . In107 striking22 at65 a10 boat439 , he362 swiftly441 curves315 away443 his433 flukes155 from316 it162 , and236 the19 blow230 is487 only517 inflicted7 by406 the19 recoil516 . If141 it162 be341 made563 in107 the19 unobstructed92 air209 , especially371 if141 it162 descend252 to261 its234 mark169 , the19 stroke436 is487 then45 simply142 irresistible214 . No235 ribs92 of89 man17 or519 boat439 can450 withstand263 it162 . Your162 only517 salvation346 lies27 in107 eluding362 it162 ; but330 if141 it162 comes268 sideways496 through295 the19 opposing402 water520 , then45 partly311 owing98 to261 the19 light382 buoyancy15 of89 the19 whale422 -boat439 , and236 the19 elasticity425 of89 its234 materials363 , a10 cracked423 rib84 or519 a10 dashed304 plank243 or519 two527 , a10 sort42 of89 stitch210 in107 the19 side246 , is487 generally402 the19 most216 serious97 result115 . These527 submerged402 side246 blows361 are314 so281 often227 received12 in107 the19 fishery136 , that14 they382 are314 accounted480 mere393 child451 's483 play89 . Some265 one470 strips163 off111 a10 frock200 , and236 the19 hole73 is487 stopped564 . Third301 : I482 cannot demonstrate550 it162 , but330 it162 seems19 to261 me2 , that14 in107 the19 whale422 the19 sense85 of89 touch486 is487 concentrated208 in107 the19 tail102 ; for190 in107 this256 respect441 there340 is487 a10 delicacy201 in107 it162 only517 equalled27 by406 the19 daintiness135 of89 the19 elephant72 's483 trunk389 . This256 delicacy201 is487 chiefly90 evinced94 in107 the19 action102 of89 sweeping61 , when189 in107 maidenly292 gentleness75 the19 whale422 with449 a10 certain31 soft226 slowness268 moves115 his433 immense301 flukes155 from316 side246 to261 side246 upon419 the19 surface328 of89 the19 sea67 ; and236 if141 he362 feel461 but330 a10 sailor561 's483 whisker143 , woe295 to261 that14 sailor561 , whiskers42 and236 all145 . What243 tenderness354 there340 is487 in107 that14 preliminary32 touch486 ! Had364 this256 tail102 any501 prehensile258 power145 , I482 should255 straightway210 bethink51 me2 of89 Darmonodes' elephant72 that14 so281 frequented359 the19 flower356 -market286 , and236 with449 low407 salutations169 presented320 nosegays86 to261 damsels196 , and236 then45 caressed366 their219 zones183 . On392 more348 accounts311 than77 one470 , a10 pity270 it162 is487 that14 the19 whale422 does565 not518 possess35 this256 prehensile258 virtue16 in107 his433 tail102 ; for190 I482 have254 heard444 of89 yet443 another269 elephant72 , that14 when189 wounded396 in107 the19 fight330 , curved331 round287 his433 trunk389 and236 extracted69 the19 dart293 . Fourth399 : Stealing342 unawares23 upon419 the19 whale422 in107 the19 fancied100 security105 of89 the19 middle39 of89 solitary407 seas350 , you227 find138 him248 unbent21 from316 the19 vast43 corpulence24 of89 his433 dignity338 , and236 kitten-like410 , he362 plays483 on392 the19 ocean224 as113 if141 it162 were324 a10 hearth61 . But330 still278 you227 see370 his433 power145 in107 his433 play89 . The19 broad267 palms173 of89 his433 tail102 are314 flirted83 high361 into554 the19 air209 ! then45 smiting280 the19 surface328 , the19 thunderous14 concussion27 resounds218 for190 miles278 . You227 would282 almost518 think424 a10 great259 gun152 had364 been185 discharged509 ; and236 if141 you227 noticed157 the19 light382 wreath322 of89 vapor85 from316 the19 spiracle4 at65 his433 other282 extremity410 , you227 would282 think424 that14 that14 was454 the19 smoke99 from316 the19 touch486 -hole43 . Fifth403 : As113 in107 the19 ordinary225 floating30 posture347 of89 the19 leviathan384 the19 flukes155 lies27 considerably110 below397 the19 level378 of89 his433 back457 , they382 are314 then45 completely385 out66 of89 sight365 beneath320 the19 surface328 ; but330 when189 he362 is487 about123 to261 plunge234 into554 the19 deeps192 , his433 entire230 flukes155 with449 at65 least453 thirty521 feet349 of89 his433 body348 are314 tossed227 erect245 in107 the19 air209 , and236 so281 remain326 vibrating436 a10 moment258 , till181 they382 downwards468 shoot316 out66 of89 view370 . Excepting289 the19 sublime76 breach361 -- somewhere201 else212 to261 be341 described483 --this256 peaking565 of89 the19 whale422 's483 flukes155 is487 perhaps75 the19 grandest77 sight365 to261 be341 seen154 in107 all145 animated143 nature159 . Out66 of89 the19 bottomless376 profundities292 the19 gigantic157 tail102 seems19 spasmodically203 snatching111 at65 the19 highest575 heaven163 . So281 in107 dreams299 , have254 I482 seen154 majestic13 Satan229 thrusting100 forth152 his433 tormented256 colossal396 claw58 from316 the19 flame113 Baltic289 of89 Hell169 . But330 in107 gazing117 at65 such420 scenes339 , it162 is487 all145 in107 all145 what243 mood547 you227 are314 in107 ; if141 in107 the19 Dantean169 , the19 devils377 will584 occur512 to261 you227 ; if141 in107 that14 of89 Isaiah393 , the19 archangels345 . Standing144 at65 the19 mast44 -head116 of89 my36 ship438 during309 a10 sunrise445 that14 crimsoned259 sky331 and236 sea67 , I482 once248 saw113 a10 large385 herd69 of89 whales331 in107 the19 east524 , all145 heading364 towards417 the19 sun397 , and236 for190 a10 moment258 vibrating436 in107 concert159 with449 peaked111 flukes155 . As113 it162 seemed132 to261 me2 at65 the19 time577 , such420 a10 grand229 embodiment87 of89 adoration225 of89 the19 gods325 was454 never206 beheld132 , even198 in107 Persia557 , the19 home450 of89 the19 fire559 worshippers8 . As113 Ptolemy557 Philopater25 testified105 of89 the19 African117 elephant72 , I482 then45 testified105 of89 the19 whale422 , pronouncing330 him248 the19 most216 devout292 of89 all145 beings6 . For190 according281 to261 King324 Juba246 , the19 military317 elephants452 of89 antiquity354 often227 hailed411 the19 morning417 with449 their219 trunks231 uplifted533 in107 the19 profoundest320 silence309 . The19 chance292 comparison255 in107 this256 chapter293 , between77 the19 whale422 and236 the19 elephant72 , so281 far258 as113 some265 aspects322 of89 the19 tail102 of89 the19 one470 and236 the19 trunk389 of89 the19 other282 are314 concerned583 , should255 not518 tend151 to261 place107 those427 two527 opposite107 organs410 on392 an138 equality518 , much61 less261 the19 creatures5 to261 which16 they382 respectively254 belong243 . For190 as113 the19 mightiest395 elephant72 is487 but330 a10 terrier83 to261 Leviathan384 , so281 , compared357 with449 Leviathan384 's483 tail102 , his433 trunk389 is487 but330 the19 stalk143 of89 a10 lily5 . The19 most216 direful137 blow230 from316 the19 elephant72 's483 trunk389 were324 as113 the19 playful85 tap367 of89 a10 fan104 , compared357 with449 the19 measureless102 crush482 and236 crash341 of89 the19 sperm26 whale422 's483 ponderous213 flukes155 , which16 in107 repeated381 instances252 have254 one470 after358 the19 other282 hurled46 entire230 boats83 with449 all145 their219 oars398 and236 crews559 into554 the19 air209 , very515 much61 as113 an138 Indian303 juggler138 tosses445 his433 balls264 .* *Though400 all145 comparison255 in107 the19 way435 of89 general37 bulk181 between77 the19 whale422 and236 the19 elephant72 is487 preposterous107 , inasmuch110 as113 in107 that14 particular336 the19 elephant72 stands256 in107 much61 the19 same541 respect441 to261 the19 whale422 that14 a10 dog322 does565 to261 the19 elephant72 ; nevertheless104 , there340 are314 not518 wanting361 some265 points245 of89 curious264 similitude375 ; among483 these527 is487 the19 spout224 . It162 is487 well263 known86 that14 the19 elephant72 will584 often227 draw106 up405 water520 or519 dust434 in107 his433 trunk389 , and236 then45 elevating222 it162 , jet423 it162 forth152 in107 a10 stream184 . The19 more348 I482 consider259 this256 mighty2 tail102 , the19 more348 do353 I482 deplore169 my36 inability170 to261 express91 it162 . At65 times121 there340 are314 gestures258 in107 it162 , which16 , though400 they382 would282 well263 grace174 the19 hand252 of89 man17 , remain326 wholly497 inexplicable367 . In107 an138 extensive83 herd69 , so281 remarkable381 , occasionally509 , are314 these527 mystic455 gestures258 , that14 I482 have254 heard444 hunters423 who319 have254 declared29 them146 akin273 to261 Free483 -Mason signs211 and236 symbols54 ; that14 the19 whale422 , indeed522 , by406 these527 methods424 intelligently11 conversed341 with449 the19 world126 . Nor137 are314 there340 wanting361 other282 motions62 of89 the19 whale422 in107 his433 general37 body348 , full414 of89 strangeness58 , and236 unaccountable316 to261 his433 most216 experienced93 assailant252 . Dissect25 him248 how19 I482 may236 , then45 , I482 but330 go20 skin428 deep483 . I482 know60 him248 not518 , and236 never206 will584 . But330 if141 I482 know60 not518 even198 the19 tail102 of89 this256 whale422 , how19 understand111 his433 head219 ? much61 more348 , how19 comprehend301 his433 face556 , when189 face556 he362 has399 none365 ? Thou173 shalt510 see370 my36 back457 parts470 , my36 tail102 , he362 seems19 to261 say306 , but330 my36 face556 shall66 not518 be341 seen154 . But330 I482 cannot completely385 make175 out66 his433 back457 parts470 ; and236 hint335 what243 he362 will584 about123 his433 face556 , I482 say306 again52 he362 has399 no235 face556 . CHAPTER293 8796 The19 Grand229 Armada27 The19 long544 and236 narrow140 peninsula204 of89 Malacca6 , extending231 south257 -eastward244 from316 the19 territories69 of89 Birmah78 , forms48 the19 most216 southerly24 point438 of89 all145 Asia112 . In107 a10 continuous447 line25 from316 that14 peninsula204 stretch318 the19 long544 islands59 of89 Sumatra208 , Java126 , Bally117 , and236 Timor31 ; which16 , with449 many282 others317 , form238 a10 vast43 mole156 , or519 rampart38 , lengthwise288 connecting430 Asia112 with449 Australia254 , and236 dividing306 the19 long544 unbroken290 Indian303 ocean224 from316 the19 thickly363 studded223 oriental147 archipelagoes83 . This256 rampart38 is487 pierced197 by406 several479 sally7 -ports92 for190 the19 convenience180 of89 ships21 and236 whales331 ; conspicuous460 among483 which16 are314 the19 straits273 of89 Sunda25 and236 Malacca6 . By406 the19 straits273 of89 Sunda25 , chiefly90 , vessels150 bound108 to261 China253 from316 the19 west569 , emerge369 into554 the19 China253 seas350 . Those427 narrow140 straits273 of89 Sunda25 divide80 Sumatra208 from316 Java126 ; and236 standing144 midway418 in107 that14 vast43 rampart38 of89 islands59 , buttressed281 by406 that14 bold356 green549 promontory273 , known86 to261 seamen6 as113 Java126 Head219 ; they382 not518 a10 little554 correspond153 to261 the19 central229 gateway100 opening306 into554 some265 vast43 walled8 empire390 : and236 considering115 the19 inexhaustible115 wealth438 of89 spices320 , and236 silks279 , and236 jewels36 , and236 gold231 , and236 ivory76 , with449 which16 the19 thousand586 islands59 of89 that14 oriental147 sea67 are314 enriched402 , it162 seems19 a10 significant143 provision367 of89 nature159 , that14 such420 treasures202 , by406 the19 very515 formation44 of89 the19 land406 , should255 at65 least453 bear48 the19 appearance138 , however44 ineffectual78 , of89 being264 guarded7 from316 the19 all145 -grasping102 western227 world126 . The19 shores116 of89 the19 Straits273 of89 Sunda25 are314 unsupplied129 with449 those427 domineering98 fortresses19 which16 guard205 the19 entrances24 to261 the19 Mediterranean241 , the19 Baltic289 , and236 the19 Propontis110 . Unlike406 the19 Danes350 , these527 Orientals311 do353 not518 demand320 the19 obsequious367 homage92 of89 lowered279 top70 -sails344 from316 the19 endless489 procession116 of89 ships21 before344 the19 wind262 , which16 for190 centuries168 past111 , by406 night108 and236 by406 day112 , have254 passed87 between77 the19 islands59 of89 Sumatra208 and236 Java126 , freighted12 with449 the19 costliest301 cargoes120 of89 the19 east524 . But330 while55 they382 freely386 waive215 a10 ceremonial4 like410 this256 , they382 do353 by406 no235 means502 renounce198 their219 claim217 to261 more348 solid494 tribute412 . Time577 out66 of89 mind118 the19 piratical403 proas33 of89 the19 Malays400 , lurking89 among483 the19 low407 shaded366 coves92 and236 islets6 of89 Sumatra208 , have254 sallied183 out66 upon419 the19 vessels150 sailing232 through295 the19 straits273 , fiercely111 demanding4 tribute412 at65 the19 point438 of89 their219 spears450 . Though400 by406 the19 repeated381 bloody357 chastisements187 they382 have254 received12 at65 the19 hands87 of89 European15 cruisers298 , the19 audacity337 of89 these527 corsairs243 has399 of89 late351 been185 somewhat77 repressed175 ; yet443 , even198 at65 the19 present112 day112 , we465 occasionally509 hear386 of89 English69 and236 American272 vessels150 , which16 , in107 those427 waters556 , have254 been185 remorselessly364 boarded52 and236 pillaged140 . With449 a10 fair320 , fresh540 wind262 , the19 Pequod288 was454 now20 drawing407 nigh254 to261 these527 straits273 ; Ahab232 purposing43 to261 pass153 through295 them146 into554 the19 Java126 sea67 , and236 thence158 , cruising298 northwards67 , over82 waters556 known86 to261 be341 frequented359 here135 and236 there340 by406 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 , sweep471 inshore522 by406 the19 Philippine138 Islands59 , and236 gain101 the19 far258 coast287 of89 Japan53 , in107 time577 for190 the19 great259 whaling155 season248 there340 . By406 these527 means502 , the19 circumnavigating347 Pequod288 would282 sweep471 almost518 all145 the19 known86 Sperm26 Whale422 cruising298 grounds448 of89 the19 world126 , previous376 to261 descending181 upon419 the19 Line25 in107 the19 Pacific294 ; where579 Ahab232 , though400 everywhere469 else212 foiled399 in107 his433 pursuit305 , firmly308 counted81 upon419 giving207 battle105 to261 Moby362 Dick25 , in107 the19 sea67 he362 was454 most216 known86 to261 frequent430 ; and236 at65 a10 season248 when189 he362 might496 most216 reasonably102 be341 presumed300 to261 be341 haunting402 it162 . But330 how19 now20 ? in107 this256 zoned280 quest36 , does565 Ahab232 touch486 no235 land406 ? does565 his433 crew126 drink117 air209 ? Surely388 , he362 will584 stop48 for190 water520 . Nay358 . For190 a10 long544 time577 , now20 , the19 circus331 -running296 sun397 has399 raced264 within503 his433 fiery42 ring579 , and236 needs41 no235 sustenance256 but330 what243 's483 in107 himself282 . So281 Ahab232 . Mark169 this256 , too11 , in107 the19 whaler91 . While55 other282 hulls133 are314 loaded55 down133 with449 alien8 stuff471 , to261 be341 transferred8 to261 foreign198 wharves329 ; the19 world126 -wandering110 whale422 -ship98 carries440 no235 cargo88 but330 herself263 and236 crew126 , their219 weapons489 and236 their219 wants418 . She391 has399 a10 whole199 lake43 's483 contents347 bottled320 in107 her400 ample264 hold204 . She391 is487 ballasted141 with449 utilities153 ; not518 altogether31 with449 unusable357 pig241 -lead362 and236 kentledge. She391 carries440 years116 ' water520 in107 her400 . Clear408 old447 prime425 Nantucket283 water520 ; which16 , when189 three329 years116 afloat2 , the19 Nantucketer, in107 the19 Pacific294 , prefers484 to261 drink117 before344 the19 brackish155 fluid212 , but330 yesterday235 rafted290 off111 in107 casks213 , from316 the19 Peruvian25 or519 Indian303 streams15 . Hence503 it162 is487 , that14 , while55 other282 ships21 may236 have254 gone190 to261 China253 from316 New36 York523 , and236 back457 again52 , touching80 at65 a10 score124 of89 ports92 , the19 whale422 -ship98 , in107 all145 that14 interval114 , may236 not518 have254 sighted105 one470 grain122 of89 soil430 ; her400 crew126 having69 seen154 no235 man17 but330 floating30 seamen6 like410 themselves510 . So281 that14 did444 you227 carry160 them146 the19 news314 that14 another269 flood167 had364 come420 ; they382 would282 only517 answer164 --"Well263 , boys22 , here135 's483 the19 ark25 !" Now20 , as113 many282 Sperm26 Whales331 had364 been185 captured126 off111 the19 western227 coast287 of89 Java126 , in107 the19 near70 vicinity208 of89 the19 Straits273 of89 Sunda25 ; indeed522 , as113 most216 of89 the19 ground127 , roundabout139 , was454 generally402 recognised133 by406 the19 fishermen24 as113 an138 excellent161 spot46 for190 cruising298 ; therefore94 , as113 the19 Pequod288 gained290 more348 and236 more348 upon419 Java126 Head219 , the19 look523 -outs52 were324 repeatedly179 hailed411 , and236 admonished3 to261 keep381 wide465 awake255 . But330 though400 the19 green549 palmy4 cliffs290 of89 the19 land406 soon18 loomed145 on392 the19 starboard309 bow146 , and236 with449 delighted493 nostrils42 the19 fresh540 cinnamon117 was454 snuffed250 in107 the19 air209 , yet443 not518 a10 single77 jet423 was454 descried313 . Almost518 renouncing83 all145 thought186 of89 falling498 in107 with449 any501 game233 hereabouts116 , the19 ship438 had364 well263 nigh254 entered447 the19 straits273 , when189 the19 customary79 cheering371 cry561 was454 heard444 from316 aloft276 , and236 ere83 long544 a10 spectacle250 of89 singular216 magnificence277 saluted376 us569 . But330 here135 be341 it162 premised201 , that14 owing98 to261 the19 unwearied158 activity293 with449 which16 of89 late351 they382 have254 been185 hunted439 over82 all145 four175 oceans60 , the19 Sperm26 Whales331 , instead398 of89 almost518 invariably55 sailing232 in107 small350 detached5 companies13 , as113 in107 former157 times121 , are314 now20 frequently475 met130 with449 in107 extensive83 herds341 , sometimes77 embracing92 so281 great259 a10 multitude170 , that14 it162 would282 almost518 seem404 as113 if141 numerous558 nations274 of89 them146 had364 sworn376 solemn303 league81 and236 covenant356 for190 mutual35 assistance118 and236 protection71 . To261 this256 aggregation378 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 into554 such420 immense301 caravans18 , may236 be341 imputed140 the19 circumstance407 that14 even198 in107 the19 best315 cruising298 grounds448 , you227 may236 now20 sometimes77 sail218 for190 weeks522 and236 months17 together440 , without309 being264 greeted346 by406 a10 single77 spout224 ; and236 then45 be341 suddenly193 saluted376 by406 what243 sometimes77 seems19 thousands7 on392 thousands7 . Broad267 on392 both558 bows460 , at65 the19 distance264 of89 some265 two527 or519 three329 miles278 , and236 forming354 a10 great259 semicircle382 , embracing92 one470 half119 of89 the19 level378 horizon516 , a10 continuous447 chain159 of89 whale422 -jets6 were324 up405 -playing471 and236 sparkling42 in107 the19 noon445 -day112 air209 . Unlike406 the19 straight346 perpendicular83 twin492 -jets6 of89 the19 Right499 Whale422 , which16 , dividing306 at65 top70 , falls24 over82 in107 two527 branches364 , like410 the19 cleft366 drooping279 boughs157 of89 a10 willow291 , the19 single77 forward364 -slanting522 spout224 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 presents256 a10 thick502 curled253 bush117 of89 white82 mist322 , continually303 rising464 and236 falling498 away443 to261 leeward265 . Seen154 from316 the19 Pequod288 's483 deck505 , then45 , as113 she391 would282 rise251 on392 a10 high361 hill219 of89 the19 sea67 , this256 host5 of89 vapory112 spouts75 , individually507 curling27 up405 into554 the19 air209 , and236 beheld132 through295 a10 blending350 atmosphere64 of89 bluish523 haze283 , showed507 like410 the19 thousand586 cheerful391 chimneys243 of89 some265 dense481 metropolis94 , descried313 of89 a10 balmy317 autumnal246 morning417 , by406 some265 horseman253 on392 a10 height20 . As113 marching57 armies50 approaching271 an138 unfriendly443 defile124 in107 the19 mountains202 , accelerate93 their219 march396 , all145 eagerness275 to261 place107 that14 perilous141 passage285 in107 their219 rear252 , and236 once248 more348 expand254 in107 comparative87 security105 upon419 the19 plain28 ; even198 so281 did444 this256 vast43 fleet206 of89 whales331 now20 seem404 hurrying339 forward364 through295 the19 straits273 ; gradually355 contracting521 the19 wings175 of89 their219 semicircle382 , and236 swimming367 on392 , in107 one470 solid494 , but330 still278 crescentic4 centre389 . Crowding283 all145 sail218 the19 Pequod288 pressed323 after358 them146 ; the19 harpooneers handling135 their219 weapons489 , and236 loudly275 cheering371 from316 the19 heads366 of89 their219 yet443 suspended245 boats83 . If141 the19 wind262 only517 held212 , little554 doubt71 had364 they382 , that14 chased389 through295 these527 Straits273 of89 Sunda25 , the19 vast43 host5 would282 only517 deploy303 into554 the19 Oriental147 seas350 to261 witness134 the19 capture361 of89 not518 a10 few49 of89 their219 number196 . And236 who319 could375 tell392 whether454 , in107 that14 congregated203 caravan125 , Moby362 Dick25 himself282 might496 not518 temporarily22 be341 swimming367 , like410 the19 worshipped499 white82 -elephant72 in107 the19 coronation239 procession116 of89 the19 Siamese26 ! So281 with449 stun-sail218 piled126 on392 stun-sail218 , we465 sailed248 along423 , driving280 these527 leviathans336 before344 us569 ; when189 , of89 a10 sudden309 , the19 voice233 of89 Tashtego was454 heard444 , loudly275 directing215 attention518 to261 something181 in107 our234 wake205 . Corresponding427 to261 the19 crescent212 in107 our234 van164 , we465 beheld132 another269 in107 our234 rear252 . It162 seemed132 formed294 of89 detached5 white82 vapors99 , rising464 and236 falling498 something181 like410 the19 spouts75 of89 the19 whales331 ; only517 they382 did444 not518 so281 completely385 come420 and236 go20 ; for190 they382 constantly344 hovered400 , without309 finally69 disappearing392 . Levelling140 his433 glass27 at65 this256 sight365 , Ahab232 quickly183 revolved75 in107 his433 pivot-hole73 , crying321 , "Aloft276 there340 , and236 rig415 whips466 and236 buckets157 to261 wet299 the19 sails344 ;--Malays400 , sir271 , and236 after358 us569 !" As113 if141 too11 long544 lurking89 behind80 the19 headlands129 , till181 the19 Pequod288 should255 fairly211 have254 entered447 the19 straits273 , these527 rascally122 Asiatics335 were324 now20 in107 hot424 pursuit305 , to261 make175 up405 for190 their219 over82 -cautious102 delay309 . But330 when189 the19 swift376 Pequod288 , with449 a10 fresh540 leading59 wind262 , was454 herself263 in107 hot424 chase89 ; how19 very515 kind451 of89 these527 tawny398 philanthropists336 to261 assist7 in107 speeding3 her400 on392 to261 her400 own248 chosen13 pursuit305 ,-- mere393 riding61 -whips466 and236 rowels309 to261 her400 , that14 they382 were324 . As113 with449 glass27 under533 arm25 , Ahab232 to261 -and236 -fro9 paced145 the19 deck505 ; in107 his433 forward364 turn17 beholding248 the19 monsters129 he362 chased389 , and236 in107 the19 after358 one470 the19 bloodthirsty296 pirates19 chasing227 him248 ; some265 such420 fancy396 as113 the19 above502 seemed132 his433 . And236 when189 he362 glanced411 upon419 the19 green549 walls116 of89 the19 watery59 defile124 in107 which16 the19 ship438 was454 then45 sailing232 , and236 bethought422 him248 that14 through295 that14 gate481 lay62 the19 route197 to261 his433 vengeance72 , and236 beheld132 , how19 that14 through295 that14 same541 gate481 he362 was454 now20 both558 chasing227 and236 being264 chased389 to261 his433 deadly49 end149 ; and236 not518 only517 that14 , but330 a10 herd69 of89 remorseless266 wild230 pirates19 and236 inhuman207 atheistical27 devils377 were324 infernally191 cheering371 him248 on392 with449 their219 curses497 ;--when189 all145 these527 conceits217 had364 passed87 through295 his433 brain158 , Ahab232 's483 brow474 was454 left159 gaunt62 and236 ribbed246 , like410 the19 black581 sand380 beach183 after358 some265 stormy115 tide523 has399 been185 gnawing253 it162 , without309 being264 able362 to261 drag426 the19 firm415 thing309 from316 its234 place107 . But330 thoughts26 like410 these527 troubled327 very515 few49 of89 the19 reckless240 crew126 ; and236 when189 , after358 steadily379 dropping279 and236 dropping279 the19 pirates19 astern39 , the19 Pequod288 at65 last436 shot443 by406 the19 vivid180 green549 Cockatoo286 Point438 on392 the19 Sumatra208 side246 , emerging350 at65 last436 upon419 the19 broad267 waters556 beyond421 ; then45 , the19 harpooneers seemed132 more348 to261 grieve243 that14 the19 swift376 whales331 had364 been185 gaining225 upon419 the19 ship438 , than77 to261 rejoice375 that14 the19 ship438 had364 so281 victoriously292 gained290 upon419 the19 Malays400 . But330 still278 driving280 on392 in107 the19 wake205 of89 the19 whales331 , at65 length202 they382 seemed132 abating295 their219 speed468 ; gradually355 the19 ship438 neared61 them146 ; and236 the19 wind262 now20 dying69 away443 , word486 was454 passed87 to261 spring148 to261 the19 boats83 . But330 no235 sooner338 did444 the19 herd69 , by406 some265 presumed300 wonderful291 instinct72 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 , become548 notified333 of89 the19 three329 keels394 that14 were324 after358 them146 ,-- though400 as113 yet443 a10 mile295 in107 their219 rear252 ,--than77 they382 rallied71 again52 , and236 forming354 in107 close65 ranks189 and236 battalions162 , so281 that14 their219 spouts75 all145 looked232 like410 flashing181 lines241 of89 stacked261 bayonets339 , moved492 on392 with449 redoubled336 velocity397 . Stripped301 to261 our234 shirts36 and236 drawers350 , we465 sprang253 to261 the19 white82 -ash481 , and236 after358 several479 hours127 ' pulling217 were324 almost518 disposed154 to261 renounce198 the19 chase89 , when189 a10 general37 pausing19 commotion155 among483 the19 whales331 gave572 animating341 tokens473 that14 they382 were324 now20 at65 last436 under533 the19 influence299 of89 that14 strange440 perplexity107 of89 inert155 irresolution44 , which16 , when189 the19 fishermen24 perceive131 it162 in107 the19 whale422 , they382 say306 he362 is487 gallied210 *. The19 compact446 martial43 columns262 in107 which16 they382 had364 been185 hitherto533 rapidly116 and236 steadily379 swimming367 , were324 now20 broken255 up405 in107 one470 measureless102 rout320 ; and236 like410 King324 Porus290 ' elephants452 in107 the19 Indian303 battle105 with449 Alexander312 , they382 seemed132 going227 mad235 with449 consternation52 . In107 all145 directions124 expanding41 in107 vast43 irregular430 circles3 , and236 aimlessly453 swimming367 hither342 and236 thither118 , by406 their219 short522 thick502 spoutings27 , they382 plainly450 betrayed498 their219 distraction167 of89 panic285 . This256 was454 still278 more348 strangely155 evinced94 by406 those427 of89 their219 number196 , who319 , completely385 paralysed564 as113 it162 were324 , helplessly100 floated6 like410 water520 -logged dismantled426 ships21 on392 the19 sea67 . Had364 these527 Leviathans336 been185 but330 a10 flock282 of89 simple271 sheep45 , pursued460 over82 the19 pasture330 by406 three329 fierce394 wolves482 , they382 could375 not518 possibly201 have254 evinced94 such420 excessive301 dismay366 . But330 this256 occasional202 timidity315 is487 characteristic378 of89 almost518 all145 herding197 creatures5 . Though400 banding31 together440 in107 tens367 of89 thousands7 , the19 lion84 -maned192 buffaloes125 of89 the19 West569 have254 fled434 before344 a10 solitary407 horseman253 . Witness134 , too11 , all145 human43 beings6 , how19 when189 herded170 together440 in107 the19 sheepfold296 of89 a10 theatre491 's483 pit223 , they382 will584 , at65 the19 slightest44 alarm178 of89 fire559 , rush6 helter-skelter21 for190 the19 outlets387 , crowding283 , trampling292 , jamming310 , and236 remorselessly364 dashing14 each520 other282 to261 death543 . Best315 , therefore94 , withhold141 any501 amazement223 at65 the19 strangely155 gallied210 whales331 before344 us569 , for190 there340 is487 no235 folly520 of89 the19 beasts359 of89 the19 earth513 which16 is487 not518 infinitely70 outdone168 by406 the19 madness282 of89 men62 . * To261 gally117 , or519 gallow142 , is487 to261 frighten202 excessively86 -- to261 confound224 with449 fright18 . It162 is487 an138 old447 Saxon479 word486 . It162 occurs183 once248 in107 Shakespeare247 :-- The19 wrathful169 skies30 Gallow142 the19 very515 wanderers68 of89 the19 dark471 And236 make175 them146 keep381 their219 caves203 . To261 common304 language322 , the19 word486 is487 now20 completely385 obsolete280 . When189 the19 polite499 landsman331 first13 hears561 it162 from316 the19 gaunt62 Nantucketer, he362 is487 apt40 to261 set422 it162 down133 as113 one470 of89 the19 whaleman98 's483 self442 -derived494 savageries424 . Much61 the19 same541 is487 it162 with449 many282 other282 sinewy490 Saxonisms of89 this256 sort42 , which16 emigrated23 to261 New36 -England348 rocks265 with449 the19 noble226 brawn359 of89 the19 old447 English69 emigrants498 in107 the19 time577 of89 the19 Commonwealth84 . Thus362 , some265 of89 the19 best315 and236 furthest361 -descended99 English69 words107 --the19 etymological350 Howards102 and236 Percys263 --are314 now20 democratised227 , nay358 , plebeianised--so281 to261 speak337 -- in107 the19 New36 World126 . Though400 many282 of89 the19 whales331 , as113 has399 been185 said252 , were324 in107 violent336 motion544 , yet443 it162 is487 to261 be341 observed340 that14 as113 a10 whole199 the19 herd69 neither74 advanced55 nor137 retreated173 , but330 collectively292 remained72 in107 one470 place107 . As113 is487 customary79 in107 those427 cases108 , the19 boats83 at65 once248 separated384 , each520 making415 for190 some265 one470 lone19 whale422 on392 the19 outskirts435 of89 the19 shoal520 . In107 about123 three329 minutes368 ' time577 , Queequeg's483 harpoon67 was454 flung255 ; the19 stricken328 fish187 darted362 blinding298 spray76 in107 our234 faces97 , and236 then45 running296 away443 with449 us569 like410 light382 , steered106 straight346 for190 the19 heart470 of89 the19 herd69 . Though400 such420 a10 movement128 on392 the19 part207 of89 the19 whale422 struck441 under533 such420 circumstances267 , is487 in107 no235 wise16 unprecedented54 ; and236 indeed522 is487 almost518 always367 more348 or519 less261 anticipated402 ; yet443 does565 it162 present112 one470 of89 the19 more348 perilous141 vicissitudes124 of89 the19 fishery136 . For190 as113 the19 swift376 monster480 drags295 you227 deeper253 and236 deeper253 into554 the19 frantic211 shoal520 , you227 bid171 adieu116 to261 circumspect263 life71 and236 only517 exist265 in107 a10 delirious205 throb504 . As113 , blind375 and236 deaf375 , the19 whale422 plunged340 forward364 , as113 if141 by406 sheer147 power145 of89 speed468 to261 rid367 himself282 of89 the19 iron169 leech465 that14 had364 fastened426 to261 him248 ; as113 we465 thus362 tore493 a10 white82 gash293 in107 the19 sea67 , on392 all145 sides331 menaced263 as113 we465 flew424 , by406 the19 crazed292 creatures5 to261 and236 fro183 rushing344 about123 us569 ; our234 beset126 boat439 was454 like410 a10 ship438 mobbed116 by406 ice443 -isles425 in107 a10 tempest125 , and236 striving388 to261 steer426 through295 their219 complicated64 channels247 and236 straits273 , knowing240 not518 at65 what243 moment258 it162 may236 be341 locked105 in107 and236 crushed197 . But330 not518 a10 bit72 daunted21 , Queequeg steered106 us569 manfully275 ; now20 sheering83 off111 from316 this256 monster480 directly58 across129 our234 route197 in107 advance70 ; now20 edging361 away443 from316 that14 , whose286 colossal396 flukes155 were324 suspended245 overhead7 , while55 all145 the19 time577 , Starbuck stood1 up405 in107 the19 bows460 , lance76 in107 hand252 , pricking490 out66 of89 our234 way435 whatever38 whales331 he362 could375 reach43 by406 short522 darts337 , for190 there340 was454 no235 time577 to261 make175 long544 ones396 . Nor137 were324 the19 oarsmen59 quite327 idle519 , though400 their219 wonted292 duty468 was454 now20 altogether31 dispensed493 with449 . They382 chiefly90 attended206 to261 the19 shouting421 part207 of89 the19 business168 . "Out66 of89 the19 way435 , Commodore415 !" cried506 one470 , to261 a10 great259 dromedary183 that14 of89 a10 sudden309 rose449 bodily172 to261 the19 surface328 , and236 for190 an138 instant279 threatened110 to261 swamp321 us569 . "Hard337 down133 with449 your162 tail102 , there340 !" cried506 a10 second386 to261 another269 , which16 , close65 to261 our234 gunwale198 , seemed132 calmly170 cooling241 himself282 with449 his433 own248 fan104 -like402 extremity410 . All145 whale422 -boats83 carry160 certain31 curious264 contrivances99 , originally367 invented15 by406 the19 Nantucket283 Indians99 , called237 druggs. Two527 thick502 squares239 of89 wood46 of89 equal261 size503 are314 stoutly109 clenched198 together440 , so281 that14 they382 cross416 each520 other282 's483 grain122 at65 right499 angles198 ; a10 line25 of89 considerable75 length202 is487 then45 attached211 to261 the19 middle39 of89 this256 block275 , and236 the19 other282 end149 of89 the19 line25 being264 looped445 , it162 can450 in107 a10 moment258 be341 fastened426 to261 a10 harpoon67 . It162 is487 chiefly90 among483 gallied210 whales331 that14 this256 drugg192 is487 used102 . For190 then45 , more348 whales331 are314 close65 round287 you227 than77 you227 can450 possibly201 chase89 at65 one470 time577 . But330 sperm26 whales331 are314 not518 every389 day112 encountered102 ; while55 you227 may236 , then45 , you227 must226 kill219 all145 you227 can450 . And236 if141 you227 cannot kill219 them146 all145 at65 once248 , you227 must226 wing101 them146 , so281 that14 they382 can450 be341 afterwards418 killed409 at65 your162 leisure215 . Hence503 it162 is487 , that14 at65 times121 like410 these527 the19 drug31 , comes268 into554 requisition27 . Our234 boat439 was454 furnished201 with449 three329 of89 them146 . The19 first13 and236 second386 were324 successfully412 darted362 , and236 we465 saw113 the19 whales331 staggeringly470 running296 off111 , fettered77 by406 the19 enormous327 sidelong203 resistance262 of89 the19 towing78 drugg192 . They382 were324 cramped340 like410 malefactors251 with449 the19 chain159 and236 ball141 . But330 upon419 flinging389 the19 third301 , in107 the19 act10 of89 tossing213 overboard247 the19 clumsy394 wooden35 block275 , it162 caught105 under533 one470 of89 the19 seats261 of89 the19 boat439 , and236 in107 an138 instant279 tore493 it162 out66 and236 carried232 it162 away443 , dropping279 the19 oarsman60 in107 the19 boat439 's483 bottom461 as113 the19 seat88 slid132 from316 under533 him248 . On392 both558 sides331 the19 sea67 came549 in107 at65 the19 wounded396 planks284 , but330 we465 stuffed502 two527 or519 three329 drawers350 and236 shirts36 in107 , and236 so281 stopped564 the19 leaks106 for190 the19 time577 . It162 had364 been185 next27 to261 impossible305 to261 dart293 these527 drugged100 -harpoons6 , were324 it162 not518 that14 as113 we465 advanced55 into554 the19 herd69 , our234 whale422 's483 way435 greatly460 diminished163 ; moreover326 , that14 as113 we465 went516 still278 further53 and236 further53 from316 the19 circumference417 of89 commotion155 , the19 direful137 disorders92 seemed132 waning442 . So281 that14 when189 at65 last436 the19 jerking2 harpoon67 drew175 out66 , and236 the19 towing78 whale422 sideways496 vanished564 ; then45 , with449 the19 tapering416 force406 of89 his433 parting285 momentum66 , we465 glided152 between77 two527 whales331 into554 the19 innermost27 heart470 of89 the19 shoal520 , as113 if141 from316 some265 mountain231 torrent529 we465 had364 slid132 into554 a10 serene18 valley18 lake43 . Here135 the19 storms327 in107 the19 roaring182 glens155 between77 the19 outermost430 whales331 , were324 heard444 but330 not518 felt440 . In107 this256 central229 expanse98 the19 sea67 presented320 that14 smooth388 satin114 -like410 surface328 , called237 a10 sleek296 , produced258 by406 the19 subtle143 moisture116 thrown359 off111 by406 the19 whale422 in107 his433 more348 quiet337 moods4 . Yes143 , we465 were324 now20 in107 that14 enchanted229 calm39 which16 they382 say306 lurks115 at65 the19 heart470 of89 every389 commotion155 . And236 still278 in107 the19 distracted180 distance264 we465 beheld132 the19 tumults246 of89 the19 outer359 concentric129 circles3 , and236 saw113 successive423 pods25 of89 whales331 , eight316 or519 ten198 in107 each520 , swiftly441 going227 round287 and236 round287 , like410 multiplied191 spans424 of89 horses189 in107 a10 ring579 ; and236 so281 closely218 shoulder168 to261 shoulder168 , that14 a10 Titanic291 circus331 -rider113 might496 easily45 have254 over82 -arched4 the19 middle39 ones396 , and236 so281 have254 gone190 round287 on392 their219 backs480 . Owing98 to261 the19 density26 of89 the19 crowd16 of89 reposing57 whales331 , more348 immediately172 surrounding398 the19 embayed60 axis20 of89 the19 herd69 , no235 possible277 chance292 of89 escape565 was454 at65 present112 afforded37 us569 . We465 must226 watch89 for190 a10 breach361 in107 the19 living117 wall509 that14 hemmed21 us569 in107 ; the19 wall509 that14 had364 only517 admitted434 us569 in107 order343 to261 shut59 us569 up405 . Keeping482 at65 the19 centre389 of89 the19 lake43 , we465 were324 occasionally509 visited16 by406 small350 tame13 cows136 and236 calves21 ; the19 women275 and236 children374 of89 this256 routed337 host5 . Now20 , inclusive210 of89 the19 occasional202 wide465 intervals295 between77 the19 revolving21 outer359 circles3 , and236 inclusive210 of89 the19 spaces137 between77 the19 various183 pods25 in107 any501 one470 of89 those427 circles3 , the19 entire230 area472 at65 this256 juncture53 , embraced393 by406 the19 whole199 multitude170 , must226 have254 contained275 at65 least453 two527 or519 three329 square302 miles278 . At65 any501 rate515 --though400 indeed522 such420 a10 test124 at65 such420 a10 time577 might496 be341 deceptive295 --spoutings27 might496 be341 discovered36 from316 our234 low407 boat439 that14 seemed132 playing471 up405 almost518 from316 the19 rim157 of89 the19 horizon516 . I482 mention510 this256 circumstance407 , because540 , as113 if141 the19 cows136 and236 calves21 had364 been185 purposely140 locked105 up405 in107 this256 innermost27 fold142 ; and236 as113 if141 the19 wide465 extent144 of89 the19 herd69 had364 hitherto533 prevented11 them146 from316 learning219 the19 precise158 cause220 of89 its234 stopping406 ; or519 , possibly201 , being264 so281 young389 , unsophisticated507 , and236 every389 way435 innocent156 and236 inexperienced275 ; however44 it162 may236 have254 been185 , these527 smaller236 whales331 -- now20 and236 then45 visiting402 our234 becalmed443 boat439 from316 the19 margin173 of89 the19 lake43 -- evinced94 a10 wondrous30 fearlessness359 and236 confidence46 , or519 else212 a10 still278 becharmed89 panic285 which16 it162 was454 impossible305 not518 to261 marvel41 at65 . Like410 household67 dogs393 they382 came549 snuffling449 round287 us569 , right499 up405 to261 our234 gunwales42 , and236 touching80 them146 ; till181 it162 almost518 seemed132 that14 some265 spell416 had364 suddenly193 domesticated316 them146 . Queequeg patted232 their219 foreheads451 ; Starbuck scratched205 their219 backs480 with449 his433 lance76 ; but330 fearful183 of89 the19 consequences167 , for190 the19 time577 refrained16 from316 darting147 it162 . But330 far258 beneath320 this256 wondrous30 world126 upon419 the19 surface328 , another269 and236 still278 stranger233 world126 met130 our234 eyes125 as113 we465 gazed13 over82 the19 side246 . For190 , suspended245 in107 those427 watery59 vaults293 , floated6 the19 forms48 of89 the19 nursing439 mothers98 of89 the19 whales331 , and236 those427 that14 by406 their219 enormous327 girth106 seemed132 shortly425 to261 become548 mothers98 . The19 lake43 , as113 I482 have254 hinted253 , was454 to261 a10 considerable75 depth474 exceedingly257 transparent129 ; and236 as113 human43 infants413 while55 suckling364 will584 calmly170 and236 fixedly434 gaze568 away443 from316 the19 breast272 , as113 if141 leading59 two527 different276 lives245 at65 the19 time577 ; and236 while55 yet443 drawing407 mortal371 nourishment521 , be341 still278 spiritually232 feasting299 upon419 some265 unearthly110 reminiscence453 ;--even198 so281 did444 the19 young389 of89 these527 whales331 seem404 looking318 up405 towards417 us569 , but330 not518 at65 us569 , as113 if141 we465 were324 but330 a10 bit72 of89 Gulfweed in107 their219 new36 -born320 sight365 . Floating30 on392 their219 sides331 , the19 mothers98 also119 seemed132 quietly380 eyeing49 us569 . One470 of89 these527 little554 infants413 , that14 from316 certain31 queer156 tokens473 seemed132 hardly182 a10 day112 old447 , might496 have254 measured96 some265 fourteen163 feet349 in107 length202 , and236 some265 six415 feet349 in107 girth106 . He362 was454 a10 little554 frisky387 ; though400 as113 yet443 his433 body348 seemed132 scarce462 yet443 recovered234 from316 that14 irksome361 position383 it162 had364 so281 lately219 occupied262 in107 the19 maternal371 reticule522 ; where579 , tail102 to261 head219 , and236 all145 ready464 for190 the19 final357 spring148 , the19 unborn258 whale422 lies27 bent406 like410 a10 Tartar21 's483 bow146 . The19 delicate34 side246 -fins556 , and236 the19 palms173 of89 his433 flukes155 , still278 freshly506 retained155 the19 plaited82 crumpled104 appearance138 of89 a10 baby236 's483 ears560 newly318 arrived553 from316 foreign198 parts470 . "Line25 ! line25 !" cried506 Queequeg, looking318 over82 the19 gunwale198 ; "him248 fast208 ! him248 fast208 !--Who319 line25 him248 ! Who319 struck441 ?--Two527 whale422 ; one470 big245 , one470 little554 !" "What243 ails151 ye483 , man17 ?" cried506 Starbuck. "Look523 -e443 here135 ," said252 Queequeg, pointing295 down133 . As113 when189 the19 stricken328 whale422 , that14 from316 the19 tub339 has399 reeled429 out66 hundreds458 of89 fathoms375 of89 rope265 ; as113 , after358 deep483 sounding331 , he362 floats36 up405 again52 , and236 shows364 the19 slackened31 curling27 line25 buoyantly263 rising464 and236 spiralling towards417 the19 air209 ; so281 now20 , Starbuck saw113 long544 coils259 of89 the19 umbilical43 cord96 of89 Madame125 Leviathan384 , by406 which16 the19 young389 cub198 seemed132 still278 tethered25 to261 its234 dam434 . Not518 seldom140 in107 the19 rapid321 vicissitudes124 of89 the19 chase89 , this256 natural298 line25 , with449 the19 maternal371 end149 loose159 , becomes314 entangled280 with449 the19 hempen451 one470 , so281 that14 the19 cub198 is487 thereby190 trapped31 . Some265 of89 the19 subtlest23 secrets107 of89 the19 seas350 seemed132 divulged13 to261 us569 in107 this256 enchanted229 pond350 . We465 saw113 young389 Leviathan384 amours102 in107 the19 deep483 .* *The19 sperm26 whale422 , as113 with449 all145 other282 species69 of89 the19 Leviathan384 , but330 unlike406 most216 other282 fish187 , breeds447 indifferently295 at65 all145 seasons192 ; after358 a10 gestation83 which16 may236 probably244 be341 set422 down133 at65 nine140 months17 , producing1 but330 one470 at65 a10 time577 ; though400 in107 some265 few49 known86 instances252 giving207 birth215 to261 an138 Esau147 and236 Jacob493 :--a10 contingency136 provided100 for190 in107 suckling364 by406 two527 teats83 , curiously261 situated146 , one470 on392 each520 side246 of89 the19 anus172 ; but330 the19 breasts27 themselves510 extend44 upwards110 from316 that14 . When189 by406 chance292 these527 precious234 parts470 in107 a10 nursing439 whale422 are314 cut310 by406 the19 hunter287 's483 lance76 , the19 mother276 's483 pouring22 milk362 and236 blood208 rivallingly discolor4 the19 sea67 for190 rods242 . The19 milk362 is487 very515 sweet417 and236 rich531 ; it162 has399 been185 tasted356 by406 man17 ; it162 might496 do353 well263 with449 strawberries156 . When189 overflowing49 with449 mutual35 esteem304 , the19 whales331 salute72 more348 hominum38 . And236 thus362 , though400 surrounded75 by406 circle282 upon419 circle282 of89 consternations and236 affrights505 , did444 these527 inscrutable29 creatures5 at65 the19 centre389 freely386 and236 fearlessly111 indulge215 in107 all145 peaceful319 concernments43 ; yea204 , serenely136 revelled127 in107 dalliance62 and236 delight25 . But330 even198 so281 , amid240 the19 tornadoed Atlantic198 of89 my36 being264 , do353 I482 myself99 still278 for190 ever208 centrally4 disport4 in107 mute122 calm39 ; and236 while55 ponderous213 planets110 of89 unwaning woe295 revolve125 round287 me2 , deep483 down133 and236 deep483 inland146 there340 I482 still278 bathe4 me2 in107 eternal155 mildness354 of89 joy430 . Meanwhile282 , as113 we465 thus362 lay62 entranced21 , the19 occasional202 sudden309 frantic211 spectacles410 in107 the19 distance264 evinced94 the19 activity293 of89 the19 other282 boats83 , still278 engaged479 in107 drugging51 the19 whales331 on392 the19 frontier312 of89 the19 host5 ; or519 possibly201 carrying103 on392 the19 war169 within503 the19 first13 circle282 , where579 abundance154 of89 room65 and236 some265 convenient470 retreats431 were324 afforded37 them146 . But330 the19 sight365 of89 the19 enraged19 drugged100 whales331 now20 and236 then45 blindly219 darting147 to261 and236 fro183 across129 the19 circles3 , was454 nothing324 to261 what243 at65 last436 met130 our234 eyes125 . It162 is487 sometimes77 the19 custom544 when189 fast208 to261 a10 whale422 more348 than77 commonly431 powerful147 and236 alert396 , to261 seek292 to261 hamstring212 him248 , as113 it162 were324 , by406 sundering26 or519 maiming399 his433 gigantic157 tail102 -tendon. It162 is487 done135 by406 darting147 a10 short522 -handled241 cutting454 -spade19 , to261 which16 is487 attached211 a10 rope265 for190 hauling149 it162 back457 again52 . A10 whale422 wounded396 (as113 we465 afterwards418 learned277 ) in107 this256 part207 , but330 not518 effectually7 , as113 it162 seemed132 , had364 broken255 away443 from316 the19 boat439 , carrying103 along423 with449 him248 half119 of89 the19 harpoon67 line25 ; and236 in107 the19 extraordinary346 agony242 of89 the19 wound342 , he362 was454 now20 dashing14 among483 the19 revolving21 circles3 like410 the19 lone19 mounted191 desperado303 Arnold81 , at65 the19 battle105 of89 Saratoga76 , carrying103 dismay366 wherever408 he362 went516 . But330 agonizing41 as113 was454 the19 wound342 of89 this256 whale422 , and236 an138 appalling282 spectacle250 enough217 , any501 way435 ; yet443 the19 peculiar291 horror134 with449 which16 he362 seemed132 to261 inspire571 the19 rest302 of89 the19 herd69 , was454 owing98 to261 a10 cause220 which16 at65 first13 the19 intervening371 distance264 obscured4 from316 us569 . But330 at65 length202 we465 perceived76 that14 by406 one470 of89 the19 unimaginable192 accidents122 of89 the19 fishery136 , this256 whale422 had364 become548 entangled280 in107 the19 harpoon67 -line25 that14 he362 towed376 ; he362 had364 also119 run172 away443 with449 the19 cutting454 -spade19 in107 him248 ; and236 while55 the19 free483 end149 of89 the19 rope265 attached211 to261 that14 weapon223 , had364 permanently492 caught105 in107 the19 coils259 of89 the19 harpoon67 -line25 round287 his433 tail102 , the19 cutting454 -spade19 itself312 had364 worked245 loose159 from316 his433 flesh331 . So281 that14 tormented256 to261 madness282 , he362 was454 now20 churning367 through295 the19 water520 , violently340 flailing with449 his433 flexible283 tail102 , and236 tossing213 the19 keen202 spade19 about123 him248 , wounding213 and236 murdering141 his433 own248 comrades410 . This256 terrific315 object100 seemed132 to261 recall288 the19 whole199 herd69 from316 their219 stationary360 fright18 . First13 , the19 whales331 forming354 the19 margin173 of89 our234 lake43 began132 to261 crowd16 a10 little554 , and236 tumble553 against417 each520 other282 , as113 if141 lifted448 by406 half119 spent329 billows295 from316 afar26 ; then45 the19 lake43 itself312 began132 faintly20 to261 heave308 and236 swell280 ; the19 submarine161 bridal23 -chambers125 and236 nurseries99 vanished564 ; in107 more348 and236 more348 contracting521 orbits270 the19 whales331 in107 the19 more348 central229 circles3 began132 to261 swim226 in107 thickening279 clusters333 . Yes143 , the19 long544 calm39 was454 departing84 . A10 low407 advancing444 hum345 was454 soon18 heard444 ; and236 then45 like410 to261 the19 tumultuous355 masses361 of89 block275 -ice443 when189 the19 great259 river201 Hudson435 breaks522 up405 in107 Spring148 , the19 entire230 host5 of89 whales331 came549 tumbling10 upon419 their219 inner204 centre389 , as113 if141 to261 pile312 themselves510 up405 in107 one470 common304 mountain231 . Instantly186 Starbuck and236 Queequeg changed21 places423 ; Starbuck taking146 the19 stern442 . "Oars398 ! Oars398 !" he362 intensely102 whispered89 , seizing327 the19 helm285 --"gripe223 your162 oars398 , and236 clutch14 your162 souls82 , now20 ! My36 God185 , men62 , stand530 by406 ! Shove389 him248 off111 , you227 Queequeg--the19 whale422 there340 !--prick189 him248 !--hit322 him248 ! Stand530 up405 --stand530 up405 , and236 stay238 so281 ! Spring148 men62 --pull35 , men62 ; never206 mind118 their219 backs480 --scrape455 them146 !--scrape455 away443 !" The19 boat439 was454 now20 all145 but330 jammed241 between77 two527 vast43 black581 bulks83 , leaving231 a10 narrow140 Dardanelles296 between77 their219 long544 lengths469 . But330 by406 desperate316 endeavor41 we465 at65 last436 shot443 into554 a10 temporary235 opening306 ; then45 giving207 way435 rapidly116 , and236 at65 the19 same541 time577 earnestly98 watching330 for190 another269 outlet398 . After358 many282 similar101 hair237 -breadth252 escapes348 , we465 at65 last436 swiftly441 glided152 into554 what243 had364 just108 been185 one470 of89 the19 outer359 circles3 , but330 now20 crossed202 by406 random439 whales331 , all145 violently340 making415 for190 one470 centre389 . This256 lucky439 salvation346 was454 cheaply338 purchased188 by406 the19 loss223 of89 Queequeg's483 hat107 , who319 , while55 standing144 in107 the19 bows460 to261 prick189 the19 fugitive332 whales331 , had364 his433 hat107 taken222 clean26 from316 his433 head219 by406 the19 air209 -eddy446 made563 by406 the19 sudden309 tossing213 of89 a10 pair106 of89 broad267 flukes155 close65 by406 . Riotous448 and236 disordered181 as113 the19 universal397 commotion155 now20 was454 , it162 soon18 resolved158 itself312 into554 what243 seemed132 a10 systematic306 movement128 ; for190 having69 clumped356 together440 at65 last436 in107 one470 dense481 body348 , they382 then45 renewed113 their219 onward39 flight306 with449 augmented129 fleetness125 . Further53 pursuit305 was454 useless327 ; but330 the19 boats83 still278 lingered127 in107 their219 wake205 to261 pick447 up405 what243 drugged100 whales331 might496 be341 dropped2 astern39 , and236 likewise193 to261 secure92 one470 which16 Flask199 had364 killed409 and236 waited523 . The19 waif58 is487 a10 pennoned75 pole20 , two527 or519 three329 of89 which16 are314 carried232 by406 every389 boat439 ; and236 which16 , when189 additional131 game233 is487 at65 hand252 , are314 inserted102 upright145 into554 the19 floating30 body348 of89 a10 dead568 whale422 , both558 to261 mark169 its234 place107 on392 the19 sea67 , and236 also119 as113 token502 of89 prior201 possession379 , should255 the19 boats83 of89 any501 other282 ship438 draw106 near70 . The19 result115 of89 this256 lowering240 was454 somewhat77 illustrative44 of89 that14 sagacious10 saying9 in107 the19 Fishery136 ,--the19 more348 whales331 the19 less261 fish187 . Of89 all145 the19 drugged100 whales331 only517 one470 was454 captured126 . The19 rest302 contrived179 to261 escape565 for190 the19 time577 , but330 only517 to261 be341 taken222 , as113 will584 hereafter479 be341 seen154 , by406 some265 other282 craft187 than77 the19 Pequod288 . CHAPTER293 88185 Schools50 and236 Schoolmasters21 The19 previous376 chapter293 gave572 account102 of89 an138 immense301 body348 or519 herd69 of89 Sperm26 Whales331 , and236 there340 was454 also119 then45 given141 the19 probable213 cause220 inducing350 those427 vast43 aggregations348 . Now20 , though400 such420 great259 bodies392 are314 at65 times121 encountered102 , yet443 , as113 must226 have254 been185 seen154 , even198 at65 the19 present112 day112 , small350 detached5 bands468 are314 occasionally509 observed340 , embracing92 from316 twenty433 to261 fifty406 individuals298 each520 . Such420 bands468 are314 known86 as113 schools50 . They382 generally402 are314 of89 two527 sorts354 ; those427 composed339 almost518 entirely148 of89 females453 , and236 those427 mustering420 none365 but330 young389 vigorous113 males153 , or519 bulls78 as113 they382 are314 familiarly31 designated41 . In107 cavalier15 attendance46 upon419 the19 school315 of89 females453 , you227 invariably55 see370 a10 male447 of89 full414 grown299 magnitude203 , but330 not518 old447 ; who319 , upon419 any501 alarm178 , evinces350 his433 gallantry57 by406 falling498 in107 the19 rear252 and236 covering24 the19 flight306 of89 his433 ladies66 . In107 truth350 , this256 gentleman399 is487 a10 luxurious279 Ottoman330 , swimming367 about123 over82 the19 watery59 world126 , surroundingly accompanied26 by406 all145 the19 solaces69 and236 endearments295 of89 the19 harem69 . The19 contrast205 between77 this256 Ottoman330 and236 his433 concubines154 is487 striking22 ; because540 , while55 he362 is487 always367 of89 the19 largest139 leviathanic proportions143 , the19 ladies66 , even198 at65 full414 growth160 , are314 not518 more348 than77 one470 -third301 of89 the19 bulk181 of89 an138 average147 -sized133 male447 . They382 are314 comparatively203 delicate34 , indeed522 ; I482 dare11 say306 , not518 to261 exceed534 half119 a10 dozen115 yards386 round287 the19 waist52 . Nevertheless104 , it162 cannot be341 denied40 , that14 upon419 the19 whole199 they382 are314 hereditarily203 entitled189 to261 en541 bon124 point438 . It162 is487 very515 curious264 to261 watch89 this256 harem69 and236 its234 lord106 in107 their219 indolent53 ramblings210 . Like410 fashionables88 , they382 are314 for190 ever208 on392 the19 move361 in107 leisurely505 search352 of89 variety78 . You227 meet16 them146 on392 the19 Line25 in107 time577 for190 the19 full414 flower356 of89 the19 Equatorial105 feeding367 season248 , having69 just108 returned214 , perhaps75 , from316 spending348 the19 summer408 in107 the19 Northern252 seas350 , and236 so281 cheating303 summer408 of89 all145 unpleasant421 weariness429 and236 warmth284 . By406 the19 time577 they382 have254 lounged293 up405 and236 down133 the19 promenade98 of89 the19 Equator136 awhile16 , they382 start117 for190 the19 Oriental147 waters556 in107 anticipation315 of89 the19 cool102 season248 there340 , and236 so281 evade25 the19 other282 excessive301 temperature423 of89 the19 year347 . When189 serenely136 advancing444 on392 one470 of89 these527 journeys92 , if141 any501 strange440 suspicious312 sights24 are314 seen154 , my36 lord106 whale422 keeps20 a10 wary419 eye220 on392 his433 interesting409 family347 . Should255 any501 unwarrantably103 pert452 young389 Leviathan384 coming140 that14 way435 , presume212 to261 draw106 confidentially10 close65 to261 one470 of89 the19 ladies66 , with449 what243 prodigious223 fury30 the19 Bashaw141 assails59 him248 , and236 chases336 him248 away443 ! High361 times121 , indeed522 , if141 unprincipled355 young389 rakes260 like410 him248 are314 to261 be341 permitted120 to261 invade239 the19 sanctity247 of89 domestic303 bliss128 ; though400 do353 what243 the19 Bashaw141 will584 , he362 cannot keep381 the19 most216 notorious215 Lothario364 out66 of89 his433 bed273 ; for190 alas129 ! all145 fish187 bed273 in107 common304 . As113 ashore122 , the19 ladies66 often227 cause220 the19 most216 terrible132 duels69 among483 their219 rival315 admirers336 ; just108 so281 with449 the19 whales331 , who319 sometimes77 come420 to261 deadly49 battle105 , and236 all145 for190 love391 . They382 fence314 with449 their219 long544 lower47 jaws341 , sometimes77 locking188 them146 together440 , and236 so281 striving388 for190 the19 supremacy506 like410 elks386 that14 warringly interweave290 their219 antlers157 . Not518 a10 few49 are314 captured126 having69 the19 deep483 scars218 of89 these527 encounters433 ,-- furrowed19 heads366 , broken255 teeth82 , scolloped191 fins556 ; and236 in107 some265 instances252 , wrenched302 and236 dislocated106 mouths26 . But330 supposing247 the19 invader271 of89 domestic303 bliss128 to261 betake257 himself282 away443 at65 the19 first13 rush6 of89 the19 harem69 's483 lord106 , then45 is487 it162 very515 diverting320 to261 watch89 that14 lord106 . Gently284 he362 insinuates29 his433 vast43 bulk181 among483 them146 again52 and236 revels442 there340 awhile16 , still278 in107 tantalizing261 vicinity208 to261 young389 Lothario364 , like410 pious237 Solomon8 devoutly167 worshipping186 among483 his433 thousand586 concubines154 . Granting235 other282 whales331 to261 be341 in107 sight365 , the19 fisherman18 will584 seldom140 give142 chase89 to261 one470 of89 these527 Grand229 Turks59 ; for190 these527 Grand229 Turks59 are314 too11 lavish19 of89 their219 strength168 , and236 hence503 their219 unctuousness83 is487 small350 . As113 for190 the19 sons250 and236 the19 daughters197 they382 beget415 , why177 , those427 sons250 and236 daughters197 must226 take279 care307 of89 themselves510 ; at65 least453 , with449 only517 the19 maternal371 help526 . For190 like410 certain31 other282 omnivorous206 roving270 lovers88 that14 might496 be341 named312 , my36 Lord106 Whale422 has399 no235 taste134 for190 the19 nursery163 , however44 much61 for190 the19 bower438 ; and236 so281 , being264 a10 great259 traveller258 , he362 leaves441 his433 anonymous474 babies181 all145 over82 the19 world126 ; every389 baby236 an138 exotic155 . In107 good221 time577 , nevertheless104 , as113 the19 ardor393 of89 youth327 declines422 ; as113 years116 and236 dumps5 increase400 ; as113 reflection266 lends207 her400 solemn303 pauses379 ; in107 short522 , as113 a10 general37 lassitude21 overtakes117 the19 sated477 Turk291 ; then45 a10 love391 of89 ease387 and236 virtue16 supplants583 the19 love391 for190 maidens375 ; our234 Ottoman330 enters157 upon419 the19 impotent98 , repentant229 , admonitory306 stage22 of89 life71 , forswears439 , disbands27 the19 harem69 , and236 grown299 to261 an138 exemplary208 , sulky316 old447 soul428 , goes205 about123 all145 alone2 among483 the19 meridians258 and236 parallels262 saying9 his433 prayers173 , and236 warning531 each520 young389 Leviathan384 from316 his433 amorous488 errors6 . Now20 , as113 the19 harem69 of89 whales331 is487 called237 by406 the19 fishermen24 a10 school315 , so281 is487 the19 lord106 and236 master131 of89 that14 school315 technically247 known86 as113 the19 schoolmaster115 . It162 is487 therefore94 not518 in107 strict284 character239 , however44 admirably127 satirical434 , that14 after358 going227 to261 school315 himself282 , he362 should255 then45 go20 abroad504 inculcating260 not518 what243 he362 learned277 there340 , but330 the19 folly520 of89 it162 . His433 title168 , schoolmaster115 , would282 very515 naturally362 seem404 derived494 from316 the19 name477 bestowed157 upon419 the19 harem69 itself312 , but330 some265 have254 surmised97 that14 the19 man17 who319 first13 thus362 entitled189 this256 sort42 of89 Ottoman330 whale422 , must226 have254 read98 the19 memoirs398 of89 Vidocq400 , and236 informed16 himself282 what243 sort42 of89 a10 country362 -schoolmaster115 that14 famous254 Frenchman151 was454 in107 his433 younger484 days351 , and236 what243 was454 the19 nature159 of89 those427 occult18 lessons136 he362 inculcated445 into554 some265 of89 his433 pupils304 . The19 same541 secludedness and236 isolation354 to261 which16 the19 schoolmaster115 whale422 betakes83 himself282 in107 his433 advancing444 years116 , is487 true483 of89 all145 aged361 Sperm26 Whales331 . Almost518 universally403 , a10 lone19 whale422 -- as113 a10 solitary407 Leviathan384 is487 called237 --proves376 an138 ancient463 one470 . Like410 venerable57 moss83 -bearded364 Daniel66 Boone367 , he362 will584 have254 no235 one470 near70 him248 but330 Nature159 herself263 ; and236 her400 he362 takes362 to261 wife37 in107 the19 wilderness396 of89 waters556 , and236 the19 best315 of89 wives473 she391 is487 , though400 she391 keeps20 so281 many282 moody447 secrets107 . The19 schools50 composing460 none365 but330 young389 and236 vigorous113 males153 , previously250 mentioned149 , offer422 a10 strong145 contrast205 to261 the19 harem69 schools50 . For190 while55 those427 female239 whales331 are314 characteristically368 timid197 , the19 young389 males153 , or519 forty525 -barrel180 -bulls78 , as113 they382 call259 them146 , are314 by406 far258 the19 most216 pugnacious201 of89 all145 Leviathans336 , and236 proverbially472 the19 most216 dangerous2 to261 encounter250 ; excepting289 those427 wondrous30 grey491 -headed124 , grizzled34 whales331 , sometimes77 met130 , and236 these527 will584 fight330 you227 like410 grim19 fiends270 exasperated190 by406 a10 penal229 gout409 . The19 Forty525 -barrel180 -bull76 schools50 are314 larger50 than77 the19 harem69 schools50 . Like410 a10 mob308 of89 young389 collegians214 , they382 are314 full414 of89 fight330 , fun347 , and236 wickedness21 , tumbling10 round287 the19 world126 at65 such420 a10 reckless240 , rollicking158 rate515 , that14 no235 prudent183 underwriter4 would282 insure339 them146 any501 more348 than77 he362 would282 a10 riotous448 lad342 at65 Yale564 or519 Harvard395 . They382 soon18 relinquish261 this256 turbulence110 though400 , and236 when189 about123 three329 -fourths446 grown299 , break483 up405 , and236 separately350 go20 about123 in107 quest36 of89 settlements92 , that14 is487 , harems15 . Another269 point438 of89 difference3 between77 the19 male447 and236 female239 schools50 is487 still278 more348 characteristic378 of89 the19 sexes160 . Say306 you227 strike374 a10 Forty525 -barrel180 -bull76 --poor533 devil411 ! all145 his433 comrades410 quit295 him248 . But330 strike374 a10 member333 of89 the19 harem69 school315 , and236 her400 companions19 swim226 around66 her400 with449 every389 token502 of89 concern180 , sometimes77 lingering186 so281 near70 her400 and236 so281 long544 , as113 themselves510 to261 fall90 a10 prey347 . CHAPTER293 89295 Fast208 -Fish187 and236 Loose159 -Fish187 The19 allusion88 to261 the19 waifs446 and236 waif58 -poles122 in107 the19 last436 chapter293 but330 one470 , necessitates425 some265 account102 of89 the19 laws68 and236 regulations67 of89 the19 whale422 fishery136 , of89 which16 the19 waif58 may236 be341 deemed17 the19 grand229 symbol426 and236 badge361 . It162 frequently475 happens143 that14 when189 several479 ships21 are314 cruising298 in107 company280 , a10 whale422 may236 be341 struck441 by406 one470 vessel155 , then45 escape565 , and236 be341 finally69 killed409 and236 captured126 by406 another269 vessel155 ; and236 herein264 are314 indirectly155 comprised26 many282 minor333 contingencies357 , all145 partaking196 of89 this256 one470 grand229 feature400 . For190 example479 ,--after358 a10 weary306 and236 perilous141 chase89 and236 capture361 of89 a10 whale422 , the19 body348 may236 get126 loose159 from316 the19 ship438 by406 reason238 of89 a10 violent336 storm218 ; and236 drifting445 far258 away443 to261 leeward265 , be341 retaken518 by406 a10 second386 whaler91 , who319 , in107 a10 calm39 , snugly392 tows117 it162 alongside540 , without309 risk97 of89 life71 or519 line25 . Thus362 the19 most216 vexatious223 and236 violent336 disputes248 would282 often227 arise376 between77 the19 fishermen24 , were324 there340 not518 some265 written388 or519 unwritten223 , universal397 , undisputed122 law231 applicable279 to261 all145 cases108 . Perhaps75 the19 only517 formal107 whaling155 code312 authorized117 by406 legislative529 enactment348 , was454 that14 of89 Holland173 . It162 was454 decreed292 by406 the19 States443 -General37 in107 A10 .D236 . 1695129 . But330 though400 no235 other282 nation466 has399 ever208 had364 any501 written388 whaling155 law231 , yet443 the19 American272 fishermen24 have254 been185 their219 own248 legislators287 and236 lawyers259 in107 this256 matter176 . They382 have254 provided100 a10 system480 which16 for190 terse255 comprehensiveness31 surpasses299 Justinian27 's483 Pandects173 and236 the19 By406 -laws68 of89 the19 Chinese44 Society520 for190 the19 Suppression24 of89 Meddling186 with449 other282 People482 's483 Business168 . Yes143 ; these527 laws68 might496 be341 engraven141 on392 a10 Queen443 Anne263 's483 farthing5 , or519 the19 barb65 of89 a10 harpoon67 , and236 worn174 round287 the19 neck239 , so281 small350 are314 they382 . I482 . A10 Fast208 -Fish187 belongs402 to261 the19 party314 fast208 to261 it162 . II38 . A10 Loose159 -Fish187 is487 fair320 game233 for190 anybody58 who319 can450 soonest336 catch523 it162 . But330 what243 plays483 the19 mischief260 with449 this256 masterly29 code312 is487 the19 admirable267 brevity223 of89 it162 , which16 necessitates425 a10 vast43 volume295 of89 commentaries403 to261 expound188 it162 . First13 : What243 is487 a10 Fast208 -Fish187 ? Alive298 or519 dead568 a10 fish187 is487 technically247 fast208 , when189 it162 is487 connected202 with449 an138 occupied262 ship438 or519 boat439 , by406 any501 medium27 at65 all145 controllable83 by406 the19 occupant248 or519 occupants367 ,--a10 mast44 , an138 oar61 , a10 nine140 -inch65 cable41 , a10 telegraph212 wire269 , or519 a10 strand171 of89 cobweb180 , it162 is487 all145 the19 same541 . Likewise193 a10 fish187 is487 technically247 fast208 when189 it162 bears97 a10 waif58 , or519 any501 other282 recognized410 symbol426 of89 possession379 ; so281 long544 as113 the19 party314 wailing128 it162 plainly450 evince433 their219 ability470 at65 any501 time577 to261 take279 it162 alongside540 , as113 well263 as113 their219 intention272 so281 to261 do353 . These527 are314 scientific435 commentaries403 ; but330 the19 commentaries403 of89 the19 whalemen451 themselves510 sometimes77 consist103 in107 hard337 words107 and236 harder46 knocks391 -- the19 Coke-upon419 -Littleton of89 the19 fist414 . True483 , among483 the19 more348 upright145 and236 honorable15 whalemen451 allowances10 are314 always367 made563 for190 peculiar291 cases108 , where579 it162 would282 be341 an138 outrageous247 moral221 injustice380 for190 one470 party314 to261 claim217 possession379 of89 a10 whale422 previously250 chased389 or519 killed409 by406 another269 party314 . But330 others317 are314 by406 no235 means502 so281 scrupulous154 . Some265 fifty406 years116 ago141 there340 was454 a10 curious264 case346 of89 whale422 -trover litigated25 in107 England348 , wherein396 the19 plaintiffs306 set422 forth152 that14 after358 a10 hard337 chase89 of89 a10 whale422 in107 the19 Northern252 seas350 ; and236 when189 indeed522 they382 (the19 plaintiffs306 ) had364 succeeded76 in107 harpooning6 the19 fish187 ; they382 were324 at65 last436 , through295 peril565 of89 their219 lives245 , obliged206 to261 forsake177 not518 only517 their219 lines241 , but330 their219 boat439 itself312 . Ultimately239 the19 defendants388 (the19 crew126 of89 another269 ship438 ) came549 up405 with449 the19 whale422 , struck441 , killed409 , seized337 , and236 finally69 appropriated412 it162 before344 the19 very515 eyes125 of89 the19 plaintiffs306 . And236 when189 those427 defendants388 were324 remonstrated206 with449 , their219 captain295 snapped459 his433 fingers345 in107 the19 plaintiffs306 ' teeth82 , and236 assured557 them146 that14 by406 way435 of89 doxology10 to261 the19 deed101 he362 had364 done135 , he362 would282 now20 retain153 their219 line25 , harpoons6 , and236 boat439 , which16 had364 remained72 attached211 to261 the19 whale422 at65 the19 time577 of89 the19 seizure292 . Wherefore220 the19 plaintiffs306 now20 sued124 for190 the19 recovery405 of89 the19 value567 of89 their219 whale422 , line25 , harpoons6 , and236 boat439 . Mr219 . Erskine359 was454 counsel437 for190 the19 defendants388 ; Lord106 Ellenborough239 was454 the19 judge337 . In107 the19 course171 of89 the19 defence411 , the19 witty176 Erskine359 went516 on392 to261 illustrate301 his433 position383 , by406 alluding243 to261 a10 recent99 crim83 . con38 . case346 , wherein396 a10 gentleman399 , after358 in107 vain216 trying83 to261 bridle446 his433 wife37 's483 viciousness445 , had364 at65 last436 abandoned493 her400 upon419 the19 seas350 of89 life71 ; but330 in107 the19 course171 of89 years116 , repenting160 of89 that14 step204 , he362 instituted78 an138 action102 to261 recover192 possession379 of89 her400 . Erskine359 was454 on392 the19 other282 side246 ; and236 he362 then45 supported158 it162 by406 saying9 , that14 though400 the19 gentleman399 had364 originally367 harpooned290 the19 lady14 , and236 had364 once248 had364 her400 fast208 , and236 only517 by406 reason238 of89 the19 great259 stress37 of89 her400 plunging93 viciousness445 , had364 at65 last436 abandoned493 her400 ; yet443 abandon12 her400 he362 did444 , so281 that14 she391 became70 a10 loose159 -fish187 ; and236 therefore94 when189 a10 subsequent312 gentleman399 re-harpooned290 her400 , the19 lady14 then45 became70 that14 subsequent312 gentleman399 's483 property398 , along423 with449 whatever38 harpoon67 might496 have254 been185 found260 sticking457 in107 her400 . Now20 in107 the19 present112 case346 Erskine359 contended256 that14 the19 examples53 of89 the19 whale422 and236 the19 lady14 were324 reciprocally441 illustrative44 of89 each520 other282 . These527 pleadings367 , and236 the19 counter225 pleadings367 , being264 duly163 heard444 , the19 very515 learned277 Judge337 in107 set422 terms297 decided74 , to261 wit571 ,-- That14 as113 for190 the19 boat439 , he362 awarded27 it162 to261 the19 plaintiffs306 , because540 they382 had364 merely57 abandoned493 it162 to261 save556 their219 lives245 ; but330 that14 with449 regard448 to261 the19 controverted229 whale422 , harpoons6 , and236 line25 , they382 belonged455 to261 the19 defendants388 ; the19 whale422 , because540 it162 was454 a10 Loose159 -Fish187 at65 the19 time577 of89 the19 final357 capture361 ; and236 the19 harpoons6 and236 line25 because540 when189 the19 fish187 made563 off111 with449 them146 , it162 (the19 fish187 ) acquired436 a10 property398 in107 those427 articles259 ; and236 hence503 anybody58 who319 afterwards418 took68 the19 fish187 had364 a10 right499 to261 them146 . Now20 the19 defendants388 afterwards418 took68 the19 fish187 ; ergo142 , the19 aforesaid260 articles259 were324 theirs137 . A10 common304 man17 looking318 at65 this256 decision249 of89 the19 very515 learned277 Judge337 , might496 possibly201 object100 to261 it162 . But330 ploughed68 up405 to261 the19 primary27 rock264 of89 the19 matter176 , the19 two527 great259 principles420 laid181 down133 in107 the19 twin492 whaling155 laws68 previously250 quoted280 , and236 applied122 and236 elucidated54 by406 Lord106 Ellenborough239 in107 the19 above502 cited102 case346 ; these527 two527 laws68 touching80 Fast208 -Fish187 and236 Loose159 -Fish187 , I482 say306 , will584 on392 reflection266 , be341 found260 the19 fundamentals102 of89 all145 human43 jurisprudence138 ; For190 notwithstanding387 its234 complicated64 tracery23 of89 sculpture376 , the19 Temple237 of89 the19 Law231 , like410 the19 Temple237 of89 the19 Philistines170 , has399 but330 two527 props505 to261 stand530 on392 . Is487 it162 not518 a10 saying9 in107 every389 one470 's483 mouth414 , Possession379 is487 half119 of89 the19 law231 : that14 is487 , regardless13 of89 how19 the19 thing309 came549 into554 possession379 ? But330 often227 possession379 is487 the19 whole199 of89 the19 law231 . What243 are314 the19 sinews270 and236 souls82 of89 Russian300 serfs26 and236 Republican582 slaves368 but330 Fast208 -Fish187 , whereof422 possession379 is487 the19 whole199 of89 the19 law231 ? What243 to261 the19 rapacious503 landlord270 is487 the19 widow231 's483 last436 mite199 but330 a10 Fast208 -Fish187 ? What243 is487 yonder41 undetected439 villain361 's483 marble364 mansion491 with449 a10 doorplate for190 a10 waif58 ; what243 is487 that14 but330 a10 Fast208 -Fish187 ? What243 is487 the19 ruinous20 discount19 which16 Mordecai301 , the19 broker357 , gets27 from316 the19 poor533 Woebegone66 , the19 bankrupt285 , on392 a10 loan97 to261 keep381 Woebegone66 's483 family347 from316 starvation251 ; what243 is487 that14 ruinous20 discount19 but330 a10 Fast208 -Fish187 ? What243 is487 the19 Archbishop136 of89 Savesoul's483 income358 of89 100179 ,000 pounds74 seized337 from316 the19 scant460 bread387 and236 cheese10 of89 hundreds458 of89 thousands7 of89 broken255 -backed270 laborers247 (all145 sure41 of89 heaven163 without309 any501 of89 Savesoul's483 help526 ) what243 is487 that14 globular203 100179 ,000 but330 a10 Fast208 -Fish187 . What243 are314 the19 Duke215 of89 Dunder43 's483 hereditary125 towns120 and236 hamlets239 but330 Fast208 -Fish187 ? What243 to261 that14 redoubted207 harpooneer, John416 Bull76 , is487 poor533 Ireland470 , but330 a10 Fast208 -Fish187 ? What243 to261 that14 apostolic105 lancer372 , Brother46 Jonathan257 , is487 Texas561 but330 a10 Fast208 -Fish187 ? And236 concerning368 all145 these527 , is487 not518 Possession379 the19 whole199 of89 the19 law231 ? But330 if141 the19 doctrine90 of89 Fast208 -Fish187 be341 pretty252 generally402 applicable279 , the19 kindred402 doctrine90 of89 Loose159 -Fish187 is487 still278 more348 widely171 so281 . That14 is487 internationally240 and236 universally403 applicable279 . What243 was454 America133 in107 149225 but330 a10 Loose159 -Fish187 , in107 which16 Columbus527 struck441 the19 Spanish124 standard507 by406 way435 of89 wailing128 it162 for190 his433 royal161 master131 and236 mistress380 ? What243 was454 Poland285 to261 the19 Czar427 ? What243 Greece468 to261 the19 Turk291 ? What243 India258 to261 England348 ? What243 at65 last436 will584 Mexico529 be341 to261 the19 United419 States443 ? All145 Loose159 -Fish187 . What243 are314 the19 Rights462 of89 Man17 and236 the19 Liberties18 of89 the19 World126 but330 Loose159 -Fish187 ? What243 all145 men62 's483 minds244 and236 opinions320 but330 Loose159 -Fish187 ? What243 is487 the19 principle420 of89 religious572 belief85 in107 them146 but330 a10 Loose159 -Fish187 ? What243 to261 the19 ostentatious19 smuggling303 verbalists are314 the19 thoughts26 of89 thinkers493 but330 Loose159 -Fish187 ? What243 is487 the19 great259 globe23 itself312 but330 a10 Loose159 -Fish187 ? And236 what243 are314 you227 , reader243 , but330 a10 Loose159 -Fish187 and236 a10 Fast208 -Fish187 , too11 ? CHAPTER293 9039 Heads366 or519 Tails490 "De404 balena537 vero160 sufficit473 , si232 rex142 habeat165 caput377 , et243 regina551 caudam165 ." BRACTON25 , L580 . 3212 , C62 . 3212 . Latin420 from316 the19 books525 of89 the19 Laws68 of89 England348 , which16 taken222 along423 with449 the19 context404 , means502 , that14 of89 all145 whales331 captured126 by406 anybody58 on392 the19 coast287 of89 that14 land406 , the19 King324 , as113 Honorary57 Grand229 Harpooneer, must226 have254 the19 head219 , and236 the19 Queen443 be341 respectfully42 presented320 with449 the19 tail102 . A10 division217 which16 , in107 the19 whale422 , is487 much61 like410 halving4 an138 apple501 ; there340 is487 no235 intermediate21 remainder270 . Now20 as113 this256 law231 , under533 a10 modified564 form238 , is487 to261 this256 day112 in107 force406 in107 England348 ; and236 as113 it162 offers287 in107 various183 respects403 a10 strange440 anomaly247 touching80 the19 general37 law231 of89 Fast208 --and236 Loose159 -Fish187 , it162 is487 here135 treated277 of89 in107 a10 separate495 chapter293 , on392 the19 same541 courteous363 principle420 that14 prompts414 the19 English69 railways19 to261 be341 at65 the19 expense465 of89 a10 separate495 car170 , specially87 reserved234 for190 the19 accommodation141 of89 royalty283 . In107 the19 first13 place107 , in107 curious264 proof161 of89 the19 fact12 that14 the19 above502 -mentioned149 law231 is487 still278 in107 force406 , I482 proceed367 to261 lay62 before344 you227 a10 circumstance407 -that14 happened156 within503 the19 last436 two527 years116 . It162 seems19 that14 some265 honest287 mariners347 of89 Dover129 , or519 Sandwich162 , or519 some265 one470 of89 the19 Cinque131 Ports92 , had364 after358 a10 hard337 chase89 succeeded76 in107 killing311 and236 beaching39 a10 fine333 whale422 which16 they382 had364 originally367 descried313 afar26 off111 from316 the19 shore280 . Now20 the19 Cinque131 Ports92 are314 partially263 or519 somehow425 under533 the19 jurisdiction314 of89 a10 sort42 of89 policeman67 or519 beadle353 , called237 a10 Lord106 Warden197 . Holding311 the19 office256 directly58 from316 the19 crown463 , I482 believe191 , all145 the19 royal161 emoluments235 incident339 to261 the19 Cinque131 Port409 territories69 become548 by406 assignment19 his433 . By406 some265 writers120 this256 office256 is487 called237 a10 sinecure198 . But330 not518 so281 . Because540 the19 Lord106 Warden197 is487 busily181 employed263 at65 times121 in107 fobbing his433 perquisites25 ; which16 are314 his433 chiefly90 by406 virtue16 of89 that14 same541 fobbing of89 them146 . Now20 when189 these527 poor533 sun397 -burnt37 mariners347 , bare245 -footed83 , and236 with449 their219 trowsers206 rolled226 high361 up405 on392 their219 eely26 legs108 , had364 wearily434 hauled80 their219 fat351 fish187 high361 and236 dry430 , promising310 themselves510 a10 good221 15052 pounds74 from316 the19 precious234 oil118 and236 bone184 ; and236 in107 fantasy489 sipping316 rare296 tea521 with449 their219 wives473 , and236 good221 ale213 with449 their219 cronies92 , upon419 the19 strength168 of89 their219 respective348 shares29 ; up405 steps392 a10 very515 learned277 and236 most216 Christian235 and236 charitable495 gentleman399 , with449 a10 copy380 of89 Blackstone152 under533 his433 arm25 ; and236 laying116 it162 upon419 the19 whale422 's483 head219 , he362 says424 --"Hands87 off111 ! this256 fish187 , my36 masters259 , is487 a10 Fast208 -Fish187 . I482 seize445 it162 as113 the19 Lord106 Warden197 's483 ." Upon419 this256 the19 poor533 mariners347 in107 their219 respectful311 consternation52 --so281 truly530 English69 -- knowing240 not518 what243 to261 say306 , fall90 to261 vigorously167 scratching2 their219 heads366 all145 round287 ; meanwhile282 ruefully100 glancing18 from316 the19 whale422 to261 the19 stranger233 . But330 that14 did444 in107 nowise416 mend220 the19 matter176 , or519 at65 all145 soften189 the19 hard337 heart470 of89 the19 learned277 gentleman399 with449 the19 copy380 of89 Blackstone152 . At65 length202 one470 of89 them146 , after358 long544 scratching2 about123 for190 his433 ideas264 , made563 bold356 to261 speak337 , "Please153 , sir271 , who319 is487 the19 Lord106 Warden197 ?" "The19 Duke215 ." "But330 the19 duke215 had364 nothing324 to261 do353 with449 taking146 this256 fish187 ?" "It162 is487 his433 ." "We465 have254 been185 at65 great259 trouble328 , and236 peril565 , and236 some265 expense465 , and236 is487 all145 that14 to261 go20 to261 the19 Duke215 's483 benefit514 ; we465 getting369 nothing324 at65 all145 for190 our234 pains97 but330 our234 blisters180 ?" "It162 is487 his433 ." "Is487 the19 Duke215 so281 very515 poor533 as113 to261 be341 forced28 to261 this256 desperate316 mode49 of89 getting369 a10 livelihood189 ?" "It162 is487 his433 ." "I482 thought186 to261 relieve83 my36 old447 bed273 -ridden466 mother276 by406 part207 of89 my36 share218 of89 this256 whale422 ." "It162 is487 his433 ." "Won't500 the19 Duke215 be341 content7 with449 a10 quarter6 or519 a10 half119 ?" "It162 is487 his433 ." In107 a10 word486 , the19 whale422 was454 seized337 and236 sold7 , and236 his433 Grace174 the19 Duke215 of89 Wellington522 received12 the19 money383 . Thinking385 that14 viewed41 in107 some265 particular336 lights59 , the19 case346 might496 by406 a10 bare245 possibility237 in107 some265 small350 degree209 be341 deemed17 , under533 the19 circumstances267 , a10 rather178 hard337 one470 , an138 honest287 clergyman99 of89 the19 town172 respectfully42 addressed169 a10 note59 to261 his433 Grace174 , begging104 him248 to261 take279 the19 case346 of89 those427 unfortunate327 mariners347 into554 full414 consideration196 . To261 which16 my36 Lord106 Duke215 in107 substance316 replied163 (both558 letters170 were324 published393 ) that14 he362 had364 already93 done135 so281 , and236 received12 the19 money383 , and236 would282 be341 obliged206 to261 the19 reverend11 gentleman399 if141 for190 the19 future44 he362 (the19 reverend11 gentleman399 ) would282 decline570 meddling186 with449 other282 people482 's483 business168 . Is487 this256 the19 still278 militant396 old447 man17 , standing144 at65 the19 corners124 of89 the19 three329 kingdoms24 , on392 all145 hands87 coercing368 alms314 of89 beggars363 ? It162 will584 readily467 be341 seen154 that14 in107 this256 case346 the19 alleged163 right499 of89 the19 Duke215 to261 the19 whale422 was454 a10 delegated494 one470 from316 the19 Sovereign324 . We465 must226 needs41 inquire41 then45 on392 what243 principle420 the19 Sovereign324 is487 originally367 invested60 with449 that14 right499 . The19 law231 itself312 has399 already93 been185 set422 forth152 . But330 Plowdon gives529 us569 the19 reason238 for190 it162 . Says424 Plowdon, the19 whale422 so281 caught105 belongs402 to261 the19 King324 and236 Queen443 , "because540 of89 its234 superior479 excellence27 ." And236 by406 the19 soundest295 commentators454 this256 has399 ever208 been185 held212 a10 cogent222 argument195 in107 such420 matters515 . But330 why177 should255 the19 King324 have254 the19 head219 , and236 the19 Queen443 the19 tail102 ? A10 reason238 for190 that14 , ye483 lawyers259 ! In107 his433 treatise117 on392 "Queen443 -Gold231 ," or519 Queen443 -pin486 -money383 , an138 old447 King324 's483 Bench80 author470 , one470 William166 Prynne389 , thus362 discourseth51 : "Ye483 tail102 is487 ye483 Queen443 's483 , that14 ye483 Queen443 's483 wardrobe57 may236 be341 supplied338 with449 ye483 whalebone290 ." Now20 this256 was454 written388 at65 a10 time577 when189 the19 black581 limber227 bone184 of89 the19 Greenland110 or519 Right499 whale422 was454 largely211 used102 in107 ladies66 ' bodices282 . But330 this256 same541 bone184 is487 not518 in107 the19 tail102 ; it162 is487 in107 the19 head219 , which16 is487 a10 sad341 mistake471 for190 a10 sagacious10 lawyer166 like410 Prynne389 . But330 is487 the19 Queen443 a10 mermaid100 , to261 be341 presented320 with449 a10 tail102 ? An138 allegorical464 meaning62 may236 lurk246 here135 . There340 are314 two527 royal161 fish187 so281 styled154 by406 the19 English69 law231 writers120 -- the19 whale422 and236 the19 sturgeon423 ; both558 royal161 property398 under533 certain31 limitations150 , and236 nominally159 supplying447 the19 tenth243 branch384 of89 the19 crown463 's483 ordinary225 revenue332 . I482 know60 not518 that14 any501 other282 author470 has399 hinted253 of89 the19 matter176 ; but330 by406 inference292 it162 seems19 to261 me2 that14 the19 sturgeon423 must226 be341 divided469 in107 the19 same541 way435 as113 the19 whale422 , the19 King324 receiving124 the19 highly52 dense481 and236 elastic370 head219 peculiar291 to261 that14 fish187 , which16 , symbolically25 regarded393 , may236 possibly201 be341 humorously265 grounded52 upon419 some265 presumed300 congeniality19 . And236 thus362 there340 seems19 a10 reason238 in107 all145 things4 , even198 in107 law231 . CHAPTER293 91521 The19 Pequod288 Meets518 The19 Rose449 -Bud122 "In107 vain216 it162 was454 to261 rake191 for190 Ambergriese in107 the19 paunch89 of89 this256 Leviathan384 , insufferable295 fetor4 denying426 not518 inquiry339 ." SIR271 T500 . BROWNE400 , V303 . E443 . It162 was454 a10 week11 or519 two527 after358 the19 last436 whaling155 scene228 recounted181 , and236 when189 we465 were324 slowly149 sailing232 over82 a10 sleepy452 , vapory112 , mid84 -day112 sea67 , that14 the19 many282 noses261 on392 the19 Pequod288 's483 deck505 proved312 more348 vigilant142 discoverers276 than77 the19 three329 pairs282 of89 eyes125 aloft276 . A10 peculiar291 and236 not518 very515 pleasant233 smell124 was454 smelt286 in107 the19 sea67 . "I482 will584 bet294 something181 now20 ," said252 Stubb, "that14 somewhere201 hereabouts116 are314 some265 of89 those427 drugged100 whales331 we465 tickled156 the19 other282 day112 . I482 thought186 they382 would282 keel39 up405 before344 long544 ." Presently166 , the19 vapors99 in107 advance70 slid132 aside408 ; and236 there340 in107 the19 distance264 lay62 a10 ship438 , whose286 furled145 sails344 betokened205 that14 some265 sort42 of89 whale422 must226 be341 alongside540 . As113 we465 glided152 nearer303 , the19 stranger233 showed507 French491 colors24 from316 his433 peak454 ; and236 by406 the19 eddying282 cloud218 of89 vulture253 sea67 -fowl11 that14 circled446 , and236 hovered400 , and236 swooped249 around66 him248 , it162 was454 plain28 that14 the19 whale422 alongside540 must226 be341 what243 the19 fishermen24 call259 a10 blasted253 whale422 , that14 is487 , a10 whale422 that14 has399 died575 unmolested410 on392 the19 sea67 , and236 so281 floated6 an138 unappropriated223 corpse133 . It162 may236 well263 be341 conceived276 , what243 an138 unsavory201 odor482 such420 a10 mass36 must226 exhale69 ; worse561 than77 an138 Assyrian99 city82 in107 the19 plague133 , when189 the19 living117 are314 incompetent201 to261 bury354 the19 departed467 . So281 intolerable304 indeed522 is487 it162 regarded393 by406 some265 , that14 no235 cupidity181 could375 persuade223 them146 to261 moor129 alongside540 of89 it162 . Yet443 are314 there340 those427 who319 will584 still278 do353 it162 ; notwithstanding387 the19 fact12 that14 the19 oil118 obtained186 from316 such420 subjects122 is487 of89 a10 very515 inferior84 quality127 , and236 by406 no235 means502 of89 the19 nature159 of89 attar-of89 -rose449 . Coming140 still278 nearer303 with449 the19 expiring399 breeze227 , we465 saw113 that14 the19 Frenchman151 had364 a10 second386 whale422 alongside540 ; and236 this256 second386 whale422 seemed132 even198 more348 of89 a10 nosegay127 than77 the19 first13 . In107 truth350 , it162 turned492 out66 to261 be341 one470 of89 those427 problematical453 whales331 that14 seem404 to261 dry430 up405 and236 die229 with449 a10 sort42 of89 prodigious223 dyspepsia83 , or519 indigestion41 ; leaving231 their219 defunct437 bodies392 almost518 entirely148 bankrupt285 of89 anything480 like410 oil118 . Nevertheless104 , in107 the19 proper249 place107 we465 shall66 see370 that14 no235 knowing240 fisherman18 will584 ever208 turn17 up405 his433 nose176 at65 such420 a10 whale422 as113 this256 , however44 much61 he362 may236 shun349 blasted253 whales331 in107 general37 . The19 Pequod288 had364 now20 swept305 so281 nigh254 to261 the19 stranger233 , that14 Stubb vowed429 he362 recognized410 his433 cutting454 spade19 -pole20 entangled280 in107 the19 lines241 that14 were324 knotted506 round287 the19 tail102 of89 one470 of89 these527 whales331 . "There340 's483 a10 pretty252 fellow369 , now20 ," he362 banteringly83 laughed166 , standing144 in107 the19 ship438 's483 bows460 , "there340 's483 a10 jackal380 for190 ye483 ! I482 well263 know60 that14 these527 Crappoes of89 Frenchmen155 are314 but330 poor533 devils377 in107 the19 fishery136 ; sometimes77 lowering240 their219 boats83 for190 breakers317 , mistaking243 them146 for190 Sperm26 Whale422 spouts75 ; yes143 , and236 sometimes77 sailing232 from316 their219 port409 with449 their219 hold204 full414 of89 boxes381 of89 tallow157 candles457 , and236 cases108 of89 snuffers70 , foreseeing366 that14 all145 the19 oil118 they382 will584 get126 won't500 be341 enough217 to261 dip19 the19 Captain295 's483 wick396 into554 ; aye86 , we465 all145 know60 these527 things4 ; but330 look523 ye483 , here135 's483 a10 Crappo that14 is487 content7 with449 our234 leavings82 , the19 drugged100 whale422 there340 , I482 mean504 ; aye86 , and236 is487 content7 too11 with449 scraping276 the19 dry430 bones5 of89 that14 other282 precious234 fish187 he362 has399 there340 . Poor533 devil411 ! I482 say306 , pass153 round287 a10 hat107 , some265 one470 , and236 let66 's483 make175 him248 a10 present112 of89 a10 little554 oil118 for190 dear333 charity221 's483 sake523 . For190 what243 oil118 he362 'll300 get126 from316 that14 drugged100 whale422 there340 , wouldn't500 be341 fit12 to261 burn118 in107 a10 jail3 ; no235 , not518 in107 a10 condemned518 cell256 . And236 as113 for190 the19 other282 whale422 , why177 , I482 'll300 agree578 to261 get126 more348 oil118 by406 chopping299 up405 and236 trying83 out66 these527 three329 masts212 of89 ours94 , than77 he362 'll300 get126 from316 that14 bundle57 of89 bones5 ; though400 , now20 that14 I482 think424 of89 it162 , it162 may236 contain112 something181 worth84 a10 good221 deal543 more348 than77 oil118 ; yes143 , ambergris4 . I482 wonder76 now20 if141 our234 old447 man17 has399 thought186 of89 that14 . It162 's483 worth84 trying83 . Yes143 , I482 'm250 for190 it162 ;" and236 so281 saying9 he362 started492 for190 the19 quarter6 -deck505 . By406 this256 time577 the19 faint316 air209 had364 become548 a10 complete191 calm39 ; so281 that14 whether454 or519 no235 , the19 Pequod288 was454 now20 fairly211 entrapped328 in107 the19 smell124 , with449 no235 hope211 of89 escaping173 except545 by406 its234 breezing up405 again52 . Issuing309 from316 the19 cabin192 , Stubb now20 called237 his433 boat439 's483 crew126 , and236 pulled213 off111 for190 the19 stranger233 . Drawing407 across129 her400 bow146 , he362 perceived76 that14 in107 accordance369 with449 the19 fanciful188 French491 taste134 , the19 upper403 part207 of89 her400 stem493 -piece121 was454 carved455 in107 the19 likeness460 of89 a10 huge132 drooping279 stalk143 , was454 painted340 green549 , and236 for190 thorns63 had364 copper300 spikes60 projecting336 from316 it162 here135 and236 there340 ; the19 whole199 terminating159 in107 a10 symmetrical336 folded305 bulb83 of89 a10 bright205 red293 color13 . Upon419 her400 head219 boards116 , in107 large385 gilt491 letters170 , he362 read98 "Bouton34 de404 Rose449 ,"--Rose449 -button282 , or519 Rose449 -bud122 ; and236 this256 was454 the19 romantic133 name477 of89 this256 aromatic52 ship438 . Though400 Stubb did444 not518 understand111 the19 Bouton34 part207 of89 the19 inscription306 , yet443 the19 word486 rose449 , and236 the19 bulbous20 figure55 -head219 put190 together440 , sufficiently12 explained492 the19 whole199 to261 him248 . "A10 wooden35 rose449 -bud122 , eh76 ?" he362 cried506 with449 his433 hand252 to261 his433 nose176 , "that14 will584 do353 very515 well263 ; but330 how19 like410 all145 creation182 it162 smells422 !" Now20 in107 order343 to261 hold204 direct314 communication279 with449 the19 people482 on392 deck505 , he362 had364 to261 pull35 round287 the19 bows460 to261 the19 starboard309 side246 , and236 thus362 come420 close65 to261 the19 blasted253 whale422 ; and236 so281 talk173 over82 it162 . Arrived553 then45 at65 this256 spot46 , with449 one470 hand252 still278 to261 his433 nose176 , he362 bawled73 --"Bouton34 -de404 -Rose449 , ahoy26 ! are314 there340 any501 of89 you227 Bouton34 -de404 -Roses542 that14 speak337 English69 ?" "Yes143 ," rejoined147 a10 Guernsey-man17 from316 the19 bulwarks411 , who319 turned492 out66 to261 be341 the19 chief156 -mate508 . "Well263 , then45 , my36 Bouton34 -de404 -Rose449 -bud122 , have254 you227 seen154 the19 White82 Whale422 ?" "What243 whale422 ?" "The19 White82 Whale422 --a10 Sperm26 Whale422 --Moby362 Dick25 , have254 ye483 seen154 him248 ? "Never206 heard444 of89 such420 a10 whale422 . Cachalot4 Blanche189 ! White82 Whale422 --no235 ." "Very515 good221 , then45 ; good221 bye96 now20 , and236 I482 'll300 call259 again52 in107 a10 minute236 ." Then45 rapidly116 pulling217 back457 towards417 the19 Pequod288 , and236 seeing426 Ahab232 leaning559 over82 the19 quarter6 -deck505 rail51 awaiting408 his433 report238 , he362 moulded239 his433 two527 hands87 into554 a10 trumpet104 and236 shouted300 --"No235 , Sir271 ! No235 !" Upon419 which16 Ahab232 retired158 , and236 Stubb returned214 to261 the19 Frenchman151 . He362 now20 perceived76 that14 the19 Guernsey-man17 , who319 had364 just108 got286 into554 the19 chains446 , and236 was454 using14 a10 cutting454 -spade19 , had364 slung363 his433 nose176 in107 a10 sort42 of89 bag141 . "What243 's483 the19 matter176 with449 your162 nose176 , there340 ?" said252 Stubb. "Broke356 it162 ?" "I482 wish95 it162 was454 broken255 , or519 that14 I482 didn't500 have254 any501 nose176 at65 all145 !" answered100 the19 Guernsey-man17 , who319 did444 not518 seem404 to261 relish22 the19 job269 he362 was454 at65 very515 much61 . "But330 what243 are314 you227 holding311 yours256 for190 ?" "Oh367 , nothing324 ! It162 's483 a10 wax245 nose176 ; I482 have254 to261 hold204 it162 on392 . Fine333 day112 , ain't500 it162 ? Air209 rather178 gardenny, I482 should255 say306 ; throw345 us569 a10 bunch100 of89 posies308 , will584 ye483 , Bouton34 -de404 -Rose449 ?" "What243 in107 the19 devil411 's483 name477 do353 you227 want350 here135 ?" roared315 the19 Guernseyman, flying354 into554 a10 sudden309 passion38 . "Oh367 ! keep381 cool102 --cool102 ? yes143 , that14 's76 the19 word486 ! why177 don280 't500 you227 pack294 those427 whales331 in107 ice443 while55 you227 're155 working113 at65 'em? But330 joking320 aside408 , though400 ; do353 you227 know60 , Rose449 -bud122 , that14 it162 's483 all145 nonsense581 trying83 to261 get126 any501 oil118 out66 of89 such420 whales331 ? As113 for190 that14 dried331 up405 one470 , there340 , he362 hasn't500 a10 gill39 in107 his433 whole199 carcase366 ." "I482 know60 that14 well263 enough217 ; but330 , d67 'ye163 see370 , the19 Captain295 here135 won't500 believe191 it162 ; this256 is487 his433 first13 voyage137 ; he362 was454 a10 Cologne427 manufacturer4 before344 . But330 come420 aboard298 , and236 mayhap421 he362 'll300 believe191 you227 , if141 he362 won't500 me2 ; and236 so281 I482 'll300 get126 out66 of89 this256 dirty301 scrape455 ." "Anything480 to261 oblige144 ye483 , my36 sweet417 and236 pleasant233 fellow369 ," rejoined147 Stubb, and236 with449 that14 he362 soon18 mounted191 to261 the19 deck505 . There340 a10 queer156 scene228 presented320 itself312 . The19 sailors64 , in107 tasselled388 caps214 of89 red293 worsted208 , were324 getting369 the19 heavy421 tackles278 in107 readiness420 for190 the19 whales331 . But330 they382 worked245 rather178 slow96 and236 talked7 very515 fast208 , and236 seemed132 in107 anything480 but330 a10 good221 humor368 . All145 their219 noses261 upwardly203 projected175 from316 their219 faces97 like410 so281 many282 jibbooms. Now20 and236 then45 pairs282 of89 them146 would282 drop22 their219 work385 , and236 run172 up405 to261 the19 mast44 -head116 to261 get126 some265 fresh540 air209 . Some265 thinking385 they382 would282 catch523 the19 plague133 , dipped377 oakum4 in107 coal127 -tar241 , and236 at65 intervals295 held212 it162 to261 their219 nostrils42 . Others317 having69 broken255 the19 stems244 of89 their219 pipes17 almost518 short522 off111 at65 the19 bowl418 , were324 vigorously167 puffing4 tobacco331 -smoke248 , so281 that14 it162 constantly344 filled232 their219 olfactories127 . Stubb was454 struck441 by406 a10 shower143 of89 outcries83 and236 anathemas282 proceeding422 from316 the19 Captain295 's483 round287 -house499 abaft26 ; and236 looking318 in107 that14 direction67 saw113 a10 fiery42 face556 thrust379 from316 behind80 the19 door135 , which16 was454 held212 ajar105 from316 within503 . This256 was454 the19 tormented256 surgeon135 , who319 , after358 in107 vain216 remonstrating24 against417 the19 proceedings121 of89 the19 day112 , had364 betaken273 himself282 to261 the19 Captain295 's483 round287 -house499 (cabinet46 he362 called237 it162 ) to261 avoid444 the19 pest309 ; but330 still278 , could375 not518 help526 yelling244 out66 his433 entreaties169 and236 indignations41 at65 times121 . Marking279 all145 this256 , Stubb argued19 well263 for190 his433 scheme337 , and236 turning69 to261 the19 Guernsey-man17 had364 a10 little554 chat205 with449 him248 , during309 which16 the19 stranger233 mate508 expressed21 his433 detestation95 of89 his433 Captain295 as113 a10 conceited149 ignoramus494 , who319 had364 brought85 them146 all145 into554 so281 unsavory201 and236 unprofitable392 a10 pickle110 . Sounding331 him248 carefully374 , Stubb further53 perceived76 that14 the19 Guernsey-man17 had364 not518 the19 slightest44 suspicion368 concerning368 the19 ambergris4 . He362 therefore94 held212 his433 peace216 on392 that14 head219 , but330 otherwise542 was454 quite327 frank88 and236 confidential147 with449 him248 , so281 that14 the19 two527 quickly183 concocted95 a10 little554 plan99 for190 both558 circumventing27 and236 satirizing25 the19 Captain295 , without309 his433 at65 all145 dreaming47 of89 distrusting27 their219 sincerity143 . According281 to261 this256 little554 plan99 of89 theirs137 , the19 Guernsey-man17 , under533 cover172 of89 an138 interpreter251 's483 office256 , was454 to261 tell392 the19 Captain295 what243 he362 pleased282 , but330 as113 coming140 from316 Stubb; and236 as113 for190 Stubb, he362 was454 to261 utter270 any501 nonsense581 that14 should255 come420 uppermost226 in107 him248 during309 the19 interview296 . By406 this256 time577 their219 destined197 victim300 appeared88 from316 his433 cabin192 . He362 was454 a10 small350 and236 dark471 , but330 rather178 delicate34 looking318 man17 for190 a10 sea67 -captain295 , with449 large385 whiskers42 and236 moustache145 , however44 ; and236 wore92 a10 red293 cotton444 velvet136 vest315 with449 watch89 -seals22 at65 his433 side246 . To261 this256 gentleman399 , Stubb was454 now20 politely322 introduced265 by406 the19 Guernsey-man17 , who319 at65 once248 ostentatiously173 put190 on392 the19 aspect147 of89 interpreting14 between77 them146 . "What243 shall66 I482 say306 to261 him248 first13 ?" said252 he362 . "Why177 ," said252 Stubb, eyeing49 the19 velvet136 vest315 and236 the19 watch89 and236 seals221 , "you227 may236 as113 well263 begin183 by406 telling196 him248 that14 he362 looks150 a10 sort42 of89 babyish452 to261 me2 , though400 I482 don280 't500 pretend493 to261 be341 a10 judge337 ." "He362 says424 , Monsieur127 ," said252 the19 Guernsey-man17 , in107 French491 , turning69 to261 his433 captain295 , "that14 only517 yesterday235 his433 ship438 spoke185 a10 vessel155 , whose286 captain295 and236 chief156 -mate508 , with449 six415 sailors64 , had364 all145 died575 of89 a10 fever186 caught105 from316 a10 blasted253 whale422 they382 had364 brought85 alongside540 ." Upon419 this256 the19 captain295 started492 , and236 eagerly100 desired480 to261 know60 more348 . "What243 now20 ?" said252 the19 Guernsey-man17 to261 Stubb. "Why177 , since374 he362 takes362 it162 so281 easy281 , tell392 him248 that14 now20 I482 have254 eyed363 him248 carefully374 , I482 'm250 quite327 certain31 that14 he362 's483 no235 more348 fit12 to261 command190 a10 whale422 -ship98 than77 a10 St193 . Jago296 monkey335 . In107 fact12 , tell392 him248 from316 me2 he362 's483 a10 baboon265 ." "He362 vows102 and236 declares242 , Monsieur127 , that14 the19 other282 whale422 , the19 dried331 one470 , is487 far258 more348 deadly49 than77 the19 blasted253 one470 ; in107 fine333 , Monsieur127 , he362 conjures128 us569 , as113 we465 value567 our234 lives245 , to261 cut310 loose159 from316 these527 fish187 ." Instantly186 the19 captain295 ran391 forward364 , and236 in107 a10 loud556 voice233 commanded571 his433 crew126 to261 desist472 from316 hoisting50 the19 cutting454 -tackles278 , and236 at65 once248 cast99 loose159 the19 cables25 and236 chains446 confining325 the19 whales331 to261 the19 ship438 . "What243 now20 ?" said252 the19 Guernsey-man17 , when189 the19 Captain295 had364 returned214 to261 them146 . "Why177 , let66 me2 see370 ; yes143 , you227 may236 as113 well263 tell392 him248 now20 that14 --that14 --in107 fact12 , tell392 him248 I482 've149 diddled353 him248 , and236 (aside408 to261 himself282 ) perhaps75 somebody387 else212 ." "He362 says424 , Monsieur127 , that14 he362 's483 very515 happy416 to261 have254 been185 of89 any501 service343 to261 us569 ." Hearing325 this256 , the19 captain295 vowed429 that14 they382 were324 the19 grateful107 parties162 (meaning62 himself282 and236 mate508 ), and236 concluded157 by406 inviting472 Stubb down133 into554 his433 cabin192 to261 drink117 a10 bottle42 of89 Bordeaux41 . "He362 wants418 you227 to261 take279 a10 glass27 of89 wine102 with449 him248 ," said252 the19 interpreter251 . "Thank166 him248 heartily254 ; but330 tell392 him248 it162 's483 against417 my36 principles420 to261 drink117 with449 the19 man17 I482 've149 diddled353 . In107 fact12 , tell392 him248 I482 must226 go20 ." "He362 says424 , Monsieur127 , that14 his433 principles420 won't500 admit321 of89 his433 drinking453 ; but330 that14 if141 Monsieur127 wants418 to261 live554 another269 day112 to261 drink117 , then45 Monsieur127 had364 best315 drop22 all145 four175 boats83 , and236 pull35 the19 ship438 away443 from316 these527 whales331 , for190 it162 's483 so281 calm39 they382 won't500 drift86 ." By406 this256 time577 Stubb was454 over82 the19 side246 , and236 getting369 into554 his433 boat439 , hailed411 the19 Guernsey-man17 to261 this256 effect215 ,--that14 having69 a10 long544 tow160 -line98 in107 his433 boat439 , he362 would282 do353 what243 he362 could375 to261 help526 them146 , by406 pulling217 out66 the19 lighter415 whale422 of89 the19 two527 from316 the19 ship438 's483 side246 . While55 the19 Frenchman151 's483 boats83 , then45 , were324 engaged479 in107 towing78 the19 ship438 one470 way435 , Stubb benevolently156 towed376 away443 at65 his433 whale422 the19 other282 way435 , ostentatiously173 slacking141 out66 a10 most216 unusually35 long544 tow160 -line98 . Presently166 a10 breeze227 sprang253 up405 ; Stubb feigned280 to261 cast99 off111 from316 the19 whale422 ; hoisting50 his433 boats83 , the19 Frenchman151 soon18 increased406 his433 distance264 , while55 the19 Pequod288 slid132 in107 between77 him248 and236 Stubb's483 whale422 . Whereupon44 Stubb quickly183 pulled213 to261 the19 floating30 body348 , and236 hailing400 the19 Pequod288 to261 give142 notice76 of89 his433 intentions128 , at65 once248 proceeded121 to261 reap27 the19 fruit9 of89 his433 unrighteous22 cunning198 . Seizing327 his433 sharp427 boat439 -spade19 , he362 commenced8 an138 excavation16 in107 the19 body348 , a10 little554 behind80 the19 side246 fin286 . You227 would282 almost518 have254 thought186 he362 was454 digging291 a10 cellar93 there340 in107 the19 sea67 ; and236 when189 at65 length202 his433 spade19 struck441 against417 the19 gaunt62 ribs92 , it162 was454 like410 turning69 up405 old447 Roman333 tiles143 and236 pottery266 buried205 in107 fat351 English69 loam25 . His433 boat439 's483 crew126 were324 all145 in107 high361 excitement60 , eagerly100 helping9 their219 chief156 , and236 looking318 as113 anxious256 as113 gold231 -hunters423 . And236 all145 the19 time577 numberless4 fowls206 were324 diving279 , and236 ducking156 , and236 screaming64 , and236 yelling244 , and236 fighting292 around66 them146 . Stubb was454 beginning188 to261 look523 disappointed86 , especially371 as113 the19 horrible398 nosegay127 increased406 , when189 suddenly193 from316 out66 the19 very515 heart470 of89 this256 plague133 , there340 stole135 a10 faint316 stream184 of89 perfume83 , which16 flowed261 through295 the19 tide523 of89 bad458 smells422 without309 being264 absorbed116 by406 it162 , as113 one470 river201 will584 flow44 into554 and236 then45 along423 with449 another269 , without309 at65 all145 blending350 with449 it162 for190 a10 time577 . "I482 have254 it162 , I482 have254 it162 ," cried506 Stubb, with449 delight25 , striking22 something181 in107 the19 subterranean105 regions320 , "a10 purse322 ! a10 purse322 !" Dropping279 his433 spade19 , he362 thrust379 both558 hands87 in107 , and236 drew175 out66 handfuls106 of89 something181 that14 looked232 like410 ripe238 Windsor484 soap458 , or519 rich531 mottled70 old447 cheese10 ; very515 unctuous322 and236 savory451 withal157 . You227 might496 easily45 dent321 it162 with449 your162 thumb141 ; it162 is487 of89 a10 hue296 between77 yellow95 and236 ash481 color13 . And236 this256 , good221 friends169 , is487 ambergris4 , worth84 a10 gold231 guinea310 an138 ounce275 to261 any501 druggist83 . Some265 six415 handfuls106 were324 obtained186 ; but330 more348 was454 unavoidably70 lost308 in107 the19 sea67 , and236 still278 more348 , perhaps75 , might496 have254 been185 secured284 were324 it162 not518 for190 impatient160 Ahab232 's483 loud556 command190 to261 Stubb to261 desist472 , and236 come420 on392 board540 , else212 the19 ship438 would282 bid171 them146 good221 -bye356 . CHAPTER293 92123 Ambergris4 Now20 this256 ambergris4 is487 a10 very515 curious264 substance316 , and236 so281 important104 as113 an138 article58 of89 commerce292 , that14 in107 1791102 a10 certain31 Nantucket283 -born236 Captain295 Coffin284 was454 examined192 at65 the19 bar144 of89 the19 English69 House499 of89 Commons133 on392 that14 subject382 . For190 at65 that14 time577 , and236 indeed522 until316 a10 comparatively203 late351 day112 , the19 precise158 origin233 of89 ambergris4 remained72 , like410 amber255 itself312 , a10 problem28 to261 the19 learned277 . Though400 the19 word486 ambergris4 is487 but330 the19 French491 compound188 for190 grey491 amber255 , yet443 the19 two527 substances23 are314 quite327 distinct259 . For190 amber255 , though400 at65 times121 found260 on392 the19 sea67 -coast287 , is487 also119 dug165 up405 in107 some265 far258 inland146 soils84 , whereas18 ambergris4 is487 never206 found260 except545 upon419 the19 sea67 . Besides465 , amber255 is487 a10 hard337 , transparent129 , brittle36 , odorless242 substance316 , used102 for190 mouth414 -pieces283 to261 pipes17 , for190 beads286 and236 ornaments30 ; but330 ambergris4 is487 soft226 , waxy60 , and236 so281 highly52 fragrant336 and236 spicy83 , that14 it162 is487 largely211 used102 in107 perfumery314 , in107 pastiles97 , precious234 candles457 , hair237 -powders, and236 pomatum127 . The19 Turks59 use176 it162 in107 cooking369 , and236 also119 carry160 it162 to261 Mecca305 , for190 the19 same541 purpose514 that14 frankincense257 is487 carried232 to261 St193 . Peter419 's483 in107 Rome401 . Some265 wine102 merchants25 drop22 a10 few49 grains275 into554 claret25 , to261 flavor69 it162 . Who319 would282 think424 , then45 , that14 such420 fine333 ladies66 and236 gentlemen340 should255 regale40 themselves510 with449 an138 essence13 found260 in107 the19 inglorious299 bowels499 of89 a10 sick250 whale422 ! Yet443 so281 it162 is487 . By406 some265 , ambergris4 is487 supposed423 to261 be341 the19 cause220 , and236 by406 others317 the19 effect215 , of89 the19 dyspepsia83 in107 the19 whale422 . How19 to261 cure166 such420 a10 dyspepsia83 it162 were324 hard337 to261 say306 , unless54 by406 administering518 three329 or519 four175 boat439 loads475 of89 Brandreth325 's483 pills70 , and236 then45 running296 out66 of89 harm191 's483 way435 , as113 laborers247 do353 in107 blasting92 rocks265 . I482 have254 forgotten170 to261 say306 that14 there340 were324 found260 in107 this256 ambergris4 , certain31 hard337 , round287 , bony23 plates115 , which16 at65 first13 Stubb thought186 might496 be341 sailors64 ' trousers52 buttons458 ; but330 it162 afterwards418 turned492 out66 that14 they382 were324 nothing324 , more348 than77 pieces283 of89 small350 squid318 bones5 embalmed59 in107 that14 manner153 . Now20 that14 the19 incorruption113 of89 this256 most216 fragrant336 ambergris4 should255 be341 found260 in107 the19 heart470 of89 such420 decay233 ; is487 this256 nothing324 ? Bethink51 thee15 of89 that14 saying9 of89 St193 . Paul368 in107 Corinthians208 , about123 corruption185 and236 incorruption113 ; how19 that14 we465 are314 sown240 in107 dishonor364 , but330 raised493 in107 glory173 . And236 likewise193 call259 to261 mind118 that14 saying9 of89 Paracelsus65 about123 what243 it162 is487 that14 maketh29 the19 best315 musk16 . Also119 forget426 not518 the19 strange440 fact12 that14 of89 all145 things4 of89 ill236 -savor402 , Cologne427 -water520 , in107 its234 rudimental111 manufacturing388 stages83 , is487 the19 worst241 . I482 should255 like410 to261 conclude1 the19 chapter293 with449 the19 above502 appeal190 , but330 cannot, owing98 to261 my36 anxiety221 to261 repel317 a10 charge308 often227 made563 against417 whalemen451 , and236 which16 , in107 the19 estimation287 of89 some265 already93 biased298 minds244 , might496 be341 considered484 as113 indirectly155 substantiated484 by406 what243 has399 been185 said252 of89 the19 Frenchman151 's483 two527 whales331 . Elsewhere154 in107 this256 volume295 the19 slanderous35 aspersion420 has399 been185 disproved217 , that14 the19 vocation408 of89 whaling155 is487 throughout159 a10 slatternly167 , untidy315 business168 . But330 there340 is487 another269 thing309 to261 rebut25 . They382 hint335 that14 all145 whales331 always367 smell124 bad458 . Now20 how19 did444 this256 odious412 stigma84 originate4 ? I482 opine27 , that14 it162 is487 plainly450 traceable237 to261 the19 first13 arrival274 of89 the19 Greenland110 whaling155 ships21 in107 London41 , more348 than77 two527 centuries168 ago141 . Because540 those427 whalemen451 did444 not518 then45 , and236 do353 not518 now20 , try266 out66 their219 oil118 at65 sea67 as113 the19 Southern187 ships21 have254 always367 done135 ; but330 cutting454 up405 the19 fresh540 blubber232 in107 small350 bits256 , thrust379 it162 through295 the19 bung99 holes41 of89 large385 casks213 , and236 carry160 it162 home450 in107 that14 manner153 ; the19 shortness2 of89 the19 season248 in107 those427 Icy155 Seas350 , and236 the19 sudden309 and236 violent336 storms327 to261 which16 they382 are314 exposed356 , forbidding147 any501 other282 course171 . The19 consequence111 is487 , that14 upon419 breaking6 into554 the19 hold204 , and236 unloading290 one470 of89 these527 whale422 cemeteries397 , in107 the19 Greenland110 dock482 , a10 savor402 is487 given141 forth152 somewhat77 similar101 to261 that14 arising303 from316 excavating258 an138 old447 city82 graveyard329 , for190 the19 foundations499 of89 a10 Lying204 -in107 Hospital143 . I482 partly311 surmise159 also119 , that14 this256 wicked5 charge308 against417 whalers116 may236 be341 likewise193 imputed140 to261 the19 existence187 on392 the19 coast287 of89 Greenland110 , in107 former157 times121 , of89 a10 Dutch325 village218 called237 Schmerenburgh or519 Smeerenberg, which16 latter497 name477 is487 the19 one470 used102 by406 the19 learned277 Fogo155 Von270 Slack113 , in107 his433 great259 work385 on392 Smells422 , a10 text17 -book234 on392 that14 subject382 . As113 its234 name477 imports206 (smeer, fat351 ; berg173 , to261 put190 up405 ), this256 village218 was454 founded113 in107 order343 to261 afford282 a10 place107 for190 the19 blubber232 of89 the19 Dutch325 whale422 fleet206 to261 be341 tried73 out66 , without309 being264 taken222 home450 to261 Holland173 for190 that14 purpose514 . It162 was454 a10 collection270 of89 furnaces6 , fat351 -kettles172 , and236 oil118 sheds23 ; and236 when189 the19 works64 were324 in107 full414 operation261 certainly124 gave572 forth152 no235 very515 pleasant233 savor402 . But330 all145 this256 is487 quite327 different276 from316 a10 South257 Sea67 Sperm26 Whaler91 ; which16 in107 a10 voyage137 of89 four175 years116 perhaps75 , after358 completely385 filling330 her400 hold204 with449 oil118 , does565 not518 , perhaps75 , consume403 fifty406 days351 in107 the19 business168 of89 boiling99 out66 ; and236 in107 the19 state135 that14 it162 is487 casked, the19 oil118 is487 nearly575 scentless247 . The19 truth350 is487 , that14 living117 or519 dead568 , if141 but330 decently149 treated277 , whales331 as113 a10 species69 are314 by406 no235 means502 creatures5 of89 ill236 odor482 ; nor137 can450 whalemen451 be341 recognised133 , as113 the19 people482 of89 the19 middle39 ages146 affected283 to261 detect102 a10 Jew399 in107 the19 company280 , by406 the19 nose176 . Nor137 indeed522 can450 the19 whale422 possibly201 be341 otherwise542 than77 fragrant336 , when189 , as113 a10 general37 thing309 , he362 enjoys264 such420 high361 health231 ; taking146 abundance154 of89 exercise240 ; always367 out66 of89 doors77 ; though400 , it162 is487 true483 , seldom140 in107 the19 open464 air209 . I482 say306 , that14 the19 motion544 of89 a10 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 flukes155 above502 water520 dispenses256 a10 perfume83 , as113 when189 a10 musk16 -scented lady14 rustles41 her400 dress46 in107 a10 warm178 parlor522 . What243 then45 shall66 I482 liken303 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 to261 for190 fragrance237 , considering115 his433 magnitude203 ? Must226 it162 not518 be341 to261 that14 famous254 elephant72 , with449 jewelled10 tusks85 , and236 redolent102 with449 myrrh105 , which16 was454 led46 out66 of89 an138 Indian303 town172 to261 do353 honor497 to261 Alexander312 the19 Great259 ? CHAPTER293 93320 The19 Castaway439 It162 was454 but330 some265 few49 days351 after358 encountering332 the19 Frenchman151 , that14 a10 most216 significant143 event28 befell129 the19 most216 insignificant96 of89 the19 Pequod288 's483 crew126 ; an138 event28 most216 lamentable132 ; and236 which16 ended225 in107 providing7 the19 sometimes77 madly218 merry486 and236 predestinated332 craft187 with449 a10 living117 and236 ever208 accompanying371 prophecy147 of89 whatever38 shattered205 sequel124 might496 prove396 her400 own248 . Now20 , in107 the19 whale422 ship438 , it162 is487 not518 every389 one470 that14 goes205 in107 the19 boats83 . Some265 few49 hands87 are314 reserved234 called237 shipkeepers, whose286 province162 it162 is487 to261 work385 the19 vessel155 while55 the19 boats83 are314 pursuing392 the19 whale422 . As113 a10 general37 thing309 , these527 shipkeepers are314 as113 hardy241 fellows131 as113 the19 men62 comprising243 the19 boats83 ' crews559 . But330 if141 there340 happen352 to261 be341 an138 unduly8 slender122 , clumsy394 , or519 timorous223 wight232 in107 the19 ship438 , that14 wight232 is487 certain31 to261 be341 made563 a10 ship438 -keeper98 . It162 was454 so281 in107 the19 Pequod288 with449 the19 little554 negro102 Pippin172 by406 nick250 -name477 , Pip238 by406 abbreviation306 . Poor533 Pip238 ! ye483 have254 heard444 of89 him248 before344 ; ye483 must226 remember499 his433 tambourine197 on392 that14 dramatic317 midnight539 , so281 gloomy340 -jolly50 . In107 outer359 aspect147 , Pip238 and236 Dough-Boy110 made563 a10 match441 , like410 a10 black581 pony321 and236 a10 white82 one470 , of89 equal261 developments83 , though400 of89 dissimilar273 color13 , driven228 in107 one470 eccentric212 span450 . But330 while55 hapless483 Dough-Boy110 was454 by406 nature159 dull546 and236 torpid60 in107 his433 intellects142 , Pip238 , though400 over82 tender454 -hearted187 , was454 at65 bottom461 very515 bright205 , with449 that14 pleasant233 , genial173 , jolly50 brightness217 peculiar291 to261 his433 tribe273 ; a10 tribe273 , which16 ever208 enjoy173 all145 holidays333 and236 festivities78 with449 finer155 , freer377 relish22 than77 any501 other282 race392 . For190 blacks83 , the19 year347 's483 calendar83 should255 show460 naught80 but330 three329 hundred93 and236 sixty332 -five402 Fourth399 of89 Julys292 and236 New36 Year347 's483 Days351 . Nor137 smile265 so281 , while55 I482 write570 that14 this256 little554 black581 was454 brilliant354 , for190 even198 blackness448 has399 its234 brilliancy4 ; behold525 yon252 lustrous174 ebony59 , panelled8 in107 king324 's483 cabinets186 . But330 Pip238 loved13 life71 , and236 all145 life71 's483 peaceable31 securities412 ; so281 that14 the19 panic285 -striking22 business168 in107 which16 he362 had364 somehow425 unaccountably133 become548 entrapped328 , had364 most216 sadly75 blurred310 his433 brightness217 ; though400 , as113 ere83 long544 will584 be341 seen154 , what243 was454 thus362 temporarily22 subdued8 in107 him248 , in107 the19 end149 was454 destined197 to261 be341 luridly83 illumined450 by406 strange440 wild230 fires75 , that14 fictitiously155 showed507 him248 off111 to261 ten198 times121 the19 natural298 lustre19 with449 which16 in107 his433 native399 Tolland County160 in107 Connecticut1 , he362 had364 once248 enlivened296 many282 a10 fiddler76 's483 frolic130 on392 the19 green549 ; and236 at65 melodious515 even198 -tide377 , with449 his433 gay323 ha387 -ha387 ! had364 turned492 the19 round287 horizon516 into554 one470 star274 -belled tambourine197 . So281 , though400 in107 the19 clear408 air209 of89 day112 , suspended245 against417 a10 blue240 -veined neck239 , the19 pure61 -watered diamond101 drop22 will584 healthful176 glow227 ; yet443 , when189 the19 cunning198 jeweller280 would282 show460 you227 the19 diamond101 in107 its234 most216 impressive140 lustre19 , he362 lays361 it162 against417 a10 gloomy340 ground127 , and236 then45 lights59 it162 up405 , not518 by406 the19 sun397 , but330 by406 some265 unnatural111 gases265 . Then45 come420 out66 those427 fiery42 effulgences, infernally191 superb44 ; then45 the19 evil2 -blazing232 diamond101 , once248 the19 divinest35 symbol426 of89 the19 crystal344 skies30 , looks150 like410 some265 crown463 -jewel stolen254 from316 the19 King324 of89 Hell169 . But330 let66 us569 to261 the19 story197 . It162 came549 to261 pass153 , that14 in107 the19 ambergris4 affair388 Stubb's483 after358 -oarsman60 chanced424 so281 to261 sprain261 his433 hand252 , as113 for190 a10 time577 to261 become548 quite327 maimed116 ; and236 , temporarily22 , Pip238 was454 put190 into554 his433 place107 . The19 first13 time577 Stubb lowered279 with449 him248 , Pip238 evinced94 much61 nervousness167 ; but330 happily217 , for190 that14 time577 , escaped197 close65 contact263 with449 the19 whale422 ; and236 therefore94 came549 off111 not518 altogether31 discreditably34 ; though400 Stubb observing278 him248 , took68 care307 , afterwards418 , to261 exhort308 him248 to261 cherish181 his433 courageousness83 to261 the19 utmost43 , for190 he362 might496 often227 find138 it162 needful12 . Now20 upon419 the19 second386 lowering240 , the19 boat439 paddled454 upon419 the19 whale422 ; and236 as113 the19 fish187 received12 the19 darted362 iron169 , it162 gave572 its234 customary79 rap105 , which16 happened156 , in107 this256 instance141 , to261 be341 right499 under533 poor533 Pip238 's483 seat88 . The19 involuntary3 consternation52 of89 the19 moment258 caused308 him248 to261 leap342 , paddle39 in107 hand252 , out66 of89 the19 boat439 ; and236 in107 such420 a10 way435 , that14 part207 of89 the19 slack113 whale422 line25 coming140 against417 his433 chest98 , he362 breasted92 it162 overboard247 with449 him248 , so281 as113 to261 become548 entangled280 in107 it162 , when189 at65 last436 plumping88 into554 the19 water520 . That14 instant279 the19 stricken328 whale422 started492 on392 a10 fierce394 run172 , the19 line25 swiftly441 straightened346 ; and236 presto204 ! poor533 Pip238 came549 all145 foaming193 up405 to261 the19 chocks39 of89 the19 boat439 , remorselessly364 dragged460 there340 by406 the19 line25 , which16 had364 taken222 several479 turns136 around66 his433 chest98 and236 neck239 . Tashtego stood1 in107 the19 bows460 . He362 was454 full414 of89 the19 fire559 of89 the19 hunt418 . He362 hated499 Pip238 for190 a10 poltroon191 . Snatching111 the19 boat439 -knife503 from316 its234 sheath188 , he362 suspended245 its234 sharp427 edge323 over82 the19 line25 , and236 turning69 towards417 Stubb, exclaimed281 interrogatively453 , "Cut310 ?" Meantime210 Pip238 's483 blue240 , choked191 face556 plainly450 looked232 , Do353 , for190 God185 's483 sake523 ! All145 passed87 in107 a10 flash424 . In107 less261 than77 half119 a10 minute236 , this256 entire230 thing309 happened156 . "Damn468 him248 , cut310 !" roared315 Stubb; and236 so281 the19 whale422 was454 lost308 and236 Pip238 was454 saved446 . So281 soon18 as113 he362 recovered234 himself282 , the19 poor533 little554 negro102 was454 assailed130 by406 yells284 and236 execrations521 from316 the19 crew126 . Tranquilly83 permitting66 these527 irregular430 cursings122 to261 evaporate295 , Stubb then45 in107 a10 plain28 , business168 -like10 , but330 still278 half119 humorous7 manner153 , cursed441 Pip238 officially107 ; and236 that14 done135 , unofficially31 gave572 him248 much61 wholesome45 advice481 . The19 substance316 was454 , Never206 jump50 from316 a10 boat439 , Pip238 , except545 --but330 all145 the19 rest302 was454 indefinite376 , as113 the19 soundest295 advice481 ever208 is487 . Now20 , in107 general37 , Stick50 to261 the19 boat439 , is487 your162 true483 motto83 in107 whaling155 ; but330 cases108 will584 sometimes77 happen352 when189 Leap342 from316 the19 boat439 , is487 still278 better34 . Moreover326 , as113 if141 perceiving88 at65 last436 that14 if141 he362 should255 give142 undiluted159 conscientious196 advice481 to261 Pip238 , he362 would282 be341 leaving231 him248 too11 wide465 a10 margin173 to261 jump50 in107 for190 the19 future44 ; Stubb suddenly193 dropped2 all145 advice481 , and236 concluded157 with449 a10 peremptory212 command190 "Stick50 to261 the19 boat439 , Pip238 , or519 by406 the19 Lord106 , I482 won't500 pick447 you227 up405 if141 you227 jump50 ; mind118 that14 . We465 can450 't500 afford282 to261 lose247 whales331 by406 the19 likes93 of89 you227 ; a10 whale422 would282 sell298 for190 thirty521 times121 what243 you227 would282 , Pip238 , in107 Alabama175 . Bear48 that14 in107 mind118 , and236 don280 't500 jump50 any501 more348 ." Hereby196 perhaps75 Stubb indirectly155 hinted253 , that14 though400 man17 loved13 his433 fellow369 , yet443 man17 is487 a10 money383 -making415 animal22 , which16 propensity367 too11 often227 interferes221 with449 his433 benevolence399 . But330 we465 are314 all145 in107 the19 hands87 of89 the19 Gods325 ; and236 Pip238 jumped499 again52 . It162 was454 under533 very515 similar101 circumstances267 to261 the19 first13 performance70 ; but330 this256 time577 he362 did444 not518 breast272 out66 the19 line25 ; and236 hence503 , when189 the19 whale422 started492 to261 run172 , Pip238 was454 left159 behind80 on392 the19 sea67 , like410 a10 hurried335 traveller258 's483 trunk389 . Alas129 ! Stubb was454 but330 too11 true483 to261 his433 word486 . It162 was454 a10 beautiful239 , bounteous395 , blue240 day112 ! the19 spangled110 sea67 calm39 and236 cool102 , and236 flatly83 stretching413 away443 , all145 round287 , to261 the19 horizon516 , like410 gold231 -beater's483 skin428 hammered193 out66 to261 the19 extremest522 . Bobbing3 up405 and236 down133 in107 that14 sea67 , Pip238 's483 ebon4 head219 showed507 like410 a10 head219 of89 cloves4 . No235 boat439 -knife503 was454 lifted448 when189 he362 fell421 so281 rapidly116 astern39 . Stubb's483 inexorable74 back457 was454 turned492 upon419 him248 ; and236 the19 whale422 was454 winged144 . In107 three329 minutes368 , a10 whole199 mile295 of89 shoreless4 ocean224 was454 between77 Pip238 and236 Stubb. Out66 from316 the19 centre389 of89 the19 sea67 , poor533 Pip238 turned492 his433 crisp519 , curling27 , black581 head219 to261 the19 sun397 , another269 lonely137 castaway439 , though400 the19 loftiest460 and236 the19 brightest105 . Now20 , in107 calm39 weather405 , to261 swim226 in107 the19 open464 ocean224 is487 as113 easy281 to261 the19 practised190 swimmer105 as113 to261 ride197 in107 a10 spring148 -carriage21 ashore122 . But330 the19 awful539 lonesomeness284 is487 intolerable304 . The19 intense89 concentration27 of89 self442 in107 the19 middle39 of89 such420 a10 heartless190 immensity94 , my36 God185 ! who319 can450 tell392 it162 ? Mark169 , how19 when189 sailors64 in107 a10 dead568 calm39 bathe4 in107 the19 open464 sea67 -- mark169 how19 closely218 they382 hug17 their219 ship438 and236 only517 coast287 along423 her400 sides331 . But330 had364 Stubb really406 abandoned493 the19 poor533 little554 negro102 to261 his433 fate74 ? No235 ; he362 did444 not518 mean504 to261 , at65 least453 . Because540 there340 were324 two527 boats83 in107 his433 wake205 , and236 he362 supposed423 , no235 doubt71 , that14 they382 would282 of89 course171 come420 up405 to261 Pip238 very515 quickly183 , and236 pick447 him248 up405 ; though400 , indeed522 , such420 considerations88 towards417 oarsmen59 jeopardized209 through295 their219 own248 timidity315 , is487 not518 always367 manifested440 by406 the19 hunters423 in107 all145 similar101 instances252 ; and236 such420 instances252 not518 unfrequently198 occur512 ; almost518 invariably55 in107 the19 fishery136 , a10 coward92 , so281 called237 , is487 marked67 with449 the19 same541 ruthless435 detestation95 peculiar291 to261 military317 navies27 and236 armies50 . But330 it162 so281 happened156 , that14 those427 boats83 , without309 seeing426 Pip238 , suddenly193 spying377 whales331 close65 to261 them146 on392 one470 side246 , turned492 , and236 gave572 chase89 ; and236 Stubb's483 boat439 was454 now20 so281 far258 away443 , and236 he362 and236 all145 his433 crew126 so281 intent359 upon419 his433 fish187 , that14 Pip238 's483 ringed379 horizon516 began132 to261 expand254 around66 him248 miserably233 . By406 the19 merest227 chance292 the19 ship438 itself312 at65 last436 rescued29 him248 ; but330 from316 that14 hour384 the19 little554 negro102 went516 about123 the19 deck505 an138 idiot475 ; such420 , at65 least453 , they382 said252 he362 was454 . The19 sea67 had364 jeeringly196 kept290 his433 finite507 body348 up405 , but330 drowned83 the19 infinite503 of89 his433 soul428 . Not518 drowned83 entirely148 , though400 . Rather178 carried232 down133 alive298 to261 wondrous30 depths416 , where579 strange440 shapes525 of89 the19 unwarped255 primal177 world126 glided152 to261 and236 fro183 before344 his433 passive84 eyes125 ; and236 the19 miser166 -merman289 , Wisdom380 , revealed530 his433 hoarded405 heaps86 ; and236 among483 the19 joyous396 , heartless190 , ever208 -juvenile eternities83 , Pip238 saw113 the19 multitudinous317 , God185 -omnipresent, coral22 insects371 , that14 out66 of89 the19 firmament181 of89 waters556 heaved52 the19 colossal396 orbs501 . He362 saw113 God185 's483 foot467 upon419 the19 treadle396 of89 the19 loom280 , and236 spoke185 it162 ; and236 therefore94 his433 shipmates98 called237 him248 mad235 . So281 man17 's415 insanity115 is487 heaven163 's483 sense85 ; and236 wandering530 from316 all145 mortal371 reason238 , man17 comes268 at65 last436 to261 that14 celestial437 thought186 , which16 , to261 reason238 , is487 absurd142 and236 frantic211 ; and236 weal58 or519 woe295 , feels450 then45 uncompromised136 , indifferent255 as113 his433 God185 . For190 the19 rest302 blame337 not518 Stubb too11 hardly182 . The19 thing309 is487 common304 in107 that14 fishery136 ; and236 in107 the19 sequel124 of89 the19 narrative81 , it162 will584 then45 be341 seen154 what243 like410 abandonment102 befell129 myself99 . CHAPTER293 94420 A10 Squeeze59 of89 the19 Hand252 That14 whale422 of89 Stubb's483 , so281 dearly450 purchased188 , was454 duly163 brought85 to261 the19 Pequod288 's483 side246 , where579 all145 those427 cutting454 and236 hoisting50 operations181 previously250 detailed117 , were324 regularly37 gone190 through295 , even198 to261 the19 baling369 of89 the19 Heidelburgh Tun345 , or519 Case346 . While55 some265 were324 occupied262 with449 this256 latter497 duty468 , others317 were324 employed263 in107 dragging248 away443 the19 larger50 tubs410 , so281 soon18 as113 filled232 with449 the19 sperm26 ; and236 when189 the19 proper249 time577 arrived553 , this256 same541 sperm26 was454 carefully374 manipulated196 ere83 going227 to261 the19 try266 -works64 , of89 which16 anon88 . It162 had364 cooled565 and236 crystallized336 to261 such420 a10 degree209 , that14 when189 , with449 several479 others317 , I482 sat77 down133 before344 a10 large385 Constantine's483 bath453 of89 it162 , I482 found260 it162 strangely155 concreted320 into554 lumps85 , here135 and236 there340 rolling253 about123 in107 the19 liquid345 part207 . It162 was454 our234 business168 to261 squeeze59 these527 lumps85 back457 into554 fluid212 . A10 sweet417 and236 unctuous322 duty468 ! No235 wonder76 that14 in107 old447 times121 this256 sperm26 was454 such420 a10 favorite461 cosmetic58 . Such420 a10 clearer557 ! such420 a10 sweetener4 ! such420 a10 softener568 ; such420 a10 delicious142 mollifier! After358 having69 my36 hands87 in107 it162 for190 only517 a10 few49 minutes368 , my36 fingers345 felt440 like410 eels141 , and236 began132 , as113 it162 were324 , to261 serpentine414 and236 spiralize. As113 I482 sat77 there340 at65 my36 ease387 , cross416 -legged350 on392 the19 deck505 ; after358 the19 bitter236 exertion106 at65 the19 windlass231 ; under533 a10 blue240 tranquil181 sky331 ; the19 ship438 under533 indolent53 sail218 , and236 gliding248 so281 serenely136 along423 ; as113 I482 bathed120 my36 hands87 among483 those427 soft226 , gentle439 globules20 of89 infiltrated357 tissues20 , woven26 almost518 within503 the19 hour384 ; as113 they382 richly311 broke356 to261 my36 fingers345 , and236 discharged509 all145 their219 opulence153 , like410 fully530 ripe238 grapes69 their219 wine102 ; as113 . I482 snuffed250 up405 that14 uncontaminated399 aroma210 ,-- literally37 and236 truly530 , like410 the19 smell124 of89 spring148 violets284 ; I482 declare167 to261 you227 , that14 for190 the19 time577 I482 lived415 as113 in107 a10 musky280 meadow310 ; I482 forgot526 all145 about123 our234 horrible398 oath115 ; in107 that14 inexpressible480 sperm26 , I482 washed479 my36 hands87 and236 my36 heart470 of89 it162 ; I482 almost518 began132 to261 credit78 the19 old447 Paracelsan superstition268 that14 sperm26 is487 of89 rare296 virtue16 in107 allaying247 the19 heat218 of89 anger282 ; while55 bathing183 in107 that14 bath453 , I482 felt440 divinely395 free483 from316 all145 ill236 -will584 , or519 petulance69 , or519 malice157 , of89 any501 sort42 whatsoever268 . Squeeze59 ! squeeze59 ! squeeze59 ! all145 the19 morning417 long544 ; I482 squeezed306 that14 sperm26 till181 I482 myself99 almost518 melted145 into554 it162 ; I482 squeezed306 that14 sperm26 till181 a10 strange440 sort42 of89 insanity115 came549 over82 me2 ; and236 I482 found260 myself99 unwittingly413 squeezing485 my36 co-laborers426 ' hands87 in107 it162 , mistaking243 their219 hands87 for190 the19 gentle439 globules20 . Such420 an138 abounding143 , affectionate57 , friendly495 , loving309 feeling384 did444 this256 avocation211 beget415 ; that14 at65 last436 I482 was454 continually303 squeezing485 their219 hands87 , and236 looking318 up405 into554 their219 eyes125 sentimentally44 ; as113 much61 as113 to261 say306 ,--Oh367 ! my36 dear333 fellow369 beings6 , why177 should255 we465 longer559 cherish181 any501 social149 acerbities, or519 know60 the19 slightest44 ill236 -humor345 or519 envy388 ! Come420 ; let66 us569 squeeze59 hands87 all145 round287 ; nay358 , let66 us569 all145 squeeze59 ourselves15 into554 each520 other282 ; let66 us569 squeeze59 ourselves15 universally403 into554 the19 very515 milk362 and236 sperm26 of89 kindness376 . Would282 that14 I482 could375 keep381 squeezing485 that14 sperm26 for190 ever208 ! For190 now20 , since374 by406 many282 prolonged246 , repeated381 experiences93 , I482 have254 perceived76 that14 in107 all145 cases108 man17 must226 eventually163 lower47 , or519 at65 least453 shift70 , his433 conceit58 of89 attainable104 felicity259 ; not518 placing287 it162 anywhere436 in107 the19 intellect229 or519 the19 fancy396 ; but330 in107 the19 wife37 , the19 heart470 , the19 bed273 , the19 table572 , the19 saddle182 , the19 fire559 -side246 ; the19 country362 ; now20 that14 I482 have254 perceived76 all145 this256 , I482 am375 ready464 to261 squeeze59 case346 eternally86 . In107 thoughts26 of89 the19 visions193 of89 the19 night108 , I482 saw113 long544 rows375 of89 angels29 in107 paradise215 , each520 with449 his433 hands87 in107 a10 jar408 of89 spermaceti283 . Now20 , while55 discoursing159 of89 sperm26 it162 behooves268 to261 speak337 of89 other282 things4 akin273 to261 it162 , in107 the19 business168 of89 preparing52 the19 sperm26 whale422 for190 the19 try266 -works64 . First13 comes268 white82 -horse409 , so281 called237 , which16 is487 obtained186 from316 the19 tapering416 part207 of89 the19 fish187 , and236 also119 from316 the19 thicker318 portions315 of89 his433 flukes155 . It162 is487 tough241 with449 congealed109 tendons454 --a10 wad352 of89 muscle246 --but330 still278 contains81 some265 oil118 . After358 being264 severed232 from316 the19 whale422 , the19 white82 -horse409 is487 first13 cut310 into554 portable120 oblongs25 ere83 going227 to261 the19 mincer. They382 look523 much61 like410 blocks6 of89 Berkshire44 marble364 . Plum-pudding176 is487 the19 term416 bestowed157 upon419 certain31 fragmentary248 parts470 of89 the19 whale422 's483 flesh331 , here135 and236 there340 adhering163 to261 the19 blanket115 of89 blubber232 , and236 often227 participating441 to261 a10 considerable75 degree209 in107 its234 unctuousness83 . It162 is487 a10 most216 refreshing24 , convivial355 , beautiful239 object100 to261 behold525 . As113 its234 name477 imports206 , it162 is487 of89 an138 exceedingly257 rich531 , mottled70 tint205 , with449 a10 bestreaked248 snowy152 and236 golden508 ground127 , dotted399 with449 spots8 of89 the19 deepest494 crimson26 and236 purple167 . It162 is487 plums22 of89 rubies491 , in107 pictures371 of89 citron520 . Spite431 of89 reason238 , it162 is487 hard337 to261 keep381 yourself176 from316 eating22 it162 . I482 confess315 , that14 once248 I482 stole135 behind80 the19 foremast331 to261 try266 it162 . It162 tasted356 something181 as113 I482 should255 conceive133 a10 royal161 cutlet541 from316 the19 thigh108 of89 Louis264 le489 Gros410 might496 have254 tasted356 , supposing247 him248 to261 have254 been185 killed409 the19 first13 day112 after358 the19 venison359 season248 , and236 that14 particular336 venison359 season248 contemporary145 with449 an138 unusually35 fine333 vintage341 of89 the19 vineyards446 of89 Champagne434 . There340 is487 another269 substance316 , and236 a10 very515 singular216 one470 , which16 turns136 up405 in107 the19 course171 of89 this256 business168 , but330 which16 I482 feel461 it162 to261 be341 very515 puzzling76 adequately367 to261 describe54 . It162 is487 called237 slobgollion; an138 appellation84 original463 with449 the19 whalemen451 , and236 even198 so281 is487 the19 nature159 of89 the19 substance316 . It162 is487 an138 ineffably127 oozy286 , stringy516 affair388 , most216 frequently475 found260 in107 the19 tubs410 of89 sperm26 , after358 a10 prolonged246 squeezing485 , and236 subsequent312 decanting259 . I482 hold204 it162 to261 be341 the19 wondrously394 thin445 , ruptured251 membranes212 of89 the19 case346 , coalescing362 . Gurry4 , so281 called237 , is487 a10 term416 properly93 belonging168 to261 right499 whalemen451 , but330 sometimes77 incidentally261 used102 by406 the19 sperm26 fishermen24 . It162 designates81 the19 dark471 , glutinous268 substance316 which16 is487 scraped122 off111 the19 back457 of89 the19 Greenland110 or519 right499 whale422 , and236 much61 of89 which16 covers454 the19 decks386 of89 those427 inferior84 souls82 who319 hunt418 that14 ignoble38 Leviathan384 . Nippers4 . Strictly303 this256 word486 is487 not518 indigenous265 to261 the19 whale422 's483 vocabulary127 . But330 as113 applied122 by406 whalemen451 , it162 becomes314 so281 . A10 whaleman98 's483 nipper294 is487 a10 short522 firm415 strip396 of89 tendinous25 stuff471 cut310 from316 the19 tapering416 part207 of89 Leviathan384 's483 tail102 : it162 averages445 an138 inch65 in107 thickness280 , and236 for190 the19 rest302 , is487 about123 the19 size503 of89 the19 iron169 part207 of89 a10 hoe576 . Edgewise279 moved492 along423 the19 oily212 deck505 , it162 operates69 like410 a10 leathern427 squilgee; and236 by406 nameless427 blandishments125 , as113 of89 magic54 , allures285 along423 with449 it162 all145 impurities378 . But330 to261 learn341 all145 about123 these527 recondite305 matters515 , your162 best315 way435 is487 at65 once248 to261 descend252 into554 the19 blubber232 -room65 , and236 have254 a10 long544 talk173 with449 its234 inmates480 . This256 place107 has399 previously250 been185 mentioned149 as113 the19 receptacle122 for190 the19 blanket115 -pieces283 , when189 stript292 and236 hoisted367 from316 the19 whale422 . When189 the19 proper249 time577 arrives50 for190 cutting454 up405 its234 contents347 , this256 apartment18 is487 a10 scene228 of89 terror85 to261 all145 tyros303 , especially371 by406 night108 . On392 one470 side246 , lit26 by406 a10 dull546 lantern220 , a10 space468 has399 been185 left159 clear408 for190 the19 workmen196 . They382 generally402 go20 in107 pairs282 ,--a10 pike412 -and236 -gaffman and236 a10 spade19 -man17 . The19 whaling155 -pike412 is487 similar101 to261 a10 frigate44 's483 boarding155 -weapon223 of89 the19 same541 name477 . The19 gaff98 is487 something181 like410 a10 boat439 -hook213 . With449 his433 gaff98 , the19 gaffman hooks561 on392 to261 a10 sheet327 of89 blubber232 , and236 strives83 to261 hold204 it162 from316 slipping522 , as113 the19 ship438 pitches83 and236 lurches498 about123 . Meanwhile282 , the19 spade19 -man17 stands256 on392 the19 sheet327 itself312 , perpendicularly41 chopping299 it162 into554 the19 portable120 horse409 -pieces283 . This256 spade19 is487 sharp427 as113 hone493 can450 make175 it162 ; the19 spademan's483 feet349 are314 shoeless86 ; the19 thing309 he362 stands256 on392 will584 sometimes77 irresistibly41 slide118 away443 from316 him248 , like410 a10 sledge398 . If141 he362 cuts26 off111 one470 of89 his433 own248 toes557 , or519 one470 of89 his433 assistants346 ', would282 you227 be341 very515 much61 astonished260 ? Toes557 are314 scarce462 among483 veteran122 blubber232 -room65 men62 . CHAPTER293 9578 The19 Cassock323 Had364 you227 stepped306 on392 board540 the19 Pequod288 at65 a10 certain31 juncture53 of89 this256 post2 -mortemizing of89 the19 whale422 ; and236 had364 you227 strolled91 forward364 nigh254 the19 windlass231 , pretty252 sure41 am375 I482 that14 you227 would282 have254 scanned224 with449 no235 small350 curiosity501 a10 very515 strange440 , enigmatical204 object100 , which16 you227 would282 have254 seen154 there340 , lying204 along423 lengthwise288 in107 the19 lee472 scuppers98 . Not518 the19 wondrous30 cistern141 in107 the19 whale422 's483 huge132 head219 ; not518 the19 prodigy13 of89 his433 unhinged70 lower47 jaw213 ; not518 the19 miracle309 of89 his433 symmetrical336 tail102 ; none365 of89 these527 would282 so281 surprise125 you227 , as113 half119 a10 glimpse12 of89 that14 unaccountable316 cone117 ,--longer559 than77 a10 Kentuckian353 is487 tall373 , nigh254 a10 foot467 in107 diameter350 at65 the19 base258 , and236 jet423 -black581 as113 Yojo, the19 ebony59 idol191 of89 Queequeg. And236 an138 idol191 , indeed522 , it162 is487 ; or519 rather178 , in107 old447 times121 , its234 likeness460 was454 . Such420 an138 idol191 as113 that14 found260 in107 the19 secret409 groves130 of89 Queen443 Maachah227 in107 Judea235 ; and236 for190 worshipping186 which16 , King324 Asa331 , her400 son26 , did444 depose172 her400 , and236 destroyed197 the19 idol191 , and236 burnt37 it162 for190 an138 abomination137 at65 the19 brook490 Kedron402 , as113 darkly371 set422 forth152 in107 the19 15th38 chapter293 of89 the19 First13 Book230 of89 Kings474 . Look523 at65 the19 sailor561 , called237 the19 mincer, who319 now20 comes268 along423 , and236 assisted84 by406 two527 allies31 , heavily227 backs480 the19 grandissimus, as113 the19 mariners347 call259 it162 , and236 with449 bowed26 shoulders476 , staggers241 off111 with449 it162 as113 if141 he362 were324 a10 grenadier4 carrying103 a10 dead568 comrade148 from316 the19 field275 . Extending231 it162 upon419 the19 forecastle367 deck505 , he362 now20 proceeds215 cylindrically25 to261 remove306 its234 dark471 pelt83 , as113 an138 African117 hunter287 the19 pelt83 of89 a10 boa181 . This256 done135 he362 turns136 the19 pelt83 inside438 out66 , like410 a10 pantaloon83 leg331 ; gives529 it162 a10 good221 stretching413 , so281 as113 almost518 to261 double20 its234 diameter350 ; and236 at65 last436 hangs170 it162 , well263 spread348 , in107 the19 rigging516 , to261 dry430 . Ere83 long544 , it162 is487 taken222 down133 ; when189 removing46 some265 three329 feet349 of89 it162 , towards417 the19 pointed413 extremity410 , and236 then45 cutting454 two527 slits270 for190 arm25 -holes41 at65 the19 other282 end149 , he362 lengthwise288 slips437 himself282 bodily172 into554 it162 . The19 mincer now20 stands256 before344 you227 invested60 in107 the19 full414 canonicals191 of89 his433 calling56 . Immemorial52 to261 all145 his433 order343 , this256 investiture256 alone2 will584 adequately367 protect77 him248 , while55 employed263 in107 the19 peculiar291 functions82 of89 his433 office256 . That14 office256 consists303 in107 mincing237 the19 horse409 -pieces283 of89 blubber232 for190 the19 pots184 ; an138 operation261 which16 is487 conducted269 at65 a10 curious264 wooden35 horse409 , planted82 endwise10 against417 the19 bulwarks411 , and236 with449 a10 capacious449 tub339 beneath320 it162 , into554 which16 the19 minced487 pieces283 drop22 , fast208 as113 the19 sheets281 from316 a10 rapt86 orator332 's483 desk294 . Arrayed155 in107 decent136 black581 ; occupying288 a10 conspicuous460 pulpit107 ; intent359 on392 bible253 leaves441 ; what243 a10 candidate368 for190 an138 archbishopric4 , what243 a10 lad342 for190 a10 Pope44 were324 this256 mincer!* * Bible253 leaves441 ! Bible253 leaves441 ! This256 is487 the19 invariable261 cry561 from316 the19 mates264 to261 the19 mincer. It162 enjoins13 him248 to261 be341 careful252 , and236 cut310 his433 work385 into554 as113 thin445 slices135 as113 possible277 , inasmuch110 as113 by406 so281 doing227 the19 business168 of89 boiling99 out66 the19 oil118 is487 much61 accelerated154 , and236 its234 quantity316 considerably110 increased406 , besides465 perhaps75 improving415 it162 in107 quality127 . CHAPTER293 96291 The19 Try266 -Works64 Besides465 her400 hoisted367 boats83 , an138 American272 whaler91 is487 outwardly137 distinguished365 by406 her400 try266 -works64 . She391 presents256 the19 curious264 anomaly247 of89 the19 most216 solid494 masonry210 joining305 with449 oak170 and236 hemp245 in107 constituting412 the19 completed102 ship438 . It162 is487 as113 if141 from316 the19 open464 field275 a10 brick335 -kiln were324 transported546 to261 her400 planks284 . The19 try266 -works64 are314 planted82 between77 the19 foremast331 and236 mainmast323 , the19 most216 roomy282 part207 of89 the19 deck505 . The19 timbers125 beneath320 are314 of89 a10 peculiar291 strength168 , fitted200 to261 sustain264 the19 weight213 of89 an138 almost518 solid494 mass36 of89 brick335 and236 mortar10 , some265 ten198 feet349 by406 eight316 square302 , and236 five103 in107 height20 . The19 foundation42 does565 not518 penetrate140 the19 deck505 , but330 the19 masonry210 is487 firmly308 secured284 to261 the19 surface328 by406 ponderous213 knees214 of89 iron169 bracing336 it162 on392 all145 sides331 , and236 screwing284 it162 down133 to261 the19 timbers125 . On392 the19 flanks46 it162 is487 cased249 with449 wood46 , and236 at65 top70 completely385 covered452 by406 a10 large385 , sloping135 , battened88 hatchway64 . Removing46 this256 hatch241 we465 expose58 the19 great259 try266 -pots184 , two527 in107 number196 , and236 each520 of89 several479 barrels368 ' capacity23 . When189 not518 in107 use176 , they382 are314 kept290 remarkably106 clean26 . Sometimes77 they382 are314 polished370 with449 soapstone283 and236 sand380 , till181 they382 shine262 within503 like410 silver205 punchbowls. During309 the19 night108 -watches192 some265 cynical267 old447 sailors64 will584 crawl445 into554 them146 and236 coil32 themselves510 away443 there340 for190 a10 nap484 . While55 employed263 in107 polishing151 them146 --one470 man17 in107 each520 pot209 , side246 by406 side246 -- many282 confidential147 communications296 are314 carried232 on392 , over82 the19 iron169 lips585 . It162 is487 a10 place107 also119 for190 profound371 mathematical368 meditation21 . It162 was454 in107 the19 left159 hand252 try266 -pot209 of89 the19 Pequod288 , with449 the19 soapstone283 diligently344 circling504 round287 me2 , that14 I482 was454 first13 indirectly155 struck441 by406 the19 remarkable381 fact12 , that14 in107 geometry112 all145 bodies392 gliding248 along423 the19 cycloid172 , my36 soapstone283 for190 example479 , will584 descend252 from316 any501 point438 in107 precisely217 the19 same541 time577 . Removing46 the19 fire559 -board540 from316 the19 front196 of89 the19 try266 -works64 , the19 bare245 masonry210 of89 that14 side246 is487 exposed356 , penetrated300 by406 the19 two527 iron169 mouths26 of89 the19 furnaces6 , directly58 underneath224 the19 pots184 . These527 mouths26 are314 fitted200 with449 heavy421 doors77 of89 iron169 . The19 intense89 heat218 of89 the19 fire559 is487 prevented11 from316 communicating21 itself312 to261 the19 deck505 , by406 means502 of89 a10 shallow397 reservoir320 extending231 under533 the19 entire230 inclosed88 surface328 of89 the19 works64 . By406 a10 tunnel86 inserted102 at65 the19 rear252 , this256 reservoir320 is487 kept290 replenished198 with449 water520 as113 fast208 as113 it162 evaporates203 . There340 are314 no235 external386 chimneys243 ; they382 open464 direct314 from316 the19 rear252 wall509 . And236 here135 let66 us569 go20 back457 for190 a10 moment258 . It162 was454 about123 nine140 o24 'clock489 at65 night108 that14 the19 Pequod288 's483 try266 -works64 were324 first13 started492 on392 this256 present112 voyage137 . It162 belonged455 to261 Stubb to261 oversee24 the19 business168 . "All145 ready464 there340 ? Off111 hatch241 , then45 , and236 start117 her400 . You227 cook41 , fire559 the19 works64 ." This256 was454 an138 easy281 thing309 , for190 the19 carpenter262 had364 been185 thrusting100 his433 shavings117 into554 the19 furnace123 throughout159 the19 passage285 . Here135 be341 it162 said252 that14 in107 a10 whaling155 voyage137 the19 first13 fire559 in107 the19 try266 -works64 has399 to261 be341 fed491 for190 a10 time577 with449 wood46 . After358 that14 no235 wood46 is487 used102 , except545 as113 a10 means502 of89 quick241 ignition25 to261 the19 staple41 fuel84 . In107 a10 word486 , after358 being264 tried73 out66 , the19 crisp519 , shrivelled259 blubber232 , now20 called237 scraps250 or519 fritters292 , still278 contains81 considerable75 of89 its234 unctuous322 properties161 . These527 fritters292 feed252 the19 flames74 . Like410 a10 plethoric91 burning70 martyr58 , or519 a10 self442 -consuming246 misanthrope547 , once248 ignited350 , the19 whale422 supplies169 his433 own248 fuel84 and236 burns160 by406 his433 own248 body348 . Would282 that14 he362 consumed78 his433 own248 smoke99 ! for190 his433 smoke99 is487 horrible398 to261 inhale339 , and236 inhale339 it162 you227 must226 , and236 not518 only517 that14 , but330 you227 must226 live554 in107 it162 for190 the19 time577 . It162 has399 an138 unspeakable4 , wild230 , Hindoo247 odor482 about123 it162 , such420 as113 may236 lurk246 in107 the19 vicinity208 of89 funereal345 pyres78 . It162 smells422 like410 the19 left159 wing101 of89 the19 day112 of89 judgment83 ; it162 is487 an138 argument195 for190 the19 pit223 . By406 midnight539 the19 works64 were324 in107 full414 operation261 . We465 were324 clear408 from316 the19 carcass398 ; sail218 had364 been185 made563 ; the19 wind262 was454 freshening354 ; the19 wild230 ocean224 darkness493 was454 intense89 . But330 that14 darkness493 was454 licked181 up405 by406 the19 fierce394 flames74 , which16 at65 intervals295 forked386 forth152 from316 the19 sooty213 flues291 , and236 illuminated127 every389 lofty161 rope265 in107 the19 rigging516 , as113 with449 the19 famed416 Greek261 fire559 . The19 burning70 ship438 drove427 on392 , as113 if141 remorselessly364 commissioned102 to261 some265 vengeful504 deed101 . So281 the19 pitch115 and236 sulphur155 -freighted12 brigs231 of89 the19 bold356 Hydriote110 , Canaris41 , issuing309 from316 their219 midnight539 harbors348 , with449 broad267 sheets281 of89 flame113 for190 sails344 , bore27 down133 upon419 the19 Turkish124 frigates263 , and236 folded305 them146 in107 conflagrations264 . The19 hatch241 , removed447 from316 the19 top70 of89 the19 works64 , now20 afforded37 a10 wide465 hearth61 in107 front196 of89 them146 . Standing144 on392 this256 were324 the19 Tartarean38 shapes525 of89 the19 pagan118 harpooneers, always367 the19 whale422 -ship98 's483 stokers293 . With449 huge132 pronged327 poles122 they382 pitched101 hissing403 masses361 of89 blubber232 into554 the19 scalding181 pots184 , or519 stirred101 up405 the19 fires75 beneath320 , till181 the19 snaky110 flames74 darted362 , curling27 , out66 of89 the19 doors77 to261 catch523 them146 by406 the19 feet349 . The19 smoke99 rolled226 away443 in107 sullen335 heaps86 . To261 every389 pitch115 of89 the19 ship438 there340 was454 a10 pitch115 of89 the19 boiling99 oil118 , which16 seemed132 all145 eagerness275 to261 leap342 into554 their219 faces97 . Opposite107 the19 mouth414 of89 the19 works64 , on392 the19 further53 side246 of89 the19 wide465 wooden35 hearth61 , was454 the19 windlass231 . This256 served460 for190 a10 sea67 -sofa34 . Here135 lounged293 the19 watch89 , when189 not518 otherwise542 employed263 , looking318 into554 the19 red293 heat218 of89 the19 fire559 , till181 their219 eyes125 felt440 scorched253 in107 their219 heads366 . Their219 tawny398 features150 , now20 all145 begrimed359 with449 smoke99 and236 sweat132 , their219 matted2 beards306 , and236 the19 contrasting286 barbaric559 brilliancy4 of89 their219 teeth82 , all145 these527 were324 strangely155 revealed530 in107 the19 capricious6 emblazonings of89 the19 works64 . As113 they382 narrated283 to261 each520 other282 their219 unholy483 adventures266 , their219 tales527 of89 terror85 told82 in107 words107 of89 mirth457 ; as113 their219 uncivilized163 laughter151 forked386 upwards110 out66 of89 them146 , like410 the19 flames74 from316 the19 furnace123 ; as113 to261 and236 fro183 , in107 their219 front196 , the19 harpooneers wildly356 gesticulated502 with449 their219 huge132 pronged327 forks282 and236 dippers39 ; as113 the19 wind262 howled333 on392 , and236 the19 sea67 leaped314 , and236 the19 ship438 groaned233 and236 dived149 , and236 yet443 steadfastly106 shot443 her400 red293 hell169 further53 and236 further53 into554 the19 blackness448 of89 the19 sea67 and236 the19 night108 , and236 scornfully78 champed315 the19 white82 bone184 in107 her400 mouth414 , and236 viciously494 spat115 round287 her400 on392 all145 sides331 ; then45 the19 rushing344 Pequod288 , freighted12 with449 savages247 , and236 laden126 with449 fire559 , and236 burning70 a10 corpse133 , and236 plunging93 into554 that14 blackness448 of89 darkness493 , seemed132 the19 material161 counterpart350 of89 her400 monomaniac336 commander108 's483 soul428 . So281 seemed132 it162 to261 me2 , as113 I482 stood1 at65 her400 helm285 , and236 for190 long544 hours127 silently533 guided284 the19 way435 of89 this256 fire559 -ship263 on392 the19 sea67 . Wrapped99 , for190 that14 interval114 , in107 darkness493 myself99 , I482 but330 the19 better34 saw113 the19 redness210 , the19 madness282 , the19 ghastliness310 of89 others317 . The19 continual222 sight365 of89 the19 fiend59 shapes525 before344 me2 , capering183 half119 in107 smoke99 and236 half119 in107 fire559 , these527 at65 last436 begat217 kindred402 visions193 in107 my36 soul428 , so281 soon18 as113 I482 began132 to261 yield39 to261 that14 unaccountable316 drowsiness180 which16 ever208 would282 come420 over82 me2 at65 a10 midnight539 helm285 . But330 that14 night108 , in107 particular336 , a10 strange440 (and236 ever208 since374 inexplicable367 ) thing309 occurred205 to261 me2 . Starting423 from316 a10 brief59 standing144 sleep233 , I482 was454 horribly375 conscious443 of89 something181 fatally394 wrong70 . The19 jaw213 -bone278 tiller445 smote261 my36 side246 , which16 leaned265 against417 it162 ; in107 my36 ears560 was454 the19 low407 hum345 of89 sails344 , just108 beginning188 to261 shake180 in107 the19 wind262 ; I482 thought186 my36 eyes125 were324 open464 ; I482 was454 half119 conscious443 of89 putting243 my36 fingers345 to261 the19 lids143 and236 mechanically143 stretching413 them146 still278 further53 apart526 . But330 , spite431 of89 all145 this256 , I482 could375 see370 no235 compass463 before344 me2 to261 steer426 by406 ; though400 it162 seemed132 but330 a10 minute236 since374 I482 had364 been185 watching330 the19 card351 , by406 the19 steady21 binnacle98 lamp330 illuminating446 it162 . Nothing324 seemed132 before344 me2 but330 a10 jet423 gloom7 , now20 and236 then45 made563 ghastly442 by406 flashes12 of89 redness210 . Uppermost226 was454 the19 impression219 , that14 whatever38 swift376 , rushing344 thing309 I482 stood1 on392 was454 not518 so281 much61 bound108 to261 any501 haven432 ahead5 as113 rushing344 from316 all145 havens465 astern39 . A10 stark376 , bewildered91 feeling384 , as113 of89 death543 , came549 over82 me2 . Convulsively19 my36 hands87 grasped101 the19 tiller445 , but330 with449 the19 crazy418 conceit58 that14 the19 tiller445 was454 , somehow425 , in107 some265 enchanted229 way435 , inverted93 . My36 God185 ! what243 is487 the19 matter176 with449 me2 ? thought186 I482 . Lo418 ! in107 my36 brief59 sleep233 I482 had364 turned492 myself99 about123 , and236 was454 fronting391 the19 ship438 's483 stern442 , with449 my36 back457 to261 her400 prow451 and236 the19 compass463 . In107 an138 instant279 I482 faced115 back457 , just108 in107 time577 to261 prevent491 the19 vessel155 from316 flying354 up405 into554 the19 wind262 , and236 very515 probably244 capsizing135 her400 . How19 glad356 and236 how19 grateful107 the19 relief60 from316 this256 unnatural111 hallucination143 of89 the19 night108 , and236 the19 fatal460 contingency136 of89 being264 brought85 by406 the19 lee472 ! Look523 not518 too11 long544 in107 the19 face556 of89 the19 fire559 , O24 man17 ! Never206 dream86 with449 thy43 hand252 on392 the19 helm285 ! Turn17 not518 thy43 back457 to261 the19 compass463 ; accept566 the19 first13 hint335 of89 the19 hitching248 tiller445 ; believe191 not518 the19 artificial310 fire559 , when189 its234 redness210 makes32 all145 things4 look523 ghastly442 . To261 -morrow376 , in107 the19 natural298 sun397 , the19 skies30 will584 be341 bright205 ; those427 who319 glared327 like410 devils377 in107 the19 forking331 flames74 , the19 morn309 will584 show460 in107 far258 other282 , at65 least453 gentler423 , relief60 ; the19 glorious466 , golden508 , glad356 sun397 , the19 only517 true483 lamp330 --all145 others317 but330 liars434 ! Nevertheless104 the19 sun397 hides454 not518 Virginia354 's483 Dismal110 Swamp321 , nor137 Rome401 's483 accursed203 Campagna125 , nor137 wide465 Sahara25 , nor137 all145 the19 millions208 of89 miles278 of89 deserts195 and236 of89 griefs218 beneath320 the19 moon45 . The19 sun397 hides454 not518 the19 ocean224 , which16 is487 the19 dark471 side246 of89 this256 earth513 , and236 which16 is487 two527 thirds141 of89 this256 earth513 . So281 , therefore94 , that14 mortal371 man17 who319 hath585 more348 of89 joy430 than77 sorrow174 in107 him248 , that14 mortal371 man17 cannot be341 true483 --not518 true483 , or519 undeveloped322 . With449 books525 the19 same541 . The19 truest481 of89 all145 men62 was454 the19 Man17 of89 Sorrows521 , and236 the19 truest481 of89 all145 books525 is487 Solomon8 's483 , and236 Ecclesiastes45 is487 the19 fine333 hammered193 steel184 of89 woe295 . "All145 is487 vanity44 ." ALL145 . This256 wilful160 world126 hath585 not518 got286 hold204 of89 unchristian22 Solomon8 's483 wisdom380 yet443 . But330 he362 who319 dodges282 hospitals270 and236 jails51 , and236 walks461 fast208 crossing402 graveyards492 , and236 would282 rather178 talk173 of89 operas29 than77 hell169 ; calls15 Cowper23 , Young389 , Pascal19 , Rousseau7 , poor533 devils377 all145 of89 sick250 men62 ; and236 throughout159 a10 care307 -free72 lifetime3 swears274 by406 Rabelais295 as113 passing147 wise16 , and236 therefore94 jolly50 ;--not518 that14 man17 is487 fitted200 to261 sit215 down133 on392 tomb122 -stones501 , and236 break483 the19 green549 damp264 mould208 with449 unfathomably190 wondrous30 Solomon8 . But330 even198 Solomon8 , he362 says424 , "the19 man17 that14 wandereth12 out66 of89 the19 way435 of89 understanding523 shall66 remain326 " (i482 .e443 . even198 while55 living117 ) "in107 the19 congregation23 of89 the19 dead568 ." Give142 not518 thyself402 up405 , then45 , to261 fire559 , lest499 it162 invert229 thee15 , deaden64 thee15 ; as113 for190 the19 time577 it162 did444 me2 . There340 is487 a10 wisdom380 that14 is487 woe295 ; but330 there340 is487 a10 woe295 that14 is487 madness282 . And236 there340 is487 a10 Catskill258 eagle319 in107 some265 souls82 that14 can450 alike122 dive316 down133 into554 the19 blackest443 gorges261 , and236 soar102 out66 of89 them146 again52 and236 become548 invisible186 in107 the19 sunny200 spaces137 . And236 even198 if141 he362 for190 ever208 flies419 within503 the19 gorge19 , that14 gorge19 is487 in107 the19 mountains202 ; so281 that14 even198 in107 his433 lowest287 swoop399 the19 mountain231 eagle319 is487 still278 higher574 than77 other282 birds332 upon419 the19 plain28 , even198 though400 they382 soar102 . CHAPTER293 97436 The19 Lamp330 Had364 you227 descended99 from316 the19 Pequod288 's483 try266 -works64 to261 the19 Pequod288 's483 forecastle367 , where579 the19 off111 duty468 watch89 were324 sleeping341 , for190 one470 single77 moment258 you227 would282 have254 almost518 thought186 you227 were324 standing144 in107 some265 illuminated127 shrine77 of89 canonized25 kings474 and236 counsellors502 . There340 they382 lay62 in107 their219 triangular498 oaken492 vaults293 , each520 mariner265 a10 chiselled253 muteness88 ; a10 score124 of89 lamps310 flashing181 upon419 his433 hooded374 eyes125 . In107 merchantmen52 , oil118 for190 the19 sailor561 is487 more348 scarce462 than77 the19 milk362 of89 queens431 . To261 dress46 in107 the19 dark471 , and236 eat286 in107 the19 dark471 , and236 stumble113 in107 darkness493 to261 his433 pallet446 , this256 is487 his433 usual278 lot167 . But330 the19 whaleman98 , as113 he362 seeks168 the19 food248 of89 light382 , so281 he362 lives245 in107 light382 . He362 makes32 his433 berth283 an138 Aladdin203 's483 lamp330 , and236 lays361 him248 down133 in107 it162 ; so281 that14 in107 the19 pitchiest night108 the19 ship438 's483 black581 hull323 still278 houses166 an138 illumination20 . See370 with449 what243 entire230 freedom88 the19 whaleman98 takes362 his433 handful330 of89 lamps310 --often227 but330 old447 bottles149 and236 vials192 , though400 --to261 the19 copper300 cooler25 at65 the19 tryworks, and236 replenishes43 them146 there340 , as113 mugs340 of89 ale213 at65 a10 vat88 . He362 burns160 , too11 , the19 purest524 of89 oil118 , in107 its234 unmanufactured386 , and236 , therefore94 , unvitiated110 state135 ; a10 fluid212 unknown10 to261 solar355 , lunar489 , or519 astral203 contrivances99 ashore122 . It162 is487 sweet417 as113 early92 grass418 butter536 in107 April431 . He362 goes205 and236 hunts483 for190 his433 oil118 , so281 as113 to261 be341 sure41 of89 its234 freshness8 and236 genuineness25 , even198 as113 the19 traveller258 on392 the19 prairie214 hunts483 up405 his433 own248 supper4 of89 game233 . CHAPTER293 98284 Stowing98 Down133 and236 Clearing84 Up405 Already93 has399 it162 been185 related377 how19 the19 great259 leviathan384 is487 afar26 off111 descried313 from316 the19 mast44 -head116 ; how19 he362 is487 chased389 over82 the19 watery59 moors24 , and236 slaughtered133 in107 the19 valleys289 of89 the19 deep483 ; how19 he362 is487 then45 towed376 alongside540 and236 beheaded62 ; and236 how19 (on392 the19 principle420 which16 entitled189 the19 headsman143 of89 old447 to261 the19 garments339 in107 which16 the19 beheaded62 was454 killed409 ) his433 great259 padded116 surtout19 becomes314 the19 property398 of89 his433 executioner141 ; how19 , in107 due266 time577 , he362 is487 condemned518 to261 the19 pots184 , and236 , like410 Shadrach443 , Meshach375 , and236 Abednego25 , his433 spermaceti283 , oil118 , and236 bone184 pass153 unscathed429 through295 the19 fire559 ;--but330 now20 it162 remains324 to261 conclude1 the19 last436 chapter293 of89 this256 part207 of89 the19 description396 by406 rehearsing65 --singing288 , if141 I482 may236 --the19 romantic133 proceeding422 of89 decanting259 off111 his433 oil118 into554 the19 casks213 and236 striking22 them146 down133 into554 the19 hold204 , where579 once248 again52 leviathan384 returns520 to261 his433 native399 profundities292 , sliding540 along423 beneath320 the19 surface328 :is487 before344 ; but330 , alas129 ! never206 more348 to261 rise251 and236 blow230 . While55 still278 warm178 , the19 oil118 , like410 hot424 punch117 , is487 received12 into554 the19 six415 -barrel180 casks213 ; and236 while55 , perhaps75 , the19 ship438 is487 pitching143 and236 rolling253 this256 way435 and236 that14 in107 the19 midnight539 sea67 , the19 enormous327 casks213 are314 slewed6 round287 and236 headed124 over82 , end149 for190 end149 , and236 sometimes77 perilously426 scoot481 across129 the19 slippery204 deck505 , like410 so281 many282 land406 slides270 , till181 at65 last436 man17 -handled356 and236 stayed117 in107 their219 course171 ; and236 all145 round287 the19 hoops170 , rap105 , rap105 , go20 as113 many282 hammers44 as113 can450 play89 upon419 them146 , for190 now20 , ex144 officio92 , every389 sailor561 is487 a10 cooper35 . At65 length202 , when189 the19 last436 pint48 is487 casked, and236 all145 is487 cool102 , then45 the19 great259 hatchways379 are314 unsealed124 , the19 bowels499 of89 the19 ship438 are314 thrown359 open464 , and236 down133 go20 the19 casks213 to261 their219 final357 rest302 in107 the19 sea67 . This256 done135 , the19 hatches4 are314 replaced161 , and236 hermetically345 closed523 , like410 a10 closet437 walled8 up405 . In107 the19 sperm26 fishery136 , this256 is487 perhaps75 one470 of89 the19 most216 remarkable381 incidents350 in107 all145 the19 business168 of89 whaling155 . One470 day112 the19 planks284 stream184 with449 freshets445 of89 blood208 and236 oil118 ; on392 the19 sacred32 quarter6 -deck505 enormous327 masses361 of89 the19 whale422 's483 head219 are314 profanely125 piled126 ; great259 rusty235 casks213 lie212 about123 , as113 in107 a10 brewery83 yard258 ; the19 smoke99 from316 the19 try266 -works64 has399 besooted all145 the19 bulwarks411 ; the19 mariners347 go20 about123 suffused253 with449 unctuousness83 ; the19 entire230 ship438 seems19 great259 leviathan384 himself282 ; while55 on392 all145 hands87 the19 din190 is487 deafening26 . But330 a10 day112 or519 two527 after358 , you227 look523 about123 you227 , and236 prick189 your162 ears560 in107 this256 self442 -same541 ship438 ! and236 were324 it162 not518 for190 the19 tell392 -tale132 boats83 and236 try266 -works64 , you227 would282 all145 but330 swear322 you227 trod319 some265 silent382 merchant332 vessel155 , with449 a10 most216 scrupulously348 neat163 commander108 . The19 unmanufactured386 sperm26 oil118 possesses87 a10 singularly389 cleansing237 virtue16 . This256 is487 the19 reason238 why177 the19 decks386 never206 look523 so281 white82 as113 just108 after358 what243 they382 call259 an138 affair388 of89 oil118 . Besides465 , from316 the19 ashes243 of89 the19 burned389 scraps250 of89 the19 whale422 , a10 potent422 lye248 is487 readily467 made563 ; and236 whenever15 any501 adhesiveness4 from316 the19 back457 of89 the19 whale422 remains324 clinging232 to261 the19 side246 , that14 lye248 quickly183 exterminates7 it162 . Hands87 go20 diligently344 along423 the19 bulwarks411 , and236 with449 buckets157 of89 water520 and236 rags302 restore562 them146 to261 their219 full414 tidiness91 . The19 soot192 is487 brushed513 from316 the19 lower47 rigging516 . All145 the19 numerous558 implements420 which16 have254 been185 in107 use176 are314 likewise193 faithfully350 cleansed265 and236 put190 away443 . The19 great259 hatch241 is487 scrubbed279 and236 placed556 upon419 the19 try266 -works64 , completely385 hiding455 the19 pots184 ; every389 cask503 is487 out66 of89 sight365 ; all145 tackles278 are314 coiled4 in107 unseen173 nooks533 ; and236 when189 by406 the19 combined265 and236 , simultaneous129 industry113 of89 almost518 the19 entire230 ship438 's483 company280 , the19 whole199 of89 this256 conscientious196 duty468 is487 at65 last436 concluded157 , then45 the19 crew126 themselves510 proceed367 to261 their219 own248 ablutions160 ; shift70 themselves510 from316 top70 to261 toe424 ; and236 finally69 issue117 to261 the19 immaculate129 deck505 , fresh540 and236 all145 aglow521 as113 bridegrooms309 new36 -leaped314 from316 out66 the19 daintiest89 Holland173 . Now20 , with449 elated362 step204 , they382 pace384 the19 planks284 in107 twos18 and236 threes169 , and236 humorously265 discourse521 of89 parlors568 , sofas217 , carpets450 , and236 fine333 cambrics287 ; propose385 to261 mat316 the19 deck505 ; think424 of89 having69 hangings105 to261 the19 top70 ; object100 not518 to261 taking146 tea521 by406 moonlight122 on392 the19 piazza354 of89 the19 forecastle367 . To261 hint335 to261 such420 musked183 mariners347 of89 oil118 , and236 bone184 , and236 blubber232 , were324 little554 short522 of89 audacity337 . They382 know60 not518 the19 thing309 you227 distantly336 allude116 to261 . Away443 , and236 bring173 us569 napkins261 ! But330 mark169 : aloft276 there340 , at65 the19 three329 mast44 heads366 , stand530 three329 men62 intent359 on392 spying377 out66 more348 whales331 , which16 , if141 caught105 , infallibly426 will584 again52 soil430 the19 old447 oaken492 furniture11 , and236 drop22 at65 least453 one470 small350 grease43 -spot46 somewhere201 . Yes143 ; and236 many282 is487 the19 time577 , when189 , after358 the19 severest240 uninterrupted165 labors426 , which16 know60 no235 night108 ; continuing215 straight346 through295 for190 ninety2 -six59 hours127 ; when189 from316 the19 boat439 , where579 they382 have254 swelled213 their219 wrists260 with449 all145 day112 rowing375 on392 the19 Line25 ,--they382 only517 step204 to261 the19 deck505 to261 carry160 vast43 chains446 , and236 heave308 the19 heavy421 windlass231 , and236 cut310 and236 slash142 , yea204 , and236 in107 their219 very515 sweatings24 to261 be341 smoked60 and236 burned389 anew262 by406 the19 combined265 fires75 of89 the19 equatorial105 sun397 and236 the19 equatorial105 try266 -works64 ; when189 , on392 the19 heel105 of89 all145 this256 , they382 have254 finally69 bestirred275 themselves510 to261 cleanse126 the19 ship438 , and236 make175 a10 spotless251 dairy44 room65 of89 it162 ; many282 is487 the19 time577 the19 poor533 fellows131 , just108 buttoning181 the19 necks279 of89 their219 clean26 frocks282 , are314 startled475 by406 the19 cry561 of89 "There340 she391 blows361 !" and236 away443 they382 fly324 to261 fight330 another269 whale422 , and236 go20 through295 the19 whole199 weary306 thing309 again52 . Oh367 ! my36 friends169 , but330 this256 is487 man17 -killing25 ! Yet443 this256 is487 life71 . For190 hardly182 have254 we465 mortals72 by406 long544 toilings extracted69 from316 this256 world126 's483 vast43 bulk181 its234 small350 but330 valuable72 sperm26 ; and236 then45 , with449 weary306 patience295 , cleansed265 ourselves15 from316 its234 defilements395 , and236 learned277 to261 live554 here135 in107 clean26 tabernacles8 of89 the19 soul428 ; hardly182 is487 this256 done135 , when189 --There340 she391 blows361 !--the19 ghost246 is487 spouted395 up405 , and236 away443 we465 sail218 to261 fight330 some265 other282 world126 , and236 go20 through295 young389 life71 's483 old447 routine266 again52 . Oh367 ! the19 metempsychosis23 ! Oh367 ! Pythagoras336 , that14 in107 bright205 Greece468 , two527 thousand586 years116 ago141 , did444 die229 , so281 good221 , so281 wise16 , so281 mild117 ; I482 sailed248 with449 thee15 along423 the19 Peruvian25 coast287 last436 voyage137 --and236 , foolish509 as113 I482 am375 , taught564 thee15 , a10 green549 simple271 boy110 , how19 to261 splice4 a10 rope265 . CHAPTER293 99277 The19 Doubloon263 Ere83 now20 it162 has399 been185 related377 how19 Ahab232 was454 wont268 to261 pace384 his433 quarter6 -deck505 , taking146 regular400 turns136 at65 either45 limit272 , the19 binnacle98 and236 mainmast323 ; but330 in107 the19 multiplicity81 of89 other282 things4 requiring94 narration402 it162 has399 not518 been185 added52 how19 that14 sometimes77 in107 these527 walks461 , when189 most216 plunged340 in107 his433 mood547 , he362 was454 wont268 to261 pause391 in107 turn17 at65 each520 spot46 , and236 stand530 there340 strangely155 eyeing49 the19 particular336 object100 before344 him248 . When189 he362 halted249 before344 the19 binnacle98 , with449 his433 glance362 fastened426 on392 the19 pointed413 needle459 in107 the19 compass463 , that14 glance362 shot443 like410 a10 javelin161 with449 the19 pointed413 intensity285 of89 his433 purpose514 ; and236 when189 resuming283 his433 walk405 he362 again52 paused390 before344 the19 mainmast323 , then45 , as113 the19 same541 riveted264 glance362 fastened426 upon419 the19 riveted264 gold231 coin77 there340 , he362 still278 wore92 the19 same541 aspect147 of89 nailed419 firmness386 , only517 dashed304 with449 a10 certain31 wild230 longing292 , if141 not518 hopefulness19 . But330 one470 morning417 , turning69 to261 pass153 the19 doubloon263 , he362 seemed132 to261 be341 newly318 attracted36 by406 the19 strange440 figures66 and236 inscriptions162 stamped31 on392 it162 , as113 though400 now20 for190 the19 first13 time577 beginning188 to261 interpret217 for190 himself282 in107 some265 monomaniac336 way435 whatever38 significance330 might496 lurk246 in107 them146 . And236 some265 certain31 significance330 lurks115 in107 all145 things4 , else212 all145 things4 are314 little554 worth84 , and236 the19 round287 world126 itself312 but330 an138 empty450 cipher45 , except545 to261 sell298 by406 the19 cartload250 , as113 they382 do353 hills352 about123 Boston240 , to261 fill380 up405 some265 morass27 in107 the19 Milky23 Way435 . Now20 this256 doubloon263 was454 of89 purest524 , virgin317 gold231 , raked110 somewhere201 out66 of89 the19 heart470 of89 gorgeous188 hills352 , whence494 , east524 and236 west569 , over82 golden508 sands118 , the19 head219 -waters556 of89 many282 a10 Pactolus246 flows6 . And236 though400 now20 nailed419 amidst273 all145 the19 rustiness4 of89 iron169 bolts147 and236 the19 verdigris25 of89 copper300 spikes60 , yet443 , untouchable380 and236 immaculate129 to261 any501 foulness367 , it162 still278 preserved335 its234 Quito25 glow227 . Nor137 , though400 placed556 amongst386 a10 ruthless435 crew126 and236 every389 hour384 passed87 by406 ruthless435 hands87 , and236 through295 the19 livelong167 nights224 shrouded465 with449 thick502 darkness493 which16 might496 cover172 any501 pilfering213 approach23 , nevertheless104 every389 sunrise445 found260 the19 doubloon263 where579 the19 sunset305 last436 left159 it162 last436 . For190 it162 was454 set422 apart526 and236 sanctified186 to261 one470 awe305 -striking22 end149 ; and236 however44 wanton133 in107 their219 sailor561 ways101 , one470 and236 all145 , the19 mariners347 revered154 it162 as113 the19 white82 whale422 's483 talisman97 . Sometimes77 they382 talked7 it162 over82 in107 the19 weary306 watch89 by406 night108 , wondering263 whose286 it162 was454 to261 be341 at65 last436 , and236 whether454 he362 would282 ever208 live554 to261 spend357 it162 . Now20 those427 noble226 golden508 coins294 of89 South257 America133 are314 as113 medals69 of89 the19 sun397 and236 tropic303 token502 -pieces283 . Here135 palms173 , alpacas25 , and236 volcanoes102 ; sun397 's483 disks261 and236 stars286 , ecliptics292 , horns450 -of89 -plenty406 , and236 rich531 banners371 waving364 , are314 in107 luxuriant350 profusion258 stamped31 ; so281 that14 the19 precious234 gold231 seems19 almost518 to261 derive414 an138 added52 preciousness464 and236 enhancing21 glories29 , by406 passing147 through295 those427 fancy396 mints382 , so281 Spanishly poetic314 . It162 so281 chanced424 that14 the19 doubloon263 of89 the19 Pequod288 was454 a10 most216 wealthy434 example479 of89 these527 things4 . On392 its234 round287 border197 it162 bore27 the19 letters170 , REPUBLICA173 DEL128 ECUADOR31 : QUITO25 . So281 this256 bright205 coin77 came549 from316 a10 country362 planted82 in107 the19 middle39 of89 the19 world126 , and236 beneath320 the19 great259 equator136 , and236 named312 after358 it162 ; and236 it162 had364 been185 cast99 midway418 up405 the19 Andes341 , in107 the19 unwaning clime158 that14 knows286 no235 autumn66 . Zoned280 by406 those427 letters170 you227 saw113 the19 likeness460 of89 three329 Andes341 ' summits2 ; from316 one470 a10 flame113 ; a10 tower36 on392 another269 ; on392 the19 third301 a10 crowing95 cock519 ; while55 arching27 over82 all145 was454 a10 segment384 of89 the19 partitioned399 zodiac68 , the19 signs211 all145 marked67 with449 their219 usual278 cabalistics, and236 the19 keystone31 sun397 entering423 the19 equinoctial161 point438 at65 Libra141 . Before344 this256 equatorial105 coin77 , Ahab232 , not518 unobserved44 by406 others317 , was454 now20 pausing19 . "There340 's483 something181 ever208 egotistical345 in107 mountain231 -tops40 and236 towers506 , and236 all145 other282 grand229 and236 lofty161 things4 ; look523 here135 ,-- three329 peaks19 as113 proud108 as113 Lucifer212 . The19 firm415 tower36 , that14 is487 Ahab232 ; the19 volcano155 , that14 is487 Ahab232 ; the19 courageous127 , the19 undaunted141 , and236 victorious128 fowl11 , that14 , too11 , is487 Ahab232 ; all145 are314 Ahab232 ; and236 this256 round287 gold231 is487 but330 the19 image74 of89 the19 rounder421 globe23 , which16 , like410 a10 magician43 's483 glass27 , to261 each520 and236 every389 man17 in107 turn17 but330 mirrors40 back457 his433 own248 mysterious304 self442 . Great259 pains97 , small350 gains270 for190 those427 who319 ask238 the19 world126 to261 solve262 them146 ; it162 cannot solve262 itself312 . Methinks462 now20 this256 coined37 sun397 wears270 a10 ruddy359 face556 ; but330 see370 ! aye86 , he362 enters157 the19 sign8 of89 storms327 , the19 equinox350 ! and236 but330 six415 months17 before344 he362 wheeled542 out66 of89 a10 former157 equinox350 at65 Aries165 ! From316 storm218 to261 storm218 ! So281 be341 it162 , then45 . Born236 in107 throes47 , 't500 is487 fit12 that14 man17 should255 live554 in107 pains97 and236 die229 in107 pangs290 ! So281 be341 it162 , then45 ! Here135 's483 stout29 stuff471 for190 woe295 to261 work385 on392 . So281 be341 it162 , then45 ." "No235 fairy272 fingers345 can450 have254 pressed323 the19 gold231 , but330 devil411 's483 claws133 must226 have254 left159 their219 mouldings264 there340 since374 yesterday235 ," murmured238 Starbuck to261 himself282 , leaning559 against417 the19 bulwarks411 . "The19 old447 man17 seems19 to261 read98 Belshazzar19 's483 awful539 writing558 . I482 have254 never206 marked67 the19 coin77 inspectingly. He362 goes205 below397 ; let66 me2 read98 . A10 dark471 valley18 between77 three329 mighty2 , heaven163 -abiding217 peaks19 , that14 almost518 seem404 the19 Trinity261 , in107 some265 faint316 earthly64 symbol426 . So281 in107 this256 vale52 of89 Death543 , God185 girds330 us569 round287 ; and236 over82 all145 our234 gloom7 , the19 sun397 of89 Righteousness190 still278 shines265 a10 beacon314 and236 a10 hope211 . If141 we465 bend434 down133 our234 eyes125 , the19 dark471 vale52 shows364 her400 mouldy508 soil430 ; but330 if141 we465 lift229 them146 , the19 bright205 sun397 meets518 our234 glance362 half119 way435 , to261 cheer337 . Yet443 , oh367 , the19 great259 sun397 is487 no235 fixture227 ; and236 if141 , at65 midnight539 , we465 would282 fain264 snatch276 some265 sweet417 solace26 from316 him248 , we465 gaze568 for190 him248 in107 vain216 ! This256 coin77 speaks454 wisely420 , mildly115 , truly530 , but330 still278 sadly75 to261 me2 . I482 will584 quit295 it162 , lest499 Truth350 shake180 me2 falsely524 ." "There340 now20 's483 the19 old447 Mogul270 ," soliloquized336 Stubb by406 the19 try266 -works64 , "he362 's483 been185 twigging60 it162 ; and236 there340 goes205 Starbuck from316 the19 same541 , and236 both558 with449 faces97 which16 I482 should255 say306 might496 be341 somewhere201 within503 nine140 fathoms375 long544 . And236 all145 from316 looking318 at65 a10 piece121 of89 gold231 , which16 did444 I482 have254 it162 now20 on392 Negro102 Hill219 or519 in107 Corlaer279 's483 Hook157 , I482 'd67 not518 look523 at65 it162 very515 long544 ere83 spending348 it162 . Humph86 ! in107 my36 poor533 , insignificant96 opinion316 , I482 regard448 this256 as113 queer156 . I482 have254 seen154 doubloons292 before344 now20 in107 my36 voyagings8 ; your162 doubloons292 of89 old447 Spain20 , your162 doubloons292 of89 Peru19 , your162 doubloons292 of89 Chili399 , your162 doubloons292 of89 Bolivia107 , your162 doubloons292 of89 Popayan; with449 plenty406 of89 gold231 moidores172 and236 pistoles264 , and236 joes213 , and236 half119 joes213 , and236 quarter6 joes213 . What243 then45 should255 there340 be341 in107 this256 doubloon263 of89 the19 Equator136 that14 is487 so281 killing311 wonderful291 ? By406 Golconda133 ! let66 me2 read98 it162 once248 . Halloa83 ! here135 's483 signs211 and236 wonders115 truly530 ! That14 , now20 , is487 what243 old447 Bowditch98 in107 his433 Epitome188 calls15 the19 zodiac68 , and236 what243 my36 almanack21 below397 calls15 ditto421 . I482 'll300 get126 the19 almanack21 ; and236 as113 I482 have254 heard444 devils377 can450 be341 raised493 with449 Daboll's483 arithmetic223 , I482 'll300 try266 my36 hand252 at65 raising99 a10 meaning62 out66 of89 these527 queer156 curvicues here135 with449 the19 Massachusetts376 calendar83 . Here135 's483 the19 book230 . Let66 's483 see370 now20 . Signs211 and236 wonders115 ; and236 the19 sun397 , he362 's483 always367 among483 'em. Hem322 , hem322 , hem322 ; here135 they382 are314 -- here135 they382 go20 --all145 alive298 : Aries165 , or519 the19 Ram375 ; Taurus402 , or519 the19 Bull76 and236 Jimimi! here135 's483 Gemini38 himself282 , or519 the19 Twins186 . Well263 ; the19 sun397 he362 wheels116 among483 'em. Aye86 , here135 on392 the19 coin77 he362 's483 just108 crossing402 the19 threshold21 between77 two527 of89 twelve293 sitting136 -rooms22 all145 in107 a10 ring579 . Book230 ! you227 lie212 there340 ; the19 fact12 is487 , you227 books525 must226 know60 your162 places423 . You227 'll300 do353 to261 give142 us569 the19 bare245 words107 and236 facts484 , but330 we465 come420 in107 to261 supply283 the19 thoughts26 . That14 's76 my36 small350 experience127 , so281 far258 as113 the19 Massachusetts376 calendar83 , and236 Bowditch98 's483 navigator354 , and236 Daboll's483 arithmetic223 go20 . Signs211 and236 wonders115 , eh76 ? Pity270 if141 there340 is487 nothing324 wonderful291 in107 signs211 , and236 significant143 in107 wonders115 ! There340 's483 a10 clue345 somewhere201 ; wait315 a10 bit72 ; hist117 --hark313 ! By406 Jove274 , I482 have254 it162 ! Look523 you227 , Doubloon263 , your162 zodiac68 here135 is487 the19 life71 of89 man17 in107 one470 round287 chapter293 ; and236 now20 I482 'll300 read98 it162 off111 , straight346 out66 of89 the19 book230 . Come420 , Almanack21 ! To261 begin183 : there340 's483 Aries165 , or519 the19 Ram375 -- lecherous142 dog322 , he362 begets129 us569 ; then45 , Taurus402 , or519 the19 Bull76 -- he362 bumps232 us569 the19 first13 thing309 ; then45 Gemini38 , or519 the19 Twins186 -- that14 is487 , Virtue16 and236 Vice443 ; we465 try266 to261 reach43 Virtue16 , when189 lo418 ! comes268 Cancer110 the19 Crab206 , and236 drags295 us569 back457 ; and236 here135 , going227 from316 Virtue16 , Leo173 , a10 roaring182 Lion84 , lies27 in107 the19 path234 -- he362 gives529 a10 few49 fierce394 bites221 and236 surly219 dabs282 with449 his433 paw194 ; we465 escape565 , and236 hail75 Virgo188 , the19 Virgin317 ! that14 's76 our234 first13 love391 ; we465 marry118 and236 think424 to261 be341 happy416 for190 aye86 , when189 pop466 comes268 Libra141 , or519 the19 Scales543 --happiness344 weighed107 and236 found260 wanting361 ; and236 while55 we465 are314 very515 sad341 about123 that14 , Lord106 ! how19 we465 suddenly193 jump50 , as113 Scorpio295 , or519 the19 Scorpion82 , stings4 us569 in107 the19 rear252 ; we465 are314 curing104 the19 wound342 , when189 whang223 comes268 the19 arrows473 all145 round287 ; Sagittarius24 , or519 the19 Archer375 , is487 amusing155 himself282 . As113 we465 pluck132 out66 the19 shafts270 , stand530 aside408 ! here135 's483 the19 battering193 -ram323 , Capricornus305 , or519 the19 Goat113 ; full414 tilt122 , he362 comes268 rushing344 , and236 headlong4 we465 are314 tossed227 ; when189 Aquarius87 , or519 the19 Waterbearer, pours299 out66 his433 whole199 deluge376 and236 drowns243 us569 ; and236 to261 wind262 up405 with449 Pisces165 , or519 the19 Fishes13 , we465 sleep233 . There340 's483 a10 sermon167 now20 , writ57 in107 high361 heaven163 , and236 the19 sun397 goes205 through295 it162 every389 year347 , and236 yet443 comes268 out66 of89 it162 all145 alive298 and236 hearty140 . Jollily128 he362 , aloft276 there340 , wheels116 through295 toil89 and236 trouble328 ; and236 so281 , alow61 here135 , does565 jolly50 Stubb. Oh367 , jolly50 's483 the19 word486 for190 aye86 ! Adieu116 , Doubloon263 ! But330 stop48 ; here135 comes268 little554 King324 -Post2 ; dodge472 round287 the19 try266 -works64 , now20 , and236 let66 's483 hear386 what243 he362 'll300 have254 to261 say306 . There340 ; he362 's483 before344 it162 ; he362 'll300 out66 with449 something181 presently166 . So281 , so281 ; he362 's483 beginning188 ." "I482 see370 nothing324 here135 , but330 a10 round287 thing309 made563 of89 gold231 , and236 whoever23 raises148 a10 certain31 whale422 , this256 round287 thing309 belongs402 to261 him248 . So281 , what243 's483 all145 this256 staring523 been185 about123 ? It162 is487 worth84 sixteen68 dollars201 , that14 's76 true483 ; and236 at65 two527 cents250 the19 cigar211 , that14 's76 nine140 hundred93 and236 sixty332 cigars443 . I482 won't500 smoke99 dirty301 pipes17 like410 Stubb, but330 I482 like410 cigars443 , and236 here135 's483 nine140 hundred93 and236 sixty332 of89 them146 ; so281 here135 goes205 Flask199 aloft276 to261 spy411 'em out66 ." "Shall66 I482 call259 that14 Wise16 or519 foolish509 , now20 ; if141 it162 be341 really406 wise16 it162 has399 a10 foolish509 look523 to261 it162 ; yet443 , if141 it162 be341 really406 foolish509 , then45 has399 it162 a10 sort42 of89 wiseish look523 to261 it162 . But330 , avast279 ; here135 comes268 our234 old447 Manxman--the19 old447 hearse34 -driver49 , he362 must226 have254 been185 , that14 is487 , before344 he362 took68 to261 the19 sea67 . He362 luffs up405 before344 the19 doubloon263 ; halloa83 , and236 goes205 round287 on392 the19 other282 side246 of89 the19 mast44 ; why177 , there340 's483 a10 horse409 -shoe34 nailed419 on392 that14 side246 ; and236 now20 he362 's483 back457 again52 ; what243 does565 that14 mean504 ? Hark313 ! he362 's483 muttering403 -- voice233 like410 an138 old447 worn174 -out66 coffee331 -mill135 . Prick189 ears560 , and236 listen417 !" "If141 the19 White82 Whale422 be341 raised493 , it162 must226 be341 in107 a10 month438 and236 a10 day112 , when189 the19 sun397 stands256 in107 some265 one470 of89 these527 signs211 . I482 've149 studied222 signs211 , and236 know60 their219 marks226 ; they382 were324 taught564 me2 two527 score124 years116 ago141 , by406 the19 old447 witch190 in107 Copenhagen67 . Now20 , in107 what243 sign8 will584 the19 sun397 then45 be341 ? The19 horse409 -shoe34 sign8 ; for190 there340 it162 is487 , right499 opposite107 the19 gold231 . And236 what243 's483 the19 horse409 -shoe34 sign8 ? The19 lion84 is487 the19 horse409 -shoe34 sign8 -- the19 roaring182 and236 devouring354 lion84 . Ship438 , old447 ship438 ! my36 old447 head219 shakes560 to261 think424 of89 thee15 ." "There340 's483 another269 rendering155 now20 ; but330 still278 one470 text17 . All145 sorts354 of89 men62 in107 one470 kind451 of89 world126 , you227 see370 . Dodge472 again52 ! here135 comes268 Queequeg-- all145 tattooing42 --looks150 like410 the19 signs211 of89 the19 Zodiac68 himself282 . What243 says424 the19 Cannibal180 ? As113 I482 live554 he362 's483 comparing339 notes45 ; looking318 at65 his433 thigh108 bone184 ; thinks344 the19 sun397 is487 in107 the19 thigh108 , or519 in107 the19 calf83 , or519 in107 the19 bowels499 , I482 suppose120 , as113 the19 old447 women275 talk173 Surgeon135 's483 Astronomy163 in107 the19 back457 country362 . And236 by406 Jove274 , he362 's483 found260 something181 there340 in107 the19 vicinity208 of89 his433 thigh108 -- I482 guess304 it162 's483 Sagittarius24 , or519 the19 Archer375 . No235 : he362 don280 't500 know60 what243 to261 make175 of89 the19 doubloon263 ; he362 takes362 it162 for190 an138 old447 button282 off111 some265 king324 's483 trowsers206 . But330 , aside408 again52 ! here135 comes268 that14 ghost246 -devil411 , Fedallah; tail102 coiled4 out66 of89 sight365 as113 usual278 , oakum4 in107 the19 toes557 of89 his433 pumps128 as113 usual278 . What243 does565 he362 say306 , with449 that14 look523 of89 his433 ? Ah132 , only517 makes32 a10 sign8 to261 the19 sign8 and236 bows460 himself282 ; there340 is487 a10 sun397 on392 the19 coin77 -- fire559 worshipper227 , depend236 upon419 it162 . Ho31 ! more348 and236 more348 . This256 way435 comes268 Pip238 -- poor533 boy110 ! would282 he362 had364 died575 , or519 I482 ; he362 's483 half119 horrible398 to261 me2 . He362 too11 has399 been185 watching330 all145 of89 these527 interpreters398 myself99 included559 -- and236 look523 now20 , he362 comes268 to261 read98 , with449 that14 unearthly110 idiot475 face556 . Stand530 away443 again52 and236 hear386 him248 . Hark313 !" "I482 look523 , you227 look523 , he362 looks150 ; we465 look523 , ye483 look523 , they382 look523 ." "Upon419 my36 soul428 , he362 's483 been185 studying67 Murray14 's483 Grammar367 ! Improving415 his433 mind118 , poor533 fellow369 ! But330 what243 's483 that14 he362 says424 now20 --hist117 !" "I482 look523 , you227 look523 , he362 looks150 ; we465 look523 , ye483 look523 , they382 look523 ." "Why177 , he362 's483 getting369 it162 by406 heart470 --hist117 ! again52 ." "I482 look523 , you227 look523 , he362 looks150 ; we465 look523 , ye483 look523 , they382 look523 ." "Well263 , that14 's76 funny96 ." "And236 I482 , you227 , and236 he362 ; and236 we465 , ye483 , and236 they382 , are314 all145 bats245 ; and236 I482 'm250 a10 crow151 , especially371 when189 I482 stand530 a10 'top70 of89 this256 pine54 tree482 here135 . Caw86 ! caw86 ! caw86 ! caw86 ! caw86 ! caw86 ! Ain't500 I482 a10 crow151 ? And236 where579 's483 the19 scare75 -crow364 ? There340 he362 stands256 ; two527 bones5 stuck120 into554 a10 pair106 of89 old447 trowsers206 , and236 two527 more348 poked406 into554 the19 sleeves363 of89 an138 old447 jacket481 ." "Wonder76 if141 he362 means502 me2 ?--complimentary396 --poor533 lad342 !--I482 could375 go20 hang253 myself99 . Any501 way435 , for190 the19 present112 , I482 'll300 quit295 Pip238 's483 vicinity208 . I482 can450 stand530 the19 rest302 , for190 they382 have254 plain28 wits552 ; but330 he362 's483 too11 crazy418 -witty176 for190 my36 sanity140 . So281 , so281 , I482 leave450 him248 muttering403 ." "Here135 's483 the19 ship438 's483 navel141 , this256 doubloon263 here135 , and236 they382 are314 all145 one470 fire559 to261 unscrew68 it162 . But330 , unscrew68 your162 navel141 , and236 what243 's483 the19 consequence111 ? Then45 again52 , if141 it162 stays324 here135 , that14 is487 ugly101 , too11 , for190 when189 aught26 's483 nailed419 to261 the19 mast44 it162 's483 a10 sign8 that14 things4 grow163 desperate316 . Ha387 ! ha387 ! old447 Ahab232 ! the19 White82 Whale422 ; he362 'll300 nail367 ye483 ! This256 is487 a10 pine54 tree482 . My36 father339 , in107 old447 Tolland county160 , cut310 down133 a10 pine54 tree482 once248 , and236 found260 a10 silver205 ring579 grown299 over82 in107 it162 ; some265 old447 darkey278 's483 wedding377 ring579 . How19 did444 it162 get126 there340 ? And236 so281 they382 'll300 say306 in107 the19 resurrection281 , when189 they382 come420 to261 fish187 up405 this256 old447 mast44 , and236 find138 a10 doubloon263 lodged238 in107 it162 , with449 bedded237 oysters453 for190 the19 shaggy200 bark223 . Oh367 , the19 gold231 ! the19 precious234 , precious234 gold231 !--the19 green549 miser166 'll300 hoard295 ye483 soon18 ! Hish225 ! hish225 ! God185 goes205 'mong the19 worlds388 blackberrying. Cook41 ! ho31 , cook41 ! and236 cook41 us569 ! Jenny512 ! hey382 , hey382 , hey382 , hey382 , hey382 , Jenny512 , Jenny512 ! and236 get126 your162 hoe576 -cake done135 !" CHAPTER293 100179 Leg331 and236 Arm25 The19 Pequod288 of89 Nantucket283 , Meets518 the19 Samuel77 Enderby283 , of89 London41 "Ship438 , ahoy26 ! Hast174 seen154 the19 White82 Whale422 ?" So281 cried506 Ahab232 , once248 more348 hailing400 a10 ship438 showing445 English69 colors24 , bearing354 down133 under533 the19 stern442 . Trumpet104 to261 mouth414 , the19 old447 man17 was454 standing144 in107 his433 hoisted367 quarter6 -deck505 , his433 ivory76 leg331 plainly450 revealed530 to261 the19 stranger233 captain295 , who319 was454 carelessly184 reclining316 in107 his433 own248 boat439 's483 bow146 . He362 was454 a10 darkly371 -tanned, burly541 , goodnatured43 , fine333 -looking318 man17 , of89 sixty332 or519 thereabouts366 , dressed321 in107 a10 spacious133 roundabout139 , that14 hung479 round287 him248 in107 festoons116 of89 blue240 pilot559 -cloth285 ; and236 one470 empty450 arm25 of89 this256 jacket481 streamed122 behind80 him248 like410 the19 broidered52 arm25 of89 a10 huzzar41 's483 surcoat52 . "Hast174 seen154 the19 White82 Whale422 !" "See370 you227 this256 ?" and236 withdrawing152 it162 from316 the19 folds367 that14 had364 hidden78 it162 , he362 held212 up405 a10 white82 arm25 of89 sperm26 whale422 bone184 , terminating159 in107 a10 wooden35 head219 like410 a10 mallet409 . "Man17 my36 boat439 !" cried506 Ahab232 , impetuously86 , and236 tossing213 about123 the19 oars398 near70 him248 --"Stand530 by406 to261 lower47 !" In107 less261 than77 a10 minute236 , without309 quitting155 his433 little554 craft187 , he362 and236 his433 crew126 were324 dropped2 to261 the19 water520 , and236 were324 soon18 alongside540 of89 the19 stranger233 . But330 here135 a10 curious264 difficulty263 presented320 itself312 . In107 the19 excitement60 of89 the19 moment258 , Ahab232 had364 forgotten170 that14 since374 the19 loss223 of89 his433 leg331 he362 had364 never206 once248 stepped306 on392 board540 of89 any501 vessel155 at65 sea67 but330 his433 own248 , and236 then45 it162 was454 always367 by406 an138 ingenious102 and236 very515 handy270 mechanical31 contrivance139 peculiar291 to261 the19 Pequod288 , and236 a10 thing309 not518 to261 be341 rigged340 and236 shipped26 in107 any501 other282 vessel155 at65 a10 moment258 's483 warning531 . Now20 , it162 is487 no235 very515 easy281 matter176 for190 anybody58 -- except545 those427 who319 are314 almost518 hourly224 used102 to261 it162 , like410 whalemen451 -- to261 clamber155 up405 a10 ship438 's483 side246 from316 a10 boat439 on392 the19 open464 sea67 ; for190 the19 great259 swells446 now20 lift229 the19 boat439 high361 up405 towards417 the19 bulwarks411 , and236 then45 instantaneously494 drop22 it162 half119 way435 down133 to261 the19 kelson2 . So281 , deprived304 of89 one470 leg331 , and236 the19 strange440 ship438 of89 course171 being264 altogether31 unsupplied129 with449 the19 kindly459 invention5 , Ahab232 now20 found260 himself282 abjectly258 reduced275 to261 a10 clumsy394 landsman331 again52 ; hopelessly367 eyeing49 the19 uncertain396 changeful362 height20 he362 could375 hardly182 hope211 to261 attain324 . It162 has399 before344 been185 hinted253 , perhaps75 , that14 every389 little554 untoward32 circumstance407 that14 befell129 him248 , and236 which16 indirectly155 sprang253 from316 his433 luckless122 mishap116 , almost518 invariably55 irritated204 or519 exasperated190 Ahab232 . And236 in107 the19 present112 instance141 , all145 this256 was454 heightened53 by406 the19 sight365 of89 the19 two527 officers439 of89 the19 strange440 ship438 , leaning559 over82 the19 side246 , by406 the19 perpendicular83 ladder391 of89 nailed419 cleets445 there340 , and236 swinging379 towards417 him248 a10 pair106 of89 tastefully-ornamented423 man17 -ropes461 ; for190 at65 first13 they382 did444 not518 seem404 to261 bethink51 them146 that14 a10 one470 -legged man17 must226 be341 too11 much61 of89 a10 cripple12 to261 use176 their219 sea67 bannisters350 . But330 this256 awkwardness267 only517 lasted135 a10 minute236 , because540 the19 strange440 captain295 , observing278 at65 a10 glance362 how19 affairs492 stood1 , cried506 out66 , "I482 see370 , I482 see370 !-- avast279 heaving174 there340 ! Jump50 , boys22 , and236 swing311 over82 the19 cutting454 -tackle346 ." As113 good221 luck453 would282 have254 it162 , they382 had364 had364 a10 whale422 alongside540 a10 day112 or519 two527 previous376 , and236 the19 great259 tackles278 were324 still278 aloft276 , and236 the19 massive232 curved331 blubber232 -hook157 , now20 clean26 and236 dry430 , was454 still278 attached211 to261 the19 end149 . This256 was454 quickly183 lowered279 to261 Ahab232 , who319 at65 once248 comprehending264 it162 all145 , slid132 his433 solitary407 thigh108 into554 the19 curve452 of89 the19 hook157 (it162 was454 like410 sitting136 in107 the19 fluke415 of89 an138 anchor141 , or519 the19 crotch111 of89 an138 apple501 tree482 ), and236 then45 giving207 the19 word486 , held212 himself282 fast208 , and236 at65 the19 same541 time577 also119 helped204 to261 hoist9 his433 own248 weight213 , by406 pulling217 hand252 -over82 -hand252 upon419 one470 of89 the19 running296 parts470 of89 the19 tackle346 . Soon18 he362 was454 carefully374 swung205 inside438 the19 high361 bulwarks411 , and236 gently284 landed451 upon419 the19 capstan241 head219 . With449 his433 ivory76 arm25 frankly41 thrust379 forth152 in107 welcome2 , the19 other282 captain295 advanced55 , and236 Ahab232 , putting243 out66 his433 ivory76 leg331 , and236 crossing402 the19 ivory76 arm25 (like410 two527 sword273 -fish187 blades141 ) cried506 out66 in107 his433 walrus111 way435 , "Aye86 , aye86 , hearty140 ! let66 us569 shake180 bones5 together440 !--an138 arm25 and236 a10 leg331 !-- an138 arm25 that14 never206 can450 shrink21 , d67 'ye163 see370 ; and236 a10 leg331 that14 never206 can450 run172 . Where579 did444 'st193 thou173 see370 the19 White82 Whale422 ?--how19 long544 ago141 ?" "The19 White82 Whale422 ," said252 the19 Englishman101 , pointing295 his433 ivory76 arm25 towards417 the19 East524 , and236 taking146 a10 rueful213 sight365 along423 it162 , as113 if141 it162 had364 been185 a10 telescope26 ; There340 I482 saw113 him248 , on392 the19 Line25 , last436 season248 ." "And236 he362 took68 that14 arm25 off111 , did444 he362 ?" asked369 Ahab232 , now20 sliding540 down133 from316 the19 capstan241 , and236 resting455 on392 the19 Englishman101 's483 shoulder168 , as113 he362 did444 so281 . "Aye86 , he362 was454 the19 cause220 of89 it162 , at65 least453 ; and236 that14 leg331 , too11 ?" "Spin218 me2 the19 yarn118 ," said252 Ahab232 ; "how19 was454 it162 ?" "It162 was454 the19 first13 time577 in107 my36 life71 that14 I482 ever208 cruised198 on392 the19 Line25 ," began132 the19 Englishman101 . "I482 was454 ignorant136 of89 the19 White82 Whale422 at65 that14 time577 . Well263 , one470 day112 we465 lowered279 for190 a10 pod25 of89 four175 or519 five103 whales331 , and236 my36 boat439 fastened426 to261 one470 of89 them146 ; a10 regular400 circus331 horse409 he362 was454 , too11 , that14 went516 milling86 and236 milling86 round287 so281 that14 my36 boat439 's483 crew126 could375 only517 trim129 dish278 , by406 sitting136 all145 their219 sterns98 on392 the19 outer359 gunwale198 . Presently166 up405 breaches24 from316 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 sea67 a10 bouncing316 great259 whale422 , with449 a10 milky23 -white82 head219 and236 hump20 , all145 crows140 ' feet349 and236 wrinkles318 ." "It162 was454 he362 , it162 was454 he362 !" cried506 Ahab232 , suddenly193 letting122 out66 his433 suspended245 breath150 . "And236 harpoons6 sticking457 in107 near70 his433 starboard309 fin286 . Aye86 , aye86 -- they382 were324 mine482 --my36 irons363 ," cried506 Ahab232 , exultingly187 --"but330 on392 !" "Give142 me2 a10 chance292 , then45 ," said252 the19 Englishman101 , good221 -humoredly. "Well263 , this256 old447 great259 -grandfather303 , with449 the19 white82 head219 and236 hump20 , runs399 all145 afoam into554 the19 pod25 , and236 goes205 to261 snapping88 furiously252 at65 my36 fast208 -line25 ! "Aye86 , I482 see370 !--wanted85 to261 part207 it162 ; free483 the19 fast208 -fish187 --an138 old447 trick26 -- I482 know60 him248 ." "How19 it162 was454 exactly315 ," continued44 the19 one470 -armed127 commander108 , "I482 do353 not518 know60 ; but330 in107 biting29 the19 line25 , it162 got286 foul528 of89 his433 teeth82 , caught105 there340 somehow425 ; but330 we465 didn't500 know60 it162 then45 ; so281 that14 when189 we465 afterwards418 pulled213 on392 the19 line25 , bounce571 we465 came549 plump105 on392 to261 his433 hump20 ! instead398 of89 the19 other282 whale422 's483 ; that14 went516 off111 to261 windward170 , all145 fluking98 . Seeing426 how19 matters515 stood1 , and236 what243 a10 noble226 great259 whale422 it162 was454 -- the19 noblest140 and236 biggest224 I482 ever208 saw113 , sir271 , in107 my36 life71 --I482 resolved158 to261 capture361 him248 , spite431 of89 the19 boiling99 rage293 he362 seemed132 to261 be341 in107 . And236 thinking385 the19 hap224 -hazard202 line25 would282 get126 loose159 , or519 the19 tooth108 it162 was454 tangled142 to261 might496 draw106 (for190 I482 have254 a10 devil411 of89 a10 boat439 's483 crew126 for190 a10 pull35 on392 a10 whale422 -line25 ); seeing426 all145 this256 , I482 say306 , I482 jumped499 into554 my36 first13 mate508 's483 boat439 --Mr219 . Mounttop's483 here135 (by406 the19 way435 , Captain295 --Mounttop; Mounttop--the19 captain295 );-- as113 I482 was454 saying9 , I482 jumped499 into554 Mounttop's483 boat439 , which16 , d67 'ye163 see370 , was454 gunwale198 and236 gunwale198 with449 mine482 , then45 ; and236 snatching111 the19 first13 harpoon67 , let66 this256 old447 great259 -grandfather303 have254 it162 . But330 , Lord106 , look523 you227 , sir271 --hearts431 and236 souls82 alive298 , man17 --the19 next27 instant279 , in107 a10 jiff, I482 was454 blind375 as113 a10 bat330 --both558 eyes125 out66 --all145 befogged461 and236 bedeadened with449 black581 foam160 --the19 whale422 's483 tail102 looming197 straight346 up405 out66 of89 it162 , perpendicular83 in107 the19 air209 , like410 a10 marble364 steeple107 . No235 use176 sterning all145 , then45 ; but330 as113 I482 was454 groping127 at65 midday101 , with449 a10 blinding298 sun397 , all145 crown463 -jewels36 ; as113 I482 was454 groping127 , I482 say306 , after358 the19 second386 iron169 , to261 toss237 it162 overboard247 --down133 comes268 the19 tail102 like410 a10 Lima120 tower36 , cutting454 my36 boat439 in107 two527 , leaving231 each520 half119 in107 splinters30 ; and236 , flukes155 first13 , the19 white82 hump20 backed270 through295 the19 wreck171 , as113 though400 it162 was454 all145 chips333 . We465 all145 struck441 out66 . To261 escape565 his433 terrible132 flailings, I482 seized337 hold204 of89 my36 harpoon67 -pole20 sticking457 in107 him248 , and236 for190 a10 moment258 clung336 to261 that14 like410 a10 sucking373 fish187 . But330 a10 combing99 sea67 dashed304 me2 off111 , and236 at65 the19 same541 instant279 , the19 fish187 , taking146 one470 good221 dart293 forwards528 , went516 down133 like410 a10 flash424 ; and236 the19 barb65 of89 that14 cursed441 second386 iron169 towing78 along423 near70 me2 caught105 me2 here135 " (clapping152 his433 hand252 just108 below397 his433 shoulder168 ); "yes143 , caught105 me2 just108 here135 , I482 say306 , and236 bore27 me2 down133 to261 Hell169 's483 flames74 , I482 was454 thinking385 ; when189 , when189 , all145 of89 a10 sudden309 , thank166 the19 good221 God185 , the19 barb65 ript142 its234 way435 along423 the19 flesh331 -- clear408 along423 the19 whole199 length202 of89 my36 arm25 --came549 out66 nigh254 my36 wrist117 , and236 up405 I482 floated6 ;--and236 that14 gentleman399 there340 will584 tell392 you227 the19 rest302 (by406 the19 way435 , captain295 --Dr364 . Bunger, ship438 's483 surgeon135 : Bunger, my36 lad342 ,-- the19 captain295 ). Now20 , Bunger boy110 , spin218 your162 part207 of89 the19 yarn118 ." The19 professional357 gentleman399 thus362 familiarly31 pointed413 out66 , had364 been185 all145 the19 time577 standing144 near70 them146 , with449 nothing324 specific383 visible94 , to261 denote493 his433 gentlemanly86 rank47 on392 board540 . His433 face556 was454 an138 exceedingly257 round287 but330 sober121 one470 ; he362 was454 dressed321 in107 a10 faded69 blue240 woollen27 frock200 or519 shirt413 , and236 patched435 trowsers206 ; and236 had364 thus362 far258 been185 dividing306 his433 attention518 between77 a10 marlingspike he362 held212 in107 one470 hand252 , and236 a10 pill-box325 held212 in107 the19 other282 , occasionally509 casting19 a10 critical38 glance362 at65 the19 ivory76 limbs315 of89 the19 two527 crippled480 captains124 . But330 , at65 his433 superior479 's483 introduction267 of89 him248 to261 Ahab232 , he362 politely322 bowed26 , and236 straightway210 went516 on392 to261 do353 his433 captain295 's483 bidding340 . "It162 was454 a10 shocking270 bad458 wound342 ," began132 the19 whale422 -surgeon135 ; "and236 , taking146 my36 advice481 , Captain295 Boomer4 here135 , stood1 our234 old447 Sammy479 -" "Samuel77 Enderby283 is487 the19 name477 of89 my36 ship438 ," interrupted34 the19 one470 -armed127 captain295 , addressing54 Ahab232 ; "go20 on392 , boy110 ." "Stood1 our234 old447 Sammy479 off111 to261 the19 northward63 , to261 get126 out66 of89 the19 blazing232 hot424 weather405 there340 on392 the19 Line25 . But330 it162 was454 no235 use176 --I482 did444 all145 I482 could375 ; sat77 up405 with449 him248 nights224 ; was454 very515 severe503 with449 him248 in107 the19 matter176 of89 diet110 -" "Oh367 , very515 severe503 !" chimed92 in107 the19 patient516 himself282 ; then45 suddenly193 altering436 his433 voice233 , "Drinking453 hot424 rum21 toddies with449 me2 every389 night108 , till181 he362 couldn't500 see370 to261 put190 on392 the19 bandages446 ; and236 sending1 me2 to261 bed273 , half119 seas350 over82 , about123 three329 o24 'clock489 in107 the19 morning417 . Oh367 , ye483 stars286 ! he362 sat77 up405 with449 me2 indeed522 , and236 was454 very515 severe503 in107 my36 diet110 . Oh367 ! a10 great259 watcher60 , and236 very515 dietetically severe503 , is487 Dr364 . Bunger. (Bunger, you227 dog322 , laugh559 out66 ! why177 don280 't500 ye483 ? You227 know60 you227 're155 a10 precious234 jolly50 rascal231 .) But330 , heave308 ahead5 , boy110 , I482 'd67 rather178 be341 killed409 by406 you227 than77 kept290 alive298 by406 any501 other282 man17 ." "My36 captain295 , you227 must226 have254 ere83 this256 perceived76 , respected475 sir271 "-- said252 the19 imperturbable363 godly186 -looking318 Bunger, slightly238 bowing452 to261 Ahab232 --"is487 apt40 to261 be341 facetious68 at65 times121 ; he362 spins242 us569 many282 clever238 things4 of89 that14 sort42 . But330 I482 may236 as113 well263 say306 --en541 passant372 , as113 the19 French491 remark325 --that14 I482 myself99 --that14 is487 to261 say306 , Jack299 Bunger, late351 of89 the19 reverend11 clergy437 --am375 a10 strict284 total478 abstinence35 man17 ; I482 never206 drink117 -" "Water520 !" cried506 the19 captain295 ; "he362 never206 drinks530 it162 ; it162 's483 a10 sort42 of89 fits369 to261 him248 ; fresh540 water520 throws53 him248 into554 the19 hydrophobia489 ; but330 go20 on392 --go20 on392 with449 the19 arm25 story197 ." "Yes143 , I482 may236 as113 well263 ," said252 the19 surgeon135 , coolly156 . "I482 was454 about123 observing278 , sir271 , before344 Captain295 Boomer4 's483 facetious68 interruption57 , that14 spite431 of89 my36 best315 and236 severest240 endeavors212 , the19 wound342 kept290 getting369 worse561 and236 worse561 ; the19 truth350 was454 , sir271 , it162 was454 as113 ugly101 gaping59 wound342 as113 surgeon135 ever208 saw113 ; more348 than77 two527 feet349 and236 several479 inches301 long544 . I482 measured96 it162 with449 the19 lead362 line25 . In107 short522 , it162 grew5 black581 ; I482 knew480 what243 was454 threatened110 , and236 off111 it162 came549 . But330 I482 had364 no235 hand252 in107 shipping319 that14 ivory76 arm25 there340 ; that14 thing309 is487 against417 all145 rule393 "-- pointing295 at65 it162 with449 the19 marlingspike--"that14 is487 the19 captain295 's483 work385 , not518 mine482 ; he362 ordered143 the19 carpenter262 to261 make175 it162 ; he362 had364 that14 club83 -hammer364 there340 put190 to261 the19 end149 , to261 knock142 some265 one470 's483 brains279 out66 with449 , I482 suppose120 , as113 he362 tried73 mine482 once248 . He362 flies419 into554 diabolical340 passions173 sometimes77 . Do353 ye483 see370 this256 dent321 , sir271 "--removing46 his433 hat107 , and236 brushing323 aside408 his433 hair237 , and236 exposing201 a10 bowl418 -like410 cavity4 in107 his433 skull9 , but330 which16 bore27 not518 the19 slightest44 scarry141 trace327 , or519 any501 token502 of89 ever208 having69 been185 a10 wound342 -- "Well263 , the19 captain295 there340 will584 tell392 you227 how19 that14 came549 there340 ; he362 knows286 ." "No235 , I482 don280 't500 ," said252 the19 captain295 , "but330 his433 mother276 did444 ; he362 was454 born236 with449 it162 . Oh367 , you227 solemn303 rogue439 , you227 --you227 Bunger! was454 there340 ever208 such420 another269 Bunger in107 the19 watery59 world126 ? Bunger, when189 you227 die229 , you227 ought170 to261 die229 in107 pickle110 , you227 dog322 ; you227 should255 be341 preserved335 to261 future44 ages146 , you227 rascal231 ." "What243 became70 of89 the19 White82 Whale422 ?" now20 cried506 Ahab232 , who319 thus362 far258 had364 been185 impatiently374 listening19 to261 this256 byeplay between77 the19 two527 Englishmen189 . "Oh367 !" cried506 the19 one470 -armed127 captain295 , Oh367 , yes143 ! Well263 ; after358 he362 sounded163 , we465 didn't500 see370 him248 again52 for190 some265 time577 ; in107 fact12 , as113 I482 before344 hinted253 , I482 didn't500 then45 know60 what243 whale422 it162 was454 that14 had364 served460 me2 such420 a10 trick26 , till181 some265 time577 afterwards418 , when189 coming140 back457 to261 the19 Line25 , we465 heard444 about123 Moby362 Dick25 --as113 some265 call259 him248 --and236 then45 I482 knew480 it162 was454 he362 ." "Did444 'st193 thou173 cross416 his433 wake205 again52 ?" "Twice366 ." "But330 could375 not518 fasten476 ?" "Didn't500 want350 to261 try266 to261 ; ain't500 one470 limb43 enough217 ? What243 should255 I482 do353 without309 this256 other282 arm25 ? And236 I482 'm250 thinking385 Moby362 Dick25 doesn't500 bite517 so281 much61 as113 he362 swallows384 ." "Well263 , then45 ," interrupted34 Bunger, "give142 him248 your162 left159 arm25 for190 bait362 to261 get126 the19 right499 . Do353 you227 know60 , gentlemen340 "--very515 gravely174 and236 mathematically554 bowing452 to261 each520 Captain295 in107 succession17 --"Do353 you227 know60 , gentlemen340 , that14 the19 digestive9 organs410 of89 the19 whale422 are314 so281 inscrutably34 constructed126 by406 Divine216 Providence112 , that14 it162 is487 quite327 impossible305 for190 him248 to261 completely385 digest261 even198 a10 man17 's415 arm25 ? And236 he362 knows286 it162 too11 . So281 that14 what243 you227 take279 for190 the19 White82 Whale422 's483 malice157 is487 only517 his433 awkwardness267 . For190 he362 never206 means502 to261 swallow195 a10 single77 limb43 ; he362 only517 thinks344 to261 terrify503 by406 feints92 . But330 sometimes77 he362 is487 like410 the19 old447 juggling259 fellow369 , formerly277 a10 patient516 of89 mine482 in107 Ceylon444 , that14 making415 believe191 swallow195 jack299 -knives386 , once248 upon419 a10 time577 let66 one470 drop22 into554 him248 in107 good221 earnest495 , and236 there340 it162 stayed117 for190 a10 twelvemonth160 or519 more348 ; when189 I482 gave572 him248 an138 emetic350 , and236 he362 heaved52 it162 up405 in107 small350 tacks496 , d67 'ye163 see370 ? No235 possible277 way435 for190 him248 to261 digest261 that14 jack299 -knife60 , and236 fully530 incorporate38 it162 into554 his433 general37 bodily172 system480 . Yes143 , Captain295 Boomer4 , if141 you227 are314 quick241 enough217 about123 it162 , and236 have254 a10 mind118 to261 pawn117 one470 arm25 for190 the19 sake523 of89 the19 privilege414 of89 giving207 decent136 burial218 to261 the19 other282 , why177 , in107 that14 case346 the19 arm25 is487 yours256 ; only517 let66 the19 whale422 have254 another269 chance292 at65 you227 shortly425 , that14 's76 all145 ." "No235 , thank166 you227 , Bunger," said252 the19 English69 Captain295 , "he362 's483 welcome2 to261 the19 arm25 he362 has399 , since374 I482 can450 't500 help526 it162 , and236 didn't500 know60 him248 then45 ; but330 not518 to261 another269 one470 . No235 more348 White82 Whales331 for190 me2 ; I482 've149 lowered279 for190 him248 once248 , and236 that14 has399 satisfied376 me2 . There340 would282 be341 great259 glory173 in107 killing311 him248 , I482 know60 that14 ; and236 there340 is487 a10 ship438 -load27 of89 precious234 sperm26 in107 him248 , but330 , hark313 ye483 , he362 's483 best315 let66 alone2 ; don280 't500 you227 think424 so281 , Captain295 ?"--glancing18 at65 the19 ivory76 leg331 . "He362 is487 . But330 he362 will584 still278 be341 hunted439 , for190 all145 that14 . What243 is487 best315 let66 alone2 , that14 accursed203 thing309 is487 not518 always367 what243 least453 allures285 . He362 's483 all145 a10 magnet506 ! How19 long544 since374 thou173 saw113 'st193 him248 last436 ? Which16 way435 heading364 ?" "Bless128 my36 soul428 , and236 curse48 the19 foul528 fiend59 's483 ," cried506 Bunger, stoopingly walking523 round287 Ahab232 , and236 like410 a10 dog322 , strangely155 snuffing107 ; "this256 man17 's415 blood208 --bring173 the19 thermometer229 !--it162 's483 at65 the19 boiling99 point438 !-- his433 pulse217 makes32 these527 planks284 beat449 !--sir271 !"--taking146 a10 lancet444 from316 his433 pocket461 , and236 drawing407 near70 to261 Ahab232 's483 arm25 . "Avast279 !" roared315 Ahab232 , dashing14 him248 against417 the19 bulwarks411 --"Man17 the19 boat439 ! Which16 way435 heading364 ?" "Good221 God185 !" cried506 the19 English69 Captain295 , to261 whom324 the19 question562 was454 put190 . "What243 's483 the19 matter176 ? He362 was454 heading364 east524 , I482 think424 .--Is487 your162 Captain295 crazy418 ?" whispering491 Fedallah. But330 Fedallah, putting243 a10 finger190 on392 his433 lip318 , slid132 over82 the19 bulwarks411 to261 take279 the19 boat439 's483 steering252 oar61 , and236 Ahab232 , swinging379 the19 cutting454 -tackle346 towards417 him248 commanded571 the19 ship438 's483 sailors64 to261 stand530 by406 to261 lower47 . In107 a10 moment258 he362 was454 standing144 in107 the19 boat439 's483 stern442 , and236 the19 Manilla283 men62 were324 springing481 to261 their219 oars398 . In107 vain216 the19 English69 Captain295 hailed411 him248 . With449 back457 to261 the19 stranger233 ship438 , and236 face556 set422 like410 a10 flint153 to261 his433 own248 , Ahab232 stood1 upright145 till181 alongside540 of89 the19 Pequod288 . CHAPTER293 10136 The19 Decanter523 Ere83 the19 English69 ship438 fades48 from316 sight365 be341 it162 set422 down133 here135 , that14 she391 hailed411 from316 London41 , and236 was454 named312 after358 the19 late351 Samuel77 Enderby283 , merchant332 of89 that14 city82 , the19 original463 of89 the19 famous254 whaling155 house499 of89 enderby283 and236 sons250 ; a10 house499 which16 in107 my36 poor533 whaleman98 's483 opinion316 , comes268 not518 far258 behind80 the19 united419 royal161 houses166 of89 the19 Tudors27 and236 Bourbons49 , in107 point438 of89 real305 historical243 interest323 . How19 long544 , prior201 to261 the19 year347 of89 our234 Lord106 1775103 , this256 great259 whaling155 house499 was454 in107 existence187 , my36 numerous558 fish187 -documents125 do353 not518 make175 plain28 ; but330 in107 that14 year347 (1775103 ) it162 fitted200 out66 the19 first13 English69 ships21 that14 ever208 regularly37 hunted439 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 ; though400 for190 some265 score124 of89 years116 previous376 (ever208 since374 1726360 ) our234 valiant359 Coffins259 and236 Maceys of89 Nantucket283 and236 the19 Vineyard92 had364 in107 large385 fleets29 pursued460 the19 Leviathan384 , but330 only517 in107 the19 North174 and236 South257 Atlantic198 : not518 elsewhere154 . Be341 it162 distinctly26 recorded84 here135 , that14 the19 Nantucketers were324 the19 first13 among483 mankind40 to261 harpoon67 with449 civilized441 steel184 the19 great259 Sperm26 Whale422 ; and236 that14 for190 half119 a10 century149 they382 were324 the19 only517 people482 of89 the19 whole199 globe23 who319 so281 harpooned290 him248 . In107 1778518 , a10 fine333 ship438 , the19 Amelia39 , fitted200 out66 for190 the19 express91 purpose514 , and236 at65 the19 sole462 charge308 of89 the19 vigorous113 Enderbys300 , boldly445 rounded23 Cape23 Horn139 , and236 was454 the19 first13 among483 the19 nations274 to261 lower47 a10 whale422 -boat439 of89 any501 sort42 in107 the19 great259 South257 Sea67 . The19 voyage137 was454 a10 skilful41 and236 lucky439 one470 ; and236 returning53 to261 her400 berth283 with449 her400 hold204 full414 of89 the19 precious234 sperm26 , the19 Amelia39 's483 example479 was454 soon18 followed234 by406 other282 ships21 , English69 and236 American272 , and236 thus362 the19 vast43 Sperm26 Whale422 grounds448 of89 the19 Pacific294 were324 thrown359 open464 . But330 not518 content7 with449 this256 good221 deed101 , the19 indefatigable117 house499 again52 bestirred275 itself312 : Samuel77 and236 all145 his433 Sons250 --how19 many282 , their219 mother276 only517 knows286 --and236 under533 their219 immediate388 auspices25 , and236 partly311 , I482 think424 , at65 their219 expense465 , the19 British81 government303 was454 induced45 to261 send536 the19 sloop172 -of89 -war169 Rattler299 on392 a10 whaling155 voyage137 of89 discovery416 into554 the19 South257 Sea67 . Commanded571 by406 a10 naval152 Post2 -Captain295 , the19 Rattler299 made563 a10 rattling282 voyage137 of89 it162 , and236 did444 some265 service343 ; how19 much61 does565 not518 appear443 . But330 this256 is487 not518 all145 . In107 1819477 , the19 same541 house499 fitted200 out66 a10 discovery416 whale422 ship438 of89 their219 own248 , to261 go20 on392 a10 tasting95 cruise117 to261 the19 remote141 waters556 of89 Japan53 . That14 ship438 -- well263 called237 the19 "Syren102 "--made563 a10 noble226 experimental93 cruise117 ; and236 it162 was454 thus362 that14 the19 great259 Japanese364 Whaling155 Ground127 first13 became70 generally402 known86 . The19 Syren102 in107 this256 famous254 voyage137 was454 commanded571 by406 a10 Captain295 Coffin284 , a10 Nantucketer. All145 honor497 to261 the19 Enderbies, therefore94 , whose286 house499 , I482 think424 , exists393 to261 the19 present112 day112 ; though400 doubtless101 the19 original463 Samuel77 must226 long544 ago141 have254 slipped227 his433 cable41 for190 the19 great259 South257 Sea67 of89 the19 other282 world126 . The19 ship438 named312 after358 him248 was454 worthy60 of89 the19 honor497 , being264 a10 very515 fast208 sailer155 and236 a10 noble226 craft187 every389 way435 . I482 boarded52 her400 once248 at65 midnight539 somewhere201 off111 the19 Patagonian31 coast287 , and236 drank82 good221 flip282 down133 in107 the19 forecastle367 . It162 was454 a10 fine333 gam437 we465 had364 , and236 they382 were324 all145 trumps21 --every389 soul428 on392 board540 . A10 short522 life71 to261 them146 , and236 a10 jolly50 death543 . And236 that14 fine333 gam437 I482 had364 -- long544 , very515 long544 after358 old447 Ahab232 touched367 her400 planks284 with449 his433 ivory76 heel105 -- it162 minds244 me2 of89 the19 noble226 , solid494 , Saxon479 hospitality137 of89 that14 ship438 ; and236 may236 my36 parson18 forget426 me2 , and236 the19 devil411 remember499 me2 , if141 I482 ever208 lose247 sight365 of89 it162 . Flip282 ? Did444 I482 say306 we465 had364 flip282 ? Yes143 , and236 we465 flipped285 it162 at65 the19 rate515 of89 ten198 gallons141 the19 hour384 ; and236 when189 the19 squall467 came549 (for190 it162 's483 squally78 off111 there340 by406 Patagonia111 ), and236 all145 hands87 -- visitors143 and236 all145 --were324 called237 to261 reef265 topsails76 , we465 were324 so281 top70 -heavy421 that14 we465 had364 to261 swing311 each520 other282 aloft276 in107 bowlines141 ; and236 we465 ignorantly136 furled145 the19 skirts259 of89 our234 jackets140 into554 the19 sails344 , so281 that14 we465 hung479 there340 , reefed402 fast208 in107 the19 howling204 gale440 , a10 warning531 example479 to261 all145 drunken314 tars156 . However44 , the19 masts212 did444 not518 go20 overboard247 ; and236 by406 and236 by406 we465 scrambled320 down133 , so281 sober121 , that14 we465 had364 to261 pass153 the19 flip282 again52 , though400 the19 savage398 salt183 spray76 bursting288 down133 the19 forecastle367 scuttle27 , rather178 too11 much61 diluted95 and236 pickled231 it162 for190 my36 taste134 . The19 beef303 was454 fine333 --tough241 , but330 with449 body348 in107 it162 . They382 said252 it162 was454 bullbeef; others317 , that14 it162 was454 dromedary183 beef303 ; but330 I482 do353 not518 know60 , for190 certain31 , how19 that14 was454 . They382 had364 dumplings461 too11 ; small350 , but330 substantial101 , symmetrically557 globular203 , and236 indestructible143 dumplings461 . I482 fancied100 that14 you227 could375 feel461 them146 , and236 roll473 them146 about123 in107 you227 after358 they382 were324 swallowed104 . If141 you227 stooped14 over82 too11 far258 forward364 , you227 risked23 their219 pitching143 out66 of89 you227 like410 billiard110 -balls336 . The19 bread387 -- but330 that14 couldn't500 be341 helped204 ; besides465 , it162 was454 an138 anti-scorbutic92 , in107 short522 , the19 bread387 contained275 the19 only517 fresh540 fare19 they382 had364 . But330 the19 forecastle367 was454 not518 very515 light382 , and236 it162 was454 very515 easy281 to261 step204 over82 into554 a10 dark471 corner204 when189 you227 ate367 it162 . But330 all145 in107 all145 , taking146 her400 from316 truck120 to261 helm285 , considering115 the19 dimensions400 of89 the19 cook41 's483 boilers69 , including123 his433 own248 live554 parchment127 boilers69 ; fore259 and236 aft2 , I482 say306 , the19 Samuel77 Enderby283 was454 a10 jolly50 ship438 ; of89 good221 fare19 and236 plenty406 ; fine333 flip282 and236 strong145 ; crack83 fellows131 all145 , and236 capital154 from316 boot159 heels368 to261 hat107 -band541 . But330 why177 was454 it162 , think424 ye483 , that14 the19 Samuel77 Enderby283 , and236 some265 other282 English69 whalers116 I482 know60 of89 --not518 all145 though400 --were324 such420 famous254 , hospitable468 ships21 ; that14 passed87 round287 the19 beef303 , and236 the19 bread387 , and236 the19 can450 , and236 the19 joke568 ; and236 were324 not518 soon18 weary306 of89 eating22 , and236 drinking453 , and236 laughing83 ? I482 will584 tell392 you227 . The19 abounding143 good221 cheer337 of89 these527 English69 whalers116 is487 matter176 for190 historical243 research51 . Nor137 have254 I482 been185 at65 all145 sparing427 of89 historical243 whale422 research51 , when189 it162 has399 seemed132 needed133 . The19 English69 were324 preceded518 in107 the19 whale422 fishery136 by406 the19 Hollanders129 , Zealanders362 , and236 Danes350 ; from316 whom324 they382 derived494 many282 terms297 still278 extant557 in107 the19 fishery136 ; and236 what243 is487 yet443 more348 , their219 fat351 old447 fashions74 , touching80 plenty406 to261 eat286 and236 drink117 . For190 , as113 a10 general37 thing309 , the19 English69 merchant332 -ship438 scrimps her400 crew126 ; but330 not518 so281 the19 English69 whaler91 . Hence503 , in107 the19 English69 , this256 thing309 of89 whaling155 good221 cheer337 is487 not518 normal210 and236 natural298 , but330 incidental71 and236 particular336 ; and236 , therefore94 , must226 have254 some265 special326 origin233 , which16 is487 here135 pointed413 out66 , and236 will584 be341 still278 further53 elucidated54 . During309 my36 researches368 in107 the19 Leviathanic histories23 , I482 stumbled30 upon419 an138 ancient463 Dutch325 volume295 , which16 , by406 the19 musty321 whaling155 smell124 of89 it162 , I482 knew480 must226 be341 about123 whalers116 . The19 title168 was454 , "Dan363 Coopman," wherefore220 I482 concluded157 that14 this256 must226 be341 the19 invaluable2 memoirs398 of89 some265 Amsterdam345 cooper35 in107 the19 fishery136 , as113 every389 whale422 ship438 must226 carry160 its234 cooper35 . I482 was454 reinforced107 in107 this256 opinion316 by406 seeing426 that14 it162 was454 the19 production432 of89 one470 "Fitz166 Swackhammer." But330 my36 friend179 Dr364 . Snodhead, a10 very515 learned277 man17 , professor281 of89 Low407 Dutch325 and236 High361 German264 in107 the19 college400 of89 Santa494 Claus370 and236 St193 . Potts471 , to261 whom324 I482 handed189 the19 work385 for190 translation298 , giving207 him248 a10 box226 of89 sperm26 candles457 for190 his433 trouble328 --this256 same541 Dr364 . Snodhead, so281 soon18 as113 he362 spied387 the19 book230 , assured557 me2 that14 "Dan363 Coopman" did444 not518 mean504 "The19 Cooper35 ," but330 "The19 Merchant332 ." In107 short522 , this256 ancient463 and236 learned277 Low407 Dutch325 book230 treated277 of89 the19 commerce292 of89 Holland173 ; and236 , among483 other282 subjects122 , contained275 a10 very515 interesting409 account102 of89 its234 whale422 fishery136 . And236 in107 this256 chapter293 it162 was454 , headed124 , "Smeer," or519 "Fat351 ," that14 I482 found260 a10 long544 detailed117 list576 of89 the19 outfits88 for190 the19 larders292 and236 cellars191 of89 18069 sail218 of89 Dutch325 whalemen451 ; from316 which16 list576 , as113 translated241 by406 Dr364 . Snodhead, I482 transcribe485 the19 following181 : 0084400,000 lbs283 . of89 beef303 . 6087 ,000360 lbs283 . Friesland273 pork3 . 15052 ,000287 lbs283 . of89 stock437 fish187 . 550235 ,000125 lbs283 . of89 biscuit369 . 72152 ,00025 lbs283 . of89 soft226 bread387 . 2404 ,800 firkins26 of89 butter536 . 20406 ,000 lbs283 . of89 Texel117 and236 Leyden199 cheese10 . 144,000157 lbs283 . cheese10 (probably244 an138 inferior84 article58 ). 550235 ankers192 of89 Geneva83 . 10474 ,800 barrels368 of89 beer471 . Most216 statistical67 tables13 are314 parchingly dry430 in107 the19 reading210 ; not518 so281 in107 the19 present112 case346 , however44 , where579 the19 reader243 is487 flooded549 with449 whole199 pipes17 , barrels368 , quarts95 , and236 gills111 of89 good221 gin78 and236 good221 cheer337 . At65 the19 time577 , I482 devoted15 three329 days351 to261 the19 studious303 digesting53 of89 all145 this256 beer471 , beef303 , and236 bread387 , during309 which16 many282 profound371 thoughts26 were324 incidentally261 suggested431 to261 me2 , capable424 of89 a10 transcendental73 and236 Platonic280 application258 ; and236 , furthermore181 , I482 compiled38 supplementary210 tables13 of89 my36 own248 , touching80 the19 probable213 quantity316 of89 stock437 -fish187 , &c62 ., consumed78 by406 every389 Low407 Dutch325 harpooneer in107 that14 ancient463 Greenland110 and236 Spitzbergen78 whale422 fishery136 . In107 the19 first13 place107 , the19 amount11 of89 butter536 , and236 Texel117 and236 Leyden199 cheese10 consumed78 , seems19 amazing306 . I482 impute261 it162 , though400 , to261 their219 naturally362 unctuous322 natures531 , being264 rendered37 still278 more348 unctuous322 by406 the19 nature159 of89 their219 vocation408 , and236 especially371 by406 their219 pursuing392 their219 game233 in107 those427 frigid499 Polar25 Seas350 , on392 the19 very515 coasts147 of89 that14 Esquimaux162 country362 where579 the19 convivial355 natives165 pledge322 each520 other282 in107 bumpers27 of89 train127 oil118 . The19 quantity316 of89 the19 beer471 , too11 , is487 very515 large385 , 10474 ,800 barrels368 . Now20 , as113 those427 polar25 fisheries6 could375 only517 be341 prosecuted368 in107 the19 short522 summer408 of89 that14 climate271 , so281 that14 the19 whole199 cruise117 of89 one470 of89 these527 Dutch325 whalemen451 , including123 the19 short522 voyage137 to261 and236 from316 the19 Spitzbergen78 sea67 , did444 not518 much61 exceed534 three329 months17 , say306 , and236 reckoning541 30292 men62 to261 each520 of89 their219 fleet206 of89 18069 sail218 , we465 have254 587 ,400135 Low407 Dutch325 seamen6 in107 all145 ; therefore94 , I482 say306 , we465 have254 precisely217 two527 barrels368 of89 beer471 per47 man17 , for190 a10 twelve293 weeks522 ' allowance392 , exclusive518 of89 his433 fair320 proportion160 of89 that14 550235 ankers192 of89 gin78 . Now20 , whether454 these527 gin78 and236 beer471 harpooneers, so281 fuddled10 as113 one470 might496 fancy396 them146 to261 have254 been185 , were324 the19 right499 sort42 of89 men62 to261 stand530 up405 in107 a10 boat439 's483 head219 , and236 take279 good221 aim176 at65 flying354 whales331 ; this256 would282 seem404 somewhat77 improbable128 . Yet443 they382 did444 aim176 at65 them146 , and236 hit322 them146 too11 . But330 this256 was454 very515 far258 North174 , be341 it162 remembered66 , where579 beer471 agrees430 well263 with449 the19 constitution480 ; upon419 the19 Equator136 , in107 our234 southern187 fishery136 , beer471 would282 be341 apt40 to261 make175 the19 harpooneer sleepy452 at65 the19 mast44 -head116 and236 boozy2 in107 his433 boat439 ; and236 grievous502 loss223 might496 ensue524 to261 Nantucket283 and236 New36 Bedford83 . But330 no235 more348 ; enough217 has399 been185 said252 to261 show460 that14 the19 old447 Dutch325 whalers116 of89 two527 or519 three329 centuries168 ago141 were324 high361 livers83 ; and236 that14 the19 English69 whalers116 have254 not518 neglected209 so281 excellent161 an138 example479 . For190 , say306 they382 , when189 cruising298 in107 an138 empty450 ship438 , if141 you227 can450 get126 nothing324 better34 out66 of89 the19 world126 , get126 a10 good221 dinner322 out66 of89 it162 , at65 least453 . And236 this256 empties84 the19 decanter523 . CHAPTER293 10237 A10 Bower438 in107 the19 Arsacides125 Hitherto533 , in107 descriptively103 treating117 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 , I482 have254 chiefly90 dwelt495 upon419 the19 marvels25 of89 his433 outer359 aspect147 ; or519 separately350 and236 in107 detail41 upon419 some265 few49 interior163 structural143 features150 . But330 to261 a10 large385 and236 thorough98 sweeping61 comprehension367 of89 him248 , it162 behoves86 me2 now20 to261 unbutton46 him248 still278 further53 , and236 untagging the19 points245 of89 his433 hose192 , unbuckling403 his433 garters127 , and236 casting19 loose159 the19 hooks561 and236 the19 eyes125 of89 the19 joints401 of89 his433 innermost27 bones5 , set422 him248 before344 you227 in107 his433 ultimatum31 ; that14 is487 to261 say306 , in107 his433 unconditional25 skeleton231 . But330 how19 now20 , Ishmael196 ? How19 is487 it162 , that14 you227 , a10 mere393 oarsman60 in107 the19 fishery136 , pretend493 to261 know60 aught26 about123 the19 subterranean105 parts470 of89 the19 whale422 ? Did444 erudite54 Stubb, mounted191 upon419 your162 capstan241 , deliver492 lectures124 on392 the19 anatomy334 of89 the19 Cetacea6 ; and236 by406 help526 of89 the19 windlass231 , hold204 up405 a10 specimen155 rib84 for190 exhibition77 ? Explain349 thyself402 , Ishmael196 . Can450 you227 land406 a10 full414 -grown299 whale422 on392 your162 deck505 for190 examination283 , as113 a10 cook41 dishes36 a10 roast120 -pig241 ? Surely388 not518 . A10 veritable282 witness134 have254 you227 hitherto533 been185 , Ishmael196 ; but330 have254 a10 care307 how19 you227 seize445 the19 privilege414 of89 Jonah41 alone2 ; the19 privilege414 of89 discoursing159 upon419 the19 joists311 and236 beams523 ; the19 rafters344 , ridge435 -pole212 , sleepers367 , and236 under533 -pinnings, making415 up405 the19 frame84 -work25 of89 leviathan384 ; and236 belike142 of89 the19 tallow157 -vats, dairy44 -rooms133 , butteries336 , and236 cheeseries in107 his433 bowels499 . I482 confess315 , that14 since374 Jonah41 , few49 whalemen451 have254 penetrated300 very515 far258 beneath320 the19 skin428 of89 the19 adult305 whale422 ; nevertheless104 , I482 have254 been185 blessed473 with449 an138 opportunity256 to261 dissect25 him248 in107 miniature124 . In107 a10 ship438 I482 belonged455 to261 , a10 small350 cub198 Sperm26 Whale422 was454 once248 bodily172 hoisted367 to261 the19 deck505 for190 his433 poke213 or519 bag141 , to261 make175 sheaths202 for190 the19 barbs226 of89 the19 harpoons6 , and236 for190 the19 heads366 of89 the19 lances8 . Think424 you227 I482 let66 that14 chance292 go20 , without309 using14 my36 boat439 -hatchet273 and236 jack299 -knife60 , and236 breaking6 the19 seal40 and236 reading210 all145 the19 contents347 of89 that14 young389 cub198 ? And236 as113 for190 my36 exact408 knowledge270 of89 the19 bones5 of89 the19 leviathan384 in107 their219 gigantic157 , full414 grown299 development112 , for190 that14 rare296 knowledge270 I482 am375 indebted54 to261 my36 late351 royal161 friend179 Tranquo, king324 of89 Tranque, one470 of89 the19 Arsacides125 . For190 being264 at65 Tranque, years116 ago141 , when189 attached211 to261 the19 trading280 -ship135 Dey400 of89 Algiers330 , I482 was454 invited230 to261 spend357 part207 of89 the19 Arsacidean holidays333 with449 the19 lord106 of89 Tranque, at65 his433 retired158 palm114 villa181 at65 Pupella; a10 sea67 -side246 glen548 not518 very515 far258 distant353 from316 what243 our234 sailors64 called237 Bamboo41 -Town172 , his433 capital154 . Among483 many282 other282 fine333 qualities21 , my36 royal161 friend179 Tranquo, being264 gifted19 with449 a10 devout292 love391 for190 all145 matters515 of89 barbaric559 vertu236 , had364 brought85 together440 in107 Pupella whatever38 rare296 things4 the19 more348 ingenious102 of89 his433 people482 could375 invent292 ; chiefly90 carved455 woods29 of89 wonderful291 devices285 , chiselled253 shells203 , inlaid6 spears450 , costly189 paddles78 , aromatic52 canoes471 ; and236 all145 these527 distributed474 among483 whatever38 natural298 wonders115 , the19 wonder76 -freighted12 , tribute412 -rendering155 waves443 had364 cast99 upon419 his433 shores116 . Chief156 among483 these527 latter497 was454 a10 great259 Sperm26 Whale422 , which16 , after358 an138 unusually35 long544 raging173 gale440 , had364 been185 found260 dead568 and236 stranded299 , with449 his433 head219 against417 a10 cocoa-nut142 tree482 , whose286 plumage206 -like410 , tufted272 droopings seemed132 his433 verdant441 jet423 . When189 the19 vast43 body348 had364 at65 last436 been185 stripped301 of89 its234 fathomdeep enfoldings142 , and236 the19 bones5 become548 dust434 dry430 in107 the19 sun397 , then45 the19 skeleton231 was454 carefully374 transported546 up405 the19 Pupella glen548 , where579 a10 grand229 temple237 of89 lordly14 palms173 now20 sheltered6 it162 . The19 ribs92 were324 hung479 with449 trophies197 ; the19 vertebrae258 were324 carved455 with449 Arsacidean annals303 , in107 strange440 hieroglyphics99 ; in107 the19 skull9 , the19 priests411 kept290 up405 an138 unextinguished68 aromatic52 flame113 , so281 that14 the19 mystic455 head219 again52 sent411 forth152 its234 vapory112 spout224 ; while55 , suspended245 from316 a10 bough35 , the19 terrific315 lower47 jaw213 vibrated376 over82 all145 the19 devotees83 , like410 the19 hair237 -hung479 sword273 that14 so281 affrighted35 Damocles146 . It162 was454 a10 wondrous30 sight365 . The19 wood46 was454 green549 as113 mosses28 of89 the19 Icy155 Glen548 ; the19 trees354 stood1 high361 and236 haughty459 , feeling384 their219 living117 sap18 ; the19 industrious241 earth513 beneath320 was454 as113 a10 weaver36 's483 loom280 , with449 a10 gorgeous188 carpet446 on392 it162 , whereof422 the19 ground127 -vine tendrils151 formed294 the19 warp382 and236 woof414 , and236 the19 living117 flowers325 the19 figures66 . All145 the19 trees354 , with449 all145 their219 laden126 branches364 ; all145 the19 shrubs221 , and236 ferns157 , and236 grasses248 ; the19 message15 -carrying103 air209 ; all145 these527 unceasingly507 were324 active54 . Through295 the19 lacings305 of89 the19 leaves441 , the19 great259 sun397 seemed132 a10 flying354 shuttle465 weaving113 the19 unwearied158 verdure329 . Oh367 , busy130 weaver36 ! unseen173 weaver36 !--pause391 !--one470 word486 !-- whither160 flows6 the19 fabric191 ? what243 palace17 may236 it162 deck505 ? wherefore220 all145 these527 ceaseless25 toilings? Speak337 , weaver36 !--stay238 thy43 hand252 !-- but330 one470 single77 word486 with449 thee15 ! Nay358 --the19 shuttle465 flies419 -- the19 figures66 float231 from316 forth152 the19 loom280 ; the19 fresher120 -rushing344 carpet446 for190 ever208 slides270 away443 . The19 weaver36 -god185 , he362 weaves110 ; and236 by406 that14 weaving113 is487 he362 deafened174 , that14 he362 hears561 no235 mortal371 voice233 ; and236 by406 that14 humming243 , we465 , too11 , who319 look523 on392 the19 loom280 are314 deafened174 ; and236 only517 when189 we465 escape565 it162 shall66 we465 hear386 the19 thousand586 voices386 that14 speak337 through295 it162 . For190 even198 so281 it162 is487 in107 all145 material161 factories146 . The19 spoken507 words107 that14 are314 inaudible516 among483 the19 flying354 spindles157 ; those427 same541 words107 are314 plainly450 heard444 without309 the19 walls116 , bursting288 from316 the19 opened461 casements212 . Thereby190 have254 villainies217 been185 detected185 . Ah132 , mortal371 ! then45 , be341 heedful133 ; for190 so281 , in107 all145 this256 din190 of89 the19 great259 world126 's483 loom280 , thy43 subtlest23 thinkings142 may236 be341 overheard512 afar26 . Now20 , amid240 the19 green549 , life71 -restless92 loom280 of89 that14 Arsacidean wood46 , the19 great259 , white82 , worshipped499 skeleton231 lay62 lounging325 --a10 gigantic157 idler458 ! Yet443 , as113 the19 ever208 -woven26 verdant441 warp382 and236 woof414 intermixed223 and236 hummed459 around66 him248 , the19 mighty2 idler458 seemed132 the19 cunning198 weaver36 ; himself282 all145 woven26 over82 with449 the19 vines489 ; every389 month438 assuming330 greener429 , fresher120 verdure329 ; but330 himself282 a10 skeleton231 . Life71 folded305 Death543 ; Death543 trellised445 Life71 ; the19 grim19 god185 wived56 with449 youthful41 Life71 , and236 begat217 him248 curly-headed124 glories29 . Now20 , when189 with449 royal161 Tranquo I482 visited16 this256 wondrous30 whale422 , and236 saw113 the19 skull9 an138 altar273 , and236 the19 artificial310 smoke99 ascending116 from316 where579 the19 real305 jet423 had364 issued146 , I482 marvelled34 that14 the19 king324 should255 regard448 a10 chapel60 as113 an138 object100 of89 vertu236 . He362 laughed166 . But330 more348 I482 marvelled34 that14 the19 priests411 should255 swear322 that14 smoky178 jet423 of89 his433 was454 genuine44 . To261 and236 fro183 I482 paced145 before344 this256 skeleton231 -- brushed513 the19 vines489 aside408 --broke356 through295 the19 ribs92 --and236 with449 a10 ball141 of89 Arsacidean twine104 , wandered429 , eddied101 long544 amid240 its234 many282 winding486 , shaded366 colonnades7 and236 arbors216 . But330 soon18 my36 line25 was454 out66 ; and236 following181 it162 back457 , I482 emerged100 from316 the19 opening306 where579 I482 entered447 . I482 saw113 no235 living117 thing309 within503 ; naught80 was454 there340 but330 bones5 . Cutting454 me2 a10 green549 measuring446 -rod216 , I482 once248 more348 dived149 within503 the19 skeleton231 . From316 their219 arrow44 -slit430 in107 the19 skull9 , the19 priests411 perceived76 me2 taking146 the19 altitude315 of89 the19 final357 rib84 , "How19 now20 !" they382 shouted300 ; "Dar'st193 thou173 measure520 this256 our234 god185 ! That14 's76 for190 us569 ." "Aye86 , priests411 --well263 , how19 long544 do353 ye483 make175 him248 , then45 ?" But330 hereupon163 a10 fierce394 contest31 rose449 among483 them146 , concerning368 feet349 and236 inches301 ; they382 cracked423 each520 other282 's483 sconces520 with449 their219 yard258 -sticks335 -- the19 great259 skull9 echoed84 --and236 seizing327 that14 lucky439 chance292 , I482 quickly183 concluded157 my36 own248 admeasurements398 . These527 admeasurements398 I482 now20 propose385 to261 set422 before344 you227 . But330 first13 , be341 it162 recorded84 , that14 , in107 this256 matter176 , I482 am375 not518 free483 to261 utter270 any501 fancied100 measurements243 I482 please153 . Because540 there340 are314 skeleton231 authorities322 you227 can450 refer169 to261 , to261 test124 my36 accuracy484 . There340 is487 a10 Leviathanic Museum392 , they382 tell392 me2 , in107 Hull323 , England348 , one470 of89 the19 whaling155 ports92 of89 that14 country362 , where579 they382 have254 some265 fine333 specimens91 of89 fin286 -backs480 and236 other282 whales331 . Likewise193 , I482 have254 heard444 that14 in107 the19 museum392 of89 Manchester229 , in107 New36 Hampshire324 , they382 have254 what243 the19 proprietors506 call259 "the19 only517 perfect307 specimen155 of89 a10 Greenland110 or519 River201 Whale422 in107 the19 United419 States443 ." Moreover326 , at65 a10 place107 in107 Yorkshire129 , England348 , Burton412 Constable272 by406 name477 , a10 certain31 Sir271 Clifford406 Constable272 has399 in107 his433 possession379 the19 skeleton231 of89 a10 Sperm26 Whale422 , but330 of89 moderate57 size503 , by406 no235 means502 of89 the19 full414 -grown299 magnitude203 of89 my36 friend179 King324 Tranquo's483 . In107 both558 cases108 , the19 stranded299 whales331 to261 which16 these527 two527 skeletons154 belonged455 , were324 originally367 claimed125 by406 their219 proprietors506 upon419 similar101 grounds448 . King324 Tranquo seizing327 his433 because540 he362 wanted85 it162 ; and236 Sir271 Clifford406 , because540 he362 was454 lord106 of89 the19 seignories27 of89 those427 parts470 . Sir271 Clifford406 's483 whale422 has399 been185 articulated423 throughout159 ; so281 that14 , like410 a10 great259 chest98 of89 drawers350 , you227 can450 open464 and236 shut59 him248 , in107 all145 his433 bony23 cavities380 --spread348 out66 his433 ribs92 like410 a10 gigantic157 fan104 -- and236 swing311 all145 day112 upon419 his433 lower47 jaw213 . Locks445 are314 to261 be341 put190 upon419 some265 of89 his433 trap19 -doors7 and236 shutters302 ; and236 a10 footman280 will584 show460 round287 future44 visitors143 with449 a10 bunch100 of89 keys470 at65 his433 side246 . Sir271 Clifford406 thinks344 of89 charging386 twopence30 for190 a10 peep222 at65 the19 whispering491 gallery417 in107 the19 spinal7 column265 ; threepence115 to261 hear386 the19 echo25 in107 the19 hollow511 of89 his433 cerebellum336 ; and236 sixpence470 for190 the19 unrivalled154 view370 from316 his433 forehead380 . The19 skeleton231 dimensions400 I482 shall66 now20 proceed367 to261 set422 down133 are314 copied129 verbatim327 from316 my36 right499 arm25 , where579 I482 had364 them146 tattooed101 ; as113 in107 my36 wild230 wanderings341 at65 that14 period196 , there340 was454 no235 other282 secure92 way435 of89 preserving129 such420 valuable72 statistics360 . But330 as113 I482 was454 crowded95 for190 space468 , and236 wished246 the19 other282 parts470 of89 my36 body348 to261 remain326 a10 blank156 page425 for190 a10 poem157 I482 was454 then45 composing460 -- at65 least453 , what243 untattooed parts470 might496 remain326 --I482 did444 not518 trouble328 myself99 with449 the19 odd19 inches301 ; nor137 , indeed522 , should255 inches301 at65 all145 enter204 into554 a10 congenial118 admeasurement24 of89 the19 whale422 . CHAPTER293 103401 Measurement367 of89 The19 Whale422 's483 Skeleton231 In107 the19 first13 place107 , I482 wish95 to261 lay62 before344 you227 a10 particular336 , plain28 statement187 , touching80 the19 living117 bulk181 of89 this256 leviathan384 , whose286 skeleton231 we465 are314 briefly472 to261 exhibit256 . Such420 a10 statement187 may236 prove396 useful212 here135 . According281 to261 a10 careful252 calculation354 I482 have254 made563 , and236 which16 I482 partly311 base258 upon419 Captain295 Scoresby's483 estimate398 , of89 seventy156 tons363 for190 the19 largest139 sized133 Greenland110 whale422 of89 sixty332 feet349 in107 length202 ; according281 to261 my36 careful252 calculation354 , I482 say306 , a10 Sperm26 Whale422 of89 the19 largest139 magnitude203 , between77 eighty148 -five103 and236 ninety2 feet349 in107 length202 , and236 something181 less261 than77 forty525 feet349 in107 its234 fullest82 circumference417 , such420 a10 whale422 will584 weigh8 at65 least453 ninety2 tons363 ; so281 that14 , reckoning541 thirteen430 men62 to261 a10 ton8 , he362 would282 considerably110 outweigh348 the19 combined265 population4 of89 a10 whole199 village218 of89 one470 thousand586 one470 hundred93 inhabitants110 . Think424 you227 not518 then45 that14 brains279 , like410 yoked417 cattle264 , should255 be341 put190 to261 this256 leviathan384 , to261 make175 him248 at65 all145 budge278 to261 any501 landsman331 's483 imagination131 ? Having69 already93 in107 various183 ways101 put190 before344 you227 his433 skull9 , spout224 -hole73 , jaw213 , teeth82 , tail102 , forehead380 , fins556 , and236 divers213 other282 parts470 , I482 shall66 now20 simply142 point438 out66 what243 is487 most216 interesting409 in107 the19 general37 bulk181 of89 his433 unobstructed92 bones5 . But330 as113 the19 colossal396 skull9 embraces296 so281 very515 large385 a10 proportion160 of89 the19 entire230 extent144 of89 the19 skeleton231 ; as113 it162 is487 by406 far258 the19 most216 complicated64 part207 ; and236 as113 nothing324 is487 to261 be341 repeated381 concerning368 it162 in107 this256 chapter293 , you227 must226 not518 fail126 to261 carry160 it162 in107 your162 mind118 , or519 under533 your162 arm25 , as113 we465 proceed367 , otherwise542 you227 will584 not518 gain101 a10 complete191 notion266 of89 the19 general37 structure235 we465 are314 about123 to261 view370 . In107 length202 , the19 Sperm26 Whale422 's483 skeleton231 at65 Tranque measured96 seventy156 -two527 feet349 : so281 that14 when189 fully530 invested60 and236 extended531 in107 life71 , he362 must226 have254 been185 ninety2 feet349 long544 ; for190 in107 the19 whale422 , the19 skeleton231 loses125 about123 one470 fifth403 in107 length202 compared357 with449 the19 living117 body348 . Of89 this256 seventy156 -two527 feet349 , his433 skull9 and236 jaw213 comprised26 some265 twenty433 feet349 , leaving231 some265 fifty406 feet349 of89 plain28 backbone25 . Attached211 to261 this256 back457 -bone184 , for190 something181 less261 than77 a10 third301 of89 its234 length202 , was454 the19 mighty2 circular21 basket296 of89 ribs92 which16 once248 enclosed336 his433 vitals127 . To261 me2 this256 vast43 ivory76 -ribbed246 chest98 , with449 the19 long544 , unrelieved22 spine236 , extending231 far258 away443 from316 it162 in107 a10 straight346 line25 , not518 a10 little554 resembled172 the19 hull323 of89 a10 great259 ship438 new36 -laid181 upon419 the19 stocks425 , when189 only517 some265 twenty433 of89 her400 naked70 bow146 -ribs92 are314 inserted102 , and236 the19 keel39 is487 otherwise542 , for190 the19 time577 , but330 a10 long544 , disconnected31 timber59 . The19 ribs92 were324 ten198 on392 a10 side246 . The19 first13 , to261 begin183 from316 the19 neck239 , was454 nearly575 six415 feet349 long544 ; the19 second386 , third301 , and236 fourth399 were324 each520 successively154 longer559 , till181 you227 came549 to261 the19 climax191 of89 the19 fifth403 , or519 one470 of89 the19 middle39 ribs92 , which16 measured96 eight316 feet349 and236 some265 inches301 . From316 that14 part207 , the19 remaining64 ribs92 diminished163 , till181 the19 tenth243 and236 last436 only517 spanned461 five103 feet349 and236 some265 inches301 . In107 general37 thickness280 , they382 all145 bore27 a10 seemly35 correspondence154 to261 their219 length202 . The19 middle39 ribs92 were324 the19 most216 arched4 . In107 some265 of89 the19 Arsacides125 they382 are314 used102 for190 beams523 whereon132 to261 lay62 footpath102 bridges270 over82 small350 streams15 . In107 considering115 these527 ribs92 , I482 could375 not518 but330 be341 struck441 anew262 with449 the19 circumstance407 , so281 variously215 repeated381 in107 this256 book230 , that14 the19 skeleton231 of89 the19 whale422 is487 by406 no235 means502 the19 mould208 of89 his433 invested60 form238 . The19 largest139 of89 the19 Tranque ribs92 , one470 of89 the19 middle39 ones396 , occupied262 that14 part207 of89 the19 fish187 which16 , in107 life71 , is487 greatest479 in107 depth474 . Now20 , the19 greatest479 depth474 of89 the19 invested60 body348 of89 this256 particular336 whale422 must226 have254 been185 at65 least453 sixteen68 feet349 ; whereas18 , the19 corresponding427 rib84 measured96 but330 little554 more348 than77 eight316 feet349 . So281 that14 this256 rib84 only517 conveyed223 half119 of89 the19 true483 notion266 of89 the19 living117 magnitude203 of89 that14 part207 . Besides465 , for190 some265 way435 , where579 I482 now20 saw113 but330 a10 naked70 spine236 , all145 that14 had364 been185 once248 wrapped99 round287 with449 tons363 of89 added52 bulk181 in107 flesh331 , muscle246 , blood208 , and236 bowels499 . Still278 more348 , for190 the19 ample264 fins556 , I482 here135 saw113 but330 a10 few49 disordered181 joints401 ; and236 in107 place107 of89 the19 weighty503 and236 majestic13 , but330 boneless120 flukes155 , an138 utter270 blank156 ! How19 vain216 and236 foolish509 , then45 , thought186 I482 , for190 timid197 untravelled325 man17 to261 try266 to261 comprehend301 aright366 this256 wondrous30 whale422 , by406 merely57 poring295 over82 his433 dead568 attenuated168 skeleton231 , stretched63 in107 this256 peaceful319 wood46 . No235 . Only517 in107 the19 heart470 of89 quickest49 perils140 ; only517 when189 within503 the19 eddyings of89 his433 angry402 flukes155 ; only517 on392 the19 profound371 unbounded296 sea67 , can450 the19 fully530 invested60 whale422 be341 truly530 and236 livingly434 found260 out66 . But330 the19 spine236 . For190 that14 , the19 best315 way435 we465 can450 consider259 it162 is487 , with449 a10 crane110 , to261 pile312 its234 bones5 high361 up405 on392 end149 . No235 speedy282 enterprise106 . But330 now20 it162 's483 done135 , it162 looks150 much61 like410 Pompey124 's483 Pillar397 . There340 are314 forty525 and236 odd19 vertebrae258 in107 all145 , which16 in107 the19 skeleton231 are314 not518 locked105 together440 . They382 mostly190 lie212 like410 the19 great259 knobbed116 blocks6 on392 a10 Gothic157 spire461 , forming354 solid494 courses139 of89 heavy421 masonry210 . The19 largest139 , a10 middle39 one470 , is487 in107 width118 something181 less261 than77 three329 feet349 , and236 in107 depth474 more348 than77 four175 . The19 smallest443 , where579 the19 spine236 tapers362 away443 into554 the19 tail102 , is487 only517 two527 inches301 in107 width118 , and236 looks150 something181 like410 a10 white82 billiard110 -ball364 . I482 was454 told82 that14 there340 were324 still278 smaller236 ones396 , but330 they382 had364 been185 lost308 by406 some265 little554 cannibal180 urchins565 , the19 priest60 's483 children374 , who319 had364 stolen254 them146 to261 play89 marbles484 with449 . Thus362 we465 see370 how19 that14 the19 spine236 of89 even198 the19 hugest83 of89 living117 things4 tapers362 off111 at65 last436 into554 simple271 child451 's483 play89 . CHAPTER293 10478 The19 Fossil86 Whale422 From316 his433 mighty2 bulk181 the19 whale422 affords153 a10 most216 congenial118 theme160 whereon132 to261 enlarge568 , amplify7 , and236 generally402 expatiate125 . Would282 you227 , you227 could375 not518 compress29 him248 . By406 good221 rights462 he362 should255 only517 be341 treated277 of89 in107 imperial249 folio172 . Not518 to261 tell392 over82 again52 his433 furlongs24 from316 spiracle4 to261 tail102 , and236 the19 yards386 he362 measures359 about123 the19 waist52 ; only517 think424 of89 the19 gigantic157 involutions27 of89 his433 intestines367 , where579 they382 lie212 in107 him248 like410 great259 cables25 and236 hawsers8 coiled4 away443 in107 the19 subterranean105 orlop241 -deck505 of89 a10 line25 -of89 -battle105 -ship438 . Since374 I482 have254 undertaken29 to261 manhandle364 this256 Leviathan384 , it162 behoves86 me2 to261 approve364 myself99 omnisciently477 exhaustive434 in107 the19 enterprise106 ; not518 overlooking253 the19 minutest332 seminal4 germs21 of89 his433 blood208 , and236 spinning170 him248 out66 to261 the19 uttermost129 coil32 of89 his433 bowels499 . Having69 already93 described483 him248 in107 most216 of89 his433 present112 habitatory and236 anatomical68 peculiarities38 , it162 now20 remains324 to261 magnify5 him248 in107 an138 archaeological336 , fossiliferous78 , and236 antediluvian212 point438 of89 view370 . Applied122 to261 any501 other282 creature82 than77 the19 Leviathan384 --to261 an138 ant106 or519 a10 flea403 -- such420 portly149 terms297 might496 justly91 be341 deemed17 unwarrantably103 grandiloquent4 . But330 when189 Leviathan384 is487 the19 text17 , the19 case346 is487 altered124 . Fain264 am375 I482 to261 stagger106 to261 this256 enterprise106 under533 the19 weightiest27 words107 of89 the19 dictionary249 . And236 here135 be341 it162 said252 , that14 whenever15 it162 has399 been185 convenient470 to261 consult52 one470 in107 the19 course171 of89 these527 dissertations27 , I482 have254 invariably55 used102 a10 huge132 quarto292 edition462 of89 Johnson69 , expressly367 purchased188 for190 that14 purpose514 ; because540 that14 famous254 lexicographer88 's483 uncommon88 personal492 bulk181 more348 fitted200 him248 to261 compile26 a10 lexicon165 to261 be341 used102 by406 a10 whale422 author470 like410 me2 . One470 often227 hears561 of89 writers120 that14 rise251 and236 swell280 with449 their219 subject382 , though400 it162 may236 seem404 but330 an138 ordinary225 one470 . How19 , then45 , with449 me2 , writing558 of89 this256 Leviathan384 ? Unconsciously59 my36 chirography426 expands392 into554 placard498 capitals154 . Give142 me2 a10 condor170 's483 quill305 ! Give142 me2 Vesuvius581 ' crater369 for190 an138 inkstand286 ! Friends169 , hold204 my36 arms536 ! For190 in107 the19 mere393 act10 of89 penning97 my36 thoughts26 of89 this256 Leviathan384 , they382 weary306 me2 , and236 make175 me2 faint316 with449 their219 outreaching400 comprehensiveness31 of89 sweep471 , as113 if141 to261 include38 the19 whole199 circle282 of89 the19 sciences76 , and236 all145 the19 generations124 of89 whales331 , and236 men62 , and236 mastodons100 , past111 , present112 , and236 to261 come420 , with449 all145 the19 revolving21 panoramas212 of89 empire390 on392 earth513 , and236 throughout159 the19 whole199 universe426 , not518 excluding4 its234 suburbs51 . Such420 , and236 so281 magnifying4 , is487 the19 virtue16 of89 a10 large385 and236 liberal125 theme160 ! We465 expand254 to261 its234 bulk181 . To261 produce494 a10 mighty2 book230 , you227 must226 choose147 a10 mighty2 theme160 . No235 great259 and236 enduring377 volume295 can450 ever208 be341 written388 on392 the19 flea403 , though400 many282 there340 be341 who319 have254 tried73 it162 . Ere83 entering423 upon419 the19 subject382 of89 Fossil86 Whales331 , I482 present112 my36 credentials102 as113 a10 geologist146 , by406 stating521 that14 in107 my36 miscellaneous557 time577 I482 have254 been185 a10 stone398 -mason221 , and236 also119 a10 great259 digger78 of89 ditches259 , canals87 and236 wells132 , wine102 -vaults293 , cellars191 , and236 cisterns144 of89 all145 sorts354 . Likewise193 , by406 way435 of89 preliminary32 , I482 desire241 to261 remind150 the19 reader243 , that14 while55 in107 the19 earlier56 geological303 strata83 there340 are314 found260 the19 fossils41 of89 monsters129 now20 almost518 completely385 extinct105 ; the19 subsequent312 relics361 discovered36 in107 what243 are314 called237 the19 Tertiary111 formations203 seem404 the19 connecting430 , or519 at65 any501 rate515 intercepted179 links333 , between77 the19 antichronical creatures5 , and236 those427 whose286 remote141 posterity447 are314 said252 to261 have254 entered447 the19 Ark25 ; all145 the19 Fossil86 Whales331 hitherto533 discovered36 belong243 to261 the19 Tertiary111 period196 , which16 is487 the19 last436 preceding44 the19 superficial531 formations203 . And236 though400 none365 of89 them146 precisely217 answer164 to261 any501 known86 species69 of89 the19 present112 time577 , they382 are314 yet443 sufficiently12 akin273 to261 them146 in107 general37 respects403 , to261 justify310 their219 taking146 ranks189 as113 Cetacean118 fossils41 . Detached5 broken255 fossils41 of89 pre-adamite269 whales331 , fragments430 of89 their219 bones5 and236 skeletons154 , have254 within503 thirty521 years116 past111 , at65 various183 intervals295 , been185 found260 at65 the19 base258 of89 the19 Alps214 , in107 Lombardy83 , in107 France54 , in107 England348 , in107 Scotland181 , and236 in107 the19 States443 of89 Louisiana68 , Mississippi83 , and236 Alabama175 . Among483 the19 more348 curious264 of89 such420 remains324 is487 part207 of89 a10 skull9 , which16 in107 the19 year347 1779283 was454 disinterred27 in107 the19 Rue223 Dauphine264 in107 Paris134 , a10 short522 street100 opening306 almost518 directly58 upon419 the19 palace17 of89 the19 Tuileries264 ; and236 bones5 disinterred27 in107 excavating258 the19 great259 docks99 of89 Antwerp41 , in107 Napoleon66 's483 time577 . Cuvier158 pronounced429 these527 fragments430 to261 have254 belonged455 to261 some265 utterly46 unknown10 Leviathanic species69 . But330 by406 far258 the19 most216 wonderful291 of89 all145 Cetacean118 relics361 was454 the19 almost518 complete191 vast43 skeleton231 of89 an138 extinct105 monster480 , found260 in107 the19 year347 184230 , on392 the19 plantation3 of89 Judge337 Creagh244 , in107 Alabama175 . The19 awe305 -stricken328 credulous74 slaves368 in107 the19 vicinity208 took68 it162 for190 the19 bones5 of89 one470 of89 the19 fallen40 angels29 . The19 Alabama175 doctors407 declared29 it162 a10 huge132 reptile242 , and236 bestowed157 upon419 it162 the19 name477 of89 Basilosaurus. But330 some265 specimen155 bones5 of89 it162 being264 taken222 across129 the19 sea67 to261 Owen129 , the19 English69 Anatomist161 , it162 turned492 out66 that14 this256 alleged163 reptile242 was454 a10 whale422 , though400 of89 a10 departed467 species69 . A10 significant143 illustration416 of89 the19 fact12 , again52 and236 again52 repeated381 in107 this256 book230 , that14 the19 skeleton231 of89 the19 whale422 furnishes165 but330 little554 clue345 to261 the19 shape99 of89 his433 fully530 invested60 body348 . So281 Owen129 rechristened270 the19 monster480 Zeuglodon; and236 in107 his433 paper401 read98 before344 the19 London41 Geological303 Society520 , pronounced429 it162 , in107 substance316 , one470 of89 the19 most216 extraordinary346 creatures5 which16 the19 mutations45 of89 the19 globe23 have254 blotted460 out66 of89 existence187 . When189 I482 stand530 among483 these527 mighty2 Leviathan384 skeletons154 , skulls136 , tusks85 , jaws341 , ribs92 , and236 vertebrae258 , all145 characterized241 by406 partial297 resemblances101 to261 the19 existing15 breeds447 of89 sea67 -monsters129 ; but330 at65 the19 same541 time577 bearing354 on392 the19 other282 hand252 similar101 affinities158 to261 the19 annihilated133 antichronical Leviathans336 , their219 incalculable305 seniors318 ; I482 am375 , by406 a10 flood167 , borne493 back457 to261 that14 wondrous30 period196 , ere83 time577 itself312 can450 be341 said252 to261 have254 begun243 ; for190 time577 began132 with449 man17 . Here135 Saturn84 's483 grey491 chaos133 rolls475 over82 me2 , and236 I482 obtain238 dim14 , shuddering143 glimpses446 into554 those427 Polar25 eternities83 ; when189 wedged55 bastions361 of89 ice443 pressed323 hard337 upon419 what243 are314 now20 the19 Tropics300 ; and236 in107 all145 the19 25413 ,000102 miles278 of89 this256 world126 's483 circumference417 , not518 an138 inhabitable58 hand252 's483 breadth252 of89 land406 was454 visible94 . Then45 the19 whole199 world126 was454 the19 whale422 's483 ; and236 , king324 of89 creation182 , he362 left159 his433 wake205 along423 the19 present112 lines241 of89 the19 Andes341 and236 the19 Himmalehs. Who319 can450 show460 a10 pedigree86 like410 Leviathan384 ? Ahab232 's483 harpoon67 had364 shed155 older195 blood208 than77 the19 Pharaoh336 's483 . Methuselah251 seems19 a10 schoolboy77 . I482 look523 round287 to261 shake180 hands87 with449 Shem377 . I482 am375 horror134 -struck341 at65 this256 antemosaic, unsourced existence187 of89 the19 unspeakable4 terrors192 of89 the19 whale422 , which16 , having69 been185 before344 all145 time577 , must226 needs41 exist265 after358 all145 humane365 ages146 are314 over82 . But330 not518 alone2 has399 this256 Leviathan384 left159 his433 pre-adamite269 traces191 in107 the19 stereotype4 plates115 of89 nature159 , and236 in107 limestone252 and236 marl451 bequeathed235 his433 ancient463 bust181 ; but330 upon419 Egyptian358 tablets18 , whose286 antiquity354 seems19 to261 claim217 for190 them146 an138 almost518 fossiliferous78 character239 , we465 find138 the19 unmistakable10 print312 of89 his433 fin286 . In107 an138 apartment18 of89 the19 great259 temple237 of89 Denderah37 , some265 fifty406 years116 ago141 , there340 was454 discovered36 upon419 the19 granite192 ceiling30 a10 sculptured161 and236 painted340 planisphere451 , abounding143 in107 centaurs553 , griffins102 , and236 dolphins192 , similar101 to261 the19 grotesque282 figures66 on392 the19 celestial437 globe23 of89 the19 moderns325 . Gliding248 among483 them146 , old447 Leviathan384 swam111 as113 of89 yore160 ; was454 there340 swimming367 in107 that14 planisphere451 , centuries168 before344 Solomon8 was454 cradled288 . Nor137 must226 there340 be341 omitted117 another269 strange440 attestation41 of89 the19 antiquity354 of89 the19 whale422 , in107 his433 own248 osseous286 postdiluvian4 reality214 , as113 set422 down133 by406 the19 venerable57 John416 Leo173 , the19 old447 Barbary119 traveller258 . "Not518 far258 from316 the19 Sea67 -side246 , they382 have254 a10 Temple237 , the19 Rafters344 and236 Beams523 of89 which16 are314 made563 of89 Whale422 -Bones117 ; for190 Whales331 of89 a10 monstrous395 size503 are314 oftentimes30 cast99 up405 dead568 upon419 that14 shore280 . The19 Common304 People482 imagine385 , that14 by406 a10 secret409 Power145 bestowed157 by406 God185 upon419 the19 Temple237 , no235 Whale422 can450 pass153 it162 without309 immediate388 death543 . But330 the19 truth350 of89 the19 Matter176 is487 , that14 on392 either45 side246 of89 the19 Temple237 , there340 are314 Rocks265 that14 shoot316 two527 Miles278 into554 the19 Sea67 , and236 wound342 the19 Whales331 when189 they382 light382 upon419 'em. They382 keep381 a10 Whale422 's483 Rib84 of89 an138 incredible98 length202 for190 a10 Miracle309 , which16 lying204 upon419 the19 Ground127 with449 its234 convex111 part207 uppermost226 , makes32 an138 Arch198 , the19 Head219 of89 which16 cannot be341 reached386 by406 a10 Man17 upon419 a10 Camel82 's483 Back457 . This256 Rib84 (says424 John416 Leo173 ) is487 said252 to261 have254 layn183 there340 a10 hundred93 Years116 before344 I482 saw113 it162 . Their219 Historians162 affirm423 , that14 a10 Prophet25 who319 prophesy168 'd67 of89 Mahomet160 , came549 from316 this256 Temple237 , and236 some265 do353 not518 stand530 to261 assert354 , that14 the19 Prophet25 Jonas188 was454 cast99 forth152 by406 the19 Whale422 at65 the19 Base258 of89 the19 Temple237 ." In107 this256 Afric252 Temple237 of89 the19 Whale422 I482 leave450 you227 , reader243 , and236 if141 you227 be341 a10 Nantucketer, and236 a10 whaleman98 , you227 will584 silently533 worship48 there340 . CHAPTER293 10539 Does565 the19 Whale422 's483 Magnitude203 Diminish340 ? - Will584 He362 Perish441 ? Inasmuch110 , then45 , as113 this256 Leviathan384 comes268 floundering283 down133 upon419 us569 from316 the19 head219 -waters556 of89 the19 Eternities83 , it162 may236 be341 fitly104 inquired182 , whether454 , in107 the19 long544 course171 of89 his433 generations124 , he362 has399 not518 degenerated86 from316 the19 original463 bulk181 of89 his433 sires246 . But330 upon419 investigation43 we465 find138 , that14 not518 only517 are314 the19 whales331 of89 the19 present112 day112 superior479 in107 magnitude203 to261 those427 whose286 fossil86 remains324 are314 found260 in107 the19 Tertiary111 system480 (embracing92 a10 distinct259 geological303 period196 prior201 to261 man17 ), but330 of89 the19 whales331 found260 in107 that14 Tertiary111 system480 , those427 belonging168 to261 its234 latter497 formations203 exceed534 in107 size503 those427 of89 its234 earlier56 ones396 . Of89 all145 the19 pre-adamite269 whales331 yet443 exhumed206 , by406 far258 the19 largest139 is487 the19 Alabama175 one470 mentioned149 in107 the19 last436 chapter293 , and236 that14 was454 less261 than77 seventy156 feet349 in107 length202 in107 the19 skeleton231 . Whereas18 , we465 have254 already93 seen154 , that14 the19 tape-measure520 gives529 seventy156 -two527 feet349 for190 the19 skeleton231 of89 a10 large385 sized133 modern446 whale422 . And236 I482 have254 heard444 , on392 whalemen451 's483 authority146 , that14 Sperm26 Whales331 have254 been185 captured126 near70 a10 hundred93 feet349 long544 at65 the19 time577 of89 capture361 . But330 may236 it162 not518 be341 , that14 while55 the19 whales331 of89 the19 present112 hour384 are314 an138 advance70 in107 magnitude203 upon419 those427 of89 all145 previous376 geological303 periods24 ; may236 it162 not518 be341 , that14 since374 Adam482 's483 time577 they382 have254 degenerated86 ? Assuredly216 , we465 must226 conclude1 so281 , if141 we465 are314 to261 credit78 the19 accounts311 of89 such420 gentlemen340 as113 Pliny159 , and236 the19 ancient463 naturalists140 generally402 . For190 Pliny159 tells449 us569 of89 Whales331 that14 embraced393 acres506 of89 living117 bulk181 , and236 Aldrovandus25 of89 others317 which16 measured96 eight316 hundred93 feet349 in107 length202 -- Rope265 Walks461 and236 Thames328 Tunnels318 of89 Whales331 ! And236 even198 in107 the19 days351 of89 Banks145 and236 Solander499 , Cooke454 's483 naturalists140 , we465 find138 a10 Danish208 member333 of89 the19 Academy15 of89 Sciences76 setting151 down133 certain31 Iceland203 Whales331 (reydan-siskur, or519 Wrinkled259 Bellies192 ) at65 one470 hundred93 and236 twenty433 yards386 ; that14 is487 , three329 hundred93 and236 sixty332 feet349 . And236 Lacepede155 , the19 French491 naturalist122 , in107 his433 elaborate36 history183 of89 whales331 , in107 the19 very515 beginning188 of89 his433 work385 (page425 3212 ), sets83 down133 the19 Right499 Whale422 at65 one470 hundred93 metres83 , three329 hundred93 and236 twenty433 -eight316 feet349 . And236 this256 work385 was454 published393 so281 late351 as113 A10 .D236 . 1825125 . But330 will584 any501 whaleman98 believe191 these527 stories264 ? No235 . The19 whale422 of89 to261 -day112 is487 as113 big245 as113 his433 ancestors143 in107 Pliny159 's483 time577 . And236 if141 ever208 I482 go20 where579 Pliny159 is487 , I482 , a10 whaleman98 (more348 than77 he362 was454 ), will584 make175 bold356 to261 tell392 him248 so281 . Because540 I482 cannot understand111 how19 it162 is487 , that14 while55 the19 Egyptian358 mummies110 that14 were324 buried205 thousands7 of89 years116 before344 even198 Pliny159 was454 born236 , do353 not518 measure520 so281 much61 in107 their219 coffins259 as113 a10 modern446 Kentuckian353 in107 his433 socks479 ; and236 while55 the19 cattle264 and236 other282 animals440 sculptured161 on392 the19 oldest248 Egyptian358 and236 Nineveh375 tablets18 , by406 the19 relative310 proportions143 in107 which16 they382 are314 drawn564 , just108 as113 plainly450 prove396 that14 the19 high361 -bred128 , stall-fed461 , prize74 cattle264 of89 Smithfield27 , not518 only517 equal261 , but330 far258 exceed534 in107 magnitude203 the19 fattest403 of89 Pharaoh336 's483 fat351 kine111 ; in107 the19 face556 of89 all145 this256 , I482 will584 not518 admit321 that14 of89 all145 animals440 the19 whale422 alone2 should255 have254 degenerated86 . But330 still278 another269 inquiry339 remains324 ; one470 often227 agitated140 by406 the19 more348 recondite305 Nantucketers. Whether454 owing98 to261 the19 almost518 omniscient310 look523 -outs52 at65 the19 mast44 -heads279 of89 the19 whaleships, now20 penetrating149 even198 through295 Behring227 's483 straits273 , and236 into554 the19 remotest95 secret409 drawers350 and236 lockers98 of89 the19 world126 ; and236 the19 thousand586 harpoons6 and236 lances8 darted362 along423 all145 continental389 coasts147 ; the19 moot267 point438 is487 , whether454 Leviathan384 can450 long544 endure161 so281 wide465 a10 chase89 , and236 so281 remorseless266 a10 havoc172 ; whether454 he362 must226 not518 at65 last436 be341 exterminated94 from316 the19 waters556 , and236 the19 last436 whale422 , like410 the19 last436 man17 , smoke99 his433 last436 pipe124 , and236 then45 himself282 evaporate295 in107 the19 final357 puff82 . Comparing339 the19 humped25 herds341 of89 whales331 with449 the19 humped25 herds341 of89 buffalo299 , which16 , not518 forty525 years116 ago141 , overspread288 by406 tens367 of89 thousands7 the19 prairies155 of89 Illinois5 and236 Missouri390 , and236 shook161 their219 iron169 manes102 and236 scowled27 with449 their219 thunder356 -clotted378 brows259 upon419 the19 sites303 of89 populous4 river201 -capitals154 , where579 now20 the19 polite499 broker357 sells122 you227 land406 at65 a10 dollar501 an138 inch65 ; in107 such420 a10 comparison255 an138 irresistible214 argument195 would282 seem404 furnished201 , to261 show460 that14 the19 hunted439 whale422 cannot now20 escape565 speedy282 extinction154 . But330 you227 must226 look523 at65 this256 matter176 in107 every389 light382 . Though400 so281 short522 a10 period196 ago141 --not518 a10 good221 lifetime3 --the19 census198 of89 the19 buffalo299 in107 Illinois5 exceeded374 the19 census198 of89 men62 now20 in107 London41 , and236 though400 at65 the19 present112 day112 not518 one470 horn139 or519 hoof278 of89 them146 remains324 in107 all145 that14 region145 ; and236 though400 the19 cause220 of89 this256 wondrous30 extermination26 was454 the19 spear188 of89 man17 ; yet443 the19 far258 different276 nature159 of89 the19 whale422 -hunt418 peremptorily235 forbids314 so281 inglorious299 an138 end149 to261 the19 Leviathan384 . Forty525 men62 in107 one470 ship438 hunting45 the19 Sperm26 Whales331 for190 forty525 -eight316 months17 think424 they382 have254 done135 extremely330 well263 , and236 thank166 God185 , if141 at65 last436 they382 carry160 home450 the19 oil118 of89 forty525 fish187 . Whereas18 , in107 the19 days351 of89 the19 old447 Canadian118 and236 Indian303 hunters423 and236 trappers76 of89 the19 West569 , when189 the19 far258 west569 (in107 whose286 sunset305 suns350 still278 rise251 ) was454 a10 wilderness396 and236 a10 virgin317 , the19 same541 number196 of89 moccasined299 men62 , for190 the19 same541 number196 of89 months17 , mounted191 on392 horse409 instead398 of89 sailing232 in107 ships21 , would282 have254 slain268 not518 forty525 , but330 forty525 thousand586 and236 more348 buffaloes125 ; a10 fact12 that14 , if141 need32 were324 , could375 be341 statistically27 stated543 . Nor137 , considered484 aright366 , does565 it162 seem404 any501 argument195 in107 favor161 of89 the19 gradual425 extinction154 of89 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 , for190 example479 , that14 in107 former157 years116 (the19 latter497 part207 of89 the19 last436 century149 , say306 ) these527 Leviathans336 , in107 small350 pods25 , were324 encountered102 much61 oftener222 than77 at65 present112 , and236 , in107 consequence111 , the19 voyages368 were324 not518 so281 prolonged246 , and236 were324 also119 much61 more348 remunerative282 . Because540 , as113 has399 been185 elsewhere154 noticed157 , those427 whales331 , influenced70 by406 some265 views67 to261 safety388 , now20 swim226 the19 seas350 in107 immense301 caravans18 , so281 that14 to261 a10 large385 degree209 the19 scattered17 solitaries83 , yokes146 , and236 pods25 , and236 schools50 of89 other282 days351 are314 now20 aggregated204 into554 vast43 but330 widely171 separated384 , unfrequent371 armies50 . That14 is487 all145 . And236 equally336 fallacious282 seems19 the19 conceit58 , that14 because540 the19 so281 -called237 whale422 -bone184 whales331 no235 longer559 haunt137 many282 grounds448 in107 former157 years116 abounding143 with449 them146 , hence503 that14 species69 also119 is487 declining225 . For190 they382 are314 only517 being264 driven228 from316 promontory273 to261 cape23 ; and236 if141 one470 coast287 is487 no235 longer559 enlivened296 with449 their219 jets6 , then45 , be341 sure41 , some265 other282 and236 remoter20 strand171 has399 been185 very515 recently128 startled475 by406 the19 unfamiliar397 spectacle250 . Furthermore181 : concerning368 these527 last436 mentioned149 Leviathans336 , they382 have254 two527 firm415 fortresses19 , which16 , in107 all145 human43 probability377 , will584 for190 ever208 remain326 impregnable410 . And236 as113 upon419 the19 invasion343 of89 their219 valleys289 , the19 frosty58 Swiss115 have254 retreated173 to261 their219 mountains202 ; so281 , hunted439 from316 the19 savannas41 and236 glades83 of89 the19 middle39 seas350 , the19 whale422 -bone184 whales331 can450 at65 last436 resort425 to261 their219 Polar25 citadels110 , and236 diving279 under533 the19 ultimate221 glassy489 barriers303 and236 walls116 there340 , come420 up405 among483 icy155 fields64 and236 floes248 ! and236 in107 a10 charmed542 circle282 of89 everlasting249 December490 , bid171 defiance32 to261 all145 pursuit305 from316 man17 . But330 as113 perhaps75 fifty406 of89 these527 whale422 -bone184 whales331 are314 harpooned290 for190 one470 cachalot4 , some265 philosophers529 of89 the19 forecastle367 have254 concluded157 that14 this256 positive31 havoc172 has399 already93 very515 seriously378 diminished163 their219 battalions162 . But330 though400 for190 some265 time577 past111 a10 number196 of89 these527 whales331 , not518 less261 than77 13128 ,000447 , have254 been185 annually146 slain268 on392 the19 nor137 'west569 coast287 by406 the19 Americans81 alone2 ; yet443 there340 are314 considerations88 which16 render509 even198 this256 circumstance407 of89 little554 or519 no235 account102 as113 an138 opposing402 argument195 in107 this256 matter176 . Natural298 as113 it162 is487 to261 be341 somewhat77 incredulous361 concerning368 the19 populousness69 of89 the19 more348 enormous327 creatures5 of89 the19 globe23 , yet443 what243 shall66 we465 say306 to261 Harto164 , the19 historian147 of89 Goa97 , when189 he362 tells449 us569 that14 at65 one470 hunting45 the19 King324 of89 Siam332 took68 4489 ,000241 elephants452 ; that14 in107 those427 regions320 elephants452 are314 numerous558 as113 droves27 of89 cattle264 in107 the19 temperate241 climes348 . And236 there340 seems19 no235 reason238 to261 doubt71 that14 if141 these527 elephants452 , which16 have254 now20 been185 hunted439 for190 thousands7 of89 years116 , by406 Semiramis364 , by406 Porus290 , by406 Hannibal301 , and236 by406 all145 the19 successive423 monarchs93 of89 the19 East524 -- if141 they382 still278 survive308 there340 in107 great259 numbers285 , much61 more348 may236 the19 great259 whale422 outlast426 all145 hunting45 , since374 he362 has399 a10 pasture330 to261 expatiate125 in107 , which16 is487 precisely217 twice366 as113 large385 as113 all145 Asia112 , both558 Americas265 , Europe153 and236 Africa269 , New36 Holland173 , and236 all145 the19 Isles425 of89 the19 sea67 combined265 . Moreover326 : we465 are314 to261 consider259 , that14 from316 the19 presumed300 great259 longevity31 of89 whales331 , their219 probably244 attaining399 the19 age157 of89 a10 century149 and236 more348 , therefore94 at65 any501 one470 period196 of89 time577 , several479 distinct259 adult305 generations124 must226 be341 contemporary145 . And236 what243 this256 is487 , we465 may236 soon18 gain101 some265 idea250 of89 , by406 imagining18 all145 the19 grave344 -yards386 , cemeteries397 , and236 family347 vaults293 of89 creation182 yielding345 up405 the19 live554 bodies392 of89 all145 the19 men62 , women275 , and236 children374 who319 were324 alive298 seventy156 -five13 years116 ago141 ; and236 adding169 this256 countless111 host5 to261 the19 present112 human43 population4 of89 the19 globe23 . Wherefore220 , for190 all145 these527 things4 , we465 account102 the19 whale422 immortal15 in107 his433 species69 , however44 perishable4 in107 his433 individuality15 . He362 swam111 the19 seas350 before344 the19 continents155 broke356 water520 ; he362 once248 swam111 over82 the19 site273 of89 the19 Tuileries264 , and236 Windsor484 Castle271 , and236 the19 Kremlin322 . In107 Noah69 's483 flood167 he362 despised235 Noah69 's483 Ark25 ; and236 if141 ever208 the19 world126 is487 to261 be341 again52 flooded549 , like410 the19 Netherlands518 , to261 kill219 off111 its234 rats127 , then45 the19 eternal155 whale422 will584 still278 survive308 , and236 rearing251 upon419 the19 topmost346 crest445 of89 the19 equatorial105 flood167 , spout224 his433 frothed51 defiance32 to261 the19 skies30 . CHAPTER293 106305 Ahab232 's483 Leg331 The19 precipitating354 manner153 in107 which16 Captain295 Ahab232 had364 quitted137 the19 Samuel77 Enderby283 of89 London41 , had364 not518 been185 unattended359 with449 some265 small350 violence486 to261 his433 own248 person550 . He362 had364 lighted422 with449 such420 energy182 upon419 a10 thwart76 of89 his433 boat439 that14 his433 ivory76 leg331 had364 received12 a10 half119 -splintering shock44 . And236 when189 after358 gaining225 his433 own248 deck505 , and236 his433 own248 pivot-hole73 there340 , he362 so281 vehemently201 wheeled542 round287 with449 an138 urgent398 command190 to261 the19 steersman290 (it162 was454 , as113 ever208 , something181 about123 his433 not518 steering252 inflexibly125 enough217 ); then45 , the19 already93 shaken23 ivory76 received12 such420 an138 additional131 twist30 and236 wrench160 , that14 though400 it162 still278 remained72 entire230 , and236 to261 all145 appearances14 lusty282 , yet443 Ahab232 did444 not518 deem126 it162 entirely148 trustworthy303 . And236 , indeed522 , it162 seemed132 small350 matter176 for190 wonder76 , that14 for190 all145 his433 pervading140 , mad235 recklessness34 , Ahab232 , did444 at65 times121 give142 careful252 heed163 to261 the19 condition62 of89 that14 dead568 bone184 upon419 which16 he362 partly311 stood1 . For190 it162 had364 not518 been185 very515 long544 prior201 to261 the19 Pequod288 's483 sailing232 from316 Nantucket283 , that14 he362 had364 been185 found260 one470 night108 lying204 prone388 upon419 the19 ground127 , and236 insensible173 ; by406 some265 unknown10 , and236 seemingly261 inexplicable367 , unimaginable192 casualty347 , his433 ivory76 limb43 having69 been185 so281 violently340 displaced354 , that14 it162 had364 stake156 -wise16 smitten83 , and236 all145 but330 pierced197 his433 groin227 ; nor137 was454 it162 without309 extreme31 difficulty263 that14 the19 agonizing41 wound342 was454 entirely148 cured471 . Nor137 , at65 the19 time577 , had364 it162 failed564 to261 enter204 his433 monomaniac336 mind118 , that14 all145 the19 anguish75 of89 that14 then45 present112 suffering543 was454 but330 the19 direct314 issue117 of89 a10 former157 woe295 ; and236 he362 too11 plainly450 seemed132 to261 see370 , that14 as113 the19 most216 poisonous288 reptile242 of89 the19 marsh63 perpetuates445 his433 kind451 as113 inevitably127 as113 the19 sweetest115 songster248 of89 the19 grove263 ; so281 , equally336 with449 every389 felicity259 , all145 miserable364 events390 do353 naturally362 beget415 their219 like410 . Yea204 , more348 than77 equally336 , thought186 Ahab232 ; since374 both558 the19 ancestry147 and236 posterity447 of89 Grief318 go20 further53 than77 the19 ancestry147 and236 posterity447 of89 Joy430 . For190 , not518 to261 hint335 of89 this256 : that14 it162 is487 an138 inference292 from316 certain31 canonic285 teachings396 , that14 while55 some265 natural298 enjoyments263 here135 shall66 have254 no235 children374 born236 to261 them146 for190 the19 other282 world126 , but330 , on392 the19 contrary166 , shall66 be341 followed234 by406 the19 joy430 -childlessness of89 all145 hell169 's483 despair187 ; whereas18 , some265 guilty290 mortal371 miseries237 shall66 still278 fertilely beget415 to261 themselves510 an138 eternally86 progressive173 progeny196 of89 griefs218 beyond421 the19 grave344 ; not518 at65 all145 to261 hint335 of89 this256 , there340 still278 seems19 an138 inequality431 in107 the19 deeper253 analysis444 of89 the19 thing309 . For190 , thought186 Ahab232 , while55 even198 the19 highest575 earthly64 felicities29 ever208 have254 a10 certain31 unsignifying pettiness214 lurking89 in107 them146 , but330 , at65 bottom461 , all145 heartwoes, a10 mystic455 significance330 , and236 , in107 some265 men62 , an138 archangelic22 grandeur436 ; so281 do353 their219 diligent51 tracings-out66 not518 belie119 the19 obvious147 deduction233 . To261 trail3 the19 genealogies409 of89 these527 high361 mortal371 miseries237 , carries440 us569 at65 last436 among483 the19 sourceless primogenitures of89 the19 gods325 ; so281 that14 , in107 the19 face556 of89 all145 the19 glad356 , hay515 -making415 suns350 , and236 softcymballing, round287 harvest38 -moons51 , we465 must226 needs41 give142 in107 to261 this256 : that14 the19 gods325 themselves510 are314 not518 for190 ever208 glad356 . The19 ineffaceable83 , sad341 birth215 -mark202 in107 the19 brow474 of89 man17 , is487 but330 the19 stamp292 of89 sorrow174 in107 the19 signers402 . Unwittingly413 here135 a10 secret409 has399 been185 divulged13 , which16 perhaps75 might496 more348 properly93 , in107 set422 way435 , have254 been185 disclosed446 before344 . With449 many282 other282 particulars230 concerning368 Ahab232 , always367 had364 it162 remained72 a10 mystery254 to261 some265 , why177 it162 was454 , that14 for190 a10 certain31 period196 , both558 before344 and236 after358 the19 sailing232 of89 the19 Pequod288 , he362 had364 hidden78 himself282 away443 with449 such420 Grand229 -Lama-like410 exclusiveness95 ; and236 , for190 that14 one470 interval114 , sought82 speechless225 refuge154 , as113 it162 were324 , among483 the19 marble364 senate256 of89 the19 dead568 . Captain295 Peleg375 's483 bruited203 reason238 for190 this256 thing309 appeared88 by406 no235 means502 adequate209 ; though400 , indeed522 , as113 touching80 all145 Ahab232 's483 deeper253 part207 , every389 revelation104 partook256 more348 of89 significant143 darkness493 than77 of89 explanatory514 light382 . But330 , in107 the19 end149 , it162 all145 came549 out66 ; this256 one470 matter176 did444 , at65 least453 . That14 direful137 mishap116 was454 at65 the19 bottom461 of89 his433 temporary235 recluseness. And236 not518 only517 this256 , but330 to261 that14 ever208 -contracting521 , dropping279 circle282 ashore122 , who319 for190 any501 reason238 , possessed95 the19 privilege414 of89 a10 less261 banned133 approach23 to261 him248 ; to261 that14 timid197 circle282 the19 above502 hinted253 casualty347 --remaining64 , as113 it162 did444 , moodily174 unaccounted8 for190 by406 Ahab232 --invested60 itself312 with449 terrors192 , not518 entirely148 underived from316 the19 land406 of89 spirits471 and236 of89 wails364 . So281 that14 , through295 their219 zeal57 for190 him248 , they382 had364 all145 conspired83 , so281 far258 as113 in107 them146 lay62 , to261 muffle401 up405 the19 knowledge270 of89 this256 thing309 from316 others317 ; and236 hence503 it162 was454 , that14 not518 till181 a10 considerable75 interval114 had364 elapsed172 , did444 it162 transpire138 upon419 the19 Pequod288 's483 decks386 . But330 be341 all145 this256 as113 it162 may236 ; let66 the19 unseen173 , ambiguous46 synod208 in107 the19 air209 , or519 the19 vindictive35 princes183 and236 potentates256 of89 fire559 , have254 to261 do353 or519 not518 with449 earthly64 Ahab232 , yet443 , in107 this256 present112 matter176 of89 his433 leg331 , he362 took68 plain28 practical74 procedures357 ;-- he362 called237 the19 carpenter262 . And236 when189 that14 functionary166 appeared88 before344 him248 , he362 bade411 him248 without309 delay309 set422 about123 making415 a10 new36 leg331 , and236 directed498 the19 mates264 to261 see370 him248 supplied338 with449 all145 the19 studs54 and236 joists311 of89 jaw213 -ivory76 (Sperm26 Whale422 ) which16 had364 thus362 far258 been185 accumulated236 on392 the19 voyage137 , in107 order343 that14 a10 careful252 selection143 of89 the19 stoutest480 , clearest-grained stuff471 might496 be341 secured284 . This256 done135 , the19 carpenter262 received12 orders199 to261 have254 the19 leg331 completed102 that14 night108 ; and236 to261 provide172 all145 the19 fittings25 for190 it162 , independent330 of89 those427 pertaining375 to261 the19 distrusted136 one470 in107 use176 . Moreover326 , the19 ship438 's483 forge218 was454 ordered143 to261 be341 hoisted367 out66 of89 its234 temporary235 idleness191 in107 the19 hold204 ; and236 , to261 accelerate93 the19 affair388 , the19 blacksmith149 was454 commanded571 to261 proceed367 at65 once248 to261 the19 forging246 of89 whatever38 iron169 contrivances99 might496 be341 needed133 . CHAPTER293 107401 The19 Carpenter262 Seat88 thyself402 sultanically among483 the19 moons51 of89 Saturn84 , and236 take279 high361 abstracted320 man17 alone2 ; and236 he362 seems19 a10 wonder76 , a10 grandeur436 , and236 a10 woe295 . But330 from316 the19 same541 point438 , take279 mankind40 in107 mass36 , and236 for190 the19 most216 part207 , they382 seem404 a10 mob308 of89 unnecessary444 duplicates19 , both558 contemporary145 and236 hereditary125 . But330 most216 humble105 though400 he362 was454 , and236 far258 from316 furnishing471 an138 example479 of89 the19 high361 , humane365 abstraction124 ; the19 Pequod288 's483 carpenter262 was454 no235 duplicate294 ; hence503 , he362 now20 comes268 in107 person550 on392 this256 stage22 . Like410 all145 sea67 -going227 ship438 carpenters185 , and236 more348 especially371 those427 belonging168 to261 whaling155 vessels150 , he362 was454 , to261 a10 certain31 off111 -hand252 , practical74 extent144 , alike122 experienced93 in107 numerous558 trades111 and236 callings518 collateral203 to261 his433 own248 ; the19 carpenter262 's483 pursuit305 being264 the19 ancient463 and236 outbranching trunk389 of89 all145 those427 numerous558 handicrafts201 which16 more348 or519 less261 have254 to261 do353 with449 wood46 as113 an138 auxiliary103 material161 . But330 , besides465 the19 application258 to261 him248 of89 the19 generic152 remark325 above502 , this256 carpenter262 of89 the19 Pequod288 was454 singularly389 efficient53 in107 those427 thousand586 nameless427 mechanical31 emergencies183 continually303 recurring252 in107 a10 large385 ship438 , upon419 a10 three329 or519 four175 years116 ' voyage137 , in107 uncivilized163 and236 far258 -distant102 seas350 . For190 not518 to261 speak337 of89 his433 readiness420 in107 ordinary225 duties137 :-- repairing51 stove373 boats83 , sprung376 spars15 , reforming350 the19 shape99 of89 clumsy394 -bladed oars398 , inserting357 bull76 's483 eyes125 in107 the19 deck505 , or519 new36 tree482 -nails174 in107 the19 side246 planks284 , and236 other282 miscellaneous557 matters515 more348 directly58 pertaining375 to261 his433 special326 business168 ; he362 was454 moreover326 unhesitatingly279 expert441 in107 all145 manner153 of89 conflicting6 aptitudes165 , both558 useful212 and236 capricious6 . The19 one470 grand229 stage22 where579 he362 enacted267 all145 his433 various183 parts470 so281 manifold14 , was454 his433 vice443 -bench80 ; a10 long544 rude474 ponderous213 table572 furnished201 with449 several479 vices125 , of89 different276 sizes456 , and236 both558 of89 iron169 and236 of89 wood46 . At65 all145 times121 except545 when189 whales331 were324 alongside540 , this256 bench80 was454 securely342 lashed97 athwartships98 against417 the19 rear252 of89 the19 Try266 -works64 . A10 belaying101 pin486 is487 found260 too11 large385 to261 be341 easily45 inserted102 into554 its234 hole73 : the19 carpenter262 claps468 it162 into554 one470 of89 his433 ever208 ready464 vices125 , and236 straightway210 files225 it162 smaller236 . A10 lost308 landbird of89 strange440 plumage206 strays262 on392 board540 , and236 is487 made563 a10 captive401 : out66 of89 clean26 shaved446 rods242 of89 right499 -whale422 bone184 , and236 cross416 -beams523 of89 sperm26 whale422 ivory76 , the19 carpenter262 makes32 a10 pagoda354 -looking318 cage41 for190 it162 . An138 oarsman60 sprains212 his433 wrist117 : the19 carpenter262 concocts183 a10 soothing60 lotion479 . Stubb longed51 for190 vermillion197 stars286 to261 be341 painted340 upon419 the19 blade83 of89 his433 every389 oar61 ; screwing284 each520 oar61 in107 his433 big245 vice443 of89 wood46 , the19 carpenter262 symmetrically557 supplies169 the19 constellation246 . A10 sailor561 takes362 a10 fancy396 to261 wear250 shark4 -bone184 ear515 -rings25 : the19 carpenter262 drills209 his433 ears560 . Another269 has399 the19 toothache191 : the19 carpenter262 out66 pincers398 , and236 clapping152 one470 hand252 upon419 his433 bench80 bids572 him248 be341 seated158 there340 ; but330 the19 poor533 fellow369 unmanageably7 winces330 under533 the19 unconcluded31 operation261 ; whirling122 round287 the19 handle546 of89 his433 wooden35 vice443 , the19 carpenter262 signs211 him248 to261 clap225 his433 jaw213 in107 that14 , if141 he362 would282 have254 him248 draw106 the19 tooth108 . Thus362 , this256 carpenter262 was454 prepared59 at65 all145 points245 , and236 alike122 indifferent255 and236 without309 respect441 in107 all145 . Teeth82 he362 accounted480 bits256 of89 ivory76 ; heads366 he362 deemed17 but330 top70 -blocks6 ; men62 themselves510 he362 lightly284 held212 for190 capstans8 . But330 while55 now20 upon419 so281 wide465 a10 field275 thus362 variously215 accomplished225 and236 with449 such420 liveliness284 of89 expertness295 in107 him248 , too11 ; all145 this256 would282 seem404 to261 argue69 some265 uncommon88 vivacity29 of89 intelligence30 . But330 not518 precisely217 so281 . For190 nothing324 was454 this256 man17 more348 remarkable381 , than77 for190 a10 certain31 impersonal86 stolidity136 as113 it162 were324 ; impersonal86 , I482 say306 ; for190 it162 so281 shaded366 off111 into554 the19 surrounding398 infinite503 of89 things4 , that14 it162 seemed132 one470 with449 the19 general37 stolidity136 discernible136 in107 the19 whole199 visible94 world126 ; which16 while55 pauselessly active54 in107 uncounted391 modes243 , still278 eternally86 holds92 its234 peace216 , and236 ignores41 you227 , though400 you227 dig89 foundations499 for190 cathedrals214 . Yet443 was454 this256 half119 -horrible398 stolidity136 in107 him248 , involving360 , too11 , as113 it162 appeared88 , an138 all145 -ramifying heartlessness250 ;-- yet443 was454 it162 oddly25 dashed304 at65 times121 , with449 an138 old447 , crutch-like410 , antediluvian212 , wheezing60 humorousness210 , not518 unstreaked22 now20 and236 then45 with449 a10 certain31 grizzled34 wittiness4 ; such420 as113 might496 have254 served460 to261 pass153 the19 time577 during309 the19 midnight539 watch89 on392 the19 bearded364 forecastle367 of89 Noah69 's483 ark25 . Was454 it162 that14 this256 old447 carpenter262 had364 been185 a10 life71 -long544 wanderer499 , whose286 much61 rolling253 , to261 and236 fro183 , not518 only517 had364 gathered165 no235 moss83 ; but330 what243 is487 more348 , had364 rubbed14 off111 whatever38 small350 outward393 clingings might496 have254 originally367 pertained83 to261 him248 ? He362 was454 a10 stript292 abstract439 ; an138 unfractioned integral336 ; uncompromised136 as113 a10 new36 -born320 babe251 ; living117 without309 premeditated27 reference116 to261 this256 world126 or519 the19 next27 . You227 might496 almost518 say306 , that14 this256 strange440 uncompromisedness in107 him248 involved149 a10 sort42 of89 unintelligence188 ; for190 in107 his433 numerous558 trades111 , he362 did444 not518 seem404 to261 work385 so281 much61 by406 reason238 or519 by406 instinct72 , or519 simply142 because540 he362 had364 been185 tutored75 to261 it162 , or519 by406 any501 intermixture25 of89 all145 these527 , even198 or519 uneven434 ; but330 merely57 by406 a10 kind451 of89 deaf375 and236 dumb371 , spontaneous264 literal426 process29 . He362 was454 a10 pure61 manipulator214 ; his433 brain158 , if141 he362 had364 ever208 had364 one470 , must226 have254 early92 oozed10 along423 into554 the19 muscles101 of89 his433 fingers345 . He362 was454 like410 one470 of89 those427 unreasoning107 but330 still278 highly52 useful212 , multum215 in107 parvo165 , Sheffield25 contrivances99 , assuming330 the19 exterior451 -- though400 a10 little554 swelled213 --of89 a10 common304 pocket461 knife503 ; but330 containing247 , not518 only517 blades141 of89 various183 sizes456 , but330 also119 screw243 -drivers, cork4 -screws205 , tweezers105 , awls278 , pens307 , rulers513 , nail367 -filers, countersinkers. So281 , if141 his433 superiors38 wanted85 to261 use176 the19 carpenter262 for190 a10 screw243 -driver19 , all145 they382 had364 to261 do353 was454 to261 open464 that14 part207 of89 him248 , and236 the19 screw243 was454 fast208 : or519 if141 for190 tweezers105 , take279 him248 up405 by406 the19 legs108 , and236 there340 they382 were324 . Yet443 , as113 previously250 hinted253 , this256 omnitooled, open464 -and236 -shut59 carpenter262 , was454 , after358 all145 , no235 mere393 machine487 of89 an138 automaton58 . If141 he362 did444 not518 have254 a10 common304 soul428 in107 him248 , he362 had364 a10 subtle143 something181 that14 somehow425 anomalously did444 its234 duty468 . What243 that14 was454 , whether454 essence13 of89 quicksilver51 , or519 a10 few49 drops6 of89 hartshorn320 , there340 is487 no235 telling196 . But330 there340 it162 was454 ; and236 there340 it162 had364 abided491 for190 now20 some265 sixty332 years116 or519 more348 . And236 this256 it162 was454 , this256 same541 unaccountable316 , cunning198 life71 -principle420 in107 him248 ; this256 it162 was454 , that14 kept290 him248 a10 great259 part207 of89 the19 time577 soliloquizing70 ; but330 only517 like410 an138 unreasoning107 wheel135 , which16 also119 hummingly soliloquizes157 ; or519 rather178 , his433 body348 was454 a10 sentry364 -box226 and236 this256 soliloquizer on392 guard205 there340 , and236 talking513 all145 the19 time577 to261 keep381 himself282 awake255 . CHAPTER293 10837 Ahab232 and236 the19 Carpenter262 The19 Deck505 - First13 Night108 Watch89 (Carpenter262 standing144 before344 his433 vice443 -bench80 , and236 by406 the19 light382 of89 two527 lanterns362 busily181 filing347 the19 ivory76 joist279 for190 the19 leg331 , which16 joist279 is487 firmly308 fixed564 in107 the19 vice443 . Slabs231 of89 ivory76 , leather303 straps86 , pads259 , screws205 , and236 various183 tools21 of89 all145 sorts354 lying204 about123 the19 bench80 . Forward364 , the19 red293 flame113 of89 the19 forge218 is487 seen154 , where579 the19 blacksmith149 is487 at65 work385 .) Drat235 the19 file322 , and236 drat235 the19 bone184 ! That14 is487 hard337 which16 should255 be341 soft226 , and236 that14 is487 soft226 which16 should255 be341 hard337 . So281 we465 go20 , who319 file322 old447 jaws341 and236 shin379 bones5 . Let66 's483 try266 another269 . Aye86 , now20 , this256 works64 better34 (sneezes89 ). Halloa83 , this256 bone184 dust434 is487 (sneezes89 )--why177 it162 's483 (sneezes89 )--yes143 it162 's483 (sneezes89 )--bless128 my36 soul428 , it162 won't500 let66 me2 speak337 ! This256 is487 what243 an138 old447 fellow369 gets27 now20 for190 working113 in107 dead568 lumber314 . Saw113 a10 live554 tree482 , and236 you227 don280 't500 get126 this256 dust434 ; amputate191 a10 live554 bone184 , and236 you227 don280 't500 get126 it162 (sneezes89 ). Come420 , come420 , you227 old447 Smut468 , there340 , bear48 a10 hand252 , and236 let66 's483 have254 that14 ferrule57 and236 buckle65 -screw243 ; I482 'll300 be341 ready464 for190 them146 presently166 . Lucky439 now20 (sneezes89 ) there340 's483 no235 knee235 -joint65 to261 make175 ; that14 might496 puzzle364 a10 little554 ; but330 a10 mere393 shin379 -bone157 --why177 it162 's483 easy281 as113 making415 hop559 -poles122 ; only517 I482 should255 like410 to261 put190 a10 good221 finish28 on392 . Time577 , time577 ; if141 I482 but330 only517 had364 the19 time577 , I482 could375 turn17 him248 out66 as113 neat163 a10 leg331 now20 as113 ever208 (sneezes89 ) scraped122 to261 a10 lady14 in107 a10 parlor522 . Those427 buckskin197 legs108 and236 calves21 of89 legs108 I482 've149 seen154 in107 shop245 windows115 wouldn't500 compare184 at65 all145 . They382 soak437 water520 , they382 do353 ; and236 of89 course171 get126 rheumatic238 , and236 have254 to261 be341 doctored406 (sneezes89 ) with449 washes169 and236 lotions484 , just108 like410 live554 legs108 . There340 ; before344 I482 saw113 it162 off111 , now20 , I482 must226 call259 his433 old447 Mogulship, and236 see370 whether454 the19 length202 will584 be341 all145 right499 ; too11 short522 , if141 anything480 , I482 guess304 . Ha387 ! that14 's76 the19 heel105 ; we465 are314 in107 luck453 ; here135 he362 comes268 , or519 it162 's483 somebody387 else212 , that14 's76 certain31 . AHAB232 (advancing444 ) (During309 the19 ensuing74 scene228 , the19 carpenter262 continues540 sneezing413 at65 times121 ). Well263 , manmaker27 ! Just108 in107 time577 , sir271 . If141 the19 captain295 pleases437 , I482 will584 now20 mark169 the19 length202 . Let66 me2 measure520 , sir271 . Measured96 for190 a10 leg331 ! good221 . Well263 , it162 's483 not518 the19 first13 time577 . About123 it162 ! There340 ; keep381 thy43 finger190 on392 it162 . This256 is487 a10 cogent222 vice443 thou173 hast174 here135 , carpenter262 ; let66 me2 feel461 its234 grip133 once248 . So281 , so281 ; it162 does565 pinch212 some265 . Oh367 , sir271 , it162 will584 break483 bones5 --beware255 , beware255 ! No235 fear103 ; I482 like410 a10 good221 grip133 ; I482 like410 to261 feel461 something181 in107 this256 slippery204 world126 that14 can450 hold204 , man17 . What243 's483 Prometheus170 about123 there340 ?-- the19 blacksmith149 , I482 mean504 --what243 's483 he362 about123 ? He362 must226 be341 forging246 the19 buckle65 -screw243 , sir271 , now20 . Right499 . It162 's483 a10 partnership476 ; he362 supplies169 the19 muscle246 part207 . He362 makes32 a10 fierce394 red293 flame113 there340 ! Aye86 , sir271 ; he362 must226 have254 the19 white82 heat218 for190 this256 kind451 of89 fine333 work385 . Um13 -m. So281 he362 must226 . I482 do353 deem126 it162 now20 a10 most216 meaning62 thing309 , that14 that14 old447 Greek261 , Prometheus170 , who319 made563 men62 , they382 say306 , should255 have254 been185 a10 blacksmith149 , and236 animated143 them146 with449 fire559 ; for190 what243 's483 made563 in107 fire559 must226 properly93 belong243 to261 fire559 ; and236 so281 hell169 's483 probable213 . How19 the19 soot192 flies419 ! This256 must226 be341 the19 remainder270 the19 Greek261 made563 the19 Africans125 of89 . Carpenter262 , when189 he362 's483 through295 with449 that14 buckle65 , tell392 him248 to261 forge218 a10 pair106 of89 steel184 shoulder168 -blades248 ; there340 's483 a10 pedlar476 aboard298 with449 a10 crushing475 pack294 . Sir271 ? Hold204 ; while55 Prometheus170 is487 about123 it162 , I482 'll300 order343 a10 complete191 man17 after358 a10 desirable277 pattern397 . Imprimis364 , fifty406 feet349 high361 in107 his433 socks479 ; then45 , chest98 modelled124 after358 the19 Thames328 Tunnel86 then45 , legs108 with449 roots263 to261 'em, to261 stay238 in107 one470 place107 ; then45 , arms536 three329 feet349 through295 the19 wrist117 ; no235 heart470 at65 all145 , brass63 forehead380 , and236 about123 a10 quarter6 of89 an138 acre279 of89 fine333 brains279 ; and236 let66 me2 see370 --shall66 I482 order343 eyes125 to261 see370 outwards259 ? No235 , but330 put190 a10 sky331 -light382 on392 top70 of89 his433 head219 to261 illuminate243 inwards317 . There340 , take279 the19 order343 , and236 away443 . Now20 , what243 's483 he362 speaking22 about123 , and236 who319 's483 he362 speaking22 to261 , I482 should255 like410 to261 know60 ? Shall66 I482 keep381 standing144 here135 ? (aside408 .) 'Tis but330 indifferent255 architecture443 to261 make175 a10 blind375 dome125 ; here135 's483 one470 . No235 , no235 , no235 ; I482 must226 have254 a10 lantern220 . Ho31 , ho31 ! That14 's76 it162 , hey382 ? Here135 are314 two527 , sir271 ; one470 will584 serve269 my36 turn17 . What243 art462 thou173 thrusting100 that14 thief-catcher166 into554 my36 face556 for190 , man17 ? Thrusted113 light382 is487 worse561 than77 presented320 pistols213 . I482 thought186 , sir271 , that14 you227 spoke185 to261 carpenter262 . Carpenter262 ? why177 that14 's76 --but330 no235 ;--a10 very515 tidy225 , and236 , I482 may236 say306 , an138 extremely330 gentlemanlike449 sort42 of89 business168 thou173 art462 in107 here135 , carpenter262 ;--or519 would282 'st193 thou173 rather178 work385 in107 clay370 ? Sir271 ?--Clay370 ? clay370 , sir271 ? That14 's76 mud340 ; we465 leave450 clay370 to261 ditchers263 , sir271 . The19 fellow369 's483 impious15 ! What243 art462 thou173 sneezing413 about123 ? Bone184 is487 rather178 dusty271 , sir271 . Take279 the19 hint335 , then45 ; and236 when189 thou173 art462 dead568 , never206 bury354 thyself402 under533 living117 people482 's483 noses261 . Sir271 ?--oh367 ! ah132 !--I482 guess304 so281 ; so281 ;--yes143 , yes143 --oh367 dear333 ! Look523 ye483 , carpenter262 , I482 dare11 say306 thou173 callest375 thyself402 a10 right499 good221 workmanlike364 workman94 , eh76 ? Well263 , then45 , will584 it162 speak337 thoroughly4 well263 for190 thy43 work385 , if141 , when189 I482 come420 to261 mount34 this256 leg331 thou173 makest486 , I482 shall66 nevertheless104 feel461 another269 leg331 in107 the19 same541 identical351 place107 with449 it162 ; that14 is487 , carpenter262 , my36 old447 lost308 leg331 ; the19 flesh331 and236 blood208 one470 , I482 mean504 . Canst502 thou173 not518 drive548 that14 old447 Adam482 away443 ? Truly530 , sir271 , I482 begin183 to261 understand111 somewhat77 now20 . Yes143 , I482 have254 heard444 something181 curious264 on392 that14 score124 , sir271 ; how19 that14 a10 dismasted331 man17 never206 entirely148 loses125 the19 feeling384 of89 his433 old447 spar14 , but330 it162 will584 be341 still278 pricking490 him248 at65 times121 . May236 I482 humbly160 ask238 if141 it162 be341 really406 so281 , sir271 ? It162 is487 , man17 . Look523 , put190 thy43 live554 leg331 here135 in107 the19 place107 where579 mine482 once248 was454 ; so281 , now20 , here135 is487 only517 one470 distinct259 leg331 to261 the19 eye220 , yet443 two527 to261 the19 soul428 . Where579 thou173 feelest220 tingling14 life71 ; there340 , exactly315 there340 , there340 to261 a10 hair237 , do353 I482 . Is487 't500 a10 riddle41 ? I482 should255 humbly160 call259 it162 a10 poser201 , sir271 . Hist117 , then45 . How19 dost306 thou173 know60 that14 some265 entire230 , living117 , thinking385 thing309 may236 not518 be341 invisibly552 and236 uninterpenetratingly standing144 precisely217 where579 thou173 now20 standest461 ; aye86 , and236 standing144 there340 in107 thy43 spite431 ? In107 thy43 most216 solitary407 hours127 , then45 , dost306 thou173 not518 fear103 eavesdroppers294 ? Hold204 , don280 't500 speak337 ! And236 if141 I482 still278 feel461 the19 smart210 of89 my36 crushed197 leg331 , though400 it162 be341 now20 so281 long544 dissolved538 ; then45 , why177 mayest75 not518 thou173 , carpenter262 , feel461 the19 fiery42 pains97 of89 hell169 for190 ever208 , and236 without309 a10 body348 ? Hah318 ! Good221 Lord106 ! Truly530 , sir271 , if141 it162 comes268 to261 that14 , I482 must226 calculate325 over82 again52 ; I482 think424 I482 didn't500 carry160 a10 small350 figure55 , sir271 . Look523 ye483 , pudding176 -heads366 should255 never206 grant328 premises143 .--How19 long544 before344 this256 leg331 is487 done135 ? Perhaps75 an138 hour384 , sir271 . Bungle167 away443 at65 it162 then45 , and236 bring173 it162 to261 me2 (turns136 to261 go20 ). Oh367 , Life71 . Here135 I482 am375 , proud108 as113 Greek261 god185 , and236 yet443 standing144 debtor104 to261 this256 blockhead25 for190 a10 bone184 to261 stand530 on392 ! Cursed441 be341 that14 mortal371 inter-indebtedness which16 will584 not518 do353 away443 with449 ledgers445 . I482 would282 be341 free483 as113 air209 ; and236 I482 'm250 down133 in107 the19 whole199 world126 's483 books525 . I482 am375 so281 rich531 , I482 could375 have254 given141 bid171 for190 bid171 with449 the19 wealthiest136 Praetorians24 at65 the19 auction22 of89 the19 Roman333 empire390 (which16 was454 the19 world126 's483 ); and236 yet443 I482 owe511 for190 the19 flesh331 in107 the19 tongue375 I482 brag58 with449 . By406 heavens494 ! I482 'll300 get126 a10 crucible83 , and236 into554 it162 , and236 dissolve36 myself99 down133 to261 one470 small350 , compendious225 vertebra55 . So281 . Carpenter262 ( resuming283 his433 work385 ). Well263 , well263 , well263 ! Stubb knows286 him248 best315 of89 all145 , and236 Stubb always367 says424 he362 's483 queer156 ; says424 nothing324 but330 that14 one470 sufficient124 little554 word486 queer156 ; he362 's483 queer156 , says424 Stubb; he362 's483 queer156 --queer156 , queer156 ; and236 keeps20 dinning64 it162 into554 Mr219 . Starbuck all145 the19 time577 --queer156 --sir271 --queer156 , queer156 , very515 queer156 . And236 here135 's483 his433 leg331 . Yes143 , now20 that14 I482 think424 of89 it162 , here135 's483 his433 bed273 -fellow369 ! has399 a10 stick50 of89 whale422 's483 jaw213 -bone278 for190 a10 wife37 ! And236 this256 is487 his433 leg331 ; he362 'll300 stand530 on392 this256 . What243 was454 that14 now20 about123 one470 leg331 standing144 in107 three329 places423 , and236 all145 three329 places423 standing144 in107 one470 hell169 -- how19 was454 that14 ? Oh367 ! I482 don280 't500 wonder76 he362 looked232 so281 scornful34 at65 me2 ! I482 'm250 a10 sort42 of89 strange440 -thoughted sometimes77 , they382 say306 ; but330 that14 's76 only517 haphazard-like410 . Then45 , a10 short522 , little554 old447 body348 like410 me2 , should255 never206 undertake5 to261 wade401 out66 into554 deep483 waters556 with449 tall373 , heron116 -built20 captains124 ; the19 water520 chucks461 you227 under533 the19 chin49 pretty252 quick241 , and236 there340 's483 a10 great259 cry561 for190 life71 -boats83 . And236 here135 's483 the19 heron116 's483 leg331 ! long544 and236 slim321 , sure41 enough217 ! Now20 , for190 most216 folks6 one470 pair106 of89 legs108 lasts227 a10 lifetime3 , and236 that14 must226 be341 because540 they382 use176 them146 mercifully379 , as113 a10 tender454 -hearted187 old447 lady14 uses282 her400 roly-poly104 old447 coach188 -horses189 . But330 Ahab232 ; oh367 he362 's483 a10 hard337 driver49 . Look523 , driven228 one470 leg331 to261 death543 , and236 spavined30 the19 other282 for190 life71 , and236 now20 wears270 out66 bone184 legs108 by406 the19 cord96 . Halloa83 , there340 , you227 Smut468 ! bear48 a10 hand252 there340 with449 those427 screws205 , and236 let66 's483 finish28 it162 before344 the19 resurrection281 fellow369 comes268 a10 -calling364 with449 his433 horn139 for190 all145 legs108 , true483 or519 false490 , as113 brewery83 men62 go20 round287 collecting141 old447 beer471 barrels368 , to261 fill380 'em up405 again52 . What243 a10 leg331 this256 is487 ! It162 looks150 like410 a10 real305 live554 leg331 , filed225 down133 to261 nothing324 but330 the19 core82 ; he362 'll300 be341 standing144 on392 this256 to261 -morrow376 ; he362 'll300 be341 taking146 altitudes25 on392 it162 . Halloa83 ! I482 almost518 forgot526 the19 little554 oval42 slate434 , smoothed521 ivory76 , where579 he362 figures66 up405 the19 latitude258 . So281 , so281 ; chisel247 , file322 , and236 sand380 -paper401 , now20 ! CHAPTER293 109274 Ahab232 and236 Starbuck in107 the19 Cabin192 According281 to261 usage454 they382 were324 pumping127 the19 ship438 next27 morning417 ; and236 lo418 ! no235 inconsiderable568 oil118 came549 up405 with449 the19 water520 ; the19 casks213 below397 must226 have254 sprung376 a10 bad458 leak41 . Much61 concern180 was454 shown446 ; and236 Starbuck went516 down133 into554 the19 cabin192 to261 report238 this256 unfavorable64 affair388 .* *In107 Sperm26 -whalemen451 with449 any501 considerable75 quantity316 of89 oil118 on392 board540 , it162 is487 a10 regular400 semiweekly270 duty468 to261 conduct161 a10 hose192 into554 the19 hold204 , and236 drench501 the19 casks213 with449 sea67 -water520 ; which16 afterwards418 , at65 varying303 intervals295 , is487 removed447 by406 the19 ship438 's483 pumps128 . Hereby196 the19 casks213 are314 sought82 to261 be341 kept290 damply439 tight369 ; while55 by406 the19 changed21 character239 of89 the19 withdrawn35 water520 , the19 mariners347 readily467 detect102 any501 serious97 leakage364 in107 the19 precious234 cargo88 . Now20 , from316 the19 South257 and236 West569 the19 Pequod288 was454 drawing407 nigh254 to261 Formosa340 and236 the19 Bashee Isles425 , between77 which16 lies27 one470 of89 the19 tropical92 outlets387 from316 the19 China253 waters556 into554 the19 Pacific294 . And236 so281 Starbuck found260 Ahab232 with449 a10 general37 chart102 of89 the19 oriental147 archipelagoes83 spread348 before344 him248 ; and236 another269 separate495 one470 representing118 the19 long544 eastern86 coasts147 of89 the19 Japanese364 islands59 --Niphon, Matsmai, and236 Sikoke. With449 his433 snow498 -white362 new36 ivory76 leg331 braced84 against417 the19 screwed453 leg331 of89 his433 table572 , and236 with449 a10 long544 pruning-hook23 of89 a10 jack299 -knife60 in107 his433 hand252 , the19 wondrous30 old447 man17 , with449 his433 back457 to261 the19 gangway240 door135 , was454 wrinkling151 his433 brow474 , and236 tracing359 his433 old447 courses139 again52 . "Who319 's483 there340 ?" hearing325 the19 footstep203 at65 the19 door135 , but330 not518 turning69 round287 to261 it162 . "On392 deck505 ! Begone52 !" "Captain295 Ahab232 mistakes70 ; it162 is487 I482 . The19 oil118 in107 the19 hold204 is487 leaking298 , sir271 . We465 must226 up405 Burtons107 and236 break483 out66 ." "Up405 Burtons107 and236 break483 out66 ? Now20 that14 we465 are314 nearing98 Japan53 ; heave308 -to261 here135 for190 a10 week11 to261 tinker44 a10 parcel295 of89 old447 hoops170 ?" "Either45 do353 that14 , sir271 , or519 waste232 in107 one470 day112 more348 oil118 than77 we465 may236 make175 good221 in107 a10 year347 . What243 we465 come420 twenty433 thousand586 miles278 to261 get126 is487 worth84 saving216 , sir271 ." "So281 it162 is487 , so281 it162 is487 ; if141 we465 get126 it162 ." "I482 was454 speaking22 of89 the19 oil118 in107 the19 hold204 , sir271 ." "And236 I482 was454 not518 speaking22 or519 thinking385 of89 that14 at65 all145 . Begone52 ! Let66 it162 leak41 ! I482 'm250 all145 aleak myself99 . Aye86 ! leaks106 in107 leaks106 ! not518 only517 full414 of89 leaky299 casks213 , but330 those427 leaky299 casks213 are314 in107 a10 leaky299 ship438 ; and236 that14 's76 a10 far258 worse561 plight215 than77 the19 Pequod288 's483 , man17 . Yet443 I482 don280 't500 stop48 to261 plug127 my36 leak41 ; for190 who319 can450 find138 it162 in107 the19 deep483 -loaded55 hull323 ; or519 how19 hope211 to261 plug127 it162 , even198 if141 found260 , in107 this256 life71 's483 howling204 gale440 ? Starbuck! I482 'll300 not518 have254 the19 Burtons107 hoisted367 ." "What243 will584 the19 owners208 say306 , sir271 ?" "Let66 the19 owners208 stand530 on392 Nantucket283 beach183 and236 outyell the19 Typhoons445 . What243 cares40 Ahab232 ? Owners208 , owners208 ? Thou173 art462 always367 prating35 to261 me2 , Starbuck, about123 those427 miserly196 owners208 , as113 if141 the19 owners208 were324 my36 conscience75 . But330 look523 ye483 , the19 only517 real305 owner260 of89 anything480 is487 its234 commander108 ; and236 hark313 ye483 , my36 conscience75 is487 in107 this256 ship438 's483 keel39 .--On392 deck505 !" "Captain295 Ahab232 ," said252 the19 reddening316 mate508 , moving316 further53 into554 the19 cabin192 , with449 a10 daring322 so281 strangely155 respectful311 and236 cautious406 that14 it162 almost518 seemed132 not518 only517 every389 way435 seeking427 to261 avoid444 the19 slightest44 outward393 manifestation4 of89 itself312 , but330 within503 also119 seemed132 more348 than77 half119 distrustful46 of89 itself312 ; "A10 better34 man17 than77 I482 might496 well263 pass153 over82 in107 thee15 what243 he362 would282 quickly183 enough217 resent305 in107 a10 younger484 man17 ; aye86 , and236 in107 a10 happier387 , Captain295 Ahab232 ." "Devils377 ! Dost306 thou173 then45 so281 much61 as113 dare11 to261 critically355 think424 of89 me2 ?--On392 deck505 !" "Nay358 , sir271 , not518 yet443 ; I482 do353 entreat40 . And236 I482 do353 dare11 , sir271 --to261 be341 forbearing462 ! Shall66 we465 not518 understand111 each520 other282 better34 than77 hitherto533 , Captain295 Ahab232 ?" Ahab232 seized337 a10 loaded55 musket19 from316 the19 rack415 (forming354 part207 of89 most216 South257 -Sea67 -men62 's483 cabin192 furniture11 ), and236 pointing295 it162 towards417 Starbuck, exclaimed281 : "There340 is487 one470 God185 that14 is487 Lord106 over82 the19 earth513 , and236 one470 Captain295 that14 is487 lord106 over82 the19 Pequod288 .--On392 deck505 !" For190 an138 instant279 in107 the19 flashing181 eyes125 of89 the19 mate508 , and236 his433 fiery42 cheeks282 , you227 would282 have254 almost518 thought186 that14 he362 had364 really406 received12 the19 blaze69 of89 the19 levelled126 tube295 . But330 , mastering82 his433 emotion355 , he362 half119 calmly170 rose449 , and236 as113 he362 quitted137 the19 cabin192 , paused390 for190 an138 instant279 and236 said252 : "Thou173 hast174 outraged42 , not518 insulted25 me2 , Sir271 ; but330 for190 that14 I482 ask238 thee15 not518 to261 beware255 of89 Starbuck; thou173 wouldst30 but330 laugh559 ; but330 let66 Ahab232 beware255 of89 Ahab232 ; beware255 of89 thyself402 , old447 man17 ." "He362 waxes83 brave218 , but330 nevertheless104 obeys320 ; most216 careful252 bravery288 that14 !" murmured238 Ahab232 , as113 Starbuck disappeared5 . "What243 's483 that14 he362 said252 --Ahab232 beware255 of89 Ahab232 --there340 's483 something181 there340 !" Then45 unconsciously59 using14 the19 musket19 for190 a10 staff391 , with449 an138 iron169 brow474 he362 paced145 to261 and236 fro183 in107 the19 little554 cabin192 ; but330 presently166 the19 thick502 plaits379 of89 his433 forehead380 relaxed2 , and236 returning53 the19 gun152 to261 the19 rack415 , he362 went516 to261 the19 deck505 . "Thou173 art462 but330 too11 good221 a10 fellow369 , Starbuck," he362 said252 lowly117 to261 the19 mate508 ; then45 raising99 his433 voice233 to261 the19 crew126 : "Furl403 the19 t500 'gallant323 -sails344 , and236 close65 -reef265 the19 top70 -sails344 , fore259 and236 aft2 ; back457 the19 main501 -yard98 ; up405 Burtons107 , and236 break483 out66 in107 the19 main501 -hold204 ." It162 were324 perhaps75 vain216 to261 surmise159 exactly315 why177 it162 was454 , that14 as113 respecting540 Starbuck, Ahab232 thus362 acted553 . It162 may236 have254 been185 a10 flash424 of89 honesty515 in107 him248 ; or519 mere393 prudential154 policy422 which16 , under533 the19 circumstance407 , imperiously361 forbade202 the19 slightest44 symptom25 of89 open464 disaffection13 , however44 transient13 , in107 the19 important104 chief156 officer70 of89 his433 ship438 . However44 it162 was454 , his433 orders199 were324 executed128 ; and236 the19 Burtons107 were324 hoisted367 . CHAPTER293 110257 Queequeg in107 His433 Coffin284 Upon419 searching15 , it162 was454 found260 that14 the19 casks213 last436 struck441 into554 the19 hold204 were324 perfectly26 sound181 , and236 that14 the19 leak41 must226 be341 further53 off111 . So281 , it162 being264 calm39 weather405 , they382 broke356 out66 deeper253 and236 deeper253 , disturbing236 the19 slumbers18 of89 the19 huge132 ground127 -tier butts83 ; and236 from316 that14 black581 midnight539 sending1 those427 gigantic157 moles8 into554 the19 daylight155 above502 . So281 deep483 did444 they382 go20 ; and236 so281 ancient463 , and236 corroded348 , and236 weedy513 the19 aspect147 of89 the19 lowermost141 puncheons328 , that14 you227 almost518 looked232 next27 for190 some265 mouldy508 corner204 -stone398 cask503 containing247 coins294 of89 Captain295 Noah69 , with449 copies363 of89 the19 posted478 placards22 , vainly116 warning531 the19 infatuated4 old447 world126 from316 the19 flood167 . Tierce384 after358 tierce384 , too11 , of89 water520 , and236 bread387 , and236 beef303 , and236 shooks27 of89 staves203 , and236 iron169 bundles492 of89 hoops170 , were324 hoisted367 out66 , till181 at65 last436 the19 piled126 decks386 were324 hard337 to261 get126 about123 ; and236 the19 hollow511 hull323 echoed84 under533 foot467 , as113 if141 you227 were324 treading227 over82 empty450 catacombs261 , and236 reeled429 and236 rolled226 in107 the19 sea67 like410 an138 air209 -freighted12 demijohn106 . Top70 -heavy421 was454 the19 ship438 as113 a10 dinnerless212 student388 with449 all145 Aristotle107 in107 his433 head219 . Well263 was454 it162 that14 the19 Typhoons445 did444 not518 visit229 them146 then45 . Now20 , at65 this256 time577 it162 was454 that14 my36 poor533 pagan118 companion266 , and236 fast208 bosom82 -friend179 , Queequeg, was454 seized337 with449 a10 fever186 , which16 brought85 him248 nigh254 to261 his433 endless489 end149 . Be341 it162 said252 , that14 in107 this256 vocation408 of89 whaling155 , sinecures110 are314 unknown10 ; dignity338 and236 danger383 go20 hand252 in107 hand252 ; till181 you227 get126 to261 be341 Captain295 , the19 higher574 you227 rise251 the19 harder46 you227 toil89 . So281 with449 poor533 Queequeg, who319 , as113 harpooneer, must226 not518 only517 face556 all145 the19 rage293 of89 the19 living117 whale422 , but330 --as113 we465 have254 elsewhere154 seen154 --mount34 his433 dead568 back457 in107 a10 rolling253 sea67 ; and236 finally69 descend252 into554 the19 gloom7 of89 the19 hold204 , and236 bitterly259 sweating391 all145 day112 in107 that14 subterraneous6 confinement223 , resolutely255 manhandle364 the19 clumsiest214 casks213 and236 see370 to261 their219 stowage402 . To261 be341 short522 , among483 whalemen451 , the19 harpooneers are314 the19 holders209 , so281 called237 . Poor533 Queequeg! when189 the19 ship438 was454 about123 half119 disembowelled350 , you227 should255 have254 stooped14 over82 the19 hatchway64 , and236 peered446 down133 upon419 him248 there340 ; where579 , stripped301 to261 his433 woollen27 drawers350 , the19 tattooed101 savage398 was454 crawling318 about123 amid240 that14 dampness466 and236 slime367 , like410 a10 green549 spotted122 lizard279 at65 the19 bottom461 of89 a10 well263 . And236 a10 well263 , or519 an138 ice443 -house17 , it162 somehow425 proved312 to261 him248 , poor533 pagan118 ; where579 , strange440 to261 say306 , for190 all145 the19 heat218 of89 his433 sweatings24 , he362 caught105 a10 terrible132 chill224 which16 lapsed180 into554 a10 fever186 ; and236 at65 last436 , after358 some265 days351 ' suffering543 , laid181 him248 in107 his433 hammock323 , close65 to261 the19 very515 sill345 of89 the19 door135 of89 death543 . How19 he362 wasted465 and236 wasted465 away443 in107 those427 few49 long544 -lingering186 days351 , till181 there340 seemed132 but330 little554 left159 of89 him248 but330 his433 frame84 and236 tattooing42 . But330 as113 all145 else212 in107 him248 thinned232 , and236 his433 cheek327 -bones5 grew5 sharper339 , his433 eyes125 , nevertheless104 , seemed132 growing66 fuller77 and236 fuller77 ; they382 became70 of89 a10 strange440 softness159 of89 lustre19 ; and236 mildly115 but330 deeply225 looked232 out66 at65 you227 there340 from316 his433 sickness166 , a10 wondrous30 testimony9 to261 that14 immortal15 health231 in107 him248 which16 could375 not518 die229 , or519 be341 weakened256 . And236 like410 circles3 on392 the19 water520 , which16 , as113 they382 grow163 fainter25 , expand254 ; so281 his433 eyes125 seemed132 rounding314 and236 rounding314 , like410 the19 rings25 of89 Eternity380 . An138 awe305 that14 cannot be341 named312 would282 steal238 over82 you227 as113 you227 sat77 by406 the19 side246 of89 this256 waning442 savage398 , and236 saw113 as113 strange440 things4 in107 his433 face556 , as113 any501 beheld132 who319 were324 bystanders39 when189 Zoroaster229 died575 . For190 whatever38 is487 truly530 wondrous30 and236 fearful183 in107 man17 , never206 yet443 was454 put190 into554 words107 or519 books525 . And236 the19 drawing407 near70 of89 Death543 , which16 alike122 levels211 all145 , alike122 impresses64 all145 with449 a10 last436 revelation104 , which16 only517 an138 author470 from316 the19 dead568 could375 adequately367 tell392 . So281 that14 --let66 us569 say306 it162 again52 -- no235 dying69 Chaldee45 or519 Greek261 had364 higher574 and236 holier514 thoughts26 than77 those427 , whose286 mysterious304 shades508 you227 saw113 creeping104 over82 the19 face556 of89 poor533 Queequeg, as113 he362 quietly380 lay62 in107 his433 swaying315 hammock323 , and236 the19 rolling253 sea67 seemed132 gently284 rocking6 him248 to261 his433 final357 rest302 , and236 the19 ocean224 's483 invisible186 flood167 -tide395 lifted448 him248 higher574 and236 higher574 towards417 his433 destined197 heaven163 . Not518 a10 man17 of89 the19 crew126 but330 gave572 him248 up405 ; and236 , as113 for190 Queequeg himself282 , what243 he362 thought186 of89 his433 case346 was454 forcibly252 shown446 by406 a10 curious264 favor161 he362 asked369 . He362 called237 one470 to261 him248 in107 the19 grey491 morning417 watch89 , when189 the19 day112 was454 just108 breaking6 , and236 taking146 his433 hand252 , said252 that14 while55 in107 Nantucket283 he362 had364 chanced424 to261 see370 certain31 little554 canoes471 of89 dark471 wood46 , like410 the19 rich531 war169 -wood46 of89 his433 native399 isle41 ; and236 upon419 inquiry339 , he362 had364 learned277 that14 all145 whalemen451 who319 died575 in107 Nantucket283 , were324 laid181 in107 those427 same541 dark471 canoes471 , and236 that14 the19 fancy396 of89 being264 so281 laid181 had364 much61 pleased282 him248 ; for190 it162 was454 not518 unlike406 the19 custom544 of89 his433 own248 race392 , who319 , after358 embalming435 a10 dead568 warrior140 , stretched63 him248 out66 in107 his433 canoe290 , and236 so281 left159 him248 to261 be341 floated6 away443 to261 the19 starry477 archipelagoes83 ; for190 not518 only517 do353 they382 believe191 that14 the19 stars286 are314 isles425 , but330 that14 far258 beyond421 all145 visible94 horizons143 , their219 own248 mild117 , uncontinented seas350 , interflow83 with449 the19 blue240 heavens494 ; and236 so281 form238 the19 white82 breakers317 of89 the19 milky23 way435 . He362 added52 , that14 he362 shuddered147 at65 the19 thought186 of89 being264 buried205 in107 his433 hammock323 , according281 to261 the19 usual278 sea67 -custom544 , tossed227 like410 something181 vile221 to261 the19 death543 -devouring354 sharks206 . No235 : he362 desired480 a10 canoe290 like410 those427 of89 Nantucket283 , all145 the19 more348 congenial118 to261 him248 , being264 a10 whaleman98 , that14 like410 a10 whale422 -boat439 these527 coffin284 -canoes471 were324 without309 a10 keel39 ; though400 that14 involved149 but330 uncertain396 steering252 , and236 much61 lee472 -way435 adown429 the19 dim14 ages146 . Now20 , when189 this256 strange440 circumstance407 was454 made563 known86 aft2 , the19 carpenter262 was454 at65 once248 commanded571 to261 do353 Queequeg's483 bidding340 , whatever38 it162 might496 include38 . There340 was454 some265 heathenish320 , coffin284 -colored213 old447 lumber314 aboard298 , which16 , upon419 a10 long544 previous376 voyage137 , had364 been185 cut310 from316 the19 aboriginal15 groves130 of89 the19 Lackaday26 islands59 , and236 from316 these527 dark471 planks284 the19 coffin284 was454 recommended181 to261 be341 made563 . No235 sooner338 was454 the19 carpenter262 apprised92 of89 the19 order343 , than77 taking146 his433 rule393 , he362 forthwith198 with449 all145 the19 indifferent255 promptitude353 of89 his433 character239 , proceeded121 into554 the19 forecastle367 and236 took68 Queequeg's483 measure520 with449 great259 accuracy484 , regularly37 chalking371 Queequeg's483 person550 as113 he362 shifted167 the19 rule393 . "Ah132 ! poor533 fellow369 ! he362 'll300 have254 to261 die229 now20 ," ejaculated306 the19 Long544 Island516 sailor561 . Going227 to261 his433 vice443 -bench80 , the19 carpenter262 for190 convenience180 sake523 and236 general37 reference116 , now20 transferringly measured96 on392 it162 the19 exact408 length202 the19 coffin284 was454 to261 be341 , and236 then45 made563 the19 transfer549 permanent339 by406 cutting454 two527 notches236 at65 its234 extremities341 . This256 done135 , he362 marshalled237 the19 planks284 and236 his433 tools21 , and236 to261 work385 . When189 the19 last436 nail367 was454 driven228 , and236 the19 lid157 duly163 planed236 and236 fitted200 , he362 lightly284 shouldered200 the19 coffin284 and236 went516 forward364 with449 it162 , inquiring24 whether454 they382 were324 ready464 for190 it162 yet443 in107 that14 direction67 . Overhearing84 the19 indignant367 but330 half119 -humorous83 cries104 with449 which16 the19 people482 on392 deck505 began132 to261 drive548 the19 coffin284 away443 , Queequeg, to261 every389 one470 's483 consternation52 , commanded571 that14 the19 thing309 should255 be341 instantly186 brought85 to261 him248 , nor137 was454 there340 any501 denying426 him248 ; seeing426 that14 , of89 all145 mortals72 , some265 dying69 men62 are314 the19 most216 tyrannical93 ; and236 certainly124 , since374 they382 will584 shortly425 trouble328 us569 so281 little554 for190 evermore274 , the19 poor533 fellows131 ought170 to261 be341 indulged24 . Leaning559 over82 in107 his433 hammock323 , Queequeg long544 regarded393 the19 coffin284 with449 an138 attentive484 eye220 . He362 then45 called237 for190 his433 harpoon67 , had364 the19 wooden35 stock437 drawn564 from316 it162 , and236 then45 had364 the19 iron169 part207 placed556 in107 the19 coffin284 along423 with449 one470 of89 the19 paddles78 of89 his433 boat439 . All145 by406 his433 own248 request116 , also119 , biscuits104 were324 then45 ranged435 round287 the19 sides331 within503 ; a10 flask199 of89 fresh540 water520 was454 placed556 at65 the19 head219 , and236 a10 small350 bag141 of89 woody2 earth513 scraped122 up405 in107 the19 hold204 at65 the19 foot467 ; and236 a10 piece121 of89 sail218 -cloth102 being264 rolled226 up405 for190 a10 pillow376 , Queequeg now20 entreated88 to261 be341 lifted448 into554 his433 final357 bed273 , that14 he362 might496 make175 trial103 of89 its234 comforts329 , if141 any501 it162 had364 . He362 lay62 without309 moving316 a10 few49 minutes368 , then45 told82 one470 to261 go20 to261 his433 bag141 and236 bring173 out66 his433 little554 god185 , Yojo. Then45 crossing402 his433 arms536 on392 his433 breast272 with449 Yojo between77 , he362 called237 for190 the19 coffin284 lid157 (hatch241 he362 called237 it162 ) to261 be341 placed556 over82 him248 . The19 head219 part207 turned492 over82 with449 a10 leather303 hinge526 , and236 there340 lay62 Queequeg in107 his433 coffin284 with449 little554 but330 his433 composed339 countenance553 in107 view370 . "Rarmai" (it162 will584 do353 ; it162 is487 easy281 ), he362 murmured238 at65 last436 , and236 signed181 to261 be341 replaced161 in107 his433 hammock323 . But330 ere83 this256 was454 done135 , Pip238 , who319 had364 been185 slily142 hovering520 near70 by406 all145 the19 while55 , drew175 nigh254 to261 him248 where579 he362 lay62 , and236 with449 soft226 sobbings22 , took68 him248 by406 the19 hand252 ; in107 the19 other282 , holding311 his433 tambourine197 . "Poor533 rover382 ! will584 ye483 never206 have254 done135 with449 all145 this256 weary306 roving270 ? Where579 go20 ye483 now20 ? But330 if141 the19 currents218 carry160 ye483 to261 those427 sweet417 Antilles31 where579 the19 beaches364 are314 only517 beat449 with449 water520 -lilies479 , will584 ye483 do353 one470 little554 errand264 for190 me2 ? Seek292 out66 one470 Pip238 , who319 's483 now20 been185 missing210 long544 : I482 think424 he362 's483 in107 those427 far258 Antilles31 . If141 ye483 find138 him248 , then45 comfort364 him248 ; for190 he362 must226 be341 very515 sad341 ; for190 look523 ! he362 's483 left159 his433 tambourine197 behind80 ;-- I482 found260 it162 . Rig415 -a10 -dig89 , dig89 , dig89 ! Now20 , Queequeg, die229 ; and236 I482 'll300 beat449 ye483 your162 dying69 march396 ." "I482 have254 heard444 ," murmured238 Starbuck, gazing117 down133 the19 scuttle27 , "that14 in107 violent336 fevers295 , men62 , all145 ignorance211 , have254 talked7 in107 ancient463 tongues202 ; and236 that14 when189 the19 mystery254 is487 probed34 , it162 turns136 out66 always367 that14 in107 their219 wholly497 forgotten170 childhood379 those427 ancient463 tongues202 had364 been185 really406 spoken507 in107 their219 hearing325 by406 some265 lofty161 scholars255 . So281 , to261 my36 fond174 faith511 , poor533 Pip238 , in107 this256 strange440 sweetness275 of89 his433 lunacy26 , brings44 heavenly375 vouchers69 of89 all145 our234 heavenly375 homes156 . Where579 learned277 he362 that14 , but330 there340 ?--Hark313 ! he362 speaks454 again52 ; but330 more348 wildly356 now20 ." "Form238 two527 and236 two527 ! Let66 's483 make175 a10 General37 of89 him248 ! Ho31 , where579 's483 his433 harpoon67 ? Lay62 it162 across129 here135 .--Rig415 -a10 -dig89 , dig89 , dig89 ! huzza191 ! Oh367 for190 a10 game233 cock519 now20 to261 sit215 upon419 his433 head219 and236 crow151 ! Queequeg dies384 game233 !--mind118 ye483 that14 ; Queequeg dies384 game233 !-- take279 ye483 good221 heed163 of89 that14 ; Queequeg dies384 game233 ! I482 say306 ; game233 , game233 , game233 ! but330 base258 little554 Pip238 , he362 died575 a10 coward92 ; died575 all145 a10 'shiver452 ;--out66 upon419 Pip238 ! Hark313 ye483 ; if141 ye483 find138 Pip238 , tell392 all145 the19 Antilles31 he362 's483 a10 runaway180 ; a10 coward92 , a10 coward92 , a10 coward92 ! Tell392 them146 he362 jumped499 from316 a10 whale422 -boat439 ! I482 'd67 never206 beat449 my36 tambourine197 over82 base258 Pip238 , and236 hail75 him248 General37 , if141 he362 were324 once248 more348 dying69 here135 . No235 , no235 ! shame240 upon419 all145 cowards394 -- shame240 upon419 them146 ! Let66 'em4 go20 drown522 like410 Pip238 , that14 jumped499 from316 a10 whale422 -boat439 . Shame240 ! shame240 !" During309 all145 this256 , Queequeg lay62 with449 closed523 eyes125 , as113 if141 in107 a10 dream86 . Pip238 was454 led46 away443 , and236 the19 sick250 man17 was454 replaced161 in107 his433 hammock323 . But330 now20 that14 he362 had364 apparently261 made563 every389 preparation40 for190 death543 ; now20 that14 his433 coffin284 was454 proved312 a10 good221 fit12 , Queequeg suddenly193 rallied71 ; soon18 there340 seemed132 no235 need32 of89 the19 carpenter262 's483 box226 ; and236 thereupon25 , when189 some265 expressed21 their219 delighted493 surprise125 , he362 , in107 substance316 , said252 , that14 the19 cause220 of89 his433 sudden309 convalescence259 was454 this256 ;-- at65 a10 critical38 moment258 , he362 had364 just108 recalled346 a10 little554 duty468 ashore122 , which16 he362 was454 leaving231 undone421 ; and236 therefore94 had364 changed21 his433 mind118 about123 dying69 : he362 could375 not518 die229 yet443 , he362 averred141 . They382 asked369 him248 , then45 , whether454 to261 live554 or519 die229 was454 a10 matter176 of89 his433 own248 sovereign324 will584 and236 pleasure145 . He362 answered100 , certainly124 . In107 a10 word486 , it162 was454 Queequeg's483 conceit58 , that14 if141 a10 man17 made563 up405 his433 mind118 to261 live554 , mere393 sickness166 could375 not518 kill219 him248 : nothing324 but330 a10 whale422 , or519 a10 gale440 , or519 some265 violent336 , ungovernable320 , unintelligent354 destroyer111 of89 that14 sort42 . Now20 , there340 is487 this256 noteworthy489 difference3 between77 savage398 and236 civilized441 ; that14 while55 a10 sick250 , civilized441 man17 may236 be341 six415 months17 convalescing41 , generally402 speaking22 , a10 sick250 savage398 is487 almost518 half119 -well263 again52 in107 a10 day112 . So281 , in107 good221 time577 my36 Queequeg gained290 strength168 ; and236 at65 length202 after358 sitting136 on392 the19 windlass231 for190 a10 few49 indolent53 days351 (but330 eating22 with449 a10 vigorous113 appetite97 ) he362 suddenly193 leaped314 to261 his433 feet349 , threw459 out66 his433 arms536 and236 legs108 , gave572 himself282 a10 good221 stretching413 , yawned402 a10 little554 bit72 , and236 then45 springing481 into554 the19 head219 of89 his433 hoisted367 boat439 , and236 poising218 a10 harpoon67 , pronounced429 himself282 fit12 for190 a10 fight330 . With449 a10 wild230 whimsiness, he362 now20 used102 his433 coffin284 for190 a10 sea67 -chest98 ; and236 emptying22 into554 it162 his433 canvas557 bag141 of89 clothes98 , set422 them146 in107 order343 there340 . Many282 spare295 hours127 he362 spent329 , in107 carving54 the19 lid157 with449 all145 manner153 of89 grotesque282 figures66 and236 drawings468 ; and236 it162 seemed132 that14 hereby196 he362 was454 striving388 , in107 his433 rude474 way435 , to261 copy380 parts470 of89 the19 twisted279 tattooing42 on392 his433 body348 . And236 this256 tattooing42 had364 been185 the19 work385 of89 a10 departed467 prophet25 and236 seer44 of89 his433 island516 , who319 , by406 those427 hieroglyphic171 marks226 , had364 written388 out66 on392 his433 body348 a10 complete191 theory60 of89 the19 heavens494 and236 the19 earth513 , and236 a10 mystical493 treatise117 on392 the19 art462 of89 attaining399 truth350 ; so281 that14 Queequeg in107 his433 own248 proper249 person550 was454 a10 riddle41 to261 unfold204 ; a10 wondrous30 work385 in107 one470 volume295 ; but330 whose286 mysteries445 not518 even198 himself282 could375 read98 , though400 his433 own248 live554 heart470 beat449 against417 them146 ; and236 these527 mysteries445 were324 therefore94 destined197 in107 the19 end149 to261 moulder218 away443 with449 the19 living117 parchment127 whereon132 they382 were324 inscribed180 , and236 so281 be341 unsolved198 to261 the19 last436 . And236 this256 thought186 it162 must226 have254 been185 which16 suggested431 to261 Ahab232 that14 wild230 exclamation156 of89 his433 , when189 one470 morning417 turning69 away443 from316 surveying122 poor533 Queequeg--"Oh367 , devilish181 tantalization283 of89 the19 gods325 !" CHAPTER293 11154 The19 Pacific294 When189 gliding248 by406 the19 Bashee isles425 we465 emerged100 at65 last436 upon419 the19 great259 South257 Sea67 ; were324 it162 not518 for190 other282 things4 I482 could375 have254 greeted346 my36 dear333 Pacific294 with449 uncounted391 thanks68 , for190 now20 the19 long544 supplication236 of89 my36 youth327 was454 answered100 ; that14 serene18 ocean224 rolled226 eastwards239 from316 me2 a10 thousand586 leagues116 of89 blue240 . There340 is487 , one470 knows286 not518 what243 sweet417 mystery254 about123 this256 sea67 , whose286 gently284 awful539 stirrings22 seems19 to261 speak337 of89 some265 hidden78 soul428 beneath320 ; like410 those427 fabled173 undulations106 of89 the19 Ephesian502 sod299 over82 the19 buried205 Evangelist4 St193 . John416 . And236 meet16 it162 is487 , that14 over82 these527 sea67 -pastures403 , wide465 -rolling253 watery59 prairies155 and236 Potters87 ' Fields64 of89 all145 four175 continents155 , the19 waves443 should255 rise251 and236 fall90 , and236 ebb443 and236 flow44 unceasingly507 ; for190 here135 , millions208 of89 mixed459 shades508 and236 shadows480 , drowned83 dreams299 , somnambulisms120 , reveries423 ; all145 that14 we465 call259 lives245 and236 souls82 , lie212 dreaming47 , dreaming47 , still278 ; tossing213 like410 slumberers288 in107 their219 beds41 ; the19 ever208 -rolling104 waves443 but330 made563 so281 by406 their219 restlessness380 . To261 any501 meditative220 Magian183 rover382 , this256 serene18 Pacific294 , once248 beheld132 , must226 ever208 after358 be341 the19 sea67 of89 his433 adoption113 . It162 rolls475 the19 midmost366 waters556 of89 the19 world126 , the19 Indian303 ocean224 and236 Atlantic198 being264 but330 its234 arms536 . The19 same541 waves443 wash160 the19 moles8 of89 the19 new36 -built20 California451 towns120 , but330 yesterday235 planted82 by406 the19 recentest race392 of89 men62 and236 lave192 the19 faded69 but330 still278 gorgeous188 skirts259 of89 Asiatic16 lands436 , older195 than77 Abraham124 ; while55 all145 between77 float231 milky23 -ways101 of89 coral22 isles425 , and236 low407 -lying204 , endless489 , unknown10 Archipelagoes83 , and236 impenetrable219 Japans373 . Thus362 this256 mysterious304 , divine216 Pacific294 zones183 the19 world126 's483 whole199 bulk181 about123 ; makes32 all145 coasts147 one470 bay279 to261 it162 ; seems19 the19 tide523 -beating124 heart470 of89 earth513 . Lifted448 by406 those427 eternal155 swells446 , you227 needs41 must226 own248 the19 seductive86 god185 , bowing452 your162 head219 to261 Pan23 . But330 few49 thoughts26 of89 Pan23 stirred101 Ahab232 's483 brain158 , as113 standing144 , like410 an138 iron169 statue37 at65 his433 accustomed295 place107 beside276 the19 mizen117 rigging516 , with449 one470 nostril406 he362 unthinkingly364 snuffed250 the19 sugary290 musk16 from316 the19 Bashee isles425 (in107 whose286 sweet417 woods29 mild117 lovers88 must226 be341 walking523 ), and236 with449 the19 other282 consciously133 inhaled498 the19 salt183 breath150 of89 the19 new36 found260 sea67 ; that14 sea67 in107 which16 the19 hated499 White82 Whale422 must226 even198 then45 be341 swimming367 . Launched336 at65 length202 upon419 these527 almost518 final357 waters556 , and236 gliding248 towards417 the19 Japanese364 cruising298 -ground127 , the19 old447 man17 's415 purpose514 intensified70 itself312 . His433 firm415 lips585 met130 like410 the19 lips585 of89 a10 vice443 ; the19 Delta26 of89 his433 forehead380 's483 veins395 swelled213 like410 overladen295 brooks452 ; in107 his433 very515 sleep233 , his433 ringing461 cry561 ran391 through295 the19 vaulted309 hull323 , "Stern442 all145 ! the19 White82 Whale422 spouts75 thick502 blood208 !" CHAPTER293 11218 The19 Blacksmith149 Availing29 himself282 of89 the19 mild117 , summer408 -cool102 weather405 that14 now20 reigned208 in107 these527 latitudes267 , and236 in107 preparation40 for190 the19 peculiarly182 active54 pursuits412 shortly425 to261 be341 anticipated402 , Perth163 , the19 begrimed359 , blistered284 old447 blacksmith149 , had364 not518 removed447 his433 portable120 forge218 to261 the19 hold204 again52 , after358 concluding84 his433 contributory425 work385 for190 Ahab232 's483 leg331 , but330 still278 retained155 it162 on392 deck505 , fast208 lashed97 to261 ringbolts282 by406 the19 foremast331 ; being264 now20 almost518 incessantly194 invoked398 by406 the19 headsmen51 , and236 harpooneers, and236 bowsmen to261 do353 some265 little554 job269 for190 them146 ; altering436 , or519 repairing51 , or519 new36 shaping160 their219 various183 weapons489 and236 boat439 furniture11 . Often227 he362 would282 be341 surrounded75 by406 an138 eager516 circle282 , all145 waiting201 to261 be341 served460 ; holding311 boat439 -spades135 , pikeheads, harpoons6 , and236 lances8 , and236 jealously9 watching330 his433 every389 sooty213 movement128 , as113 he362 toiled411 . Nevertheless104 , this256 old447 man17 's415 was454 a10 patient516 hammer364 wielded208 by406 a10 patient516 arm25 . No235 murmur149 , no235 impatience153 , no235 petulance69 did444 come420 from316 him248 . Silent382 , slow96 , and236 solemn303 ; bowing452 over82 still278 further53 his433 chronically133 broken255 back457 , he362 toiled411 away443 , as113 if141 toil89 were324 life71 itself312 , and236 the19 heavy421 beating124 of89 his433 hammer364 the19 heavy421 beating124 of89 his433 heart470 . And236 so281 it162 was454 .--Most216 miserable364 ! A10 peculiar291 walk405 in107 this256 old447 man17 , a10 certain31 slight259 but330 painful355 appearing341 yawing14 in107 his433 gait41 , had364 at65 an138 early92 period196 of89 the19 voyage137 excited283 the19 curiosity501 of89 the19 mariners347 . And236 to261 the19 importunity186 of89 their219 persisted248 questionings492 he362 had364 finally69 given141 in107 ; and236 so281 it162 came549 to261 pass153 that14 every389 one470 now20 knew480 the19 shameful442 story197 of89 his433 wretched294 fate74 . Belated354 , and236 not518 innocently521 , one470 bitter236 winter317 's483 midnight539 , on392 the19 road533 running296 between77 two527 country362 towns120 , the19 blacksmith149 half119 -stupidly felt440 the19 deadly49 numbness14 stealing342 over82 him248 , and236 sought82 refuge154 in107 a10 leaning559 , dilapidated196 barn66 . The19 issue117 was454 , the19 loss223 of89 the19 extremities341 of89 both558 feet349 . Out66 of89 this256 revelation104 , part207 by406 part207 , at65 last436 came549 out66 the19 four175 acts395 of89 the19 gladness354 , and236 the19 one470 long544 , and236 as113 yet443 uncatastrophied fifth403 act10 of89 the19 grief318 of89 his433 life71 's483 drama23 . He362 was454 an138 old447 man17 , who319 , at65 the19 age157 of89 nearly575 sixty332 , had364 postponedly encountered102 that14 thing309 in107 sorrow174 's483 technicals called237 ruin462 . He362 had364 been185 an138 artisan229 of89 famed416 excellence27 , and236 with449 plenty406 to261 do353 ; owned196 a10 house499 and236 garden121 ; embraced393 a10 youthful41 , daughter302 -like83 , loving309 wife37 , and236 three329 blithe495 , ruddy359 children374 ; every389 Sunday151 went516 to261 a10 cheerful391 -looking370 church317 , planted82 in107 a10 grove263 . But330 one470 night108 , under533 cover172 of89 darkness493 , and236 further53 concealed97 in107 a10 most216 cunning198 disguisement314 , a10 desperate316 burglar189 slid132 into554 his433 happy416 home450 , and236 robbed320 them146 all145 of89 everything233 . And236 darker20 yet443 to261 tell392 , the19 blacksmith149 himself282 did444 ignorantly136 conduct161 this256 burglar189 into554 his433 family347 's483 heart470 . It162 was454 the19 Bottle42 Conjuror400 ! Upon419 the19 opening306 of89 that14 fatal460 cork4 , forth152 flew424 the19 fiend59 , and236 shrivelled259 up405 his433 home450 . Now20 , for190 prudent183 , most216 wise16 , and236 economic339 reasons186 , the19 blacksmith149 's483 shop245 was454 in107 the19 basement400 of89 his433 dwelling394 , but330 with449 a10 separate495 entrance237 to261 it162 ; so281 that14 always367 had364 the19 young389 and236 loving309 healthy456 wife37 listened85 with449 no235 unhappy231 nervousness167 , but330 with449 vigorous113 pleasure145 , to261 the19 stout29 ringing461 of89 her400 young389 -armed299 old447 husband207 's483 hammer364 ; whose286 reverberations232 , muffled58 by406 passing147 through295 the19 floors491 and236 walls116 , came549 up405 to261 her400 , not518 unsweetly, in107 her400 nursery163 ; and236 so281 , to261 stout29 Labor209 's483 iron169 lullaby44 , the19 blacksmith149 's483 infants413 were324 rocked157 to261 slumber428 . Oh367 , woe295 on392 woe295 ! Oh367 , Death543 , why177 canst502 thou173 not518 sometimes77 be341 timely305 ? Hadst519 thou173 taken222 this256 old447 blacksmith149 to261 thyself402 ere83 his433 full414 ruin462 came549 upon419 him248 , then45 had364 the19 young389 widow231 had364 a10 delicious142 grief318 , and236 her400 orphans27 a10 truly530 venerable57 , legendary335 sire244 to261 dream86 of89 in107 their219 after358 years116 ; and236 all145 of89 them146 a10 care307 -killing311 competency23 . But330 Death543 plucked181 down133 some265 virtuous122 elder64 brother46 , on392 whose286 whistling28 daily201 toil89 solely41 hung479 the19 responsibilities260 of89 some265 other282 family347 , and236 left159 the19 worse561 than77 useless327 old447 man17 standing144 , till181 the19 hideous298 rot232 of89 life71 should255 make175 him248 easier314 to261 harvest38 . Why177 tell392 the19 whole199 ? The19 blows361 of89 the19 basement400 hammer364 every389 day112 grew5 more348 and236 more348 between77 ; and236 each520 blow230 every389 day112 grew5 fainter25 than77 the19 last436 ; the19 wife37 sat77 frozen446 at65 the19 window8 , with449 tearless468 eyes125 , glitteringly167 gazing117 into554 the19 weeping48 faces97 of89 her400 children374 ; the19 bellows25 fell421 ; the19 forge218 choked191 up405 with449 cinders151 ; the19 house499 was454 sold7 ; the19 mother276 dived149 down133 into554 the19 long544 church317 -yard27 grass418 ; her400 children374 twice366 followed234 her400 thither118 ; and236 the19 houseless392 , familyless old447 man17 staggered259 off111 a10 vagabond137 in107 crape88 ; his433 every389 woe295 unreverenced; his433 grey491 head219 a10 scorn8 to261 flaxen68 curls345 ! Death543 seems19 the19 only517 desirable277 sequel124 for190 a10 career165 like410 this256 ; but330 Death543 is487 only517 a10 launching231 into554 the19 region145 of89 the19 strange440 Untried246 ; it162 is487 but330 the19 first13 salutation102 to261 the19 possibilities136 of89 the19 immense301 Remote141 , the19 Wild230 , the19 Watery59 , the19 Unshored; therefore94 , to261 the19 death543 -longing292 eyes125 of89 such420 men62 , who319 still278 have254 left159 in107 them146 some265 interior163 compunctions165 against417 suicide492 , does565 the19 all145 -contributed and236 all145 -receptive ocean224 alluringly458 spread348 forth152 his433 whole199 plain28 of89 unimaginable192 , taking146 terrors192 , and236 wonderful291 , new36 -life71 adventures266 ; and236 from316 the19 hearts431 of89 infinite503 Pacifics399 , the19 thousand586 mermaids51 sing549 to261 them146 --"Come420 hither342 , broken255 -hearted83 ; here135 is487 another269 life71 without309 the19 guilt191 of89 intermediate21 death543 ; here135 are314 wonders115 supernatural367 , without309 dying69 for190 them146 . Come420 hither342 ! bury354 thyself402 in107 a10 life71 which16 , to261 your162 now20 equally336 abhorred324 and236 abhorring304 , landed451 world126 , is487 more348 oblivious86 than77 death543 . Come420 hither342 ! put190 up405 thy43 grave344 -stone83 , too11 , within503 the19 churchyard63 , and236 come420 hither342 , till181 we465 marry118 thee15 !" Hearkening113 to261 these527 voices386 , East524 and236 West569 , by406 early92 sunrise445 , and236 by406 fall90 of89 eve245 , the19 blacksmith149 's483 soul428 responded337 , Aye86 , I482 come420 ! And236 so281 Perth163 went516 a10 -whaling155 . CHAPTER293 113517 The19 Forge218 With449 matted2 beard23 , and236 swathed250 in107 a10 bristling364 shark4 -skin428 apron115 , about123 mid84 -day112 , Perth163 was454 standing144 between77 his433 forge218 and236 anvil314 , the19 latter497 placed556 upon419 an138 iron169 -wood25 log127 , with449 one470 hand252 holding311 a10 pike412 -head157 in107 the19 coals163 , and236 with449 the19 other282 at65 his433 forge218 's483 lungs40 , when189 Captain295 Ahab232 came549 along423 , carrying103 in107 his433 hand252 a10 small350 rusty235 -looking318 leathern427 bag141 . While55 yet443 a10 little554 distance264 from316 the19 forge218 , moody447 Ahab232 paused390 ; till181 at65 last436 , Perth163 , withdrawing152 his433 iron169 from316 the19 fire559 , began132 hammering420 it162 upon419 the19 anvil314 --the19 red293 mass36 sending1 off111 the19 sparks183 in107 thick502 hovering520 flights154 , some265 of89 which16 flew424 close65 to261 Ahab232 . "Are314 these527 thy43 Mother276 Carey161 's483 chickens321 , Perth163 ? they382 are314 always367 flying354 in107 thy43 wake205 ; birds332 of89 good221 omen7 , too11 , but330 not518 to261 all145 ;--look523 here135 , they382 burn118 ; but330 thou173 --thou173 liv'st126 among483 them146 without309 a10 scorch339 ." "Because540 I482 am375 scorched253 all145 over82 , Captain295 Ahab232 ," answered100 Perth163 , resting455 for190 a10 moment258 on392 his433 hammer364 ; "I482 am375 past111 scorching251 -, not518 easily45 can450 'st193 thou173 scorch339 a10 scar101 ." "Well263 , well263 ; no235 more348 . Thy43 shrunk173 voice233 sounds394 too11 calmly170 , sanely360 woeful16 to261 me2 . In107 no235 Paradise215 myself99 , I482 am375 impatient160 of89 all145 misery395 in107 others317 that14 is487 not518 mad235 . Thou173 should255 'st274 go20 mad235 , blacksmith149 ; say306 , why177 dost306 thou173 not518 go20 mad235 ? How19 can450 'st193 thou173 endure161 without309 being264 mad235 ? Do353 the19 heavens494 yet443 hate267 thee15 , that14 thou173 can450 'st193 not518 go20 mad235 ?-- What243 wert508 thou173 making415 there340 ?" "Welding195 an138 old447 pike412 -head157 , sir271 ; there340 were324 seams155 and236 dents398 in107 it162 ." "And236 can450 'st193 thou173 make175 it162 all145 smooth388 again52 , blacksmith149 , after358 such420 hard337 usage454 as113 it162 had364 ?" "I482 think424 so281 , sir271 ." "And236 I482 suppose120 thou173 can450 'st193 smoothe157 almost518 any501 seams155 and236 dents398 ; never206 mind118 how19 hard337 the19 metal147 , blacksmith149 ?" "Aye86 , sir271 , I482 think424 I482 can450 ; all145 seams155 and236 dents398 but330 one470 ." "Look523 ye483 here135 then45 ," cried506 Ahab232 , passionately280 advancing444 , and236 leaning559 with449 both558 hands87 on392 Perth163 's483 shoulders476 ; "look523 ye483 here135 --here135 --can450 ye483 smoothe157 out66 a10 seam414 like410 this256 , blacksmith149 ," sweeping61 one470 hand252 across129 his433 ribbed246 brow474 ; "if141 thou173 could375 'st193 , blacksmith149 , glad356 enough217 would282 I482 lay62 my36 head219 upon419 thy43 anvil314 , and236 feel461 thy43 heaviest280 hammer364 between77 my36 eyes125 . Answer164 ! Can450 'st193 thou173 smoothe157 this256 seam414 ?" "Oh367 ! that14 is487 the19 one470 , sir271 ! Said252 I482 not518 all145 seams155 and236 dents398 but330 one470 ?" "Aye86 , blacksmith149 , it162 is487 the19 one470 ; aye86 , man17 , it162 is487 unsmoothable; for190 though400 thou173 only517 see370 'st119 it162 here135 in107 my36 flesh331 , it162 has399 worked245 down133 into554 the19 bone184 of89 my36 skull9 --that14 is487 all145 wrinkles318 ! But330 , away443 with449 child451 's483 play89 ; no235 more348 gaffs98 and236 pikes59 to261 -day112 . Look523 ye483 here135 !" jingling182 the19 leathern427 bag141 , as113 if141 it162 were324 full414 of89 gold231 coins294 . "I482 , too11 , want350 a10 harpoon67 made563 ; one470 that14 a10 thousand586 yoke29 of89 fiends270 could375 not518 part207 , Perth163 ; something181 that14 will584 stick50 in107 a10 whale422 like410 his433 own248 fin286 -bone184 . There340 's483 the19 stuff471 ," flinging389 the19 pouch380 upon419 the19 anvil314 . "Look523 ye483 , blacksmith149 , these527 are314 the19 gathered165 nail367 -stubbs133 of89 the19 steel184 shoes436 of89 racing253 horses189 ." "Horse409 -shoe34 stubbs133 , sir271 ? Why177 , Captain295 Ahab232 , thou173 hast174 here135 , then45 , the19 best315 and236 stubbornest142 stuff471 we465 blacksmiths136 ever208 work385 ." "I482 know60 it162 , old447 man17 ; these527 stubbs133 will584 weld367 together440 like410 glue287 from316 the19 melted145 bones5 of89 murderers205 . Quick241 ! forge218 me2 the19 harpoon67 . And236 forge218 me2 first13 , twelve293 rods242 for190 its234 shank373 ; then45 wind262 , and236 twist30 , and236 hammer364 these527 twelve293 together440 like410 the19 yarns122 and236 strands22 of89 a10 tow160 -line98 . Quick241 ! I482 'll300 blow230 the19 fire559 ." When189 at65 last436 the19 twelve293 rods242 were324 made563 , Ahab232 tried73 them146 , one470 by406 one470 , by406 spiralling them146 , with449 his433 own248 hand252 , round287 a10 long544 , heavy421 iron169 bolt156 . "A10 flaw204 !" rejecting388 the19 last436 one470 . "Work385 that14 over82 again52 , Perth163 ." This256 done135 , Perth163 was454 about123 to261 begin183 welding195 the19 twelve293 into554 one470 , when189 Ahab232 stayed117 his433 hand252 , and236 said252 he362 would282 weld367 his433 own248 iron169 . As113 , then45 , with449 regular400 , gasping363 hems21 , he362 hammered193 on392 the19 anvil314 , Perth163 passing147 to261 him248 the19 glowing160 rods242 , one470 after358 the19 other282 , and236 the19 hard337 pressed323 forge218 shooting225 up405 its234 intense89 straight346 flame113 , the19 Parsee18 passed87 silently533 , and236 bowing452 over82 his433 head219 towards417 the19 fire559 , seemed132 invoking447 some265 curse48 or519 some265 blessing178 on392 the19 toil89 . But330 , as113 Ahab232 looked232 up405 , he362 slid132 aside408 . "What243 's483 that14 bunch100 of89 lucifers142 dodging213 about123 there340 for190 ?" muttered180 Stubb, looking318 on392 from316 the19 forecastle367 . "That14 Parsee18 smells422 fire559 like410 a10 fusee20 ; and236 smells422 of89 it162 himself282 , like410 a10 hot424 musket19 's483 powder5 -pan23 ." At65 last436 the19 shank373 , in107 one470 complete191 rod216 , received12 its234 final357 heat218 ; and236 as113 Perth163 , to261 temper453 it162 , plunged340 it162 all145 hissing403 into554 the19 cask503 of89 water520 near70 by406 , the19 scalding181 steam106 shot443 up405 into554 Ahab232 's483 bent406 face556 . "Would282 'st193 thou173 brand441 me2 , Perth163 ?" wincing83 for190 a10 moment258 with449 the19 pain337 ; "have254 I482 been185 but330 forging246 my36 own248 branding-iron169 , then45 ?" "Pray311 God185 , not518 that14 ; yet443 I482 fear103 something181 , Captain295 Ahab232 . Is487 not518 this256 harpoon67 for190 the19 White82 Whale422 ?" "For190 the19 white82 fiend59 ! But330 now20 for190 the19 barbs226 ; thou173 must226 make175 them146 thyself402 , man17 . Here135 are314 my36 razors88 --the19 best315 of89 steel184 ; here135 , and236 make175 the19 barbs226 sharp427 as113 the19 needle459 -sleet149 of89 the19 Icy155 Sea67 ." For190 a10 moment258 , the19 old447 blacksmith149 eyed363 the19 razors88 as113 though400 he362 would282 fain264 not518 use176 them146 . "Take279 them146 , man17 , I482 have254 no235 need32 for190 them146 ; for190 I482 now20 neither74 shave82 , sup2 , nor137 pray311 till181 --but330 here135 --to261 work385 !" Fashioned432 at65 last436 into554 an138 arrowy105 shape99 , and236 welded102 by406 Perth163 to261 the19 shank373 , the19 steel184 soon18 pointed413 the19 end149 of89 the19 iron169 ; and236 as113 the19 blacksmith149 was454 about123 giving207 the19 barbs226 their219 final357 heat218 , prior201 to261 tempering102 them146 , he362 cried506 to261 Ahab232 to261 place107 the19 water520 -cask503 near70 . "No235 , no235 --no235 water520 for190 that14 ; I482 want350 it162 of89 the19 true483 death543 -temper453 . Ahoy26 , there340 ! Tashtego, Queequeg, Daggoo! What243 say306 ye483 , pagans295 ! Will584 ye483 give142 me2 as113 much61 blood208 as113 will584 cover172 this256 barb65 ?" holding311 it162 high361 up405 . A10 cluster465 of89 dark471 nods407 replied163 , Yes143 . Three329 punctures14 were324 made563 in107 the19 heathen336 flesh331 , and236 the19 White82 Whale422 's483 barbs226 were324 then45 tempered270 . "Ego125 non438 baptizo25 te122 in107 nomine4 patris165 , sed252 in107 nomine4 diaboli167 !" deliriously110 howled333 Ahab232 , as113 the19 malignant23 iron169 scorchingly devoured161 the19 baptismal147 blood208 . Now20 , mustering420 the19 spare295 poles122 from316 below397 , and236 selecting489 one470 of89 hickory187 , with449 the19 bark223 still278 investing69 it162 , Ahab232 fitted200 the19 end149 to261 the19 socket43 of89 the19 iron169 . A10 coil32 of89 new36 tow160 -line98 was454 then45 unwound60 , and236 some265 fathoms375 of89 it162 taken222 to261 the19 windlass231 , and236 stretched63 to261 a10 great259 tension101 . Pressing416 his433 foot467 upon419 it162 , till181 the19 rope265 hummed459 like410 a10 harp524 -string80 , then45 eagerly100 bending252 over82 it162 , and236 seeing426 no235 strandings, Ahab232 exclaimed281 , "Good221 ! and236 now20 for190 the19 seizings98 ." At65 one470 extremity410 the19 rope265 was454 unstranded, and236 the19 separate495 spread348 yarns122 were324 all145 braided261 and236 woven26 round287 the19 socket43 of89 the19 harpoon67 ; the19 pole20 was454 then45 driven228 hard337 up405 into554 the19 socket43 ; from316 the19 lower47 end149 the19 rope265 was454 traced507 halfway260 along423 the19 pole20 's483 length202 , and236 firmly308 secured284 so281 , with449 inter-twistings of89 twine104 . This256 done135 , pole20 , iron169 , and236 rope265 --like410 the19 Three329 Fates553 -- remained72 inseparable88 , and236 Ahab232 moodily174 stalked279 away443 with449 the19 weapon223 ; the19 sound181 of89 his433 ivory76 leg331 , and236 the19 sound181 of89 the19 hickory187 pole20 , both558 hollowly462 ringing461 along423 every389 plank243 . But330 ere83 he362 entered447 his433 cabin192 , a10 light382 , unnatural111 , half119 -bantering261 , yet443 most216 piteous219 sound181 was454 heard444 . Oh367 ! Pip238 , thy43 wretched294 laugh559 , thy43 idle519 but330 unresting128 eye220 ; all145 thy43 strange440 mummeries480 not518 unmeaningly261 blended366 with449 the19 black581 tragedy409 of89 the19 melancholy398 ship438 , and236 mocked27 it162 ! CHAPTER293 114270 The19 Gilder428 Penetrating149 further53 and236 further53 into554 the19 heart470 of89 the19 Japanese364 cruising298 ground127 the19 Pequod288 was454 soon18 all145 astir506 in107 the19 fishery136 . Often227 , in107 mild117 , pleasant233 weather405 , for190 twelve293 , fifteen289 , eighteen387 , and236 twenty433 hours127 on392 the19 stretch318 , they382 were324 engaged479 in107 the19 boats83 , steadily379 pulling217 , or519 sailing232 , or519 paddling28 after358 the19 whales331 , or519 for190 an138 interlude201 of89 sixty332 or519 seventy156 minutes368 calmly170 awaiting408 their219 uprising375 ; though400 with449 but330 small350 success197 for190 their219 pains97 . At65 such420 times121 , under533 an138 abated122 sun397 ; afloat2 all145 day112 upon419 smooth388 , slow96 heaving174 swells446 ; seated158 in107 his433 boat439 , light382 as113 a10 birch14 canoe290 ; and236 so281 sociably354 mixing261 with449 the19 soft226 waves443 themselves510 , that14 like410 hearth61 -stone192 cats22 they382 purr355 against417 the19 gunwale198 ; these527 are314 the19 times121 of89 dreamy247 quietude171 , when189 beholding248 the19 tranquil181 beauty262 and236 brilliancy4 of89 the19 ocean224 's483 skin428 , one470 forgets89 the19 tiger293 heart470 that14 pants60 beneath320 it162 ; and236 would282 not518 willingly390 remember499 , that14 this256 velvet136 paw194 but330 conceals161 a10 remorseless266 fang102 . These527 are314 the19 times121 , when189 in107 his433 whale422 -boat439 the19 rover382 softly461 feels450 a10 certain31 filial403 , confident122 , land406 -like410 feeling384 towards417 the19 sea67 ; that14 he362 regards5 it162 as113 so281 much61 flowery284 earth513 ; and236 the19 distant353 ship438 revealing451 only517 the19 tops40 of89 her400 masts212 , seems19 struggling107 forward364 , not518 through295 high361 rolling253 waves443 , but330 through295 the19 tall373 grass418 of89 a10 rolling253 prairie214 : as113 when189 the19 western227 emigrants498 ' horses189 only517 show460 their219 erected412 ears560 , while55 their219 hidden78 bodies392 widely171 wade401 through295 the19 amazing306 verdure329 . The19 long544 -drawn564 virgin317 vales165 ; the19 mild117 blue240 hill219 -sides331 ; as113 over82 these527 there340 steals282 the19 hush4 , the19 hum345 ; you227 almost518 swear322 that14 play89 -wearied229 children374 lie212 sleeping341 in107 these527 solitudes210 , in107 some265 glad356 May236 -time577 , when189 the19 flowers325 of89 the19 woods29 are314 plucked181 . And236 all145 this256 mixes35 with449 your162 most216 mystic455 mood547 ; so281 that14 fact12 and236 fancy396 , half119 -way435 meeting183 , interpenetrate160 , and236 form238 one470 seamless136 whole199 . Nor137 did444 such420 soothing60 scenes339 , however44 temporary235 , fail126 of89 at65 least453 as113 temporary235 an138 effect215 on392 Ahab232 . But330 if141 these527 secret409 golden508 keys470 did444 seem404 to261 open464 in107 him248 his433 own248 secret409 golden508 treasuries97 , yet443 did444 his433 breath150 upon419 them146 prove396 but330 tarnishing243 . Oh367 , grassy25 glades83 ! oh367 ever208 vernal29 endless489 landscapes311 in107 the19 soul428 ; in107 ye483 ,--though400 long544 parched186 by406 the19 dead568 drought36 of89 the19 earthly64 life71 ,-- in107 ye483 , men62 yet443 may236 roll473 , like410 young389 horses189 in107 new36 morning417 clover76 ; and236 for190 some265 few49 fleeting225 moments434 , feel461 the19 cool102 dew251 of89 the19 life71 immortal15 on392 them146 . Would282 to261 God185 these527 blessed473 calms98 would282 last436 . But330 the19 mingled203 , mingling75 threads19 of89 life71 are314 woven26 by406 warp382 and236 woof414 : calms98 crossed202 by406 storms327 , a10 storm218 for190 every389 calm39 . There340 is487 no235 steady21 unretracing progress538 in107 this256 life71 ; we465 do353 not518 advance70 through295 fixed564 gradations189 , and236 at65 the19 last436 one470 pause391 :-- through295 infancy371 's483 unconscious152 spell416 , boyhood151 's483 thoughtless122 faith511 , adolescence521 ' doubt71 (the19 common304 doom73 ), then45 scepticism83 , then45 disbelief303 , resting455 at65 last436 in107 manhood270 's483 pondering280 repose463 of89 If141 . But330 once248 gone190 through295 , we465 trace327 the19 round287 again52 ; and236 are314 infants413 , boys22 , and236 men62 , and236 Ifs498 eternally86 . Where579 lies27 the19 final357 harbor289 , whence494 we465 unmoor314 no235 more348 ? In107 what243 rapt86 ether177 sails344 the19 world126 , of89 which16 the19 weariest281 will584 never206 weary306 ? Where579 is487 the19 foundling41 's483 father339 hidden78 ? Our234 souls82 are314 like410 those427 orphans27 whose286 unwedded350 mothers98 die229 in107 bearing354 them146 : the19 secret409 of89 our234 paternity336 lies27 in107 their219 grave344 , and236 we465 must226 there340 to261 learn341 it162 . And236 that14 same541 day112 , too11 , gazing117 far258 down133 from316 his433 boat439 's483 side246 into554 that14 same541 golden508 sea67 , Starbuck lowly117 murmured238 :-- "Loveliness218 unfathomable420 , as113 ever208 lover436 saw113 in107 his433 young389 bride115 's483 eyes125 !-- Tell392 me2 not518 of89 thy43 teeth82 -tiered sharks206 , and236 thy43 kidnapping8 cannibal180 ways101 . Let66 faith511 oust140 fact12 ; let66 fancy396 oust140 memory333 ; I482 look523 deep483 down133 and236 do353 believe191 ." And236 Stubb, fish187 -like410 , with449 sparkling42 scales543 , leaped314 up405 in107 that14 same541 golden508 light382 :-- "I482 am375 Stubb, and236 Stubb has399 his433 history183 ; but330 here135 Stubb takes362 oaths142 that14 he362 has399 always367 been185 jolly50 !" CHAPTER293 115359 The19 Pequod288 Meets518 The19 Bachelor371 And236 jolly50 enough217 were324 the19 sights24 and236 the19 sounds394 that14 came549 bearing354 down133 before344 the19 wind262 , some265 few49 weeks522 after358 Ahab232 's483 harpoon67 had364 been185 welded102 . It162 was454 a10 Nantucket283 ship438 , the19 Bachelor371 , which16 had364 just108 wedged55 in107 her400 last436 cask503 of89 oil118 , and236 bolted74 down133 her400 bursting288 hatches4 ; and236 now20 , in107 glad356 holiday57 apparel320 , was454 joyously315 , though400 somewhat77 vain216 -gloriously324 , sailing232 round287 among483 the19 widely171 -separated384 ships21 on392 the19 ground127 , previous376 to261 pointing295 her400 prow451 for190 home450 . The19 three329 men62 at65 her400 mast44 -head116 wore92 long544 streamers497 of89 narrow140 red293 bunting176 at65 their219 hats379 ; from316 the19 stern442 , a10 whale422 -boat439 was454 suspended245 , bottom461 down133 ; and236 hanging222 captive401 from316 the19 bowsprit120 was454 seen154 the19 long544 lower47 jaw213 of89 the19 last436 whale422 they382 had364 slain268 . Signals314 , ensigns141 , and236 jacks484 of89 all145 colors24 were324 flying354 from316 her400 rigging516 , on392 every389 side246 . Sideways496 lashed97 in107 each520 of89 her400 three329 basketed tops40 were324 two527 barrels368 of89 sperm26 ; above502 which16 , in107 her400 top70 -mast44 cross416 -trees354 , you227 saw113 slender122 breakers317 of89 the19 same541 precious234 fluid212 ; and236 nailed419 to261 her400 main501 truck120 was454 a10 brazen15 lamp330 . As113 was454 afterwards418 learned277 , the19 Bachelor371 had364 met130 with449 the19 most216 surprising359 success197 ; all145 the19 more348 wonderful291 , for190 that14 while55 cruising298 in107 the19 same541 seas350 numerous558 other282 vessels150 had364 gone190 entire230 months17 without309 securing93 a10 single77 fish187 . Not518 only517 had364 barrels368 of89 beef303 and236 bread387 been185 given141 away443 to261 make175 room65 for190 the19 far258 more348 valuable72 sperm26 , but330 additional131 supplemental154 casks213 had364 been185 bartered392 for190 , from316 the19 ships21 she391 had364 met130 ; and236 these527 were324 stowed434 along423 the19 deck505 , and236 in107 the19 captain295 's483 and236 officers439 ' state135 -rooms231 . Even198 the19 cabin192 table572 itself312 had364 been185 knocked49 into554 kindling83 -wood367 ; and236 the19 cabin192 mess253 dined30 off111 the19 broad267 head219 of89 an138 oil118 -butt, lashed97 down133 to261 the19 floor418 for190 a10 centrepiece. In107 the19 forecastle367 , the19 sailors64 had364 actually69 caulked141 and236 pitched101 their219 chests340 , and236 filled232 them146 ; it162 was454 humorously265 added52 , that14 the19 cook41 had364 clapped423 a10 head219 on392 his433 largest139 boiler287 , and236 filled232 it162 ; that14 the19 steward82 had364 plugged167 his433 spare295 coffee331 -pot209 and236 filled232 it162 ; that14 the19 harpooneers had364 headed124 the19 sockets35 of89 their219 irons363 and236 filled232 them146 ; that14 indeed522 everything233 was454 filled232 with449 sperm26 , except545 the19 captain295 's483 pantaloons4 pockets240 , and236 those427 he362 reserved234 to261 thrust379 his433 hands87 into554 , in107 self442 -complacent testimony9 of89 his433 entire230 satisfaction500 . As113 this256 glad356 ship438 of89 good221 luck453 bore27 down133 upon419 the19 moody447 Pequod288 , the19 barbarian25 sound181 of89 enormous327 drums250 came549 from316 her400 forecastle367 ; and236 drawing407 still278 nearer303 , a10 crowd16 of89 her400 men62 were324 seen154 standing144 round287 her400 huge132 try266 -pots184 , which16 , covered452 with449 the19 parchment127 -like410 poke213 or519 stomach274 skin428 of89 the19 black581 fish187 , gave572 forth152 a10 loud556 roar147 to261 every389 stroke436 of89 the19 clenched198 hands87 of89 the19 crew126 . On392 the19 quarter6 -deck505 , the19 mates264 and236 harpooneers were324 dancing192 with449 the19 olive75 -hued402 girls388 who319 had364 eloped84 with449 them146 from316 the19 Polynesian31 Isles425 ; while55 suspended245 in107 an138 ornamented423 boat439 , firmly308 secured284 aloft276 between77 the19 foremast331 and236 mainmast323 , three329 Long544 Island516 negroes314 , with449 glittering144 fiddle-bows460 of89 whale422 ivory76 , were324 presiding328 over82 the19 hilarious336 jig30 . Meanwhile282 , others317 of89 the19 ship438 's483 company280 were324 tumultuously127 busy130 at65 the19 masonry210 of89 the19 try266 -works64 , from316 which16 the19 huge132 pots184 had364 been185 removed447 . You227 would282 have254 almost518 thought186 they382 were324 pulling217 down133 the19 cursed441 Bastille25 , such420 wild230 cries104 they382 raised493 , as113 the19 now20 useless327 brick335 and236 mortar10 were324 being264 hurled46 into554 the19 sea67 . Lord106 and236 master131 over82 all145 this256 scene228 , the19 captain295 stood1 erect245 on392 the19 ship438 's483 elevated541 quarter6 -deck505 , so281 that14 the19 whole199 rejoicing226 drama23 was454 full414 before344 him248 , and236 seemed132 merely57 contrived179 for190 his433 own248 individual233 diversion169 . And236 Ahab232 , he362 too11 was454 standing144 on392 his433 quarter6 -deck505 , shaggy200 and236 black581 , with449 a10 stubborn452 gloom7 ; and236 as113 the19 two527 ships21 crossed202 each520 other282 's483 wakes60 -- one470 all145 jubilations220 for190 things4 passed87 , the19 other282 all145 forebodings435 as113 to261 things4 to261 come420 --their219 two527 captains124 in107 themselves510 impersonated305 the19 whole199 striking22 contrast205 of89 the19 scene228 . "Come420 aboard298 , come420 aboard298 !" cried506 the19 gay323 Bachelor371 's483 commander108 , lifting100 a10 glass27 and236 a10 bottle42 in107 the19 air209 . "Hast174 seen154 the19 White82 Whale422 ?" gritted367 Ahab232 in107 reply271 . "No235 ; only517 heard444 of89 him248 ; but330 don280 't500 believe191 in107 him248 at65 all145 ," said252 the19 other282 good221 -humoredly. "Come420 aboard298 !" "Thou173 art462 too11 damned572 jolly50 . Sail218 on392 . Hast174 lost308 any501 men62 ?" "Not518 enough217 to261 speak337 of89 --two527 islanders279 , that14 's76 all145 ;--but330 come420 aboard298 , old447 hearty140 , come420 along423 . I482 'll300 soon18 take279 that14 black581 from316 your162 brow474 . Come420 along423 , will584 ye483 (merry486 's483 the19 play89 ); a10 full414 ship438 and236 homeward282 -bound188 ." "How19 wondrous30 familiar139 is487 a10 fool5 !" muttered180 Ahab232 ; then45 aloud352 , "Thou173 art462 a10 full414 ship438 and236 homeward282 bound108 , thou173 sayest56 ; well263 , then45 , call259 me2 an138 empty450 ship438 , and236 outward393 -bound108 . So281 go20 thy43 ways101 , and236 I482 will584 mine482 . Forward364 there340 ! Set422 all145 sail218 , and236 keep381 her400 to261 the19 wind262 !" And236 thus362 , while55 the19 one470 ship438 went516 cheerily282 before344 the19 breeze227 , the19 other282 stubbornly12 fought66 against417 it162 ; and236 so281 the19 two527 vessels150 parted201 ; the19 crew126 of89 the19 Pequod288 looking318 with449 grave344 , lingering186 glances363 towards417 the19 receding266 Bachelor371 ; but330 the19 Bachelor371 's483 men62 never206 heeding18 their219 gaze568 for190 the19 lively272 revelry279 they382 were324 in107 . And236 as113 Ahab232 , leaning559 over82 the19 taffrail83 , eyed363 the19 homewardbound craft187 , he362 took68 from316 his433 pocket461 a10 small350 vial82 of89 sand380 , and236 then45 looking318 from316 the19 ship438 to261 the19 vial82 , seemed132 thereby190 bringing9 two527 remote141 associations212 together440 , for190 that14 vial82 was454 filled232 with449 Nantucket283 soundings99 . CHAPTER293 116364 The19 Dying69 Whale422 Not518 seldom140 in107 this256 life71 , when189 , on392 the19 right499 side246 , fortune256 's483 favorites396 sail218 close65 by406 us569 , we465 , though400 all145 adroop83 before344 , catch523 somewhat77 of89 the19 rushing344 breeze227 , and236 joyfully498 feel461 our234 bagging303 sails344 fill380 out66 . So281 seemed132 it162 with449 the19 Pequod288 . For190 next27 day112 after358 encountering332 the19 gay323 Bachelor371 , whales331 were324 seen154 and236 four175 were324 slain268 ; and236 one470 of89 them146 by406 Ahab232 . It162 was454 far258 down133 the19 afternoon128 ; and236 when189 all145 the19 spearings of89 the19 crimson26 fight330 were324 done135 ; and236 floating30 in107 the19 lovely126 sunset305 sea67 and236 sky331 , sun397 and236 whale422 both558 stilly128 died575 together440 ; then45 , such420 a10 sweetness275 and236 such420 plaintiveness389 , such420 inwreathing orisons237 curled253 up405 in107 that14 rosy415 air209 , that14 it162 almost518 seemed132 as113 if141 far258 over82 from316 the19 deep483 green549 convent409 valleys289 of89 the19 Manilla283 isles425 , the19 Spanish124 land406 -breeze227 , wantonly367 turned492 sailor561 , had364 gone190 to261 sea67 , freighted12 with449 these527 vesper566 hymns239 . Soothed436 again52 , but330 only517 soothed436 to261 deeper253 gloom7 , Ahab232 , who319 had364 sterned off111 from316 the19 whale422 , sat77 intently258 watching330 his433 final357 wanings from316 the19 now20 tranquil181 boat439 . For190 that14 strange440 spectacle250 observable345 in107 all145 sperm26 whales331 dying69 --the19 turning69 sunwards350 of89 the19 head219 , and236 so281 expiring399 -- that14 strange440 spectacle250 , beheld132 of89 such420 a10 placid110 evening581 , somehow425 to261 Ahab232 conveyed223 a10 wondrousness unknown10 before344 . "He362 turns136 and236 turns136 him248 to261 it162 ,--how19 slowly149 , but330 how19 steadfastly106 , his433 homage92 -rendering155 and236 invoking447 brow474 , with449 his433 last436 dying69 motions62 . He362 too11 worships332 fire559 ; most216 faithful284 , broad267 , baronial215 vassal119 of89 the19 sun397 !-- Oh367 that14 these527 too11 -favoring eyes125 should255 see370 these527 too11 -favoring sights24 . Look523 ! here135 , far258 water520 -locked105 ; beyond421 all145 hum345 of89 human43 weal58 or519 woe295 ; in107 these527 most216 candid335 and236 impartial159 seas350 ; where579 to261 traditions489 no235 rocks265 furnish160 tablets18 ; where579 for190 long544 Chinese44 ages146 , the19 billows295 have254 still278 rolled226 on392 speechless225 and236 unspoken250 to261 , as113 stars286 that14 shine262 upon419 the19 Niger83 's483 unknown10 source254 ; here135 , too11 , life71 dies384 sunwards350 full414 of89 faith511 , but330 see370 ! no235 sooner338 dead568 , than77 death543 whirls14 round287 the19 corpse133 , and236 it162 heads366 some265 other282 way435 . "Oh367 , thou173 dark471 Hindoo247 half119 of89 nature159 , who319 of89 drowned83 bones5 hast174 builded82 thy43 separate495 throne332 somewhere201 in107 the19 heart470 of89 these527 unverdured seas350 ; thou173 art462 an138 infidel183 , thou173 queen443 , and236 too11 truly530 speakest9 to261 me2 in107 the19 wide465 -slaughtering Typhoon364 , and236 the19 hushed305 burial218 of89 its234 after358 calm39 . Nor137 has399 this256 thy43 whale422 sunwards350 turned492 his433 dying69 head219 , and236 then45 gone190 round287 again52 , without309 a10 lesson147 to261 me2 . "Oh367 , trebly110 hooped160 and236 welded102 hip461 of89 power145 ! Oh367 , high361 aspiring154 , rainbowed jet423 !--that14 one470 strivest220 , this256 one470 jettest all145 in107 vain216 ! In107 vain216 , oh367 whale422 , dost306 thou173 seek292 intercedings with449 yon252 all145 -quickening60 sun397 , that14 only517 calls15 forth152 life71 , but330 gives529 it162 not518 again52 . Yet443 dost306 thou173 darker20 half119 , rock264 me2 with449 a10 prouder207 , if141 a10 darker20 faith511 . All145 thy43 unnamable332 imminglings float231 beneath320 me2 here135 ; I482 am375 buoyed26 by406 breaths192 of89 once248 living117 things4 , exhaled49 as113 air209 , but330 water520 now20 . "Then45 hail75 , for190 ever208 hail75 , O24 sea67 , in107 whose286 eternal155 tossings295 the19 wild230 fowl11 finds455 his433 only517 rest302 . Born236 of89 earth513 , yet443 suckled83 by406 the19 sea67 ; though400 hill219 and236 valley18 mothered115 me2 , ye483 billows295 are314 my36 foster-brothers100 !" CHAPTER293 11716 The19 Whale422 Watch89 The19 four175 whales331 slain268 that14 evening581 had364 died575 wide465 apart526 ; one470 , far258 to261 windward170 ; one470 less261 distant353 , to261 leeward265 ; one470 ahead5 ; one470 astern39 . These527 last436 three329 were324 brought85 alongside540 ere83 nightfall182 ; but330 the19 windward170 one470 could375 not518 be341 reached386 till181 morning417 ; and236 the19 boat439 that14 had364 killed409 it162 lay62 by406 its234 side246 all145 night108 ; and236 that14 boat439 was454 Ahab232 's483 . The19 waif58 -pole20 was454 thrust379 upright145 into554 the19 dead568 whale422 's483 spout224 -hole73 ; and236 the19 lantern220 hanging222 from316 its234 top70 , cast99 a10 troubled327 flickering83 glare27 upon419 the19 black581 , glossy318 back457 , and236 far258 out66 upon419 the19 midnight539 waves443 , which16 gently284 chafed101 the19 whale422 's483 broad267 flank434 , like410 soft226 surf283 upon419 a10 beach183 . Ahab232 and236 all145 his433 boat439 's483 crew126 seemed132 asleep492 but330 the19 Parsee18 ; who319 crouching451 in107 the19 bow146 , sat77 watching330 the19 sharks206 , that14 spectrally68 played172 round287 the19 whale422 , and236 tapped68 the19 light382 cedar330 planks284 with449 their219 tails490 . A10 sound181 like410 the19 moaning225 in107 squadrons503 over82 Asphaltites of89 unforgiven110 ghosts44 of89 Gomorrah102 , ran391 shuddering143 through295 the19 air209 . Started492 from316 his433 slumbers18 , Ahab232 , face556 to261 face556 , saw113 the19 Parsee18 ; and236 hooped160 round287 by406 the19 gloom7 of89 the19 night108 they382 seemed132 the19 last436 men62 in107 a10 flooded549 world126 . "I482 have254 dreamed44 it162 again52 ," said252 he362 . "Of89 the19 hearses124 ? Have254 I482 not518 said252 , old447 man17 , that14 neither74 hearse34 nor137 coffin284 can450 be341 thine72 ?" "And236 who319 are314 hearsed207 that14 die229 on392 the19 sea67 ?" "But330 I482 said252 , old447 man17 , that14 ere83 thou173 couldst84 die229 on392 this256 voyage137 , two527 hearses124 must226 verily113 be341 seen154 by406 thee15 on392 the19 sea67 ; the19 first13 not518 made563 by406 mortal371 hands87 ; and236 the19 visible94 wood46 of89 the19 last436 one470 must226 be341 grown299 in107 America133 ." "Aye86 , aye86 ! a10 strange440 sight365 that14 , Parsee18 !--a10 hearse34 and236 its234 plumes115 floating30 over82 the19 ocean224 with449 the19 waves443 for190 the19 pall21 -bearers. Ha387 ! Such420 a10 sight365 we465 shall66 not518 soon18 see370 ." "Believe191 it162 or519 not518 , thou173 canst502 not518 die229 till181 it162 be341 seen154 , old447 man17 ." "And236 what243 was454 that14 saying9 about123 thyself402 ?" "Though400 it162 come420 to261 the19 last436 , I482 shall66 still278 go20 before344 thee15 thy43 pilot559 ." "And236 when189 thou173 art462 so281 gone190 before344 --if141 that14 ever208 befall149 --then45 ere83 I482 can450 follow408 , thou173 must226 still278 appear443 to261 me2 , to261 pilot559 me2 still278 ?-- Was454 it162 not518 so281 ? Well263 , then45 , did444 I482 believe191 all145 ye483 say306 , oh367 my36 pilot559 ! I482 have254 here135 two527 pledges320 that14 I482 shall66 yet443 slay543 Moby362 Dick25 and236 survive308 it162 ." "Take279 another269 pledge322 , old447 man17 ," said252 the19 Parsee18 , as113 his433 eyes125 lighted422 up405 like410 fire559 -flies404 in107 the19 gloom7 --"Hemp245 only517 can450 kill219 thee15 ." "The19 gallows486 , ye483 mean504 .--I482 am375 immortal15 then45 , on392 land406 and236 on392 sea67 ," cried506 Ahab232 , with449 a10 laugh559 of89 derision45 ;--"Immortal15 on392 land406 and236 on392 sea67 !" Both558 were324 silent382 again52 , as113 one470 man17 . The19 grey491 dawn72 came549 on392 , and236 the19 slumbering107 crew126 arose105 from316 the19 boat439 's483 bottom461 , and236 ere83 noon445 the19 dead568 whale422 was454 brought85 to261 the19 ship438 . CHAPTER293 118462 The19 Quadrant24 The19 season248 for190 the19 Line25 at65 length202 drew175 near70 ; and236 every389 day112 when189 Ahab232 , coming140 from316 his433 cabin192 cast99 his433 eyes125 aloft276 , the19 vigilant142 helmsman457 would282 ostentatiously173 handle546 his433 spokes447 , and236 the19 eager516 mariners347 quickly183 run172 to261 the19 braces403 , and236 would282 stand530 there340 with449 all145 their219 eyes125 centrally4 fixed564 on392 the19 nailed419 doubloon263 ; impatient160 for190 the19 order343 to261 point438 the19 ship438 's483 prow451 for190 the19 equator136 . In107 good221 time577 the19 order343 came549 . It162 was454 hard337 upon419 high361 noon445 ; and236 Ahab232 , seated158 in107 the19 bows460 of89 his433 high361 -hoisted367 boat439 , was454 about123 taking146 his433 wonted292 daily201 observation102 of89 the19 sun397 to261 determine118 his433 latitude258 . Now20 , in107 that14 Japanese364 sea67 , the19 days351 in107 summer408 are314 as113 freshets445 of89 effulgences. That14 unblinkingly72 vivid180 Japanese364 sun397 seems19 the19 blazing232 focus256 of89 the19 glassy489 ocean224 's483 immeasurable434 burning70 -glass27 . The19 sky331 looks150 lacquered445 ; clouds342 there340 are314 none365 ; the19 horizon516 floats36 ; and236 this256 nakedness475 of89 unrelieved22 radiance29 is487 as113 the19 insufferable295 splendors126 of89 God185 's483 throne332 . Well263 that14 Ahab232 's483 quadrant24 was454 furnished201 with449 colored213 glasses527 , through295 which16 to261 take279 sight365 of89 that14 solar355 fire559 . So281 , swinging379 his433 seated158 form238 to261 the19 roll473 of89 the19 ship438 , and236 with449 his433 astrological-looking318 instrument464 placed556 to261 his433 eye220 , he362 remained72 in107 that14 posture347 for190 some265 moments434 to261 catch523 the19 precise158 instant279 when189 the19 sun397 should255 gain101 its234 precise158 meridian127 . Meantime210 while55 his433 whole199 attention518 was454 absorbed116 , the19 Parsee18 was454 kneeling311 beneath320 him248 on392 the19 ship438 's483 deck505 , and236 with449 face556 thrown359 up405 like410 Ahab232 's483 , was454 eyeing49 the19 same541 sun397 with449 him248 ; only517 the19 lids143 of89 his433 eyes125 half119 hooded374 their219 orbs501 , and236 his433 wild230 face556 was454 subdued8 to261 an138 earthly64 passionlessness. At65 length202 the19 desired480 observation102 was454 taken222 ; and236 with449 his433 pencil122 upon419 his433 ivory76 leg331 , Ahab232 soon18 calculated321 what243 his433 latitude258 must226 be341 at65 that14 precise158 instant279 . Then45 falling498 into554 a10 moment258 's483 revery60 , he362 again52 looked232 up405 towards417 the19 sun397 and236 murmured238 to261 himself282 : "Thou173 seamark4 ! thou173 high361 and236 mighty2 Pilot559 ! thou173 tellest280 me2 truly530 where579 I482 am375 --but330 canst502 thou173 cast99 the19 least453 hint335 where579 I482 shall66 be341 ? Or519 canst502 thou173 tell392 where579 some265 other282 thing309 besides465 me2 is487 this256 moment258 living117 ? Where579 is487 Moby362 Dick25 ? This256 instant279 thou173 must226 be341 eyeing49 him248 . These527 eyes125 of89 mine482 look523 into554 the19 very515 eye220 that14 is487 even198 now20 beholding248 him248 ; aye86 , and236 into554 the19 eye220 that14 is487 even198 now20 equally336 beholding248 the19 objects326 on392 the19 unknown10 , thither118 side246 of89 thee15 , thou173 sun397 !" Then45 gazing117 at65 his433 quadrant24 , and236 handling135 , one470 after358 the19 other282 , its234 numerous558 cabalistical18 contrivances99 , he362 pondered182 again52 , and236 muttered180 : "Foolish509 toy189 ! babies181 ' plaything72 of89 haughty459 Admirals572 , and236 Commodores129 , and236 Captains124 ; the19 world126 brags142 of89 thee15 , of89 thy43 cunning198 and236 might496 ; but330 what243 after358 all145 canst502 thou173 do353 , but330 tell392 the19 poor533 , pitiful12 point438 , where579 thou173 thyself402 happenest178 to261 be341 on392 this256 wide465 planet382 , and236 the19 hand252 that14 holds92 thee15 : no235 ! not518 one470 jot9 more348 ! Thou173 canst502 not518 tell392 where579 one470 drop22 of89 water520 or519 one470 grain122 of89 sand380 will584 be341 to261 -morrow376 noon445 ; and236 yet443 with449 thy43 impotence229 thou173 insultest the19 sun397 ! Science317 ! Curse48 thee15 , thou173 vain216 toy189 ; and236 cursed441 be341 all145 the19 things4 that14 cast99 man17 's415 eyes125 aloft276 to261 that14 heaven163 , whose286 live554 vividness128 but330 scorches476 him248 , as113 these527 old447 eyes125 are314 even198 now20 scorched253 with449 thy43 light382 , O24 sun397 ! Level378 by406 nature159 to261 this256 earth513 's483 horizon516 are314 the19 glances363 of89 man17 's415 eyes125 ; not518 shot443 from316 the19 crown463 of89 his433 head219 , as113 if141 God185 had364 meant157 him248 to261 gaze568 on392 his433 firmament181 . Curse48 thee15 , thou173 quadrant24 !" dashing14 it162 to261 the19 deck505 , "no235 longer559 will584 I482 guide15 my36 earthly64 way435 by406 thee15 ; the19 level378 ship438 's483 compass463 , and236 the19 level378 deadreckoning, by406 log127 and236 by406 line25 ; these527 shall66 conduct161 me2 , and236 show460 me2 my36 place107 on392 the19 sea67 . Aye86 ," lighting31 from316 the19 boat439 to261 the19 deck505 , "thus362 I482 trample19 on392 thee15 , thou173 paltry147 thing309 that14 feebly356 pointest on392 high361 ; thus362 I482 split148 and236 destroy387 thee15 !" As113 the19 frantic211 old447 man17 thus362 spoke185 and236 thus362 trampled193 with449 his433 live554 and236 dead568 feet349 , a10 sneering193 triumph191 that14 seemed132 meant157 for190 Ahab232 , and236 a10 fatalistic492 despair187 that14 seemed132 meant157 for190 himself282 -- these527 passed87 over82 the19 mute122 , motionless498 Parsee18 's483 face556 . Unobserved44 he362 rose449 and236 glided152 away443 ; while55 , awestruck14 by406 the19 aspect147 of89 their219 commander108 , the19 seamen6 clustered44 together440 on392 the19 forecastle367 , till181 Ahab232 , troubledly pacing253 the19 deck505 , shouted300 out66 --"To261 the19 braces403 ! Up405 helm285 !--square302 in107 !" In107 an138 instant279 the19 yards386 swung205 round287 ; and236 as113 the19 ship438 half119 -wheeled542 upon419 her400 heel105 , her400 three329 firm415 -seated158 graceful403 masts212 erectly359 poised198 upon419 her400 long544 , ribbed246 hull323 , seemed132 as113 the19 three329 Horatii84 pirouetting232 on392 one470 sufficient124 steed249 . Standing144 between77 the19 knight176 -heads366 , Starbuck watched340 the19 Pequod288 's483 tumultuous355 way435 , and236 Ahab232 's483 also119 , as113 he362 went516 lurching320 along423 the19 deck505 . "I482 have254 sat77 before344 the19 dense481 coal127 fire559 and236 watched340 it162 all145 aglow521 , full414 of89 its234 tormented256 flaming269 life71 ; and236 I482 have254 seen154 it162 wane402 at65 last436 , down133 , down133 , to261 dumbest dust434 . Old447 man17 of89 oceans60 ! of89 all145 this256 fiery42 life71 of89 thine72 , what243 will584 at65 length202 remain326 but330 one470 little554 heap31 of89 ashes243 !" "Aye86 ," cried506 Stubb, "but330 sea67 -coal127 ashes243 --mind118 ye483 that14 , Mr219 . Starbuck-- sea67 -coal127 , not518 your162 common304 charcoal98 . Well263 , well263 ! I482 heard444 Ahab232 mutter125 , 'Here135 some265 one470 thrusts506 these527 cards142 into554 these527 old447 hands87 of89 mine482 ; swears274 that14 I482 must226 play89 them146 , and236 no235 others317 .' And236 damn468 me2 , Ahab232 , but330 thou173 actest460 right499 ; live554 in107 the19 game233 , and236 die229 in107 it162 !" CHAPTER293 119396 The19 Candles457 Warmest282 climes348 but330 nurse210 the19 cruellest198 fangs21 : the19 tiger293 of89 Bengal353 crouches83 in107 spiced498 groves130 of89 ceaseless25 verdure329 . Skies30 the19 most216 effulgent99 but330 basket296 the19 deadliest29 thunders320 : gorgeous188 Cuba281 knows286 tornadoes451 that14 never206 swept305 tame13 northern252 lands436 . So281 , too11 , it162 is487 , that14 in107 these527 resplendent111 Japanese364 seas350 the19 mariner265 encounters433 the19 direst122 of89 all145 storms327 , the19 Typhoon364 . It162 will584 sometimes77 burst174 from316 out66 that14 cloudless435 sky331 , like410 an138 exploding31 bomb100 upon419 a10 dazed322 and236 sleepy452 town172 . Towards417 evening581 of89 that14 day112 , the19 Pequod288 was454 torn237 of89 her400 canvas557 , and236 bare245 -poled was454 left159 to261 fight330 a10 Typhoon364 which16 had364 struck441 her400 directly58 ahead5 . When189 darkness493 came549 on392 , sky331 and236 sea67 roared315 and236 split148 with449 the19 thunder356 , and236 blazed321 with449 the19 lightning171 , that14 showed507 the19 disabled345 mast44 fluttering2 here135 and236 there340 with449 the19 rags302 which16 the19 first13 fury30 of89 the19 tempest125 had364 left159 for190 its234 after358 sport171 . Holding311 by406 a10 shroud260 , Starbuck was454 standing144 on392 the19 quarter6 -deck505 ; at65 every389 flash424 of89 the19 lightning171 glancing18 aloft276 , to261 see370 what243 additional131 disaster47 might496 have254 befallen16 the19 intricate227 hamper425 there340 ; while55 Stubb and236 Flask199 were324 directing215 the19 men62 in107 the19 higher574 hoisting50 and236 firmer21 lashing19 of89 the19 boats83 . But330 all145 their219 pains97 seemed132 naught80 . Though400 lifted448 to261 the19 very515 top70 of89 the19 cranes377 , the19 windward170 quarter6 boat439 (Ahab232 's483 ) did444 not518 escape565 . A10 great259 rolling253 sea67 , dashing14 high361 up405 against417 the19 reeling17 ship438 's483 high361 teetering side246 , stove373 in107 the19 boat439 's483 bottom461 at65 the19 stern442 , and236 left159 it162 again52 , all145 dripping92 through295 like410 a10 sieve331 . "Bad458 work385 , bad458 work385 ! Mr219 . Starbuck," said252 Stubb, regarding23 the19 wreck171 , "but330 the19 sea67 will584 have254 its234 way435 . Stubb, for190 one470 , can450 't500 fight330 it162 . You227 see370 , Mr219 . Starbuck, a10 wave556 has399 such420 a10 great259 long544 start117 before344 it162 leaps575 , all145 round287 the19 world126 it162 runs399 , and236 then45 comes268 the19 spring148 ! But330 as113 for190 me2 , all145 the19 start117 I482 have254 to261 meet16 it162 , is487 just108 across129 the19 deck505 here135 . But330 never206 mind118 ; it162 's483 all145 in107 fun347 : so281 the19 old447 song12 says424 ;"--(sings197 .) Oh367 ! jolly50 is487 the19 gale440 , And236 a10 joker127 is487 the19 whale422 , A10 ' flourishin' his433 tail102 ,-- Such420 a10 funny96 , sporty127 , gamy451 , jesty, joky, hoky-poky lad342 , is487 the19 Ocean224 , oh367 ! The19 scud124 all145 a10 flyin151 ', That14 's76 his433 flip282 only517 foamin'; When189 he362 stirs161 in107 the19 spicin',-- Such420 a10 funny96 , sporty127 , gamy451 , jesty, joky, hoky-poky lad342 , is487 the19 Ocean224 , oh367 ! Thunder356 splits369 the19 ships21 , But330 he362 only517 smacks31 his433 lips585 , A10 tastin' of89 this256 flip282 ,-- Such420 a10 funny96 , sporty127 , gamy451 , jesty, joky, hoky-poky lad342 , is487 the19 Ocean224 , oh367 ! "Avast279 Stubb," cried506 Starbuck, "let66 the19 Typhoon364 sing549 , and236 strike374 his433 harp524 here135 in107 our234 rigging516 ; but330 if141 thou173 art462 a10 brave218 man17 thou173 wilt401 hold204 thy43 peace216 ." "But330 I482 am375 not518 a10 brave218 man17 ; never206 said252 I482 was454 a10 brave218 man17 ; I482 am375 a10 coward92 ; and236 I482 sing549 to261 keep381 up405 my36 spirits471 . And236 I482 tell392 you227 what243 it162 is487 , Mr219 . Starbuck, there340 's483 no235 way435 to261 stop48 my36 singing288 in107 this256 world126 but330 to261 cut310 my36 throat461 . And236 when189 that14 's76 done135 , ten198 to261 one470 I482 sing549 ye483 the19 doxology10 for190 a10 wind262 -up405 ." "Madman361 ! look523 through295 my36 eyes125 if141 thou173 hast174 none365 of89 thine72 own248 ." "What243 ! how19 can450 you227 see370 better34 of89 a10 dark471 night108 than77 anybody58 else212 , never206 mind118 how19 foolish509 ?" "Here135 !" cried506 Starbuck, seizing327 Stubb by406 the19 shoulder168 , and236 pointing295 his433 hand252 towards417 the19 weather405 bow146 , "markest84 thou173 not518 that14 the19 gale440 comes268 from316 the19 eastward244 , the19 very515 course171 Ahab232 is487 to261 run172 for190 Moby362 Dick25 ? the19 very515 course171 he362 swung205 to261 this256 day112 noon445 ? now20 mark169 his433 boat439 there340 ; where579 is487 that14 stove373 ? In107 the19 stern442 -sheets281 , man17 ; where579 he362 is487 wont268 to261 stand530 -- his433 stand530 -point438 is487 stove373 , man17 ! Now20 jump50 overboard247 , and236 sing549 away443 , if141 thou173 must226 ! "I482 don280 't500 half119 understand111 ye483 : what243 's483 in107 the19 wind262 ?" "Yes143 , yes143 , round287 the19 Cape23 of89 Good221 Hope211 is487 the19 shortest386 way435 to261 Nantucket283 ," soliloquized336 Starbuck suddenly193 , heedless376 of89 Stubb's483 question562 . "The19 gale440 that14 now20 hammers44 at65 us569 to261 stave416 us569 , we465 can450 turn17 it162 into554 a10 fair320 wind262 that14 will584 drive548 us569 towards417 home450 . Yonder41 , to261 windward170 , all145 is487 blackness448 of89 doom73 ; but330 to261 leeward265 , homeward282 --I482 see370 it162 lightens242 up405 there340 ; but330 not518 with449 the19 lightning171 ." At65 that14 moment258 in107 one470 of89 the19 intervals295 of89 profound371 darkness493 , following181 the19 flashes12 , a10 voice233 was454 heard444 at65 his433 side246 ; and236 almost518 at65 the19 same541 instant279 a10 volley57 of89 thunder356 peals467 rolled226 overhead7 . "Who319 's483 there340 ?" "Old447 Thunder356 !" said252 Ahab232 , groping127 his433 way435 along423 the19 bulwarks411 to261 his433 pivot-hole73 ; but330 suddenly193 finding350 his433 path234 made563 plain28 to261 him248 by406 elbowed41 lances8 of89 fire559 . Now20 , as113 the19 lightning171 rod216 to261 a10 spire461 on392 shore280 is487 intended495 to261 carry160 off111 the19 perilous141 fluid212 into554 the19 soil430 ; so281 the19 kindred402 rod216 which16 at65 sea67 some265 ships21 carry160 to261 each520 mast44 , is487 intended495 to261 conduct161 it162 into554 the19 water520 . But330 as113 this256 conductor316 must226 descend252 to261 considerable75 depth474 , that14 its234 end149 may236 avoid444 all145 contact263 with449 the19 hull323 ; and236 as113 moreover326 , if141 kept290 constantly344 towing78 there340 , it162 would282 be341 liable520 to261 many282 mishaps280 , besides465 interfering550 not518 a10 little554 with449 some265 of89 the19 rigging516 , and236 more348 or519 less261 impeding98 the19 vessel155 's483 way435 in107 the19 water520 ; because540 of89 all145 this256 , the19 lower47 parts470 of89 a10 ship438 's483 lightning171 -rods242 are314 not518 always367 overboard247 ; but330 are314 generally402 made563 in107 long544 slender122 links333 , so281 as113 to261 be341 the19 more348 readily467 hauled80 up405 into554 the19 chains446 outside75 , or519 thrown359 down133 into554 the19 sea67 , as113 occasion211 may236 require228 . "The19 rods242 ! the19 rods242 !" cried506 Starbuck to261 the19 crew126 , suddenly193 admonished3 to261 vigilance124 by406 the19 vivid180 lightning171 that14 had364 just108 been185 darting147 flambeaux89 , to261 light382 Ahab232 to261 his433 post2 . "Are314 they382 overboard247 ? drop22 them146 over82 , fore259 and236 aft2 . Quick241 !" "Avast279 !" cried506 Ahab232 ; "let66 's483 have254 fair320 play89 here135 , though400 we465 be341 the19 weaker25 side246 . Yet443 I482 'll300 contribute454 to261 raise265 rods242 on392 the19 Himmalehs and236 Andes341 , that14 all145 the19 world126 may236 be341 secured284 ; but330 out66 on392 privileges150 ! Let66 them146 be341 , sir271 ." "Look523 aloft276 !" cried506 Starbuck. "The19 corpusants! the19 corpusants! All145 the19 yard258 -arms305 were324 tipped110 with449 a10 pallid22 fire559 ; and236 touched367 at65 each520 tri-pointed413 lightning171 -rod400 -end149 with449 three329 tapering416 white82 flames74 , each520 of89 the19 three329 tall373 masts212 was454 silently533 burning70 in107 that14 sulphurous34 air209 , like410 three329 gigantic157 wax245 tapers362 before344 an138 altar273 . "Blast13 the19 boat439 ! let66 it162 go20 !" cried506 Stubb at65 this256 instant279 , as113 a10 swashing280 sea67 heaved52 up405 under533 his433 own248 little554 craft187 so281 that14 its234 gunwale198 violently340 jammed241 his433 hand252 , as113 he362 was454 passing147 a10 lashing19 . "Blast13 it162 !"--but330 slipping522 backward19 on392 the19 deck505 , his433 uplifted533 eyes125 caught105 the19 flames74 ; and236 immediately172 shifting253 his433 tone13 he362 cried506 --"The19 corpusants have254 mercy378 on392 us569 all145 !" To261 sailors64 , oaths142 are314 household67 words107 ; they382 will584 swear322 in107 the19 trance202 of89 the19 calm39 , and236 in107 the19 teeth82 of89 the19 tempest125 ; they382 will584 imprecate45 curses497 from316 the19 topsail-yard258 -arms305 , when189 most216 they382 teeter4 over82 to261 a10 seething261 sea67 ; but330 in107 all145 my36 voyagings8 , seldom140 have254 I482 heard444 a10 common304 oath115 when189 God185 's483 burning70 finger190 has399 been185 laid181 on392 the19 ship438 ; when189 His433 "Mene196 , Mene196 , Tekel196 Upharsin375 " has399 been185 woven26 into554 the19 shrouds264 and236 the19 cordage218 . While55 this256 pallidness4 was454 burning70 aloft276 , few49 words107 were324 heard444 from316 the19 enchanted229 crew126 ; who319 in107 one470 thick502 cluster465 stood1 on392 the19 forecastle367 , all145 their219 eyes125 gleaming27 in107 that14 pale292 phosphorescence242 , like410 a10 faraway301 constellation246 of89 stars286 . Relieved158 against417 the19 ghostly236 light382 , the19 gigantic157 jet423 negro102 , Daggoo, loomed145 up405 to261 thrice282 his433 real305 stature74 , and236 seemed132 the19 black581 cloud218 from316 which16 the19 thunder356 had364 come420 . The19 parted201 mouth414 of89 Tashtego revealed530 his433 shark4 -white82 teeth82 , which16 strangely155 gleamed61 as113 if141 they382 too11 had364 been185 tipped110 by406 corpusants; while55 lit26 up405 by406 the19 preternatural385 light382 , Queequeg's483 tattooing42 burned389 like410 Satanic247 blue240 flames74 on392 his433 body348 . The19 tableau156 all145 waned221 at65 last436 with449 the19 pallidness4 aloft276 ; and236 once248 more348 the19 Pequod288 and236 every389 soul428 on392 her400 decks386 were324 wrapped99 in107 a10 pall21 . A10 moment258 or519 two527 passed87 , when189 Starbuck, going227 forward364 , pushed189 against417 some265 one470 . It162 was454 Stubb. "What243 thinkest269 thou173 now20 , man17 ; I482 heard444 thy43 cry561 ; it162 was454 not518 the19 same541 in107 the19 song12 ." "No235 , no235 , it162 wasn't500 ; I482 said252 the19 corpusants have254 mercy378 on392 us569 all145 ; and236 I482 hope211 they382 will584 , still278 . But330 do353 they382 only517 have254 mercy378 on392 long544 faces97 ?--have254 they382 no235 bowels499 for190 a10 laugh559 ? And236 look523 ye483 , Mr219 . Starbuck--but330 it162 's483 too11 dark471 to261 look523 . Hear386 me2 , then45 ; I482 take279 that14 mast44 -head116 flame113 we465 saw113 for190 a10 sign8 of89 good221 luck453 ; for190 those427 masts212 are314 rooted232 in107 a10 hold204 that14 is487 going227 to261 be341 chock415 a10 ' block275 with449 sperm26 -oil118 , d67 'ye163 see370 ; and236 so281 , all145 that14 sperm26 will584 work385 up405 into554 the19 masts212 , like410 sap18 in107 a10 tree482 . Yes143 , our234 three329 masts212 will584 yet443 be341 as113 three329 spermaceti283 candles457 -- that14 's76 the19 good221 promise461 we465 saw113 ." At65 that14 moment258 Starbuck caught105 sight365 of89 Stubb's483 face556 slowly149 beginning188 to261 glimmer110 into554 sight365 . Glancing18 upwards110 , he362 cried506 : "See370 ! see370 !" and236 once248 more348 the19 high361 tapering416 flames74 were324 beheld132 with449 what243 seemed132 redoubled336 supernaturalness in107 their219 pallor230 . "The19 corpusants have254 mercy378 on392 us569 all145 ," cried506 Stubb, again52 . At65 the19 base258 of89 the19 main501 -mast44 , full414 beneath320 the19 doubloon263 and236 the19 flame113 , the19 Parsee18 was454 kneeling311 in107 Ahab232 's483 front196 , but330 with449 his433 head219 bowed26 away443 from316 him248 ; while55 near70 by406 , from316 the19 arched4 and236 overhanging161 rigging516 , where579 they382 had364 just108 been185 engaged479 securing93 a10 spar14 , a10 number196 of89 the19 seamen6 , arrested266 by406 the19 glare27 , now20 cohered10 together440 , and236 hung479 pendulous325 , like410 a10 knot403 of89 numbed83 wasps292 from316 a10 drooping279 , orchard365 twig25 . In107 various183 enchanted229 attitudes167 like410 the19 standing144 , or519 stepping299 , or519 running296 skeletons154 in107 Herculaneum29 , others317 remained72 rooted232 to261 the19 deck505 ; but330 all145 their219 eyes125 upcast83 . "Aye86 , aye86 , men62 !" cried506 Ahab232 . "Look523 up405 at65 it162 ; mark169 it162 well263 ; the19 white82 flame113 but330 lights59 the19 way435 to261 the19 White82 Whale422 ! Hand252 me2 those427 mainmast323 links333 there340 ; I482 would282 fain264 feel461 this256 pulse217 , and236 let66 mine482 beat449 against417 it162 ; blood208 against417 fire559 ! So281 ." Then45 turning69 --the19 last436 link389 held212 fast208 in107 his433 left159 hand252 , he362 put190 his433 foot467 upon419 the19 Parsee18 ; and236 with449 fixed564 upward557 eye220 , and236 high361 -flung255 right499 arm25 , he362 stood1 erect245 before344 the19 lofty161 tri-pointed413 trinity261 of89 flames74 . "Oh367 ! thou173 clear408 spirit227 of89 clear408 fire559 , whom324 on392 these527 seas350 I482 as113 Persian23 once248 did444 worship48 , till181 in107 the19 sacramental125 act10 so281 burned389 by406 thee15 , that14 to261 this256 hour384 I482 bear48 the19 scar101 ; I482 now20 know60 thee15 , thou173 clear408 spirit227 , and236 I482 now20 know60 that14 thy43 right499 worship48 is487 defiance32 . To261 neither74 love391 nor137 reverence255 wilt401 thou173 be341 kind451 ; and236 e443 'en541 for190 hate267 thou173 canst502 but330 kill219 ; and236 all145 are314 killed409 . No235 fearless132 fool5 now20 fronts22 thee15 . I482 own248 thy43 speechless225 , placeless power145 ; but330 to261 the19 last436 gasp310 of89 my36 earthquake20 life71 will584 dispute337 its234 unconditional25 , unintegral mastery393 in107 me2 . In107 the19 midst533 of89 the19 personified306 impersonal86 , a10 personality272 stands256 here135 . Though400 but330 a10 point438 at65 best315 ; whenceso'er I482 came549 ; whereso'er102 I482 go20 ; yet443 while55 I482 earthly64 live554 , the19 queenly250 personality272 lives245 in107 me2 , and236 feels450 her400 royal161 rights462 . But330 war169 is487 pain337 , and236 hate267 is487 woe295 . Come420 in107 thy43 lowest287 form238 of89 love391 , and236 I482 will584 kneel510 and236 kiss456 thee15 ; but330 at65 thy43 highest575 , come420 as113 mere393 supernal82 power145 ; and236 though400 thou173 launchest navies27 of89 full414 -freighted12 worlds388 , there340 's483 that14 in107 here135 that14 still278 remains324 indifferent255 . Oh367 , thou173 clear408 spirit227 , of89 thy43 fire559 thou173 madest487 me2 , and236 like410 a10 true483 child451 of89 fire559 , I482 breathe393 it162 back457 to261 thee15 ." [Sudden309 , repeated381 flashes12 of89 lightning171 ; the19 nine140 flames74 leap342 lengthwise288 to261 thrice282 their219 previous376 height20 ; Ahab232 , with449 the19 rest302 , closes23 his433 eyes125 , his433 right499 hand252 pressed323 hard337 upon419 them146 .] "I482 own248 thy43 speechless225 , placeless power145 ; said252 I482 not518 so281 ? Nor137 was454 it162 wrung18 from316 me2 ; nor137 do353 I482 now20 drop22 these527 links333 . Thou173 canst502 blind375 ; but330 I482 can450 then45 grope65 . Thou173 canst502 consume403 ; but330 I482 can450 then45 be341 ashes243 . Take279 the19 homage92 of89 these527 poor533 eyes125 , and236 shutter-hands87 . I482 would282 not518 take279 it162 . The19 lightning171 flashes12 through295 my36 skull9 ; mine482 eyeballs269 ache60 and236 ache60 ; my36 whole199 beaten442 brain158 seems19 as113 beheaded62 , and236 rolling253 on392 some265 stunning122 ground127 . Oh367 , oh367 ! Yet443 blindfold14 , yet443 will584 I482 talk173 to261 thee15 . Light382 though400 thou173 be341 , thou173 leapest63 out66 of89 darkness493 ; but330 I482 am375 darkness493 leaping397 out66 of89 light382 , leaping397 out66 of89 thee15 ! The19 javelins245 cease143 ; open464 eyes125 ; see370 , or519 not518 ? There340 burn118 the19 flames74 ! Oh367 , thou173 magnanimous128 ! now20 do353 I482 do353 glory173 in107 my36 genealogy154 . But330 thou173 art462 but330 my36 fiery42 father339 ; my36 sweet417 mother276 , I482 know60 not518 . Oh367 , cruel529 ! what243 hast174 thou173 done135 with449 her400 ? There340 lies27 my36 puzzle364 ; but330 thine72 is487 greater505 . Thou173 knowest82 not518 how19 came549 ye483 , hence503 callest375 thyself402 unbegotten24 ; certainly124 knowest82 not518 thy43 beginning188 , hence503 callest375 thyself402 unbegun4 . I482 know60 that14 of89 me2 , which16 thou173 knowest82 not518 of89 thyself402 , oh367 , thou173 omnipotent448 . There340 is487 some265 unsuffusing thing309 beyond421 thee15 , thou173 clear408 spirit227 , to261 whom324 all145 thy43 eternity380 is487 but330 time577 , all145 thy43 creativeness367 mechanical31 . Through295 thee15 , thy43 flaming269 self442 , my36 scorched253 eyes125 do353 dimly298 see370 it162 . Oh367 , thou173 foundling41 fire559 , thou173 hermit44 immemorial52 , thou173 too11 hast174 thy43 incommunicable38 riddle41 , thy43 unparticipated110 grief318 . Here135 again52 with449 haughty459 agony242 , I482 read98 my36 sire244 . Leap342 ! leap342 up405 , and236 lick526 the19 sky331 ! I482 leap342 with449 thee15 ; I482 burn118 with449 thee15 ; would282 fain264 be341 welded102 with449 thee15 ; defyingly180 I482 worship48 thee15 !" "The19 boat439 ! the19 boat439 !" cried506 Starbuck, "look523 at65 thy43 boat439 , old447 man17 !" Ahab232 's483 harpoon67 , the19 one470 forged119 at65 Perth163 's483 fire559 , remained72 firmly308 lashed97 in107 its234 conspicuous460 crotch111 , so281 that14 it162 projected175 beyond421 his433 whale422 -boat439 's483 bow146 ; but330 the19 sea67 that14 had364 stove373 its234 bottom461 had364 caused308 the19 loose159 leather303 sheath188 to261 drop22 off111 ; and236 from316 the19 keen202 steel184 barb65 there340 now20 came549 a10 levelled126 flame113 of89 pale292 , forked386 fire559 . As113 the19 silent382 harpoon67 burned389 there340 like410 a10 serpent264 's483 tongue375 , Starbuck grasped101 Ahab232 by406 the19 arm25 --"God185 , God185 is487 against417 thee15 , old447 man17 ; forbear511 ! 't500 is487 an138 ill236 voyage137 ! ill236 begun243 , ill236 continued44 ; let66 me2 square302 the19 yards386 , while55 we465 may236 , old447 man17 , and236 make175 a10 fair320 wind262 of89 it162 homewards290 , to261 go20 on392 a10 better34 voyage137 than77 this256 ." Overhearing84 Starbuck, the19 panic285 -stricken328 crew126 instantly186 ran391 to261 the19 braces403 --though400 not518 a10 sail218 was454 left159 aloft276 . For190 the19 moment258 all145 the19 aghast331 mate508 's483 thoughts26 seemed132 theirs137 ; they382 raised493 a10 half119 mutinous102 cry561 . But330 dashing14 the19 rattling282 lightning171 links333 to261 the19 deck505 , and236 snatching111 the19 burning70 harpoon67 , Ahab232 waved366 it162 like410 a10 torch72 among483 them146 ; swearing40 to261 transfix91 with449 it162 the19 first13 sailor561 that14 but330 cast99 loose159 a10 rope265 's483 end149 . Petrified191 by406 his433 aspect147 , and236 still278 more348 shrinking466 from316 the19 fiery42 dart293 that14 he362 held212 , the19 men62 fell421 back457 in107 dismay366 , and236 Ahab232 again52 spoke185 :-- "All145 your162 oaths142 to261 hunt418 the19 White82 Whale422 are314 as113 binding252 as113 mine482 ; and236 heart470 , soul428 , and236 body348 , lungs40 and236 life71 , old447 Ahab232 is487 bound108 . And236 that14 ye483 may236 know60 to261 what243 tune330 this256 heart470 beats241 : look523 ye483 here135 ; thus362 I482 blow230 out66 the19 last436 fear103 !" And236 with449 one470 blast13 of89 his433 breath150 he362 extinguished140 the19 flame113 . As113 in107 the19 hurricane299 that14 sweeps513 the19 plain28 , men62 fly324 the19 neighborhood44 of89 some265 lone19 , gigantic157 elm17 , whose286 very515 height20 and236 strength168 but330 render509 it162 so281 much61 the19 more348 unsafe152 , because540 so281 much61 the19 more348 a10 mark169 for190 thunderbolts20 ; so281 at65 those427 last436 words107 of89 Ahab232 's483 many282 of89 the19 mariners347 did444 run172 from316 him248 in107 a10 terror85 of89 dismay366 . CHAPTER293 120290 The19 Deck505 Toward273 the19 End149 of89 the19 First13 Night108 Watch89 Ahab232 standing144 by406 the19 helm285 . Starbuck approaching271 him248 . We465 must226 send536 down133 the19 main501 -top70 -sail218 yard258 , sir271 . The19 band541 is487 working113 loose159 and236 the19 lee472 lift229 is487 half119 -stranded299 . Shall66 I482 strike374 it162 , sir271 ?" "Strike374 nothing324 ; lash266 it162 . If141 I482 had364 sky331 -sail135 poles122 , I482 'd67 sway497 them146 up405 now20 ." "Sir271 !--in107 God185 's483 name477 !--sir271 ?" "Well263 ." "The19 anchors273 are314 working113 , sir271 . Shall66 I482 get126 them146 inboard331 ?" "Strike374 nothing324 , and236 stir290 nothing324 but330 lash266 everything233 . The19 wind262 rises215 , but330 it162 has399 not518 got286 up405 to261 my36 table572 -lands436 yet443 . Quick241 , and236 see370 to261 it162 .-- By406 masts212 and236 keels394 ! he362 takes362 me2 for190 the19 hunchbacked296 skipper149 of89 some265 coasting386 smack264 . Send536 down133 my36 main501 -top70 -sail218 yard258 ! Ho31 , gluepots! Loftiest460 trucks364 were324 made563 for190 wildest356 winds399 , and236 this256 brain158 -truck120 of89 mine482 now20 sails344 amid240 the19 cloud218 -scud83 . Shall66 I482 strike374 that14 ? Oh367 , none365 but330 cowards394 send536 down133 their219 brain158 -trucks364 in107 tempest125 time577 . What243 a10 hooroosh aloft276 there340 ! I482 would282 e443 'en541 take279 it162 for190 sublime76 , did444 I482 not518 know60 that14 the19 colic366 is487 a10 noisy122 malady12 . Oh367 , take279 medicine167 , take279 medicine167 !" CHAPTER293 121359 Midnight539 - The19 Forecastle367 Bulwarks411 Stubb and236 Flask199 mounted191 on392 them146 , and236 passing147 additional131 lashings166 over82 the19 anchors273 there340 hanging222 . No235 , Stubb; you227 may236 pound77 that14 knot403 there340 as113 much61 as113 you227 please153 , but330 you227 will584 never206 pound77 into554 me2 what243 you227 were324 just108 now20 saying9 . And236 how19 long544 ago141 is487 it162 since374 you227 said252 the19 very515 contrary166 ? Didn't500 you227 once248 say306 that14 whatever38 ship438 Ahab232 sails344 in107 , that14 ship438 should255 pay496 something181 extra201 on392 its234 insurance415 policy422 , just108 as113 though400 it162 were324 loaded55 with449 powder5 barrels368 aft2 and236 boxes381 of89 lucifers142 forward364 ? Stop48 , now20 ; didn't500 you227 say306 so281 ?" "Well263 , suppose120 I482 did444 ? What243 then45 ! I482 've149 part207 changed21 my36 flesh331 since374 that14 time577 , why177 not518 my36 mind118 ? Besides465 , supposing247 we465 are314 loaded55 with449 powder5 barrels368 aft2 and236 lucifers142 forward364 ; how19 the19 devil411 could375 the19 lucifers142 get126 afire24 in107 this256 drenching155 spray76 here135 ? Why177 , my36 little554 man17 , you227 have254 pretty252 red293 hair237 , but330 you227 couldn't500 get126 afire24 now20 . Shake180 yourself176 ; you227 're155 Aquarius87 , or519 the19 water520 -bearer196 , Flask199 ; might496 fill380 pitchers553 at65 your162 coat7 collar102 . Don280 't500 you227 see370 , then45 , that14 for190 these527 extra201 risks100 the19 Marine333 Insurance415 companies13 have254 extra201 guarantees83 ? Here135 are314 hydrants26 , Flask199 . But330 hark313 , again52 , and236 I482 'll300 answer164 ye483 the19 other282 thing309 . First13 take279 your162 leg331 off111 from316 the19 crown463 of89 the19 anchor141 here135 , though400 , so281 I482 can450 pass153 the19 rope265 ; now20 listen417 . What243 's483 the19 mighty2 difference3 between77 holding311 a10 mast44 's483 lightning171 -rod400 in107 the19 storm218 , and236 standing144 close65 by406 a10 mast44 that14 hasn't500 got286 any501 lightning171 -rod400 at65 all145 in107 a10 storm218 ? Don280 't500 you227 see370 , you227 timber59 -head219 , that14 no235 harm191 can450 come420 to261 the19 holder156 of89 the19 rod216 , unless54 the19 mast44 is487 first13 struck441 ? What243 are314 you227 talking513 about123 , then45 ? Not518 one470 ship438 in107 a10 hundred93 carries440 rods242 , and236 Ahab232 ,--aye86 , man17 , and236 all145 of89 us569 ,--were324 in107 no235 more348 danger383 then45 , in107 my36 poor533 opinion316 , than77 all145 the19 crews559 in107 ten198 thousand586 ships21 now20 sailing232 the19 seas350 . Why177 , you227 King324 -Post2 , you227 , I482 suppose120 you227 would282 have254 every389 man17 in107 the19 world126 go20 about123 with449 a10 small350 lightning171 -rod400 running296 up405 the19 corner204 of89 his433 hat107 , like410 a10 militia216 officer70 's483 skewered26 feather127 , and236 trailing15 behind80 like410 his433 sash333 . Why177 don280 't500 ye483 be341 sensible154 , Flask199 ? it162 's483 easy281 to261 be341 sensible154 ; why177 don280 't500 ye483 , then45 ? any501 man17 with449 half119 an138 eye220 can450 be341 sensible154 ." "I482 don280 't500 know60 that14 , Stubb. You227 sometimes77 find138 it162 rather178 hard337 ." "Yes143 , when189 a10 fellow369 's483 soaked55 through295 , it162 's483 hard337 to261 be341 sensible154 , that14 's76 a10 fact12 . And236 I482 am375 about123 drenched116 with449 this256 spray76 . Never206 mind118 ; catch523 the19 turn17 there340 , and236 pass153 it162 . Seems19 to261 me2 we465 are314 lashing19 down133 these527 anchors273 now20 as113 if141 they382 were324 never206 going227 to261 be341 used102 again52 . Tying49 these527 two527 anchors273 here135 , Flask199 , seems19 like410 tying49 a10 man17 's415 hands87 behind80 him248 . And236 what243 big245 generous355 hands87 they382 are314 , to261 be341 sure41 . These527 are314 your162 iron169 fists55 , hey382 ? What243 a10 hold204 they382 have254 , too11 ! I482 wonder76 , Flask199 , whether454 the19 world126 is487 anchored42 anywhere436 ; if141 she391 is487 , she391 swings31 with449 an138 uncommon88 long544 cable41 , though400 . There340 , hammer364 that14 knot403 down133 , and236 we465 've477 done135 . So281 ; next27 to261 touching80 land406 , lighting31 on392 deck505 is487 the19 most216 satisfactory423 . I482 say306 , just108 wring314 out66 my36 jacket481 skirts259 , will584 ye483 ? Thank166 ye483 . They382 laugh559 at65 long544 -togs so281 , Flask199 ; but330 seems19 to261 me2 , a10 long544 -tailed141 coat7 ought170 always367 to261 be341 worn174 in107 all145 storms327 afloat2 . The19 tails490 tapering416 down133 that14 way435 , serve269 to261 carry160 off111 the19 water520 , d67 'ye163 see370 . Same541 with449 cocked315 hats379 ; the19 cocks42 form238 gable-end149 eave-troughs, Flask199 . No235 more348 monkey335 -jackets140 and236 tarpaulins389 for190 me2 ; I482 must226 mount34 a10 swallow195 -tail102 , and236 drive548 down133 a10 beaver418 ; so281 . Halloa83 ! whew26 ! there340 goes205 my36 tarpaulin2 overboard247 ; Lord106 , Lord106 , that14 the19 winds399 that14 come420 from316 heaven163 should255 be341 so281 unmannerly504 ! This256 is487 a10 nasty155 night108 , lad342 ." CHAPTER293 122324 Midnight539 Aloft276 .--Thunder356 and236 Lightning171 The19 Main501 -top70 -sail218 yard258 - Tashtego passing147 new36 lashings166 around66 it162 . "Um13 , um13 , um13 . Stop48 that14 thunder356 ! Plenty406 too11 much61 thunder356 up405 here135 . What243 's483 the19 use176 of89 thunder356 ? Um13 , um13 , um13 . We465 don280 't500 want350 thunder356 ; we465 want350 rum21 ; give142 us569 a10 glass27 of89 rum21 . Um13 , um13 , um13 !" CHAPTER293 123306 The19 Musket19 During309 the19 most216 violent336 shocks443 of89 the19 Typhoon364 , the19 man17 at65 the19 Pequod288 's483 jaw213 -bone278 tiller445 had364 several479 times121 been185 reelingly hurled46 to261 the19 deck505 by406 its234 spasmodic303 motions62 even198 though400 preventer330 tackles278 had364 been185 attached211 to261 it162 -- for190 they382 were324 slack113 --because540 some265 play89 to261 the19 tiller445 was454 indispensable470 . In107 a10 severe503 gale440 like410 this256 , while55 the19 ship438 is487 but330 a10 tossed227 shuttlecock191 to261 the19 blast13 , it162 is487 by406 no235 means502 uncommon88 to261 see370 the19 needles265 in107 the19 compasses344 , at65 intervals295 , go20 round287 and236 round287 . It162 was454 thus362 with449 the19 Pequod288 's483 ; at65 almost518 every389 shock44 the19 helmsman457 had364 not518 failed564 to261 notice76 the19 whirling122 velocity397 with449 which16 they382 revolved75 upon419 the19 cards142 ; it162 is487 a10 sight365 that14 hardly182 anyone45 can450 behold525 without309 some265 sort42 of89 unwonted481 emotion355 . Some265 hours127 after358 midnight539 , the19 Typhoon364 abated122 so281 much61 , that14 through295 the19 strenuous143 exertions287 of89 Starbuck and236 Stubb-- one470 engaged479 forward364 and236 the19 other282 aft2 --the19 shivered34 remnants157 of89 the19 jib476 and236 fore259 and236 main501 -top70 -sails344 were324 cut310 adrift350 from316 the19 spars15 , and236 went516 eddying282 away443 to261 leeward265 , like410 the19 feathers386 of89 an138 albatross298 , which16 sometimes77 are314 cast99 to261 the19 winds399 when189 that14 storm218 -tossed227 bird443 is487 on392 the19 wing101 . The19 three329 corresponding427 new36 sails344 were324 now20 bent406 and236 reefed402 , and236 a10 storm218 -trysail241 was454 set422 further53 aft2 ; so281 that14 the19 ship438 soon18 went516 through295 the19 water520 with449 some265 precision154 again52 ; and236 the19 course171 -- for190 the19 present112 , East524 -south257 -east524 --which16 he362 was454 to261 steer426 , if141 practicable292 , was454 once248 more348 given141 to261 the19 helmsman457 . For190 during309 the19 violence486 of89 the19 gale440 , he362 had364 only517 steered106 according281 to261 its234 vicissitudes124 . But330 as113 he362 was454 now20 bringing9 the19 ship438 as113 near70 her400 course171 as113 possible277 , watching330 the19 compass463 meanwhile282 , lo418 ! a10 good221 sign8 ! the19 wind262 seemed132 coming140 round287 astern39 ; aye86 , the19 foul528 breeze227 became70 fair320 ! Instantly186 the19 yards386 were324 squared141 , to261 the19 lively272 song12 of89 "Ho31 ! the19 fair320 wind262 ! oh367 -ye483 -ho31 cheerly192 , men62 !" the19 crew126 singing288 for190 joy430 , that14 so281 promising310 an138 event28 should255 so281 soon18 have254 falsified38 the19 evil2 portents306 preceding44 it162 . In107 compliance338 with449 the19 standing144 order343 of89 his433 commander108 -- to261 report238 immediately172 , and236 at65 any501 one470 of89 the19 twenty433 -four175 hours127 , any501 decided74 change386 in107 the19 affairs492 of89 the19 deck505 ,--Starbuck had364 no235 sooner338 trimmed458 the19 yards386 to261 the19 breeze227 --however44 reluctantly403 and236 gloomily452 ,--than77 he362 mechanically143 went516 below397 to261 apprise22 Captain295 Ahab232 of89 the19 circumstance407 . Ere83 knocking82 at65 his433 state135 -room122 , he362 involuntarily124 paused390 before344 it162 a10 moment258 . The19 cabin192 lamp330 --taking146 long544 swings31 this256 way435 and236 that14 -- was454 burning70 fitfully367 , and236 casting19 fitful311 shadows480 upon419 the19 old447 man17 's415 bolted74 door135 ,--a10 thin445 one470 , with449 fixed564 blinds34 inserted102 , in107 place107 of89 upper403 panels234 . The19 isolated93 subterraneousness of89 the19 cabin192 made563 a10 certain31 humming243 silence309 to261 reign145 there340 , though400 it162 was454 hooped160 round287 by406 all145 the19 roar147 of89 the19 elements225 . The19 loaded55 muskets399 in107 the19 rack415 were324 shiningly261 revealed530 , as113 they382 stood1 upright145 against417 the19 forward364 bulkhead364 . Starbuck was454 an138 honest287 , upright145 man17 ; but330 out66 of89 Starbuck's483 heart470 , at65 that14 instant279 when189 he362 saw113 the19 muskets399 , there340 strangely155 evolved8 an138 evil2 thought186 ; but330 so281 blent160 with449 its234 neutral434 or519 good221 accompaniments25 that14 for190 the19 instant279 he362 hardly182 knew480 it162 for190 itself312 . "He362 would282 have254 shot443 me2 once248 ," he362 murmured238 , "yes143 , there340 's483 the19 very515 musket19 that14 he362 pointed413 at65 me2 ;--that14 one470 with449 the19 studded223 stock437 ; let66 me2 touch486 it162 --lift229 it162 . Strange440 , that14 I482 , who319 have254 handled241 so281 many282 deadly49 lances8 , strange440 , that14 I482 should255 shake180 so281 now20 . Loaded55 ? I482 must226 see370 . Aye86 , aye86 ; and236 powder5 in107 the19 pan23 ;-- that14 's76 not518 good221 . Best315 spill292 it162 ?--wait315 . I482 'll300 cure166 myself99 of89 this256 . I482 'll300 hold204 the19 musket19 boldly445 while55 I482 think424 .--I482 come420 to261 report238 a10 fair320 wind262 to261 him248 . But330 how19 fair320 ? Fair320 for190 death543 and236 doom73 ,-- that14 's76 fair320 for190 Moby362 Dick25 . It162 's483 a10 fair320 wind262 that14 's76 only517 fair320 for190 that14 accursed203 fish187 .--The19 very515 tube295 he362 pointed413 at65 me2 !--the19 very515 one470 ; this256 one470 --I482 hold204 it162 here135 ; he362 would282 have254 killed409 me2 with449 the19 very515 thing309 I482 handle546 now20 .--Aye86 and236 he362 would282 fain264 kill219 all145 his433 crew126 . Does565 he362 not518 say306 he362 will584 not518 strike374 his433 spars15 to261 any501 gale440 ? Has399 he362 not518 dashed304 his433 heavenly375 quadrant24 ? and236 in107 these527 same541 perilous141 seas350 , gropes305 he362 not518 his433 way435 by406 mere393 dead568 reckoning541 of89 the19 error374 -abounding143 log127 ? and236 in107 this256 very515 Typhoon364 , did444 he362 not518 swear322 that14 he362 would282 have254 no235 lightning171 -rods242 ? But330 shall66 this256 crazed292 old447 man17 be341 tamely43 suffered356 to261 drag426 a10 whole199 ship438 's483 company280 down133 to261 doom73 with449 him248 ?--Yes143 , it162 would282 make175 him248 the19 wilful160 murderer498 of89 thirty521 men62 and236 more348 , if141 this256 ship438 come420 to261 any501 deadly49 harm191 ; and236 come420 to261 deadly49 harm191 , my36 soul428 swears274 this256 ship438 will584 , if141 Ahab232 have254 his433 way435 . If141 , then45 , he362 were324 this256 instant279 -- put190 aside408 , that14 crime455 would282 not518 be341 his433 . Ha387 ! is487 he362 muttering403 in107 his433 sleep233 ? Yes143 , just108 there340 ,--in107 there340 , he362 's483 sleeping341 . Sleeping341 ? aye86 , but330 still278 alive298 , and236 soon18 awake255 again52 . I482 can450 't500 withstand263 thee15 , then45 , old447 man17 . Not518 reasoning68 ; not518 remonstrance191 ; not518 entreaty481 wilt401 thou173 hearken297 to261 ; all145 this256 thou173 scornest102 . Flat445 obedience74 to261 thy43 own248 flat445 commands245 , this256 is487 all145 thou173 breathest83 . Aye86 , and236 say306 'st501 the19 men62 have254 vow159 'd62 thy43 vow159 ; say306 'st501 all145 of89 us569 are314 Ahabs. Great259 God185 forbid166 !-- But330 is487 there340 no235 other282 way435 ? no235 lawful320 way435 ?--Make175 him248 a10 prisoner92 to261 be341 taken222 home450 ? What243 ! hope211 to261 wrest253 this256 old447 man17 's415 living117 power145 from316 his433 own248 living117 hands87 ? Only517 a10 fool5 would282 try266 it162 . Say306 he362 were324 pinioned279 even198 ; knotted506 all145 over82 with449 ropes461 and236 hawsers8 ; chained492 down133 to261 ring579 -bolts331 on392 this256 cabin192 floor418 ; he362 would282 be341 more348 hideous298 than77 a10 caged423 tiger293 , then45 . I482 could375 not518 endure161 the19 sight365 ; could375 not518 possibly201 fly324 his433 howlings247 ; all145 comfort364 , sleep233 itself312 , inestimable441 reason238 would282 leave450 me2 on392 the19 long544 intolerable304 voyage137 . What243 , then45 , remains324 ? The19 land406 is487 hundreds458 of89 leagues116 away443 , and236 locked105 Japan53 the19 nearest26 . I482 stand530 alone2 here135 upon419 an138 open464 sea67 , with449 two527 oceans60 and236 a10 whole199 continent120 between77 me2 and236 law231 .--Aye86 , aye86 , 'tis so281 .-- Is487 heaven163 a10 murderer498 when189 its234 lightning171 strikes323 a10 would282 -be341 murderer498 in107 his433 bed273 , tindering sheets281 and236 skin428 together440 ?-- And236 would282 I482 be341 a10 murderer498 , then45 , if141 "--and236 slowly149 , stealthily221 , and236 half119 sideways496 looking318 , he362 placed556 the19 loaded55 musket19 's483 end149 against417 the19 door135 . "On392 this256 level378 , Ahab232 's483 hammock323 swings31 within503 ; his433 head219 this256 way435 . A10 touch486 , and236 Starbuck may236 survive308 to261 hug17 his433 wife37 and236 child451 again52 .-- Oh367 Mary221 ! Mary221 !--boy110 ! boy110 ! boy110 !--But330 if141 I482 wake205 thee15 not518 to261 death543 , old447 man17 , who319 can450 tell392 to261 what243 unsounded253 deeps192 Starbuck's483 body348 this256 day112 week11 may236 sink190 , with449 all145 the19 crew126 ! Great259 God185 , where579 art462 Thou173 ? Shall66 I482 ? shall66 I482 ?--The19 wind262 has399 gone190 down133 and236 shifted167 , sir271 ; the19 fore259 and236 main501 topsails76 are314 reefed402 and236 set422 ! she391 heads366 her400 course171 ." "Stern442 all145 ! Oh367 Moby362 Dick25 , I482 clutch14 thy43 heart470 at65 last436 !" Such420 were324 the19 sounds394 that14 now20 came549 hurtling347 from316 out66 the19 old447 man17 's415 tormented256 sleep233 , as113 if141 Starbuck's483 voice233 had364 caused308 the19 long544 dumb371 dream86 to261 speak337 . The19 yet443 levelled126 musket19 shook161 like410 a10 drunkard106 's483 arm25 against417 the19 panel347 ; Starbuck seemed132 wrestling529 with449 an138 angel63 , but330 turning69 from316 the19 door135 , he362 placed556 the19 death543 -tube295 in107 its234 rack415 , and236 left159 the19 place107 . "He362 's483 too11 sound181 asleep492 , Mr219 . Stubb; go20 thou173 down133 , and236 wake205 him248 , and236 tell392 him248 . I482 must226 see370 to261 the19 deck505 here135 . Thou173 know60 'st193 what243 to261 say306 ." CHAPTER293 124152 The19 Needle459 Next27 morning417 the19 not518 -yet443 -subsided445 sea67 rolled226 in107 long544 slow96 billows295 of89 mighty2 bulk181 , and236 striving388 in107 the19 Pequod288 's483 gurgling26 track169 , pushed189 her400 on392 like410 giants321 ' palms173 outspread236 . The19 strong145 unstaggering breeze227 abounded527 so281 , that14 sky331 and236 air209 seemed132 vast43 outbellying sails344 ; the19 whole199 world126 boomed76 before344 the19 wind262 . Muffled58 in107 the19 full414 morning417 light382 , the19 invisible186 sun397 was454 only517 known86 by406 the19 spread348 intensity285 of89 his433 place107 ; where579 his433 bayonet364 rays43 moved492 on392 in107 stacks416 . Emblazonings, as113 of89 crowned527 Babylonian51 kings474 and236 queens431 , reigned208 over82 everything233 . The19 sea67 was454 as113 a10 crucible83 of89 molten23 gold231 , that14 bubblingly leaps575 with449 light382 and236 heat218 . Long544 maintaining140 an138 enchanted229 silence309 , Ahab232 stood1 apart526 ; and236 every389 time577 the19 teetering ship438 loweringly182 pitched101 down133 her400 bowsprit120 , he362 turned492 to261 eye220 the19 bright205 sun397 's483 rays43 produced258 ahead5 ; and236 when189 she391 profoundly261 settled540 by406 the19 stern442 , he362 turned492 behind80 , and236 saw113 the19 sun397 's483 rearward192 place107 , and236 how19 the19 same541 yellow95 rays43 were324 blending350 with449 his433 undeviating138 wake205 . "Ha387 , ha387 , my36 ship438 ! thou173 mightest475 well263 be341 taken222 now20 for190 the19 sea67 -chariot of89 the19 sun397 . Ho31 , ho31 ! all145 ye483 nations274 before344 my36 prow451 , I482 bring173 the19 sun397 to261 ye483 ! Yoke29 on392 the19 further53 billows295 ; hallo167 ! a10 tandem406 , I482 drive548 the19 sea67 !" But330 suddenly193 reined83 back457 by406 some265 counter225 thought186 , he362 hurried335 towards417 the19 helm285 , huskily210 demanding4 how19 the19 ship438 was454 heading364 . "East524 -sou-east524 , sir271 ," said252 the19 frightened172 steersman290 . "Thou173 liest105 !" smiting280 him248 with449 his433 clenched198 fist414 . "Heading364 East524 at65 this256 hour384 in107 the19 morning417 , and236 the19 sun397 astern39 ?" Upon419 this256 every389 soul428 was454 confounded379 ; for190 the19 phenomenon34 just108 then45 observed340 by406 Ahab232 had364 unaccountably133 escaped197 every389 one470 else212 ; but330 its234 very515 blinding298 palpableness204 must226 have254 been185 the19 cause220 . Thrusting100 his433 head219 half119 -way435 into554 the19 binnacle98 , Ahab232 caught105 one470 glimpse12 of89 the19 compasses344 ; his433 uplifted533 arm25 slowly149 fell421 ; for190 a10 moment258 he362 almost518 seemed132 to261 stagger106 . Standing144 behind80 him248 Starbuck looked232 , and236 lo418 ! the19 two527 compasses344 pointed413 East524 , and236 the19 Pequod288 was454 as113 infallibly426 going227 West569 . But330 ere83 the19 first13 wild230 alarm178 could375 get126 out66 abroad504 among483 the19 crew126 , the19 old447 man17 with449 a10 rigid380 laugh559 exclaimed281 , "I482 have254 it162 ! It162 has399 happened156 before344 . Mr219 . Starbuck, last436 night108 's483 thunder356 turned492 our234 compasses344 --that14 's76 all145 . Thou173 hast174 before344 now20 heard444 of89 such420 a10 thing309 , I482 take279 it162 ." "Aye86 ; but330 never206 before344 has399 it162 happened156 to261 me2 , sir271 ," said252 the19 pale292 mate508 , gloomily452 . Here135 , it162 must226 needs41 be341 said252 , that14 accidents122 like410 this256 have254 in107 more348 than77 one470 case346 occurred205 to261 ships21 in107 violent336 storms327 . The19 magnetic181 energy182 , as113 developed396 in107 the19 mariner265 's483 needle459 , is487 , as113 all145 know60 , essentially89 one470 with449 the19 electricity99 beheld132 in107 heaven163 ; hence503 it162 is487 not518 to261 be341 much61 marvelled34 at65 , that14 such420 things4 should255 be341 . In107 instances252 where579 the19 lightning171 has399 actually69 struck441 the19 vessel155 , so281 as113 to261 smite37 down133 some265 of89 the19 spars15 and236 rigging516 , the19 effect215 upon419 the19 needle459 has399 at65 times121 been185 still278 more348 fatal460 ; all145 its234 loadstone117 virtue16 being264 annihilated133 , so281 that14 the19 before344 magnetic181 steel184 was454 of89 no235 more348 use176 than77 an138 old447 wife37 's483 knitting57 needle459 . But330 in107 either45 case346 , the19 needle459 never206 again52 , of89 itself312 , recovers280 the19 original463 virtue16 thus362 marred275 or519 lost308 ; and236 if141 the19 binnacle98 compasses344 be341 affected283 , the19 same541 fate74 reaches88 all145 the19 others317 that14 may236 be341 in107 the19 ship438 ; even198 were324 the19 lowermost141 one470 inserted102 into554 the19 kelson2 . Deliberately336 standing144 before344 the19 binnacle98 , and236 eyeing49 the19 transpointed compasses344 , the19 old447 man17 , with449 the19 sharp427 of89 his433 extended531 hand252 , now20 took68 the19 precise158 bearing354 of89 the19 sun397 , and236 satisfied376 that14 the19 needles265 were324 exactly315 inverted93 , shouted300 out66 his433 orders199 for190 the19 ship438 's483 course171 to261 be341 changed21 accordingly249 . The19 yards386 were324 hard337 up405 ; and236 once248 more348 the19 Pequod288 thrust379 her400 undaunted141 bows460 into554 the19 opposing402 wind262 , for190 the19 supposed423 fair320 one470 had364 only517 been185 juggling259 her400 . Meanwhile282 , whatever38 were324 his433 own248 secret409 thoughts26 , Starbuck said252 nothing324 , but330 quietly380 he362 issued146 all145 requisite400 orders199 ; while55 Stubb and236 Flask199 --who319 in107 some265 small350 degree209 seemed132 then45 to261 be341 sharing198 his433 feelings120 --likewise193 unmurmuringly127 acquiesced70 . As113 for190 the19 men62 , though400 some265 of89 them146 lowly117 rumbled122 , their219 fear103 of89 Ahab232 was454 greater505 than77 their219 fear103 of89 Fate74 . But330 as113 ever208 before344 , the19 pagan118 harpooneers remained72 almost518 wholly497 unimpressed364 ; or519 if141 impressed4 , it162 was454 only517 with449 a10 certain31 magnetism336 shot443 into554 their219 congenial118 hearts431 from316 inflexible264 Ahab232 's483 . For190 a10 space468 the19 old447 man17 walked92 the19 deck505 in107 rolling253 reveries423 . But330 chancing40 to261 slip64 with449 his433 ivory76 heel105 , he362 saw113 the19 crushed197 copper300 sight365 -tubes of89 the19 quadrant24 he362 had364 the19 day112 before344 dashed304 to261 the19 deck505 . "Thou173 poor533 , proud108 heaven163 -gazer103 and236 sun397 's483 pilot559 ! yesterday235 I482 wrecked527 thee15 , and236 to261 -day112 the19 compasses344 would282 fain264 have254 wrecked527 me2 . So281 , so281 . But330 Ahab232 is487 lord106 over82 the19 level378 loadstone117 yet443 . Mr219 . Starbuck--a10 lance76 without309 the19 pole20 ; a10 top70 -maul191 , and236 the19 smallest443 of89 the19 sail218 -maker98 's483 needles265 . Quick241 !" Accessory111 , perhaps75 , to261 the19 impulse290 dictating57 the19 thing309 he362 was454 now20 about123 to261 do353 , were324 certain31 prudential154 motives5 , whose286 object100 might496 have254 been185 to261 revive117 the19 spirits471 of89 his433 crew126 by406 a10 stroke436 of89 his433 subtile186 skill502 , in107 a10 matter176 so281 wondrous30 as113 that14 of89 the19 inverted93 compasses344 . Besides465 , the19 old447 man17 well263 knew480 that14 to261 steer426 by406 transpointed needles265 , though400 clumsily436 practicable292 , was454 not518 a10 thing309 to261 be341 passed87 over82 by406 superstitious49 sailors64 , without309 some265 shudderings83 and236 evil2 portents306 . "Men62 ," said252 he362 , steadily379 turning69 upon419 the19 crew126 , as113 the19 mate508 handed189 him248 the19 things4 he362 had364 demanded223 , "my36 men62 , the19 thunder356 turned492 old447 Ahab232 's483 needles265 ; but330 out66 of89 this256 bit72 of89 steel184 Ahab232 can450 make175 one470 of89 his433 own248 , that14 will584 point438 as113 true483 as113 any501 ." Abashed497 glances363 of89 servile305 wonder76 were324 exchanged205 by406 the19 sailors64 , as113 this256 was454 said252 ; and236 with449 fascinated94 eyes125 they382 awaited132 whatever38 magic54 might496 follow408 . But330 Starbuck looked232 away443 . With449 a10 blow230 from316 the19 top70 -maul191 Ahab232 knocked49 off111 the19 steel184 head219 of89 the19 lance76 , and236 then45 handing353 to261 the19 mate508 the19 long544 iron169 rod216 remaining64 , bade411 him248 hold204 it162 upright145 , without309 its234 touching80 the19 deck505 . Then45 , with449 the19 maul191 , after358 repeatedly179 smiting280 the19 upper403 end149 of89 this256 iron169 rod216 , he362 placed556 the19 blunted364 needle459 endwise10 on392 the19 top70 of89 it162 , and236 less261 strongly168 hammered193 that14 , several479 times121 , the19 mate508 still278 holding311 the19 rod216 as113 before344 . Then45 going227 through295 some265 small350 strange440 motions62 with449 it162 --whether454 indispensable470 to261 the19 magnetizing of89 the19 steel184 , or519 merely57 intended495 to261 augment41 the19 awe305 of89 the19 crew126 , is487 uncertain396 -- he362 called237 for190 linen330 thread44 ; and236 moving316 to261 the19 binnacle98 , slipped227 out66 the19 two527 reversed227 needles265 there340 , and236 horizontally389 suspended245 the19 sail218 -needle459 by406 its234 middle39 , over82 one470 of89 the19 compass463 cards142 . At65 first13 , the19 steel184 went516 round287 and236 round287 , quivering336 and236 vibrating436 at65 either45 end149 ; but330 at65 last436 it162 settled540 to261 its234 place107 , when189 Ahab232 , who319 had364 been185 intently258 watching330 for190 this256 result115 , stepped306 frankly41 back457 from316 the19 binnacle98 , and236 pointing295 his433 stretched63 arm25 towards417 it162 , exclaimed281 ,--"Look523 ye483 , for190 yourselves192 , if141 Ahab232 be341 not518 the19 lord106 of89 the19 level378 loadstone117 ! The19 sun397 is487 East524 , and236 that14 compass463 swears274 it162 !" One470 after358 another269 they382 peered446 in107 , for190 nothing324 but330 their219 own248 eyes125 could375 persuade223 such420 ignorance211 as113 theirs137 , and236 one470 after358 another269 they382 slunk21 away443 . In107 his433 fiery42 eyes125 of89 scorn8 and236 triumph191 , you227 then45 saw113 Ahab232 in107 all145 his433 fatal460 pride279 . CHAPTER293 125373 The19 Log127 and236 Line25 While55 now20 the19 fated217 Pequod288 had364 been185 so281 long544 afloat2 this256 voyage137 , the19 log127 and236 line25 had364 but330 very515 seldom140 been185 in107 use176 . Owing98 to261 a10 confident122 reliance9 upon419 other282 means502 of89 determining1 the19 vessel155 's483 place107 , some265 merchantmen52 , and236 many282 whalemen451 , especially371 when189 cruising298 , wholly497 neglect367 to261 heave308 the19 log127 ; though400 at65 the19 same541 time577 , and236 frequently475 more348 for190 form238 's483 sake523 than77 anything480 else212 , regularly37 putting243 down133 upon419 the19 customary79 slate434 the19 course171 steered106 by406 the19 ship438 , as113 well263 as113 the19 presumed300 average147 rate515 of89 progression350 every389 hour384 . It162 had364 been185 thus362 with449 the19 Pequod288 . The19 wooden35 reel315 and236 angular120 log127 attached211 hung479 , long544 untouched151 , just108 beneath320 the19 railing174 of89 the19 after358 bulwarks411 . Rains310 and236 spray76 had364 damped117 it162 ; the19 sun397 and236 wind262 had364 warped355 it162 ; all145 the19 elements225 had364 combined265 to261 rot232 a10 thing309 that14 hung479 so281 idly188 . But330 heedless376 of89 all145 this256 , his433 mood547 seized337 Ahab232 , as113 he362 happened156 to261 glance362 upon419 the19 reel315 , not518 many282 hours127 after358 the19 magnet506 scene228 , and236 he362 remembered66 how19 his433 quadrant24 was454 no235 more348 , and236 recalled346 his433 frantic211 oath115 about123 the19 level378 log127 and236 line25 . The19 ship438 was454 sailing232 plungingly22 ; astern39 the19 billows295 rolled226 in107 riots425 . "Forward364 , there340 ! Heave308 the19 log127 !" Two527 seamen6 came549 . The19 golden508 -hued188 Tahitian116 and236 the19 grizzly55 Manxman. "Take279 the19 reel315 , one470 of89 ye483 , I482 'll300 heave308 ." They382 went516 towards417 the19 extreme31 stern442 , on392 the19 ship438 's483 lee472 side246 , where579 the19 deck505 , with449 the19 oblique212 energy182 of89 the19 wind262 , was454 now20 almost518 dipping199 into554 the19 creamy205 , sidelong203 -rushing344 sea67 . The19 Manxman took68 the19 reel315 , and236 holding311 it162 high361 up405 , by406 the19 projecting336 handle546 -ends301 of89 the19 spindle284 , round287 which16 the19 spool163 of89 line25 revolved75 , so281 stood1 with449 the19 angular120 log127 hanging222 downwards468 , till181 Ahab232 advanced55 to261 him248 . Ahab232 stood1 before344 him248 , and236 was454 lightly284 unwinding157 some265 thirty521 or519 forty525 turns136 to261 form238 a10 preliminary32 hand252 -coil32 to261 toss237 overboard247 , when189 the19 old447 Manxman, who319 was454 intently258 eyeing49 both558 him248 and236 the19 line25 , made563 bold356 to261 speak337 . "Sir271 , I482 mistrust74 it162 ; this256 line25 looks150 far258 gone190 , long544 heat218 and236 wet299 have254 spoiled282 it162 ." "'Twill hold204 , old447 gentleman399 . Long544 heat218 and236 wet299 , have254 they382 spoiled282 thee15 ? Thou173 seem404 'st193 to261 hold204 . Or519 , truer134 perhaps75 , life71 holds92 thee15 ; not518 thou173 it162 ." "I482 hold204 the19 spool163 , sir271 . But330 just108 as113 my36 captain295 says424 . With449 these527 grey491 hairs47 of89 mine482 'tis not518 worth84 while55 disputing144 , 'specially87 with449 a10 superior479 , who319 'll300 ne'er190 confess315 ." "What243 's483 that14 ? There340 now20 's483 a10 patched435 professor281 in107 Queen443 Nature159 's483 granite192 -founded113 College400 ; but330 methinks462 he362 's483 too11 subservient507 . Where579 wert508 thou173 born236 ?" "In107 the19 little554 rocky218 Isle41 of89 Man17 , sir271 ." "Excellent161 ! Thou173 'st181 hit322 the19 world126 by406 that14 ." "I482 know60 not518 , sir271 , but330 I482 was454 born236 there340 ." "In107 the19 Isle41 of89 Man17 , hey382 ? Well263 , the19 other282 way435 , it162 's483 good221 . Here135 's483 a10 man17 from316 Man17 ; a10 man17 born236 in107 once248 independent330 Man17 , and236 now20 unmanned351 of89 Man17 ; which16 is487 sucked355 in107 --by406 what243 ? Up405 with449 the19 reel315 ! The19 dead568 , blind375 wall509 butts83 all145 inquiring24 heads366 at65 last436 . Up405 with449 it162 ! So281 ." The19 log127 was454 heaved52 . The19 loose159 coils259 rapidly116 straightened346 out66 in107 a10 long544 dragging248 line25 astern39 , and236 then45 , instantly186 , the19 reel315 began132 to261 whirl111 . In107 turn17 , jerkingly raised493 and236 lowered279 by406 the19 rolling253 billows295 , the19 towing78 resistance262 of89 the19 log127 caused308 the19 old447 reelman to261 stagger106 strangely155 . "Hold204 hard337 !" Snap110 ! the19 overstrained83 line25 sagged466 down133 in107 one470 long544 festoon28 ; the19 tugging152 log127 was454 gone190 . "I482 crush482 the19 quadrant24 , the19 thunder356 turns136 the19 needles265 , and236 now20 the19 mad235 sea67 parts470 the19 log127 -line25 . But330 Ahab232 can450 mend220 all145 . Haul19 in107 here135 , Tahitian116 ; reel315 up405 , Manxman. And236 look523 ye483 , let66 the19 carpenter262 make175 another269 log127 , and236 mend220 thou173 the19 line25 . See370 to261 it162 ." "There340 he362 goes205 now20 ; to261 him248 nothing324 's483 happened156 ; but330 to261 me2 , the19 skewer327 seems19 loosening24 out66 of89 the19 middle39 of89 the19 world126 . Haul19 in107 , haul19 in107 , Tahitian116 ! These527 lines241 run172 whole199 , and236 whirling122 out66 : come420 in107 broken255 , and236 dragging248 slow96 . Ha387 , Pip238 ? come420 to261 help526 ; eh76 , Pip238 ?" "Pip238 ? whom324 call259 ye483 Pip238 ? Pip238 jumped499 from316 the19 whaleboat39 . Pip238 's483 missing210 . Let66 's483 see370 now20 if141 ye483 haven432 't500 fished181 him248 up405 here135 , fisherman18 . It162 drags295 hard337 ; I482 guess304 he362 's483 holding311 on392 . Jerk451 him248 , Tahiti183 ! Jerk451 him248 off111 we465 haul19 in107 no235 cowards394 here135 . Ho31 ! there340 's483 his433 arm25 just108 breaking6 water520 . A10 hatchet273 ! a10 hatchet273 ! cut310 it162 off111 --we465 haul19 in107 no235 cowards394 here135 . Captain295 Ahab232 ! sir271 , sir271 ! here135 's483 Pip238 , trying83 to261 get126 on392 board540 again52 ." "Peace216 , thou173 crazy418 loon398 ," cried506 the19 Manxman, seizing327 him248 by406 the19 arm25 . "Away443 from316 the19 quarter6 -deck505 !" "The19 greater505 idiot475 ever208 scolds41 the19 lesser320 ," muttered180 Ahab232 , advancing444 . "Hands87 off111 from316 that14 holiness216 ! Where579 sayest56 thou173 Pip238 was454 , boy110 ? "Astern39 there340 , sir271 , astern39 ! Lo418 ! lo418 !" "And236 who319 art462 thou173 , boy110 ? I482 see370 not518 my36 reflection266 in107 the19 vacant367 pupils304 of89 thy43 eyes125 . Oh367 God185 ! that14 man17 should255 be341 a10 thing309 for190 immortal15 souls82 to261 sieve331 through295 ! Who319 art462 thou173 , boy110 ?" "Bell28 -boy110 , sir271 ; ship438 's483 -crier; ding117 , dong192 , ding117 ! Pip238 ! Pip238 ! Pip238 ! One470 hundred93 pounds74 of89 clay370 reward116 for190 Pip238 ; five103 feet349 high361 --looks150 cowardly181 -- quickest49 known86 by406 that14 ! Ding117 , dong192 , ding117 ! Who319 's483 seen154 Pip238 the19 coward92 ?" "There340 can450 be341 no235 hearts431 above502 the19 snow498 -line25 . Oh367 , ye483 frozen446 heavens494 ! look523 down133 here135 . Ye483 did444 beget415 this256 luckless122 child451 , and236 have254 abandoned493 him248 , ye483 creative317 libertines102 . Here135 , boy110 ; Ahab232 's483 cabin192 shall66 be341 Pip238 's483 home450 henceforth515 , while55 Ahab232 lives245 . Thou173 touchest475 my36 inmost279 centre389 , boy110 ; thou173 art462 tied101 to261 me2 by406 cords388 woven26 of89 my36 heart470 -strings12 . Come420 , let66 's483 down133 ." "What243 's483 this256 ? here135 's483 velvet136 shark4 -skin428 ," intently258 gazing117 at65 Ahab232 's483 hand252 , and236 feeling384 it162 . "Ah132 , now20 , had364 poor533 Pip238 but330 felt440 so281 kind451 a10 thing309 as113 this256 , perhaps75 he362 had364 ne'er190 been185 lost308 ! This256 seems19 to261 me2 , sir271 , as113 a10 man17 -rope98 ; something181 that14 weak216 souls82 may236 hold204 by406 . Oh367 , sir271 , let66 old447 Perth163 now20 come420 and236 rivet295 these527 two527 hands87 together440 ; the19 black581 one470 with449 the19 white82 , for190 I482 will584 not518 let66 this256 go20 ." "Oh367 , boy110 , nor137 will584 I482 thee15 , unless54 I482 should255 thereby190 drag426 thee15 to261 worse561 horrors403 than77 are314 here135 . Come420 , then45 , to261 my36 cabin192 . Lo418 ! ye483 believers54 in107 gods325 all145 goodness64 , and236 in107 man17 all145 ill236 , lo418 you227 ! see370 the19 omniscient310 gods325 oblivious86 of89 suffering543 man17 ; and236 man17 , though400 idiotic283 , and236 knowing240 not518 what243 he362 does565 , yet443 full414 of89 the19 sweet417 things4 of89 love391 and236 gratitude388 . Come420 ! I482 feel461 prouder207 leading59 thee15 by406 thy43 black581 hand252 , than77 though400 I482 grasped101 an138 Emperor262 's483 !" "There340 go20 two527 daft104 ones396 now20 ," muttered180 the19 old447 Manxman. "One470 daft104 with449 strength168 , the19 other282 daft104 with449 weakness304 . But330 here135 's483 the19 end149 of89 the19 rotten57 line25 --all145 dripping92 , too11 . Mend220 it162 , eh76 ? I482 think424 we465 had364 best315 have254 a10 new36 line25 altogether31 . I482 'll300 see370 Mr219 . Stubb about123 it162 ." CHAPTER293 126477 The19 Life71 -Buoy84 Steering252 now20 south257 -eastward244 by406 Ahab232 's483 levelled126 steel184 , and236 her400 progress538 solely41 determined339 by406 Ahab232 's483 level378 log127 and236 line25 ; the19 Pequod288 held212 on392 her400 path234 towards417 the19 Equator136 . Making415 so281 long544 a10 passage285 through295 such420 unfrequented31 waters556 , descrying141 no235 ships21 , and236 ere83 long544 , sideways496 impelled104 by406 unvarying19 trade335 winds399 , over82 waves443 monotonously446 mild117 ; all145 these527 seemed132 the19 strange440 calm39 things4 preluding80 some265 riotous448 and236 desperate316 scene228 . At65 last436 , when189 the19 ship438 drew175 near70 to261 the19 outskirts435 , as113 it162 were324 , of89 the19 Equatorial105 fishing260 -ground127 , and236 in107 the19 deep483 darkness493 that14 goes205 before344 the19 dawn72 , was454 sailing232 by406 a10 cluster465 of89 rocky218 islets6 ; the19 watch89 --then45 headed124 by406 Flask199 --was454 startled475 by406 a10 cry561 so281 plaintively70 wild230 and236 unearthly110 --like410 half119 -articulated423 wailings157 of89 the19 ghosts44 of89 all145 Herod173 's483 murdered273 Innocents38 --that14 one470 and236 all145 , they382 started492 from316 their219 reveries423 , and236 for190 the19 space468 of89 some265 moments434 stood1 , or519 sat77 , or519 leaned265 all145 transfixed259 by406 listening19 , like410 the19 carved455 Roman333 slave126 , while55 that14 wild230 cry561 remained72 within503 hearing325 . The19 Christian235 or519 civilized441 part207 of89 the19 crew126 said252 it162 was454 mermaids51 , and236 shuddered147 ; but330 the19 pagan118 harpooneers remained72 unappalled104 . Yet443 the19 grey491 Manxman--the19 oldest248 mariner265 of89 all145 --declared29 that14 the19 wild230 thrilling128 sounds394 that14 were324 heard444 , were324 the19 voices386 of89 newly318 drowned83 men62 in107 the19 sea67 . Below397 in107 his433 hammock323 , Ahab232 did444 not518 hear386 of89 this256 till181 grey491 dawn72 , when189 he362 came549 to261 the19 deck505 ; it162 was454 then45 recounted181 to261 him248 by406 Flask199 , not518 unaccompanied19 with449 hinted253 dark471 meanings186 . He362 hollowly462 laughed166 , and236 thus362 explained492 the19 wonder76 . Those427 rocky218 islands59 the19 ship438 had364 passed87 were324 the19 resort425 of89 great259 numbers285 of89 seals221 , and236 some265 young389 seals221 that14 had364 lost308 their219 dams212 , or519 some265 dams212 that14 had364 lost308 their219 cubs399 , must226 have254 risen280 nigh254 the19 ship438 and236 kept290 company280 with449 her400 , crying321 and236 sobbing97 with449 their219 human43 sort42 of89 wail86 . But330 this256 only517 the19 more348 affected283 some265 of89 them146 , because540 most216 mariners347 cherish181 a10 very515 superstitious49 feeling384 about123 seals221 , arising303 not518 only517 from316 their219 peculiar291 tones129 when189 in107 distress273 , but330 also119 from316 the19 human43 look523 of89 their219 round287 heads366 and236 semi-intelligent346 faces97 , seen154 peeringly83 uprising375 from316 the19 water520 alongside540 . In107 the19 sea67 , under533 certain31 circumstances267 , seals221 have254 more348 than77 once248 been185 mistaken49 for190 men62 . But330 the19 bodings66 of89 the19 crew126 were324 destined197 to261 receive327 a10 most216 plausible444 confirmation86 in107 the19 fate74 of89 one470 of89 their219 number196 that14 morning417 . At65 sun397 -rise251 this256 man17 went516 from316 his433 hammock323 to261 his433 mast44 -head116 at65 the19 fore259 ; and236 whether454 it162 was454 that14 he362 was454 not518 yet443 half119 waked364 from316 his433 sleep233 (for190 sailors64 sometimes77 go20 aloft276 in107 a10 transition59 state135 ), whether454 it162 was454 thus362 with449 the19 man17 , there340 is487 now20 no235 telling196 ; but330 , be341 that14 as113 it162 may236 , he362 had364 not518 been185 long544 at65 his433 perch295 , when189 a10 cry561 was454 heard444 --a10 cry561 and236 a10 rushing344 --and236 looking318 up405 , they382 saw113 a10 falling498 phantom101 in107 the19 air209 ; and236 looking318 down133 , a10 little554 tossed227 heap31 of89 white82 bubbles552 in107 the19 blue240 of89 the19 sea67 . The19 life71 -buoy84 --a10 long544 slender122 cask503 --was454 dropped2 from316 the19 stern442 , where579 it162 always367 hung479 obedient170 to261 a10 cunning198 spring148 ; but330 no235 hand252 rose449 to261 seize445 it162 , and236 the19 sun397 having69 long544 beat449 upon419 this256 cask503 it162 had364 shrunken246 , so281 that14 it162 slowly149 filled232 , and236 the19 parched186 wood46 also119 filled232 at65 its234 every389 pore396 ; and236 the19 studded223 iron169 -bound108 cask503 followed234 the19 sailor561 to261 the19 bottom461 , as113 if141 to261 yield39 him248 his433 pillow376 , though400 in107 sooth142 but330 a10 hard337 one470 . And236 thus362 the19 first13 man17 of89 the19 Pequod288 that14 mounted191 the19 mast44 to261 look523 out66 for190 the19 White82 Whale422 , on392 the19 White82 Whale422 's483 own248 peculiar291 ground127 ; that14 man17 was454 swallowed104 up405 in107 the19 deep483 . But330 few49 , perhaps75 , thought186 of89 that14 at65 the19 time577 . Indeed522 , in107 some265 sort42 , they382 were324 not518 grieved17 at65 this256 event28 , at65 least453 as113 a10 portent83 ; for190 they382 regarded393 it162 , not518 as113 a10 fore259 -shadowing of89 evil2 in107 the19 future44 , but330 as113 the19 fulfilment371 of89 an138 evil2 already93 presaged191 . They382 declared29 that14 now20 they382 knew480 the19 reason238 of89 those427 wild230 shrieks400 they382 had364 heard444 the19 night108 before344 . But330 again52 the19 old447 Manxman said252 nay358 . The19 lost308 life71 -buoy84 was454 now20 to261 be341 replaced161 ; Starbuck was454 directed498 to261 see370 to261 it162 ; but330 as113 no235 cask503 of89 sufficient124 lightness102 could375 be341 found260 , and236 as113 in107 the19 feverish221 eagerness275 of89 what243 seemed132 the19 approaching271 crisis350 of89 the19 voyage137 , all145 hands87 were324 impatient160 of89 any501 toil89 but330 what243 was454 directly58 connected202 with449 its234 final357 end149 , whatever38 that14 might496 prove396 to261 be341 ; therefore94 , they382 were324 going227 to261 leave450 the19 ship438 's483 stern442 unprovided116 with449 a10 buoy84 , when189 by406 certain31 strange440 signs211 and236 inuendoes256 Queequeg hinted253 a10 hint335 concerning368 his433 coffin284 . "A10 life71 -buoy84 of89 a10 coffin284 !" cried506 Starbuck, starting423 . "Rather178 queer156 , that14 , I482 should255 say306 ," said252 Stubb. "It162 will584 make175 a10 good221 enough217 one470 ," said252 Flask199 , "the19 carpenter262 here135 can450 arrange110 it162 easily45 ." "Bring173 it162 up405 ; there340 's483 nothing324 else212 for190 it162 ," said252 Starbuck, after358 a10 melancholy398 pause391 . "Rig415 it162 , carpenter262 ; do353 not518 look523 at65 me2 so281 -- the19 coffin284 , I482 mean504 . Dost306 thou173 hear386 me2 ? Rig415 it162 ." "And236 shall66 I482 nail367 down133 the19 lid157 , sir271 ?" moving316 his433 hand252 as113 with449 a10 hammer364 . "Aye86 ." "And236 shall66 I482 caulk65 the19 seams155 , sir271 ?" moving316 his433 hand252 as113 with449 a10 caulking98 -iron169 . "Aye86 ." "And236 shall66 I482 then45 pay496 over82 the19 same541 with449 pitch115 , sir271 ?" moving316 his433 hand252 as113 with449 a10 pitch115 -pot209 . Away443 ! What243 possesses87 thee15 to261 this256 ? Make175 a10 life71 -buoy84 of89 the19 coffin284 , and236 no235 more348 .--Mr219 . Stubb, Mr219 . Flask199 , come420 forward364 with449 me2 ." "He362 goes205 off111 in107 a10 huff409 . The19 whole199 he362 can450 endure161 ; at65 the19 parts470 he362 baulks183 . Now20 I482 don280 't500 like410 this256 . I482 make175 a10 leg331 for190 Captain295 Ahab232 , and236 he362 wears270 it162 like410 a10 gentleman399 ; but330 I482 make175 a10 bandbox88 for190 Queequeg, and236 he362 won't500 put190 his433 head219 into554 it162 . Are314 all145 my36 pains97 to261 go20 for190 nothing324 with449 that14 coffin284 ? And236 now20 I482 'm250 ordered143 to261 make175 a10 life71 -buoy84 of89 it162 . It162 's483 like410 turning69 an138 old447 coat7 ; going227 to261 bring173 the19 flesh331 on392 the19 other282 side246 now20 . I482 don280 't500 like410 this256 cobbling199 sort42 of89 business168 -- I482 don280 't500 like410 it162 at65 all145 ; it162 's483 undignified116 ; it162 's483 not518 my36 place107 . Let66 tinkers461 ' brats407 do353 tinkerings; we465 are314 their219 betters77 . I482 like410 to261 take279 in107 hand252 none365 but330 clean26 , virgin317 , fair320 -and236 -square302 mathematical368 jobs425 , something181 that14 regularly37 begins374 at65 the19 beginning188 , and236 is487 at65 the19 middle39 when189 midway418 , and236 comes268 to261 an138 end149 at65 the19 conclusion330 ; not518 a10 cobbler73 's483 job269 , that14 's76 at65 an138 end149 in107 the19 middle39 , and236 at65 the19 beginning188 at65 the19 end149 . It162 's483 the19 old447 woman448 's483 tricks110 to261 be341 giving207 cobbling199 jobs425 . Lord106 ! what243 an138 affection35 all145 old447 women275 have254 for190 tinkers461 . I482 know60 an138 old447 woman448 of89 sixty332 -five402 who319 ran391 away443 with449 a10 bald117 -headed24 young389 tinker44 once248 . And236 that14 's76 the19 reason238 I482 never206 would282 work385 for190 lonely137 widow231 old447 women275 ashore122 when189 I482 kept290 my36 job269 -shop245 in107 the19 Vineyard92 ; they382 might496 have254 taken222 it162 into554 their219 lonely137 old447 heads366 to261 run172 off111 with449 me2 . But330 heigh-ho31 ! there340 are314 no235 caps214 at65 sea67 but330 snow498 -caps214 . Let66 me2 see370 . Nail367 down133 the19 lid157 ; caulk65 the19 seams155 ; pay496 over82 the19 same541 with449 pitch115 ; batten422 them146 down133 tight369 , and236 hang253 it162 with449 the19 snap110 -spring148 over82 the19 ship438 's483 stern442 . Were324 ever208 such420 things4 done135 before344 with449 a10 coffin284 ? Some265 superstitious49 old447 carpenters185 , now20 , would282 be341 tied101 up405 in107 the19 rigging516 , ere83 they382 would282 do353 the19 job269 . But330 I482 'm250 made563 of89 knotty468 Aroostook25 hemlock501 ; I482 don280 't500 budge278 . Cruppered with449 a10 coffin284 ! Sailing232 about123 with449 a10 grave344 -yard258 tray163 ! But330 never206 mind118 . We465 workers6 in107 woods29 make175 bridal23 bedsteads181 and236 card351 -tables13 , as113 well263 as113 coffins259 and236 hearses124 . We465 work385 by406 the19 month438 , or519 by406 the19 job269 , or519 by406 the19 profit498 ; not518 for190 us569 to261 ask238 the19 why177 and236 wherefore220 of89 our234 work385 , unless54 it162 be341 too11 confounded379 cobbling199 , and236 then45 we465 stash it162 if141 we465 can450 . Hem322 ! I482 'll300 do353 the19 job269 , now20 , tenderly452 . I482 'll300 have254 me2 --let66 's483 see370 --how19 many282 in107 the19 ship438 's483 company280 , all145 told82 ? But330 I482 've149 forgotten170 . Any501 way435 , I482 'll300 have254 me2 thirty521 separate495 , Turk291 's483 -headed124 life71 -lines241 , each520 three329 feet349 long544 hanging222 all145 round287 to261 the19 coffin284 . Then45 , if141 the19 hull323 go20 down133 , there340 'll300 be341 thirty521 lively272 fellows131 all145 fighting292 for190 one470 coffin284 , a10 sight365 not518 seen154 very515 often227 beneath320 the19 sun397 ! Come420 hammer364 , caulking98 -iron169 , pitch115 -pot209 , and236 marling-spike445 ! Let66 's483 to261 it162 ." CHAPTER293 127185 The19 Deck505 The19 coffin284 laid181 upon419 two527 line25 -tubs410 , between77 the19 vice443 -bench80 and236 the19 open464 hatchway64 ; the19 Carpenter262 caulking98 its234 seams155 ; the19 string446 of89 twisted279 oakum4 slowly149 unwinding157 from316 a10 large385 roll473 of89 it162 placed556 in107 the19 bosom82 of89 his433 frock200 .--Ahab232 comes268 slowly149 from316 the19 cabin192 -gangway240 , and236 hears561 Pip238 following181 him248 . Back457 lad342 ; I482 will584 be341 with449 ye483 again52 presently166 . He362 goes205 ! Not518 this256 hand252 complies86 with449 my36 humor368 more348 genially83 than77 that14 boy110 .-- Middle39 aisle461 of89 a10 church317 ! What243 's483 here135 ?" "Life71 -buoy84 , sir271 . Mr219 . Starbuck's483 orders199 . Oh367 , look523 , sir271 ! Beware255 the19 hatchway64 !" "Thank166 ye483 , man17 . Thy43 coffin284 lies27 handy270 to261 the19 vault84 ." "Sir271 ? The19 hatchway64 ? oh367 ! So281 it162 does565 , sir271 , so281 it162 does565 ." "Art462 not518 thou173 the19 leg331 -maker? Look523 , did444 not518 this256 stump277 come420 from316 thy43 shop245 ?" "I482 believe191 it162 did444 , sir271 ; does565 the19 ferrule57 stand530 , sir271 ?" "Well263 enough217 . But330 art462 thou173 not518 also119 the19 undertaker4 ?" "Aye86 , sir271 ; I482 patched435 up405 this256 thing309 here135 as113 a10 coffin284 for190 Queequeg; but330 they382 've477 set422 me2 now20 to261 turning69 it162 into554 something181 else212 ." "Then45 tell392 me2 ; art462 thou173 not518 an138 arrant377 , all145 -grasping102 , intermeddling24 , monopolizing136 , heathenish320 old447 scamp296 , to261 be341 one470 day112 making415 legs108 , and236 the19 next27 day112 coffins259 to261 clap225 them146 in107 , and236 yet443 again52 life71 -buoys39 out66 of89 those427 same541 coffins259 ? Thou173 art462 as113 unprincipled355 as113 the19 gods325 , and236 as113 much61 of89 a10 jack299 -of89 -all145 -trades111 ." "But330 I482 do353 not518 mean504 anything480 , sir271 . I482 do353 as113 I482 do353 ." "The19 gods325 again52 . Hark313 ye483 , dost306 thou173 not518 ever208 sing549 working113 about123 a10 coffin284 ? The19 Titans132 , they382 say306 , hummed459 snatches366 when189 chipping86 out66 the19 craters26 for190 volcanoes102 ; and236 the19 grave344 -digger78 in107 the19 play89 sings197 , spade19 in107 hand252 . Dost306 thou173 never206 ?" "Sing549 , sir271 ? Do353 I482 sing549 ? Oh367 , I482 'm250 indifferent255 enough217 , sir271 , for190 that14 ; but330 the19 reason238 why177 the19 grave344 -digger78 made563 music91 must226 have254 been185 because540 there340 was454 none365 in107 his433 spade19 , sir271 . But330 the19 caulking98 mallet409 is487 full414 of89 it162 . Hark313 to261 it162 ." "Aye86 , and236 that14 's76 because540 the19 lid157 there340 's483 a10 sounding331 -board540 ; and236 what243 in107 all145 things4 makes32 the19 sounding331 -board540 is487 this256 -- there340 's483 naught80 beneath320 . And236 yet443 , a10 coffin284 with449 a10 body348 in107 it162 rings25 pretty252 much61 the19 same541 , Carpenter262 . Hast174 thou173 ever208 helped204 carry160 a10 bier4 , and236 heard444 the19 coffin284 knock142 against417 the19 churchyard63 gate481 , going227 in107 ? "Faith511 , sir271 , I482 've149 -" "Faith511 ? What243 's483 that14 ?" "Why177 , faith511 , sir271 , it162 's483 only517 a10 sort42 of89 exclamation156 -like410 -- that14 's76 all145 , sir271 ." "Um13 , um13 ; go20 on392 ." "I482 was454 about123 to261 say306 , sir271 , that14 -" "Art462 thou173 a10 silk55 -worm128 ? Dost306 thou173 spin218 thy43 own248 shroud260 out66 of89 thyself402 ? Look523 at65 thy43 bosom82 ! Despatch214 ! and236 get126 these527 traps336 out66 of89 sight365 ." "He362 goes205 aft2 . That14 was454 sudden309 , now20 ; but330 squalls104 come420 sudden309 in107 hot424 latitudes267 . I482 've149 heard444 that14 the19 Isle41 of89 Albermarle92 , one470 of89 the19 Gallipagos283 , is487 cut310 by406 the19 Equator136 right499 in107 the19 middle39 . Seems19 to261 me2 some265 sort42 of89 Equator136 cuts26 yon252 old447 man17 , too11 , right499 in107 his433 middle39 . He362 's483 always367 under533 the19 Line25 --fiery42 hot424 , I482 tell392 ye483 ! He362 's483 looking318 this256 way435 --come420 , oakum4 ; quick241 . Here135 we465 go20 again52 . This256 wooden35 mallet409 is487 the19 cork4 , and236 I482 'm250 the19 professor281 of89 musical557 glasses527 --tap367 , tap367 !" (Ahab232 to261 himself282 ) "There340 's483 a10 sight365 ! There340 's483 a10 sound181 ! The19 greyheaded24 wood46 -pecker tapping202 the19 hollow511 tree482 ! Blind375 and236 dumb371 might496 well263 be341 envied493 now20 . See370 ! that14 thing309 rests154 on392 two527 line25 -tubs410 , full414 of89 tow160 -lines340 . A10 most216 malicious361 wag26 , that14 fellow369 . Rat170 -tat! So281 man17 's415 seconds92 tick17 ! Oh367 ! how19 immaterial477 are314 all145 materials363 ! What243 things4 real305 are314 there340 , but330 imponderable167 thoughts26 ? Here135 now20 's483 the19 very515 dreaded15 symbol426 of89 grim19 death543 , by406 a10 mere393 hap224 , made563 the19 expressive234 sign8 of89 the19 help526 and236 hope211 of89 most216 endangered350 life71 . A10 life71 -buoy84 of89 a10 coffin284 ! Does565 it162 go20 further53 ? Can450 it162 be341 that14 in107 some265 spiritual467 sense85 the19 coffin284 is487 , after358 all145 , but330 an138 immortality181 -preserver! I482 'll300 think424 of89 that14 . But330 no235 . So281 far258 gone190 am375 I482 in107 the19 dark471 side246 of89 earth513 , that14 its234 other282 side246 , the19 theoretic25 bright205 one470 , seems19 but330 uncertain396 twilight158 to261 me2 . Will584 ye483 never206 have254 done135 , Carpenter262 , with449 that14 accursed203 sound181 ? I482 go20 below397 ; let66 me2 not518 see370 that14 thing309 here135 when189 I482 return407 again52 . Now20 , then45 , Pip238 , we465 'll300 talk173 this256 over82 ; I482 do353 suck516 most216 wondrous30 philosophies102 from316 thee15 ! Some265 unknown10 conduits5 from316 the19 unknown10 worlds388 must226 empty450 into554 thee15 !" CHAPTER293 128111 The19 Pequod288 Meets518 The19 Rachel3 Next27 day112 , a10 large385 ship438 , the19 Rachel3 , was454 descried313 , bearing354 directly58 down133 upon419 the19 Pequod288 , all145 her400 spars15 thickly363 clustering323 with449 men62 . At65 the19 time577 the19 Pequod288 was454 making415 good221 speed468 through295 the19 water520 ; but330 as113 the19 broad267 -winged225 windward170 stranger233 shot443 nigh254 to261 her400 , the19 boastful444 sails344 all145 fell421 together440 as113 blank156 bladders290 that14 are314 burst174 , and236 all145 life71 fled434 from316 the19 smitten83 hull323 . "Bad458 news314 ; she391 brings44 bad458 news314 ," muttered180 the19 old447 Manxman. But330 ere83 her400 commander108 , who319 , with449 trumpet104 to261 mouth414 , stood1 up405 in107 his433 boat439 ; ere83 he362 could375 hopefully277 hail75 , Ahab232 's483 voice233 was454 heard444 . "Hast174 seen154 the19 White82 Whale422 ?" "Aye86 , yesterday235 . Have254 ye483 seen154 a10 whale422 -boat439 adrift350 ?" Throttling362 his433 joy430 , Ahab232 negatively265 answered100 this256 unexpected78 question562 ; and236 would282 then45 have254 fain264 boarded52 the19 stranger233 , when189 the19 stranger233 captain295 himself282 , having69 stopped564 his433 vessel155 's483 way435 , was454 seen154 descending181 her400 side246 . A10 few49 keen202 pulls434 , and236 his433 boat439 -hook213 soon18 clinched353 the19 Pequod288 's483 main501 -chains283 , and236 he362 sprang253 to261 the19 deck505 . Immediately172 he362 was454 recognized410 by406 Ahab232 for190 a10 Nantucketer he362 knew480 . But330 no235 formal107 salutation102 was454 exchanged205 . "Where579 was454 he362 ?--not518 killed409 !--not518 killed409 !" cried506 Ahab232 , closely218 advancing444 . "How19 was454 it162 ?" It162 seemed132 that14 somewhat77 late351 on392 the19 afternoon128 of89 the19 day112 previous376 , while55 three329 of89 the19 stranger233 's483 boats83 were324 engaged479 with449 a10 shoal520 of89 whales331 , which16 had364 led46 them146 some265 four175 or519 five103 miles278 from316 the19 ship438 ; and236 while55 they382 were324 yet443 in107 swift376 chase89 to261 windward170 , the19 white82 hump20 and236 head219 of89 Moby362 Dick25 had364 suddenly193 loomed145 up405 out66 of89 the19 blue240 water520 , not518 very515 far258 to261 leeward265 ; whereupon44 , the19 fourth399 rigged340 boat439 -- a10 reserved234 one470 --had364 been185 instantly186 lowered279 in107 chase89 . After358 a10 keen202 sail218 before344 the19 wind262 , this256 fourth399 boat439 --the19 swiftest72 keeled299 of89 all145 --seemed132 to261 have254 succeeded76 in107 fastening180 --at65 least453 , as113 well263 as113 the19 man17 at65 the19 mast44 -head116 could375 tell392 anything480 about123 it162 . In107 the19 distance264 he362 saw113 the19 diminished163 dotted399 boat439 ; and236 then45 a10 swift376 gleam17 of89 bubbling261 white82 water520 ; and236 after358 that14 nothing324 more348 ; whence494 it162 was454 concluded157 that14 the19 stricken328 whale422 must226 have254 indefinitely25 run172 away443 with449 his433 pursuers196 , as113 often227 happens143 . There340 was454 some265 apprehension26 , but330 no235 positive31 alarm178 , as113 yet443 . The19 recall288 signals314 were324 placed556 in107 the19 rigging516 ; darkness493 came549 on392 ; and236 forced28 to261 pick447 up405 her400 three329 far258 to261 windward170 boats83 --ere83 going227 in107 quest36 of89 the19 fourth399 one470 in107 the19 precisely217 opposite107 direction67 -- the19 ship438 had364 not518 only517 been185 necessitated541 to261 leave450 that14 boat439 to261 its234 fate74 till181 near70 midnight539 , but330 , for190 the19 time577 , to261 increase400 her400 distance264 from316 it162 . But330 the19 rest302 of89 her400 crew126 being264 at65 last436 safe520 aboard298 , she391 crowded95 all145 sail218 --stunsail on392 stunsail-- after358 the19 missing210 boat439 ; kindling83 a10 fire559 in107 her400 try266 -pots184 for190 a10 beacon314 ; and236 every389 other282 man17 aloft276 on392 the19 look523 -out66 . But330 though400 when189 she391 had364 thus362 sailed248 a10 sufficient124 distance264 to261 gain101 the19 presumed300 place107 of89 the19 absent122 ones396 when189 last436 seen154 ; though400 she391 then45 paused390 to261 lower47 her400 spare295 boats83 to261 pull35 all145 around66 her400 ; and236 not518 finding350 anything480 , had364 again52 dashed304 on392 ; again52 paused390 , and236 lowered279 her400 boats83 ; and236 though400 she391 had364 thus362 continued44 doing227 till181 daylight155 ; yet443 not518 the19 least453 glimpse12 of89 the19 missing210 keel39 had364 been185 seen154 . The19 story197 told82 , the19 stranger233 Captain295 immediately172 went516 on392 to261 reveal25 his433 object100 in107 boarding155 the19 Pequod288 . He362 desired480 that14 ship438 to261 unite475 with449 his433 own248 in107 the19 search352 ; by406 sailing232 over82 the19 sea67 some265 four175 or519 five103 miles278 apart526 , on392 parallel78 lines241 , and236 so281 sweeping61 a10 double20 horizon516 , as113 it162 were324 . "I482 will584 wager560 something181 now20 ," whispered89 Stubb to261 Flask199 , "that14 some265 one470 in107 that14 missing210 boat439 wore92 off111 that14 Captain295 's483 best315 coat7 ; mayhap421 , his433 watch89 -- he362 's483 so281 cursed441 anxious256 to261 get126 it162 back457 . Who319 ever208 heard444 of89 two527 pious237 whale422 -ships21 cruising298 after358 one470 missing210 whale422 -boat439 in107 the19 height20 of89 the19 whaling155 season248 ? See370 , Flask199 , only517 see370 how19 pale292 he362 looks150 -- pale292 in107 the19 very515 buttons458 of89 his433 eyes125 --look523 --it162 wasn't500 the19 coat7 -- it162 must226 have254 been185 the19 -" "My36 boy110 , my36 own248 boy110 is487 among483 them146 . For190 God185 's483 sake523 --I482 beg399 , I482 conjure136 "-- here135 exclaimed281 the19 stranger233 Captain295 to261 Ahab232 , who319 thus362 far258 had364 but330 icily115 received12 his433 petition556 . "For190 eight316 -and236 -forty525 hours127 let66 me2 charter39 your162 ship438 --I482 will584 gladly27 pay496 for190 it162 , and236 roundly253 pay496 for190 it162 -- if141 there340 be341 no235 other282 way435 --for190 eight316 -and236 -forty525 hours127 only517 --only517 that14 -- you227 must226 , oh367 , you227 must226 , and236 you227 shall66 do353 this256 thing309 ." "His433 son26 !" cried506 Stubb, "oh367 , it162 's483 his433 son26 he362 's483 lost308 ! I482 take279 back457 the19 coat7 and236 watch89 --what243 says424 Ahab232 ? We465 must226 save556 that14 boy110 ." "He362 's483 drowned83 with449 the19 rest302 on392 'em, last436 night108 ," said252 the19 old447 Manx26 sailor561 standing144 behind80 them146 ; "I482 heard444 ; all145 of89 ye483 heard444 their219 spirits471 ." Now20 , as113 it162 shortly425 turned492 out66 , what243 made563 this256 incident339 of89 the19 Rachel3 's483 the19 more348 melancholy398 , was454 the19 circumstance407 , that14 not518 only517 was454 one470 of89 the19 Captain295 's483 sons250 among483 the19 number196 of89 the19 missing210 boat439 's483 crew126 ; but330 among483 the19 number196 of89 the19 other282 boats83 ' crews559 , at65 the19 same541 time577 , but330 on392 the19 other282 hand252 , separated384 from316 the19 ship438 during309 the19 dark471 vicissitudes124 of89 the19 chase89 , there340 had364 been185 still278 another269 son26 ; as113 that14 for190 a10 time577 , the19 wretched294 father339 was454 plunged340 to261 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 cruellest198 perplexity107 ; which16 was454 only517 solved133 for190 him248 by406 his433 chief156 mate508 's483 instinctively210 adopting181 the19 ordinary225 procedure276 of89 a10 whaleship31 in107 such420 emergencies183 , that14 is487 , when189 placed556 between77 jeopardized209 but330 divided469 boats83 , always367 to261 pick447 up405 the19 majority45 first13 . But330 the19 captain295 , for190 some265 unknown10 constitutional330 reason238 , had364 refrained16 from316 mentioning124 all145 this256 , and236 not518 till181 forced28 to261 it162 by406 Ahab232 's483 iciness203 did444 he362 allude116 to261 his433 one470 yet443 missing210 boy110 ; a10 little554 lad342 , but330 twelve293 years116 old447 , whose286 father339 with449 the19 earnest495 but330 unmisgiving hardihood282 of89 a10 Nantucketer's483 paternal183 love391 , had364 thus362 early92 sought82 to261 initiate380 him248 in107 the19 perils140 and236 wonders115 of89 a10 vocation408 almost518 immemorially210 the19 destiny255 of89 all145 his433 race392 . Nor137 does565 it162 unfrequently198 occur512 , that14 Nantucket283 captains124 will584 send536 a10 son26 of89 such420 tender454 age157 away443 from316 them146 , for190 a10 protracted122 three329 or519 four175 years116 ' voyage137 in107 some265 other282 ship438 than77 their219 own248 ; so281 that14 their219 first13 knowledge270 of89 a10 whaleman98 's483 career165 shall66 be341 unenervated by406 any501 chance292 display246 of89 a10 father339 's483 natural298 but330 untimely189 partiality57 , or519 undue521 apprehensiveness4 and236 concern180 . Meantime210 , now20 the19 stranger233 was454 still278 beseeching233 his433 poor533 boon366 of89 Ahab232 ; and236 Ahab232 still278 stood1 like410 an138 anvil314 , receiving124 every389 shock44 , but330 without309 the19 least453 quivering336 of89 his433 own248 . "I482 will584 not518 go20 ," said252 the19 stranger233 , "till181 you227 say306 aye86 to261 me2 . Do353 to261 me2 as113 you227 would282 have254 me2 do353 to261 you227 in107 the19 like410 case346 . For190 you227 too11 have254 a10 boy110 , Captain295 Ahab232 --though400 but330 a10 child451 , and236 nestling104 safely206 at65 home450 now20 --a10 child451 of89 your162 old447 age157 too11 -- Yes143 , yes143 , you227 relent147 ; I482 see370 it162 --run172 , run172 , men62 , now20 , and236 stand530 by406 to261 square302 in107 the19 yards386 ." "Avast279 ," cried506 Ahab232 --"touch486 not518 a10 rope265 -yarn98 "; then45 in107 a10 voice233 that14 prolongingly moulded239 every389 word486 --"Captain295 Gardiner222 , I482 will584 not518 do353 it162 . Even198 now20 I482 lose247 time577 , Good221 -bye356 , good221 -bye356 . God185 bless128 ye483 , man17 , and236 may236 I482 forgive492 myself99 , but330 I482 must226 go20 . Mr219 . Starbuck, look523 at65 the19 binnacle98 watch89 , and236 in107 three329 minutes368 from316 this256 present112 instant279 warn453 off111 all145 strangers226 ; then45 brace403 forward364 again52 , and236 let66 the19 ship438 sail218 as113 before344 ." Hurriedly12 turning69 , with449 averted101 face556 , he362 descended99 into554 his433 cabin192 , leaving231 the19 strange440 captain295 transfixed259 at65 this256 unconditional25 and236 utter270 rejection235 of89 his433 so281 earnest495 suit373 . But330 starting423 from316 his433 enchantment26 , Gardiner222 silently533 hurried335 to261 the19 side246 ; more348 fell421 than77 stepped306 into554 his433 boat439 , and236 returned214 to261 his433 ship438 . Soon18 the19 two527 ships21 diverged10 their219 wakes60 ; and236 long544 as113 the19 strange440 vessel155 was454 in107 view370 , she391 was454 seen154 to261 yaw471 hither342 and236 thither118 at65 every389 dark471 spot46 , however44 small350 , on392 the19 sea67 . This256 way435 and236 that14 her400 yards386 were324 swung205 around66 ; starboard309 and236 larboard203 , she391 continued44 to261 tack22 ; now20 she391 beat449 against417 a10 head219 sea67 ; and236 again52 it162 pushed189 her400 before344 it162 ; while55 all145 the19 while55 , her400 masts212 and236 yards386 were324 thickly363 clustered44 with449 men62 , as113 three329 tall373 cherry31 trees354 , when189 the19 boys22 are314 cherrying among483 the19 boughs157 . But330 by406 her400 still278 halting82 course171 and236 winding486 , woeful16 way435 , you227 plainly450 saw113 that14 this256 ship438 that14 so281 wept69 with449 spray76 , still278 remained72 without309 comfort364 . She391 was454 Rachel3 , weeping48 for190 her400 children374 , because540 they382 were324 not518 . CHAPTER293 1299 The19 Cabin192 (Ahab232 moving316 to261 go20 on392 deck505 ; Pip238 catches124 him248 by406 the19 hand252 to261 follow408 .) Lad342 , lad342 , I482 tell392 thee15 thou173 must226 not518 follow408 Ahab232 now20 . The19 hour384 is487 coming140 when189 Ahab232 would282 not518 scare75 thee15 from316 him248 , yet443 would282 not518 have254 thee15 by406 him248 . There340 is487 that14 in107 thee15 , poor533 lad342 , which16 I482 feel461 too11 curing104 to261 my36 malady12 . Like410 cures49 like410 ; and236 for190 this256 hunt418 , my36 malady12 becomes314 my36 most216 desired480 health231 . Do353 thou173 abide237 below397 here135 , where579 they382 shall66 serve269 thee15 , as113 if141 thou173 wert508 the19 captain295 . Aye86 , lad342 , thou173 shalt510 sit215 here135 in107 my36 own248 screwed453 chair253 ; another269 screw243 to261 it162 , thou173 must226 be341 ." "No235 , no235 , no235 ! ye483 have254 not518 a10 whole199 body348 , sir271 ; do353 ye483 but330 use176 poor533 me2 for190 your162 one470 lost308 leg331 ; only517 tread252 upon419 me2 , sir271 ; I482 ask238 no235 more348 , so281 I482 remain326 a10 part207 of89 ye483 ." "Oh367 ! spite431 of89 million437 villains2 , this256 makes32 me2 a10 bigot110 in107 the19 fadeless110 fidelity93 of89 man17 !--and236 a10 black581 ! and236 crazy418 !--but330 methinks462 like410 -cures49 -like410 applies195 to261 him248 too11 ; he362 grows520 so281 sane38 again52 ." "They382 tell392 me2 , sir271 , that14 Stubb did444 once248 desert255 poor533 little554 Pip238 , whose286 drowned83 bones5 now20 show460 white82 , for190 all145 the19 blackness448 of89 his433 living117 skin428 . But330 I482 will584 never206 desert255 ye483 , sir271 , as113 Stubb did444 him248 . Sir271 , I482 must226 go20 with449 ye483 ." "If141 thou173 speakest9 thus362 to261 me2 much61 more348 , Ahab232 's483 purpose514 keels394 up405 in107 him248 . I482 tell392 thee15 no235 ; it162 cannot be341 ." "Oh367 good221 master131 , master131 , master131 ! "Weep543 so281 , and236 I482 will584 murder448 thee15 ! have254 a10 care307 , for190 Ahab232 too11 is487 mad235 . Listen417 , and236 thou173 wilt401 often227 hear386 my36 ivory76 foot467 upon419 the19 deck505 , and236 still278 know60 that14 I482 am375 there340 . And236 now20 I482 quit295 thee15 . Thy43 hand252 !--Met130 ! True483 art462 thou173 , lad342 , as113 the19 circumference417 to261 its234 centre389 . So281 : God185 for190 ever208 bless128 thee15 ; and236 if141 it162 come420 to261 that14 ,-- God185 for190 ever208 save556 thee15 , let66 what243 will584 befall149 ." (Ahab232 goes205 ; Pip238 steps392 one470 step204 forward364 .) "Here135 he362 this256 instant279 stood1 , I482 stand530 in107 his433 air209 ,--but330 I482 'm250 alone2 . Now20 were324 even198 poor533 Pip238 here135 I482 could375 endure161 it162 , but330 he362 's483 missing210 . Pip238 ! Pip238 ! Ding117 , dong192 , ding117 ! Who319 's483 seen154 Pip238 ? He362 must226 be341 up405 here135 ; let66 's483 try266 the19 door135 . What243 ? neither74 lock297 , nor137 bolt156 , nor137 bar144 ; and236 yet443 there340 's483 no235 opening306 it162 . It162 must226 be341 the19 spell416 ; he362 told82 me2 to261 stay238 here135 : Aye86 , and236 told82 me2 this256 screwed453 chair253 was454 mine482 . Here135 , then45 , I482 'll300 seat88 me2 , against417 the19 transom379 , in107 the19 ship438 's483 full414 middle39 , all145 her400 keel39 and236 her400 three329 masts212 before344 me2 . Here135 , our234 old447 sailors64 say306 , in107 their219 black581 seventy156 -fours great259 admirals572 sometimes77 sit215 at65 table572 , and236 lord106 it162 over82 rows375 of89 captains124 and236 lieutenants88 . Ha387 ! what243 's483 this256 ? epaulets328 ! epaulets328 ! the19 epaulets328 all145 come420 crowding283 . Pass153 round287 the19 decanters40 ; glad356 to261 see370 ye483 ; fill380 up405 , monsieurs347 ! What243 an138 odd19 feeling384 , now20 , when189 a10 black581 boy110 's483 host5 to261 white82 men62 with449 gold231 lace375 upon419 their219 coats172 !--Monsieurs347 , have254 ye483 seen154 one470 Pip238 ?-- a10 little554 negro102 lad342 , five103 feet349 high361 , hang253 -dog167 look523 , and236 cowardly181 ! Jumped499 from316 a10 whale422 -boat439 once248 ;--seen154 him248 ? No235 ! Well263 then45 , fill380 up405 again52 , captains124 , and236 let66 's483 drink117 shame240 upon419 all145 cowards394 ! I482 name477 no235 names360 . Shame240 upon419 them146 ! Put190 one470 foot467 upon419 the19 table572 . Shame240 upon419 all145 cowards394 .--Hist117 ! above502 there340 , I482 hear386 ivory76 -- Oh367 , master131 ! master131 ! I482 am375 indeed522 down133 -hearted83 when189 you227 walk405 over82 me2 . But330 here135 I482 'll300 stay238 , though400 this256 stern442 strikes323 rocks265 ; and236 they382 bulge356 through295 ; and236 oysters453 come420 to261 join61 me2 ." CHAPTER293 130198 The19 Hat107 And236 now20 that14 at65 the19 proper249 time577 and236 place107 , after358 so281 long544 and236 wide465 a10 preliminary32 cruise117 , Ahab232 ,--all145 other282 whaling155 waters556 swept305 -- seemed132 to261 have254 chased389 his433 foe479 into554 an138 oceanfold, to261 slay543 him248 the19 more348 securely342 there340 ; now20 , that14 he362 found260 himself282 hard337 by406 the19 very515 latitude258 and236 longitude239 where579 his433 tormenting362 wound342 had364 been185 inflicted7 ; now20 that14 a10 vessel155 had364 been185 spoken507 which16 on392 the19 very515 day112 preceding44 had364 actually69 encountered102 Moby362 Dick25 ;-- and236 now20 that14 all145 his433 successive423 meetings279 with449 various183 ships21 contrastingly26 concurred368 to261 show460 the19 demoniac279 indifference111 with449 which16 the19 white82 whale422 tore493 his433 hunters423 , whether454 sinning73 or519 sinned261 against417 ; now20 it162 was454 that14 there340 lurked453 a10 something181 in107 the19 old447 man17 's415 eyes125 , which16 it162 was454 hardly182 sufferable343 for190 feeble266 souls82 to261 see370 . As113 the19 unsetting35 polar25 star274 , which16 through295 the19 livelong167 , arctic364 , six415 months17 ' night108 sustains475 its234 piercing305 , steady21 , central229 gaze568 ; so281 Ahab232 's483 purpose514 now20 fixedly434 gleamed61 down133 upon419 the19 constant149 midnight539 of89 the19 gloomy340 crew126 . It162 domineered124 above502 them146 so281 , that14 all145 their219 bodings66 , doubts289 , misgivings217 , fears259 , were324 fain264 to261 hide266 beneath320 their219 souls82 , and236 not518 sprout127 forth152 a10 single77 spear188 or519 leaf434 . In107 this256 foreshadowing252 interval114 , too11 , all145 humor368 , forced28 or519 natural298 , vanished564 . Stubb no235 more348 strove180 to261 raise265 a10 smile265 ; Starbuck no235 more348 strove180 to261 check88 one470 . Alike122 , joy430 and236 sorrow174 , hope211 and236 fear103 , seemed132 ground127 to261 finest66 dust434 , and236 powdered60 , for190 the19 time577 , in107 the19 clamped116 mortar10 of89 Ahab232 's483 iron169 soul428 . Like410 machines565 , they382 dumbly104 moved492 about123 the19 deck505 , ever208 conscious443 that14 the19 old447 man17 's415 despot127 eye220 was454 on392 them146 . But330 did444 you227 deeply225 scan347 him248 in107 his433 more348 secret409 confidential147 hours127 when189 he362 thought186 no235 glance362 but330 one470 was454 on392 him248 ; then45 you227 would282 have254 seen154 that14 even198 as113 Ahab232 's483 eyes125 so281 awed250 the19 crew126 's483 , the19 inscrutable29 Parsee18 's483 glance362 awed250 his433 ; or519 somehow425 , at65 least453 , in107 some265 wild230 way435 , at65 times121 affected283 it162 . Such420 an138 added52 , gliding248 strangeness58 began132 to261 invest308 the19 thin445 Fedallah now20 ; such420 ceaseless25 shudderings83 shook161 him248 ; that14 the19 men62 looked232 dubious170 at65 him248 ; half119 uncertain396 , as113 it162 seemed132 , whether454 indeed522 he362 were324 a10 mortal371 substance316 , or519 else212 a10 tremulous264 shadow438 cast99 upon419 the19 deck505 by406 some265 unseen173 being264 's483 body348 . And236 that14 shadow438 was454 always367 hovering520 there340 . For190 not518 by406 night108 , even198 , had364 Fedallah ever208 certainly124 been185 known86 to261 slumber428 , or519 go20 below397 . He362 would282 stand530 still278 for190 hours127 : but330 never206 sat77 or519 leaned265 ; his433 wan307 but330 wondrous30 eyes125 did444 plainly450 say306 -- We465 two527 watchmen448 never206 rest302 . Nor137 , at65 any501 time577 , by406 night108 or519 day112 could375 the19 mariners347 now20 step204 upon419 the19 deck505 , unless54 Ahab232 was454 before344 them146 ; either45 standing144 in107 his433 pivot-hole73 , or519 exactly315 pacing253 the19 planks284 between77 two527 undeviating138 limits305 ,--the19 main501 -mast44 and236 the19 mizen117 ; or519 else212 they382 saw113 him248 standing144 in107 the19 cabin192 -scuttle27 ,--his433 living117 foot467 advanced55 upon419 the19 deck505 , as113 if141 to261 step204 ; his433 hat107 slouched364 heavily227 over82 his433 eyes125 ; so281 that14 however44 motionless498 he362 stood1 , however44 the19 days351 and236 nights224 were324 added52 on392 , that14 he362 had364 not518 swung205 in107 his433 hammock323 ; yet443 hidden78 beneath320 that14 slouching282 hat107 , they382 could375 never206 tell392 unerringly240 whether454 , for190 all145 this256 , his433 eyes125 were324 really406 closed523 at65 times121 ; or519 whether454 he362 was454 still278 intently258 scanning505 them146 ; no235 matter176 , though400 he362 stood1 so281 in107 the19 scuttle27 for190 a10 whole199 hour384 on392 the19 stretch318 , and236 the19 unheeded208 night108 -damp264 gathered165 in107 beads286 of89 dew251 upon419 that14 stone398 -carved455 coat7 and236 hat107 . The19 clothes98 that14 the19 night108 had364 wet299 , the19 next27 day112 's483 sunshine3 dried331 upon419 him248 ; and236 so281 , day112 after358 day112 , and236 night108 after358 night108 ; he362 went516 no235 more348 beneath320 the19 planks284 ; whatever38 he362 wanted85 from316 the19 cabin192 that14 thing309 he362 sent411 for190 . He362 ate367 in107 the19 same541 open464 air209 ; that14 is487 , his433 two527 only517 meals419 ,-- breakfast408 and236 dinner322 : supper4 he362 never206 touched367 ; nor137 reaped19 his433 beard23 ; which16 darkly371 grew5 all145 gnarled127 , as113 unearthed2 roots263 of89 trees354 blown147 over82 , which16 still278 grow163 idly188 on392 at65 naked70 base258 , though400 perished264 in107 the19 upper403 verdure329 . But330 though400 his433 whole199 life71 was454 now20 become548 one470 watch89 on392 deck505 ; and236 though400 the19 Parsee18 's483 mystic455 watch89 was454 without309 intermission92 as113 his433 own248 ; yet443 these527 two527 never206 seemed132 to261 speak337 --one470 man17 to261 the19 other282 --unless54 at65 long544 intervals295 some265 passing147 unmomentous matter176 made563 it162 necessary145 . Though400 such420 a10 potent422 spell416 seemed132 secretly208 to261 join61 the19 twain313 ; openly196 , and236 to261 the19 awe305 -struck240 crew126 , they382 seemed132 pole20 -like410 asunder18 . If141 by406 day112 they382 chanced424 to261 speak337 one470 word486 ; by406 night108 , dumb371 men62 were324 both558 , so281 far258 as113 concerned583 the19 slightest44 verbal52 interchange382 . At65 times121 , for190 longest14 hours127 , without309 a10 single77 hail75 , they382 stood1 far258 parted201 in107 the19 starlight325 ; Ahab232 in107 his433 scuttle27 , the19 Parsee18 by406 the19 main501 -mast44 ; but330 still278 fixedly434 gazing117 upon419 each520 other282 ; as113 if141 in107 the19 Parsee18 Ahab232 saw113 his433 forethrown shadow438 , in107 Ahab232 the19 Parsee18 his433 abandoned493 substance316 . And236 yet443 , somehow425 , did444 Ahab232 --in107 his433 own248 proper249 self442 , as113 daily201 , hourly224 , and236 every389 instant279 , commandingly458 revealed530 to261 his433 subordinates389 ,-- Ahab232 seemed132 an138 independent330 lord106 ; the19 Parsee18 but330 his433 slave126 . Still278 again52 both558 seemed132 yoked417 together440 , and236 an138 unseen173 tyrant130 driving280 them146 ; the19 lean279 shade116 siding24 the19 solid494 rib84 . For190 be341 this256 Parsee18 what243 he362 may236 , all145 rib84 and236 keel39 was454 solid494 Ahab232 . At65 the19 first13 faintest302 glimmering244 of89 the19 dawn72 , his433 iron169 voice233 was454 heard444 from316 aft2 ,--"Man17 the19 mast44 -heads279 !"--and236 all145 through295 the19 day112 , till181 after358 sunset305 and236 after358 twilight158 , the19 same541 voice233 every389 hour384 , at65 the19 striking22 of89 the19 helmsman457 's483 bell28 , was454 heard444 --"What243 d67 'ye163 see370 ?-- sharp427 ! sharp427 ! sharp427 !" But330 when189 three329 or519 four175 days351 had364 slided355 by406 , after358 meeting183 the19 children374 -seeking427 Rachel3 ; and236 no235 spout224 had364 yet443 been185 seen154 ; the19 monomaniac336 old447 man17 seemed132 distrustful46 of89 his433 crew126 's483 fidelity93 ; at65 least453 , of89 nearly575 all145 except545 the19 Pagan118 harpooneers; he362 seemed132 to261 doubt71 , even198 , whether454 Stubb and236 Flask199 might496 not518 willingly390 overlook117 the19 sight365 he362 sought82 . But330 if141 these527 suspicions220 were324 really406 his433 , he362 sagaciously213 refrained16 from316 verbally4 expressing469 them146 , however44 his433 actions201 might496 seem404 to261 hint335 them146 . "I482 will584 have254 the19 first13 sight365 of89 the19 whale422 myself99 ,"-- he362 said252 . "Aye86 ! Ahab232 must226 have254 the19 doubloon263 ! and236 with449 his433 own248 hands87 he362 rigged340 a10 nest454 of89 basketed bowlines141 ; and236 sending1 a10 hand252 aloft276 , with449 a10 single77 sheaved block275 , to261 secure92 to261 the19 mainmast323 head219 , he362 received12 the19 two527 ends301 of89 the19 downwardreeved rope265 ; and236 attaching242 one470 to261 his433 basket296 prepared59 a10 pin486 for190 the19 other282 end149 , in107 order343 to261 fasten476 it162 at65 the19 rail51 . This256 done135 , with449 that14 end149 yet443 in107 his433 hand252 and236 standing144 beside276 the19 pin486 , he362 looked232 round287 upon419 his433 crew126 , sweeping61 from316 one470 to261 the19 other282 ; pausing19 his433 glance362 long544 upon419 Daggoo, Queequeg, Tashtego; but330 shunning180 Fedallah; and236 then45 settling98 his433 firm415 relying332 eye220 upon419 the19 chief156 mate508 , said252 ,--"Take279 the19 rope265 , sir271 --I482 give142 it162 into554 thy43 hands87 , Starbuck." Then45 arranging407 his433 person550 in107 the19 basket296 , he362 gave572 the19 word486 for190 them146 to261 hoist9 him248 to261 his433 perch295 , Starbuck being264 the19 one470 who319 secured284 the19 rope265 at65 last436 ; and236 afterwards418 stood1 near70 it162 . And236 thus362 , with449 one470 hand252 clinging232 round287 the19 royal161 mast44 , Ahab232 gazed13 abroad504 upon419 the19 sea67 for190 miles278 and236 miles278 ,--ahead5 astern39 , this256 side246 , and236 that14 ,--within503 the19 wide465 expanded507 circle282 commanded571 at65 so281 great259 a10 height20 . When189 in107 working113 with449 his433 hands87 at65 some265 lofty161 almost518 isolated93 place107 in107 the19 rigging516 , which16 chances400 to261 afford282 no235 foothold249 , the19 sailor561 at65 sea67 is487 hoisted367 up405 to261 that14 spot46 , and236 sustained283 there340 by406 the19 rope265 ; under533 these527 circumstances267 , its234 fastened426 end149 on392 deck505 is487 always367 given141 in107 strict284 charge308 to261 some265 one470 man17 who319 has399 the19 special326 watch89 of89 it162 . Because540 in107 such420 a10 wilderness396 of89 running296 rigging516 , whose286 various183 different276 relations150 aloft276 cannot always367 be341 infallibly426 discerned23 by406 what243 is487 seen154 of89 them146 at65 the19 deck505 ; and236 when189 the19 deck505 -ends301 of89 these527 ropes461 are314 being264 every389 few49 minutes368 cast99 down133 from316 the19 fastenings127 , it162 would282 be341 but330 a10 natural298 fatality223 , if141 , unprovided116 with449 a10 constant149 watchman92 , the19 hoisted367 sailor561 should255 by406 some265 carelessness155 of89 the19 crew126 be341 cast99 adrift350 and236 fall90 all145 swooping446 to261 the19 sea67 . So281 Ahab232 's483 proceedings121 in107 this256 matter176 were324 not518 unusual322 ; the19 only517 strange440 thing309 about123 them146 seemed132 to261 be341 , that14 Starbuck, almost518 the19 one470 only517 man17 who319 had364 ever208 ventured152 to261 oppose307 him248 with449 anything480 in107 the19 slightest44 degree209 approaching271 to261 decision249 -- one470 of89 those427 too11 , whose286 faithfulness249 on392 the19 look523 -out66 he362 had364 seemed132 to261 doubt71 somewhat77 ; it162 was454 strange440 , that14 this256 was454 the19 very515 man17 he362 should255 select55 for190 his433 watchman92 ; freely386 giving207 his433 whole199 life71 into554 such420 an138 otherwise542 distrusted136 person550 's483 hands87 . Now20 , the19 first13 time577 Ahab232 was454 perched151 aloft276 ; ere83 he362 had364 been185 there340 ten198 minutes368 ; one470 of89 those427 red293 -billed savage398 sea67 -hawks53 which16 so281 often227 fly324 incommodiously295 close65 round287 the19 manned282 mast44 -heads279 of89 whalemen451 in107 these527 latitudes267 ; one470 of89 these527 birds332 came549 wheeling434 and236 screaming64 round287 his433 head219 in107 a10 maze508 of89 untrackably swift376 circlings132 . Then45 it162 darted362 a10 thousand586 feet349 straight346 up405 into554 the19 air209 ; then45 spiralized downwards468 , and236 went516 eddying282 again52 round287 his433 head219 . But330 with449 his433 gaze568 fixed564 upon419 the19 dim14 and236 distant353 horizon516 , Ahab232 seemed132 not518 to261 mark169 this256 wild230 bird443 ; nor137 , indeed522 , would282 any501 one470 else212 have254 marked67 it162 much61 , it162 being264 no235 uncommon88 circumstance407 ; only517 now20 almost518 the19 least453 heedful133 eye220 seemed132 to261 see370 some265 sort42 of89 cunning198 meaning62 in107 almost518 every389 sight365 . "Your162 hat107 , your162 hat107 , sir271 !" suddenly193 cried506 the19 Sicilian125 seaman166 , who319 being264 posted478 at65 the19 mizen117 -mast44 -head116 , stood1 directly58 behind80 Ahab232 , though400 somewhat77 lower47 than77 his433 level378 , and236 with449 a10 deep483 gulf375 of89 air209 dividing306 them146 . But330 already93 the19 sable275 wing101 was454 before344 the19 old447 man17 's415 eyes125 ; the19 long544 hooked91 bill338 at65 his433 head219 : with449 a10 scream455 , the19 black581 hawk328 darted362 away443 with449 his433 prize74 . An138 eagle319 flew424 thrice282 round287 Tarquin305 's483 head219 , removing46 his433 cap328 to261 replace98 it162 , and236 thereupon25 Tanaquil, his433 wife37 , declared29 that14 Tarquin305 would282 be341 king324 of89 Rome401 . But330 only517 by406 the19 replacing78 of89 the19 cap328 was454 that14 omen7 accounted480 good221 . Ahab232 's483 hat107 was454 never206 restored384 ; the19 wild230 hawk328 flew424 on392 and236 on392 with449 it162 ; far258 in107 advance70 of89 the19 prow451 : and236 at65 last436 disappeared5 ; while55 from316 the19 point438 of89 that14 disappearance97 , a10 minute236 black581 spot46 was454 dimly298 discerned23 , falling498 from316 that14 vast43 height20 into554 the19 sea67 . CHAPTER293 13136 The19 Pequod288 Meets518 The19 Delight25 The19 intense89 Pequod288 sailed248 on392 ; the19 rolling253 waves443 and236 days351 went516 by406 ; the19 life71 -buoy84 -coffin284 still278 lightly284 swung205 ; and236 another269 ship438 , most216 miserably233 misnamed4 the19 Delight25 , was454 descried313 . As113 she391 drew175 nigh254 , all145 eyes125 were324 fixed564 upon419 her400 broad267 beams523 , called237 shears32 , which16 , in107 some265 whaling155 -ships21 , cross416 the19 quarter6 -deck505 at65 the19 height20 of89 eight316 or519 nine140 feet349 ; serving480 to261 carry160 the19 spare295 , unrigged400 , or519 disabled345 boats83 . Upon419 the19 stranger233 's483 shears32 were324 beheld132 the19 shattered205 , white82 ribs92 , and236 some265 few49 splintered330 planks284 , of89 what243 had364 once248 been185 a10 whale422 -boat439 ; but330 you227 now20 saw113 through295 this256 wreck171 , as113 plainly450 as113 you227 see370 through295 the19 peeled160 , half119 -unhinged70 , and236 bleaching21 skeleton231 of89 a10 horse409 . "Hast174 seen154 the19 White82 Whale422 ?" "Look523 !" replied163 the19 hollow511 -cheeked captain295 from316 his433 taffrail83 ; and236 with449 his433 trumpet104 he362 pointed413 to261 the19 wreck171 . "Hast174 killed409 him248 ?" "The19 harpoon67 is487 not518 yet443 forged119 that14 will584 ever208 will584 do353 that14 ," answered100 the19 other282 , sadly75 glancing18 upon419 a10 rounded23 hammock323 on392 the19 deck505 , whose286 gathered165 sides331 some265 noiseless21 sailors64 were324 busy130 in107 sewing42 together440 . "Not518 forged119 !" and236 snatching111 Perth163 's483 levelled126 iron169 from316 the19 crotch111 , Ahab232 held212 it162 out66 , exclaiming117 --"Look523 ye483 , Nantucketer; here135 in107 this256 hand252 I482 hold204 his433 death543 ! Tempered270 in107 blood208 , and236 tempered270 by406 lightning171 are314 these527 barbs226 ; and236 I482 swear322 to261 temper453 them146 triply196 in107 that14 hot424 place107 behind80 the19 fin286 , where579 the19 White82 Whale422 most216 feels450 his433 accursed203 life71 !" "Then45 God185 keep381 thee15 , old447 man17 --see370 'st119 thou173 that14 "-- pointing295 to261 the19 hammock323 --"I482 bury354 but330 one470 of89 five103 stout29 men62 , who319 were324 alive298 only517 yesterday235 ; but330 were324 dead568 ere83 night108 . Only517 that14 one470 I482 bury354 ; the19 rest302 were324 buried205 before344 they382 died575 ; you227 sail218 upon419 their219 tomb122 ." Then45 turning69 to261 his433 crew126 --"Are314 ye483 ready464 there340 ? place107 the19 plank243 then45 on392 the19 rail51 , and236 lift229 the19 body348 ; so281 , then45 --Oh367 ! God185 "--advancing444 towards417 the19 hammock323 with449 uplifted533 hands87 --"may236 the19 resurrection281 and236 the19 life71 -" "Brace403 forward364 ! Up405 helm285 !" cried506 Ahab232 like410 lightning171 to261 his433 men62 . But330 the19 suddenly193 started492 Pequod288 was454 not518 quick241 enough217 to261 escape565 the19 sound181 of89 the19 splash310 that14 the19 corpse133 soon18 made563 as113 it162 struck441 the19 sea67 ; not518 so281 quick241 , indeed522 , but330 that14 some265 of89 the19 flying354 bubbles552 might496 have254 sprinkled18 her400 hull323 with449 their219 ghostly236 baptism427 . As113 Ahab232 now20 glided152 from316 the19 dejected400 Delight25 , the19 strange440 life71 -buoy84 hanging222 at65 the19 Pequod288 's483 stern442 came549 into554 conspicuous460 relief60 . "Ha387 ! yonder41 ! look523 yonder41 , men62 !" cried506 a10 foreboding243 voice233 in107 her400 wake205 . "In107 vain216 , oh367 , ye483 strangers226 , ye483 fly324 our234 sad341 burial218 ; ye483 but330 turn17 us569 your162 taffrail83 to261 show460 us569 your162 coffin284 !" CHAPTER293 132477 The19 Symphony16 It162 was454 a10 clear408 steel184 -blue240 day112 . The19 firmaments575 of89 air209 and236 sea67 were324 hardly182 separable165 in107 that14 all145 -pervading398 azure154 ; only517 , the19 pensive13 air209 was454 transparently83 pure61 and236 soft226 , with449 a10 woman448 's483 look523 , and236 the19 robust127 and236 man17 -like389 sea67 heaved52 with449 long544 , strong145 , lingering186 swells446 , as113 Samson110 's483 chest98 in107 his433 sleep233 . Hither342 , and236 thither118 , on392 high361 , glided152 the19 snow498 -white362 wings175 of89 small350 , unspeckled birds332 ; these527 were324 the19 gentle439 thoughts26 of89 the19 feminine259 air209 ; but330 to261 and236 fro183 in107 the19 deeps192 , far258 down133 in107 the19 bottomless376 blue240 , rushed199 mighty2 leviathans336 , sword273 -fish187 , and236 sharks206 ; and236 these527 were324 the19 strong145 , troubled327 , murderous86 thinkings142 of89 the19 masculine107 sea67 . But330 though400 thus362 contrasting286 within503 , the19 contrast205 was454 only517 in107 shades508 and236 shadows480 without309 ; those427 two527 seemed132 one470 ; it162 was454 only517 the19 sex158 , as113 it162 were324 , that14 distinguished365 them146 . Aloft276 , like410 a10 royal161 czar427 and236 king324 , the19 sun397 seemed132 giving207 this256 gentle439 air209 to261 this256 bold356 and236 rolling253 sea67 ; even198 as113 bride115 to261 groom5 . And236 at65 the19 girdling132 line25 of89 the19 horizon516 , a10 soft226 and236 tremulous264 motion544 -- most216 seen154 here135 at65 the19 Equator136 --denoted86 the19 fond174 , throbbing335 trust495 , the19 loving309 alarms22 , with449 which16 the19 poor533 bride115 gave572 her400 bosom82 away443 . Tied101 up405 and236 twisted279 ; gnarled127 and236 knotted506 with449 wrinkles318 ; haggardly86 firm415 and236 unyielding25 ; his433 eyes125 glowing160 like410 coals163 , that14 still278 glow227 in107 the19 ashes243 of89 ruin462 ; untottering Ahab232 stood1 forth152 in107 the19 clearness91 of89 the19 morn309 ; lifting100 his433 splintered330 helmet159 of89 a10 brow474 to261 the19 fair320 girl30 's483 forehead380 of89 heaven163 . Oh367 , immortal15 infancy371 , and236 innocency27 of89 the19 azure154 ! Invisible186 winged144 creatures5 that14 frolic130 all145 round287 us569 ! Sweet417 childhood379 of89 air209 and236 sky331 ! how19 oblivious86 were324 ye483 of89 old447 Ahab232 's483 close65 -coiled4 woe295 ! But330 so281 have254 I482 seen154 little554 Miriam251 and236 Martha253 , laughing83 -eyed363 elves370 , heedlessly49 gambol403 around66 their219 old447 sire244 ; sporting320 with449 the19 circle282 of89 singed379 locks445 which16 grew5 on392 the19 marge330 of89 that14 burnt37 -out66 crater369 of89 his433 brain158 . Slowly149 crossing402 the19 deck505 from316 the19 scuttle27 , Ahab232 leaned265 over82 the19 side246 and236 watched340 how19 his433 shadow438 in107 the19 water520 sank310 and236 sank310 to261 his433 gaze568 , the19 more348 and236 the19 more348 that14 he362 strove180 to261 pierce259 the19 profundity19 . But330 the19 lovely126 aromas229 in107 that14 enchanted229 air209 did444 at65 last436 seem404 to261 dispel102 , for190 a10 moment258 , the19 cankerous141 thing309 in107 his433 soul428 . That14 glad356 , happy416 air209 , that14 winsome237 sky331 , did444 at65 last436 stroke436 and236 caress143 him248 ; the19 step204 -mother276 world126 , so281 long544 cruel529 --forbidding147 --now20 threw459 affectionate57 arms536 round287 his433 stubborn452 neck239 , and236 did444 seem404 to261 joyously315 sob225 over82 him248 , as113 if141 over82 one470 , that14 however44 wilful160 and236 erring389 , she391 could375 yet443 find138 it162 in107 her400 heart470 to261 save556 and236 to261 bless128 . From316 beneath320 his433 slouched364 hat107 Ahab232 dropped2 a10 tear146 into554 the19 sea67 ; nor137 did444 all145 the19 Pacific294 contain112 such420 wealth438 as113 that14 one470 wee294 drop22 . Starbuck saw113 the19 old447 man17 ; saw113 him248 , how19 he362 heavily227 leaned265 over82 the19 side246 ; and236 he362 seemed132 to261 hear386 in107 his433 own248 true483 heart470 the19 measureless102 sobbing97 that14 stole135 out66 of89 the19 centre389 of89 the19 serenity27 around66 . Careful252 not518 to261 touch486 him248 , or519 be341 noticed157 by406 him248 , he362 yet443 drew175 near70 to261 him248 , and236 stood1 there340 . Ahab232 turned492 . "Starbuck!" "Sir271 ." "Oh367 , Starbuck! it162 is487 a10 mild117 , mild117 wind262 , and236 a10 mild117 looking318 sky331 . On392 such420 a10 day112 --very515 much61 such420 a10 sweetness275 as113 this256 --I482 struck441 my36 first13 whale422 --a10 boy110 -harpooneer of89 eighteen387 ! Forty525 --forty525 -- forty525 years116 ago141 !--ago141 ! Forty525 years116 of89 continual222 whaling155 ! forty525 years116 of89 privation234 , and236 peril565 , and236 storm218 -time577 ! forty525 years116 on392 the19 pitiless76 sea67 ! for190 forty525 years116 has399 Ahab232 forsaken233 the19 peaceful319 land406 , for190 forty525 years116 to261 make175 war169 on392 the19 horrors403 of89 the19 deep483 ! Aye86 and236 yes143 , Starbuck, out66 of89 those427 forty525 years116 I482 have254 not518 spent329 three329 ashore122 . When189 I482 think424 of89 this256 life71 I482 have254 led46 ; the19 desolation143 of89 solitude15 it162 has399 been185 ; the19 masoned, walled8 -town172 of89 a10 Captain295 's483 exclusiveness95 , which16 admits309 but330 small350 entrance237 to261 any501 sympathy242 from316 the19 green549 country362 without309 --oh367 , weariness429 ! heaviness252 ! Guinea310 -coast287 slavery137 of89 solitary407 command190 !--when189 I482 think424 of89 all145 this256 ; only517 half119 -suspected189 , not518 so281 keenly270 known86 to261 me2 before344 -- and236 how19 for190 forty525 years116 I482 have254 fed491 upon419 dry430 salted212 fare19 -- fit12 emblem296 of89 the19 dry430 nourishment521 of89 my36 soul428 !--when189 the19 poorest157 landsman331 has399 had364 fresh540 fruit9 to261 his433 daily201 hand252 , and236 broken255 the19 world126 's483 fresh540 bread387 to261 my36 mouldy508 crusts127 --away443 , whole199 oceans60 away443 , from316 that14 young389 girl30 -wife37 I482 wedded489 past111 fifty406 , and236 sailed248 for190 Cape23 Horn139 the19 next27 day112 , leaving231 but330 one470 dent321 in107 my36 marriage361 pillow376 -- wife37 ? wife37 ?--rather178 a10 widow231 with449 her400 husband207 alive298 ? Aye86 , I482 widowed301 that14 poor533 girl30 when189 I482 married306 her400 , Starbuck; and236 then45 , the19 madness282 , the19 frenzy446 , the19 boiling99 blood208 and236 the19 smoking470 brow474 , with449 which16 , for190 a10 thousand586 lowerings old447 Ahab232 has399 furiously252 , foamingly chased389 his433 prey347 --more348 a10 demon22 than77 a10 man17 !--aye86 , aye86 ! what243 a10 forty525 years116 ' fool5 --fool5 --old447 fool5 , has399 old447 Ahab232 been185 ! Why177 this256 strife557 of89 the19 chase89 ? why177 weary306 , and236 palsy392 the19 arm25 at65 the19 oar61 , and236 the19 iron169 , and236 the19 lance76 ? how19 the19 richer284 or519 better34 is487 Ahab232 now20 ? Behold525 . Oh367 , Starbuck! is487 it162 not518 hard337 , that14 with449 this256 weary306 load310 I482 bear48 , one470 poor533 leg331 should255 have254 been185 snatched513 from316 under533 me2 ? Here135 , brush369 this256 old447 hair237 aside408 ; it162 blinds34 me2 , that14 I482 seem404 to261 weep543 . Locks445 so281 grey491 did444 never206 grow163 but330 from316 out66 some265 ashes243 ! But330 do353 I482 look523 very515 old447 , so281 very515 , very515 old447 , Starbuck? I482 feel461 deadly49 faint316 , bowed26 , and236 humped25 , as113 though400 I482 were324 Adam482 , staggering235 beneath320 the19 piled126 centuries168 since374 Paradise215 . God185 ! God185 ! God185 !--crack83 my36 heart470 !--stave416 my36 brain158 !-- mockery32 ! mockery32 ! bitter236 , biting29 mockery32 of89 grey491 hairs47 , have254 I482 lived415 enough217 joy430 to261 wear250 ye483 ; and236 seem404 and236 feel461 thus362 intolerably181 old447 ? Close65 ! stand530 close65 to261 me2 , Starbuck; let66 me2 look523 into554 a10 human43 eye220 ; it162 is487 better34 than77 to261 gaze568 into554 sea67 or519 sky331 ; better34 than77 to261 gaze568 upon419 God185 . By406 the19 green549 land406 ; by406 the19 bright205 hearthstone157 ! this256 is487 the19 magic54 glass27 , man17 ; I482 see370 my36 wife37 and236 my36 child451 in107 thine72 eye220 . No235 , no235 ; stay238 on392 board540 , on392 board540 !--lower47 not518 when189 I482 do353 ; when189 branded474 Ahab232 gives529 chase89 to261 Moby362 Dick25 . That14 hazard202 shall66 not518 be341 thine72 . No235 , no235 ! not518 with449 the19 far258 away443 home450 I482 see370 in107 that14 eye220 !" "Oh367 , my36 Captain295 ! my36 Captain295 ! noble226 soul428 ! grand229 old447 heart470 , after358 all145 ! why177 should255 any501 one470 give142 chase89 to261 that14 hated499 fish187 ! Away443 with449 me2 ! let66 us569 fly324 these527 deadly49 waters556 ! let66 us569 home450 ! Wife37 and236 child451 , too11 , are314 Starbuck's483 --wife37 and236 child451 of89 his433 brotherly301 , sisterly23 , play89 -fellow369 youth327 ; even198 as113 thine72 , sir271 , are314 the19 wife37 and236 child451 of89 thy43 loving309 , longing292 , paternal183 old447 age157 ! Away443 ! let66 us569 away443 !--this256 instant279 let66 me2 alter50 the19 course171 ! How19 cheerily282 , how19 hilariously86 , O24 my36 Captain295 , would282 we465 bowl418 on392 our234 way435 to261 see370 old447 Nantucket283 again52 ! I482 think424 , sir271 , they382 have254 some265 such420 mild117 blue240 days351 , even198 as113 this256 , in107 Nantucket283 ." "They382 have254 , they382 have254 . I482 have254 seen154 them146 --some265 summer408 days351 in107 the19 morning417 . About123 this256 time577 --yes143 , it162 is487 his433 noon445 nap484 now20 -- the19 boy110 vivaciously213 wakes60 ; sits105 up405 in107 bed273 ; and236 his433 mother276 tells449 him248 of89 me2 , of89 cannibal180 old447 me2 ; how19 I482 am375 abroad504 upon419 the19 deep483 , but330 will584 yet443 come420 back457 to261 dance174 him248 again52 ." "'Tis my36 Mary221 , my36 Mary221 herself263 ! She391 promised466 that14 my36 boy110 , every389 morning417 , should255 be341 carried232 to261 the19 hill219 to261 catch523 the19 first13 glimpse12 of89 his433 father339 's483 sail218 ! Yes143 , yes143 ! no235 more348 ! it162 is487 done135 ! we465 head219 for190 Nantucket283 ! Come420 , my36 Captain295 , study252 out66 the19 course171 , and236 let66 us569 away443 ! See370 , see370 ! the19 boy110 's483 face556 from316 the19 window8 ! the19 boy110 's483 hand252 on392 the19 hill219 !" But330 Ahab232 's483 glance362 was454 averted101 ; like410 a10 blighted354 fruit9 tree482 he362 shook161 , and236 cast99 his433 last436 , cindered apple501 to261 the19 soil430 . "What243 is487 it162 , what243 nameless427 , inscrutable29 , unearthly110 thing309 is487 it162 ; what243 cozening105 , hidden78 lord106 and236 master131 , and236 cruel529 , remorseless266 emperor262 commands245 me2 ; that14 against417 all145 natural298 lovings226 and236 longings177 , I482 so281 keep381 pushing39 , and236 crowding283 , and236 jamming310 myself99 on392 all145 the19 time577 ; recklessly72 making415 me2 ready464 to261 do353 what243 in107 my36 own248 proper249 , natural298 heart470 , I482 durst441 not518 so281 much61 as113 dare11 ? Is487 Ahab232 , Ahab232 ? Is487 it162 I482 , God185 , or519 who319 , that14 lifts414 this256 arm25 ? But330 if141 the19 great259 sun397 move361 not518 of89 himself282 ; but330 is487 as113 an138 errand264 -boy41 in107 heaven163 ; nor137 one470 single77 star274 can450 revolve125 , but330 by406 some265 invisible186 power145 ; how19 then45 can450 this256 one470 small350 heart470 beat449 ; this256 one470 small350 brain158 think424 thoughts26 ; unless54 God185 does565 that14 beating124 , does565 that14 thinking385 , does565 that14 living117 , and236 not518 I482 . By406 heaven163 , man17 , we465 are314 turned492 round287 and236 round287 in107 this256 world126 , like410 yonder41 windlass231 , and236 Fate74 is487 the19 handspike301 . And236 all145 the19 time577 , lo418 ! that14 smiling232 sky331 , and236 this256 unsounded253 sea67 ! Look523 ! see370 yon252 Albicore! who319 put190 it162 into554 him248 to261 chase89 and236 fang102 that14 flying354 -fish187 ? Where579 do353 murderers205 go20 , man17 ! Who319 's483 to261 doom73 , when189 the19 judge337 himself282 is487 dragged460 to261 the19 bar144 ? But330 it162 is487 a10 mild117 , mild117 wind262 , and236 a10 mild117 looking318 sky331 ; and236 the19 airs345 smells422 now20 , as113 if141 it162 blew234 from316 a10 far258 -away443 meadow310 ; they382 have254 been185 making415 hay515 somewhere201 under533 the19 slopes84 of89 the19 Andes341 , Starbuck, and236 the19 mowers99 are314 sleeping341 among483 the19 new36 -mown hay515 . Sleeping341 ? Aye86 , toil89 we465 how19 we465 may236 , we465 all145 sleep233 at65 last436 on392 the19 field275 . Sleep233 ? Aye86 , and236 rust19 amid240 greenness149 ; as113 last436 year347 's483 scythes259 flung255 down133 , and236 left159 in107 the19 half119 -cut310 swarths403 --Starbuck!" But330 blanched92 to261 a10 corpse133 's483 hue296 with449 despair187 , the19 Mate508 had364 stolen254 away443 . Ahab232 crossed202 the19 deck505 to261 gaze568 over82 on392 the19 other282 side246 ; but330 started492 at65 two527 reflected479 , fixed564 eyes125 in107 the19 water520 there340 , Fedallah was454 motionlessly402 leaning559 over82 the19 same541 rail51 . CHAPTER293 13352 The19 Chase89 - First13 Day112 That14 night108 , in107 the19 mid84 -watch89 when189 the19 old447 man17 --as113 his433 wont268 at65 intervals295 --stepped306 forth152 from316 the19 scuttle27 in107 which16 he362 leaned265 , and236 went516 to261 his433 pivot-hole73 , he362 suddenly193 thrust379 out66 his433 face556 fiercely111 , snuffing107 up405 the19 sea67 air209 as113 a10 sagacious10 ship438 's483 dog322 will584 , in107 drawing407 nigh254 to261 some265 barbarous38 isle41 . He362 declared29 that14 a10 whale422 must226 be341 near70 . Soon18 that14 peculiar291 odor482 , sometimes77 to261 a10 great259 distance264 given141 forth152 by406 the19 living117 sperm26 whale422 , was454 palpable255 to261 all145 the19 watch89 ; nor137 was454 any501 mariner265 surprised55 when189 , after358 inspecting335 the19 compass463 , and236 then45 the19 dog322 -vane254 , and236 then45 ascertaining351 the19 precise158 bearing354 of89 the19 odor482 as113 nearly575 as113 possible277 , Ahab232 rapidly116 ordered143 the19 ship438 's483 course171 to261 be341 slightly238 altered124 , and236 the19 sail218 to261 be341 shortened111 . The19 acute453 policy422 dictating57 these527 movements299 was454 sufficiently12 vindicated181 at65 daybreak18 , by406 the19 sight365 of89 a10 long544 sleek296 on392 the19 sea67 directly58 and236 lengthwise288 ahead5 , smooth388 as113 oil118 , and236 resembling445 in107 the19 pleated479 watery59 wrinkles318 bordering127 it162 , the19 polished370 metallic-like410 marks226 of89 some265 swift376 tide523 -rip364 , at65 the19 mouth414 of89 a10 deep483 , rapid321 stream184 . "Man17 the19 mast44 -heads279 ! Call259 all145 hands87 !" Thundering136 with449 the19 butts83 of89 three329 clubbed322 handspikes209 on392 the19 forecastle367 deck505 , Daggoo roused336 the19 sleepers367 with449 such420 judgment83 claps468 that14 they382 seemed132 to261 exhale69 from316 the19 scuttle27 , so281 instantaneously494 did444 they382 appear443 with449 their219 clothes98 in107 their219 hands87 . "What243 d67 'ye163 see370 ?" cried506 Ahab232 , flattening26 his433 face556 to261 the19 sky331 . "Nothing324 , nothing324 sir271 !" was454 the19 sound181 hailing400 down133 in107 reply271 . "T500 'gallant323 sails344 !--stunsails! alow61 and236 aloft276 , and236 on392 both558 sides331 !" All145 sail218 being264 set422 , he362 now20 cast99 loose159 the19 life71 -line25 , reserved234 for190 swaying315 him248 to261 the19 main501 royal161 -mast44 head219 ; and236 in107 a10 few49 moments434 they382 were324 hoisting50 him248 thither118 , when189 , while55 but330 two527 thirds141 of89 the19 way435 aloft276 , and236 while55 peering446 ahead5 through295 the19 horizontal252 vacancy11 between77 the19 main501 -top70 -sail218 and236 top70 -gallant323 -sail218 , he362 raised493 a10 gull8 -like410 cry561 in107 the19 air209 . "There340 she391 blows361 !--there340 she391 blows361 ! A10 hump20 like410 a10 snow498 -hill219 ! It162 is487 Moby362 Dick25 !" Fired31 by406 the19 cry561 which16 seemed132 simultaneously558 taken222 up405 by406 the19 three329 look523 -outs52 , the19 men62 on392 deck505 rushed199 to261 the19 rigging516 to261 behold525 the19 famous254 whale422 they382 had364 so281 long544 been185 pursuing392 . Ahab232 had364 now20 gained290 his433 final357 perch295 , some265 feet349 above502 the19 other282 look523 -outs52 , Tashtego standing144 just108 beneath320 him248 on392 the19 cap328 of89 the19 top70 -gallant323 -mast44 , so281 that14 the19 Indian303 's483 head219 was454 almost518 on392 a10 level378 with449 Ahab232 's483 heel105 . From316 this256 height20 the19 whale422 was454 now20 seen154 some265 mile295 or519 so281 ahead5 , at65 every389 roll473 of89 the19 sea67 revealing451 his433 high361 sparkling42 hump20 , and236 regularly37 jetting97 his433 silent382 spout224 into554 the19 air209 . To261 the19 credulous74 mariners347 it162 seemed132 the19 same541 silent382 spout224 they382 had364 so281 long544 ago141 beheld132 in107 the19 moonlit42 Atlantic198 and236 Indian303 Oceans60 . "And236 did444 none365 of89 ye483 see370 it162 before344 ?" cried506 Ahab232 , hailing400 the19 perched151 men62 all145 around66 him248 . "I482 saw113 him248 almost518 that14 same541 instant279 , sir271 , that14 Captain295 Ahab232 did444 , and236 I482 cried506 out66 ," said252 Tashtego. "Not518 the19 same541 instant279 ; not518 the19 same541 --no235 , the19 doubloon263 is487 mine482 , Fate74 reserved234 the19 doubloon263 for190 me2 . I482 only517 ; none365 of89 ye483 could375 have254 raised493 the19 White82 Whale422 first13 . There340 she391 blows361 ! there340 she391 blows361 !-- there340 she391 blows361 !--there340 she391 blows361 ! There340 again52 !--there340 again52 !" he362 cried506 , in107 long544 -drawn564 , lingering186 , methodic129 tones129 , attuned102 to261 the19 gradual425 prolongings of89 the19 whale422 's483 visible94 jets6 . "He362 's483 going227 to261 sound181 ! In107 stunsails! Down133 top70 -gallant323 -sails344 ! Stand530 by406 three329 boats83 . Mr219 . Starbuck, remember499 , stay238 on392 board540 , and236 keep381 the19 ship438 . Helm285 there340 ! Luff2 , luff2 a10 point438 ! So281 ; steady21 , man17 , steady21 ! There340 go20 flukes155 ! No235 , no235 ; only517 black581 water520 ! All145 ready464 the19 boats83 there340 ? Stand530 by406 , stand530 by406 ! Lower47 me2 , Mr219 . Starbuck; lower47 , lower47 ,--quick241 , quicker420 !" and236 he362 slid132 through295 the19 air209 to261 the19 deck505 . "He362 is487 heading364 straight346 to261 leeward265 , sir271 ," cried506 Stubb, "right499 away443 from316 us569 ; cannot have254 seen154 the19 ship438 yet443 ." "Be341 dumb371 , man17 ! Stand530 by406 the19 braces403 ! Hard337 down133 the19 helm285 !--brace403 up405 ! Shiver452 her400 !--shiver452 her400 !--So281 ; well263 that14 ! Boats83 , boats83 !" Soon18 all145 the19 boats83 but330 Starbuck's483 were324 dropped2 ; all145 the19 boat439 -sails344 set422 -- all145 the19 paddles78 plying78 ; with449 rippling206 swiftness395 , shooting225 to261 leeward265 ; and236 Ahab232 heading364 the19 onset292 . A10 pale292 , death543 -glimmer110 lit26 up405 Fedallah's483 sunken83 eyes125 ; a10 hideous298 motion544 gnawed26 his433 mouth414 . Like410 noiseless21 nautilus557 shells203 , their219 light382 prows24 sped227 through295 the19 sea67 ; but330 only517 slowly149 they382 neared61 the19 foe479 . As113 they382 neared61 him248 , the19 ocean224 grew5 still278 more348 smooth388 ; seemed132 drawing407 a10 carpet446 over82 its234 waves443 ; seemed132 a10 noon445 -meadow310 , so281 serenely136 it162 spread348 . At65 length202 the19 breathless34 hunter287 came549 so281 nigh254 his433 seemingly261 unsuspecting218 prey347 , that14 his433 entire230 dazzling49 hump20 was454 distinctly26 visible94 , sliding540 along423 the19 sea67 as113 if141 an138 isolated93 thing309 , and236 continually303 set422 in107 a10 revolving21 ring579 of89 finest66 , fleecy78 , greenish390 foam160 . He362 saw113 the19 vast43 , involved149 wrinkles318 of89 the19 slightly238 projecting336 head219 beyond421 . Before344 it162 , far258 out66 on392 the19 soft226 Turkish124 -rugged waters556 , went516 the19 glistening24 white82 shadow438 from316 his433 broad267 , milky23 forehead380 , a10 musical557 rippling206 playfully110 accompanying371 the19 shade116 ; and236 behind80 , the19 blue240 waters556 interchangeably23 flowed261 over82 into554 the19 moving316 valley18 of89 his433 steady21 wake205 ; and236 on392 either45 hand252 bright205 bubbles552 arose105 and236 danced316 by406 his433 side246 . But330 these527 were324 broken255 again52 by406 the19 light382 toes557 of89 hundreds458 of89 gay323 fowls206 softly461 feathering83 the19 sea67 , alternate398 with449 their219 fitful311 flight306 ; and236 like410 to261 some265 flag270 -staff328 rising464 from316 the19 painted340 hull323 of89 an138 argosy27 , the19 tall373 but330 shattered205 pole20 of89 a10 recent99 lance76 projected175 from316 the19 white82 whale422 's483 back457 ; and236 at65 intervals295 one470 of89 the19 cloud218 of89 soft226 -toed fowls206 hovering520 , and236 to261 and236 fro183 skimming302 like410 a10 canopy410 over82 the19 fish187 , silently533 perched151 and236 rocked157 on392 this256 pole20 , the19 long544 tail102 feathers386 streaming118 like410 pennons292 . A10 gentle439 joyousness15 --a10 mighty2 mildness354 of89 repose463 in107 swiftness395 , invested60 the19 gliding248 whale422 . Not518 the19 white82 bull76 Jupiter430 swimming367 away443 with449 ravished269 Europa103 clinging232 to261 his433 graceful403 horns450 ; his433 lovely126 , leering439 eyes125 sideways496 intent359 upon419 the19 maid128 ; with449 smooth388 bewitching295 fleetness125 , rippling206 straight346 for190 the19 nuptial4 bower438 in107 Crete312 ; not518 Jove274 , not518 that14 great259 majesty268 Supreme160 ! did444 surpass439 the19 glorified51 White82 Whale422 as113 he362 so281 divinely395 swam111 . On392 each520 soft226 side246 --coincident295 with449 the19 parted201 swell280 , that14 but330 once248 leaving231 him248 then45 flowed261 so281 wide465 away443 --on392 each520 bright205 side246 , the19 whale422 shed155 off111 enticings448 . No235 wonder76 there340 had364 been185 some265 among483 the19 hunters423 who319 namelessly492 transported546 and236 allured15 by406 all145 this256 serenity27 , had364 ventured152 to261 assail97 it162 ; but330 had364 fatally394 found260 that14 quietude171 but330 the19 vesture20 of89 tornadoes451 . Yet443 calm39 , enticing141 calm39 , oh367 , whale422 ! thou173 glidest169 on392 , to261 all145 who319 for190 the19 first13 time577 eye220 thee15 , no235 matter176 how19 many282 in107 that14 same541 way435 thou173 mayst269 have254 bejuggled and236 destroyed197 before344 . And236 thus362 , through295 the19 serene18 tranquillities41 of89 the19 tropical92 sea67 , among483 waves443 whose286 hand252 -clappings were324 suspended245 by406 exceeding320 rapture86 , Moby362 Dick25 moved492 on392 , still278 withholding240 from316 sight365 the19 full414 terrors192 of89 his433 submerged402 trunk389 , entirely148 hiding455 the19 wrenched302 hideousness41 of89 his433 jaw213 . But330 soon18 the19 fore259 part207 of89 him248 slowly149 rose449 from316 the19 water520 ; for190 an138 instant279 his433 whole199 marbleized body348 formed294 a10 high361 arch198 , like410 Virginia354 's483 Natural298 Bridge7 , and236 warningly55 waving364 his433 bannered224 flukes155 in107 the19 air209 , the19 grand229 god185 revealed530 himself282 , sounded163 and236 went516 out66 of89 sight365 . Hoveringly167 halting82 , and236 dipping199 on392 the19 wing101 , the19 white82 sea67 -fowls206 longingly204 lingered127 over82 the19 agitated140 pool298 that14 he362 left159 . With449 oars398 apeak283 , and236 paddles78 down133 , the19 sheets281 of89 their219 sails344 adrift350 , the19 three329 boats83 now20 stilly128 floated6 , awaiting408 Moby362 Dick25 's483 reappearance379 . "An138 hour384 ," said252 Ahab232 , standing144 rooted232 in107 his433 boat439 's483 stern442 ; and236 he362 gazed13 beyond421 the19 whale422 's483 place107 , towards417 the19 dim14 blue240 spaces137 and236 wide465 wooing330 vacancies156 to261 leeward265 . It162 was454 only517 an138 instant279 ; for190 again52 his433 eyes125 seemed132 whirling122 round287 in107 his433 head219 as113 he362 swept305 the19 watery59 circle282 . The19 breeze227 now20 freshened136 ; the19 sea67 began132 to261 swell280 . "The19 birds332 !--the19 birds332 !" cried506 Tashtego. In107 long544 Indian303 file322 , as113 when189 herons20 take279 wing101 , the19 white82 birds332 were324 now20 all145 flying354 towards417 Ahab232 's483 boat439 ; and236 when189 within503 a10 few49 yards386 began132 fluttering2 over82 the19 water520 there340 , wheeling434 round287 and236 round287 , with449 joyous396 , expectant379 cries104 . Their219 vision304 was454 keener70 than77 man17 's415 ; Ahab232 could375 discover291 no235 sign8 in107 the19 sea67 . But330 suddenly193 as113 he362 peered446 down133 and236 down133 into554 its234 depths416 , he362 profoundly261 saw113 a10 white82 living117 spot46 no235 bigger17 than77 a10 white82 weasel127 , with449 wonderful291 celerity69 uprising375 , and236 magnifying4 as113 it162 rose449 , till181 it162 turned492 , and236 then45 there340 were324 plainly450 revealed530 two527 long544 crooked236 rows375 of89 white82 , glistening24 teeth82 , floating30 up405 from316 the19 undiscoverable4 bottom461 . It162 was454 Moby362 Dick25 's483 open464 mouth414 and236 scrolled jaw213 ; his433 vast43 , shadowed18 bulk181 still278 half119 blending350 with449 the19 blue240 of89 the19 sea67 . The19 glittering144 mouth414 yawned402 beneath320 the19 boat439 like410 an138 open464 -doored marble364 tomb122 ; and236 giving207 one470 sidelong203 sweep471 with449 his433 steering252 oar61 , Ahab232 whirled174 the19 craft187 aside408 from316 this256 tremendous376 apparition143 . Then45 , calling56 upon419 Fedallah to261 change386 places423 with449 him248 , went516 forward364 to261 the19 bows460 , and236 seizing327 Perth163 's483 harpoon67 , commanded571 his433 crew126 to261 grasp332 their219 oars398 and236 stand530 by406 to261 stern442 . Now20 , by406 reason238 of89 this256 timely305 spinning170 round287 the19 boat439 upon419 its234 axis20 , its234 bow146 , by406 anticipation315 , was454 made563 to261 face556 the19 whale422 's483 head219 while55 yet443 under533 water520 . But330 as113 if141 perceiving88 this256 stratagem158 , Moby362 Dick25 , with449 that14 malicious361 intelligence30 ascribed344 to261 him248 , sidelingly transplanted82 himself282 , as113 it162 were324 , in107 an138 instant279 , shooting225 his433 pleated479 head219 lengthwise288 beneath320 the19 boat439 . Through295 and236 through295 ; through295 every389 plank243 and236 each520 rib84 , it162 thrilled182 for190 an138 instant279 , the19 whale422 obliquely122 lying204 on392 his433 back457 , in107 the19 manner153 of89 a10 biting29 shark4 slowly149 and236 feelingly562 taking146 its234 bows460 full414 within503 his433 mouth414 , so281 that14 the19 long544 , narrow140 , scrolled lower47 jaw213 curled253 high361 up405 into554 the19 open464 air209 , and236 one470 of89 the19 teeth82 caught105 in107 a10 row328 -lock297 . The19 bluish523 pearl357 -white82 of89 the19 inside438 of89 the19 jaw213 was454 within503 six415 inches301 of89 Ahab232 's483 head219 , and236 reached386 higher574 than77 that14 . In107 this256 attitude100 the19 White82 Whale422 now20 shook161 the19 slight259 cedar330 as113 a10 mildly115 cruel529 cat10 her400 mouse86 . With449 unastonished eyes125 Fedallah gazed13 , and236 crossed202 his433 arms536 ; but330 the19 tiger293 -yellow95 crew126 were324 tumbling10 over82 each520 other282 's483 heads366 to261 gain101 the19 uttermost129 stern442 . And236 now20 , while55 both558 elastic370 gunwales42 were324 springing481 in107 and236 out66 , as113 the19 whale422 dallied25 with449 the19 doomed54 craft187 in107 this256 devilish181 way435 ; and236 from316 his433 body348 being264 submerged402 beneath320 the19 boat439 , he362 could375 not518 be341 darted362 at65 from316 the19 bows460 , for190 the19 bows460 were324 almost518 inside438 of89 him248 , as113 it162 were324 ; and236 while55 the19 other282 boats83 involuntarily124 paused390 , as113 before344 a10 quick241 crisis350 impossible305 to261 withstand263 , then45 it162 was454 that14 monomaniac336 Ahab232 , furious89 with449 this256 tantalizing261 vicinity208 of89 his433 foe479 , which16 placed556 him248 all145 alive298 and236 helpless26 in107 the19 very515 jaws341 he362 hated499 ; frenzied120 with449 all145 this256 , he362 seized337 the19 long544 bone184 with449 his433 naked70 hands87 , and236 wildly356 strove180 to261 wrench160 it162 from316 its234 gripe223 . As113 now20 he362 thus362 vainly116 strove180 , the19 jaw213 slipped227 from316 him248 ; the19 frail434 gunwales42 bent406 in107 , collapsed230 , and236 snapped459 , as113 both558 jaws341 , like410 an138 enormous327 shears32 , sliding540 further53 aft2 , bit72 the19 craft187 completely385 in107 twain313 , and236 locked105 themselves510 fast208 again52 in107 the19 sea67 , midway418 between77 the19 two527 floating30 wrecks480 . These527 floated6 aside408 , the19 broken255 ends301 drooping279 , the19 crew126 at65 the19 stern442 -wreck171 clinging232 to261 the19 gunwales42 , and236 striving388 to261 hold204 fast208 to261 the19 oars398 to261 lash266 them146 across129 . At65 that14 preluding80 moment258 , ere83 the19 boat439 was454 yet443 snapped459 , Ahab232 , the19 first13 to261 perceive131 the19 whale422 's483 intent359 , by406 the19 crafty264 upraising280 of89 his433 head219 , a10 movement128 that14 loosed51 his433 hold204 for190 the19 time577 ; at65 that14 moment258 his433 hand252 had364 made563 one470 final357 effort314 to261 push278 the19 boat439 out66 of89 the19 bite517 . But330 only517 slipping522 further53 into554 the19 whale422 's483 mouth414 , and236 tilting295 over82 sideways496 as113 it162 slipped227 , the19 boat439 had364 shaken23 off111 his433 hold204 on392 the19 jaw213 ; spilled434 him248 out66 of89 it162 , as113 he362 leaned265 to261 the19 push278 ; and236 so281 he362 fell421 flat445 -faced115 upon419 the19 sea67 . Ripplingly83 withdrawing152 from316 his433 prey347 , Moby362 Dick25 now20 lay62 at65 a10 little554 distance264 , vertically39 thrusting100 his433 oblong111 white82 head219 up405 and236 down133 in107 the19 billows295 ; and236 at65 the19 same541 time577 slowly149 revolving21 his433 whole199 spindled body348 ; so281 that14 when189 his433 vast43 wrinkled259 forehead380 rose449 -- some265 twenty433 or519 more348 feet349 out66 of89 the19 water520 --the19 now20 rising464 swells446 , with449 all145 their219 confluent25 waves443 , dazzlingly261 broke356 against417 it162 ; vindictively83 tossing213 their219 shivered34 spray76 still278 higher574 into554 the19 air209 .* So281 , in107 a10 gale440 , the19 but330 half119 baffled181 Channel88 billows295 only517 recoil516 from316 the19 base258 of89 the19 Eddystone463 , triumphantly388 to261 overleap4 its234 summit347 with449 their219 scud124 . *This256 motion544 is487 peculiar291 to261 the19 sperm26 whale422 . It162 receives80 its234 designation44 (pitchpoling) from316 its234 being264 likened356 to261 that14 preliminary32 up405 -and236 -down71 poise108 of89 the19 whale422 -lance76 , in107 the19 exercise240 called237 pitchpoling, previously250 described483 . By406 this256 motion544 the19 whale422 must226 best315 and236 most216 comprehensively367 view370 whatever38 objects326 may236 be341 encircling460 him248 . But330 soon18 resuming283 his433 horizontal252 attitude100 , Moby362 Dick25 swam111 swiftly441 round287 and236 round287 the19 wrecked527 crew126 ; sideways496 churning367 the19 water520 in107 his433 vengeful504 wake205 , as113 if141 lashing19 himself282 up405 to261 still278 another269 and236 more348 deadly49 assault223 . The19 sight365 of89 the19 splintered330 boat439 seemed132 to261 madden396 him248 , as113 the19 blood208 of89 grapes69 and236 mulberries8 cast99 before344 Antiochus's483 elephants452 in107 the19 book230 of89 Maccabees45 . Meanwhile282 Ahab232 half119 smothered307 in107 the19 foam160 of89 the19 whale422 's483 insolent172 tail102 , and236 too11 much61 of89 a10 cripple12 to261 swim226 ,--though400 he362 could375 still278 keep381 afloat2 , even198 in107 the19 heart470 of89 such420 a10 whirlpool23 as113 that14 ; helpless26 Ahab232 's483 head219 was454 seen154 , like410 a10 tossed227 bubble81 which16 the19 least453 chance292 shock44 might496 burst174 . From316 the19 boat439 's483 fragmentary248 stern442 , Fedallah incuriously83 and236 mildly115 eyed363 him248 ; the19 clinging232 crew126 , at65 the19 other282 drifting445 end149 , could375 not518 succor243 him248 ; more348 than77 enough217 was454 it162 for190 them146 to261 look523 to261 themselves510 . For190 so281 revolvingly appalling282 was454 the19 White82 Whale422 's483 aspect147 , and236 so281 planetarily swift376 the19 ever208 -contracting521 circles3 he362 made563 , that14 he362 seemed132 horizontally389 swooping446 upon419 them146 . And236 though400 the19 other282 boats83 , unharmed92 , still278 hovered400 hard337 by406 ; still278 they382 dared294 not518 pull35 into554 the19 eddy446 to261 strike374 , lest499 that14 should255 be341 the19 signal264 for190 the19 instant279 destruction423 of89 the19 jeopardized209 castaways6 , Ahab232 and236 all145 ; nor137 in107 that14 case346 could375 they382 themselves510 hope211 to261 escape565 . With449 straining107 eyes125 , then45 , they382 remained72 on392 the19 outer359 edge323 of89 the19 direful137 zone173 , whose286 centre389 had364 now20 become548 the19 old447 man17 's415 head219 . Meantime210 , from316 the19 beginning188 all145 this256 had364 been185 descried313 from316 the19 ship438 's483 mast44 heads366 ; and236 squaring419 her400 yards386 , she391 had364 borne493 down133 upon419 the19 scene228 ; and236 was454 now20 so281 nigh254 , that14 Ahab232 in107 the19 water520 hailed411 her400 !--"Sail218 on392 the19 "-- but330 that14 moment258 a10 breaking6 sea67 dashed304 on392 him248 from316 Moby362 Dick25 , and236 whelmed89 him248 for190 the19 time577 . But330 struggling107 out66 of89 it162 again52 , and236 chancing40 to261 rise251 on392 a10 towering210 crest445 , he362 shouted300 ,--"Sail218 on392 the19 whale422 !--Drive548 him248 off111 !" The19 Pequod288 's483 prows24 were324 pointed413 -, and236 breaking6 up405 the19 charmed542 circle282 , she391 effectually7 parted201 the19 white82 whale422 from316 his433 victim300 . As113 he362 sullenly361 swam111 off111 , the19 boats83 flew424 to261 the19 rescue59 . Dragged460 into554 Stubb's483 boat439 with449 blood208 -shot443 , blinded337 eyes125 , the19 white82 brine488 caking250 in107 his433 wrinkles318 ; the19 long544 tension101 of89 Ahab232 's483 bodily172 strength168 did444 crack83 , and236 helplessly100 he362 yielded90 to261 his433 body348 's483 doom73 for190 a10 time577 , lying204 all145 crushed197 in107 the19 bottom461 of89 Stubb's483 boat439 , like410 one470 trodden366 under533 foot467 of89 herds341 of89 elephants452 . Far258 inland146 , nameless427 wails364 came549 from316 him248 , as113 desolate126 sounds394 from316 out66 ravines8 . But330 this256 intensity285 of89 his433 physical43 prostration350 did444 but330 so281 much61 the19 more348 abbreviate225 it162 . In107 an138 instant279 's483 compass463 , great259 hearts431 sometimes77 condense273 to261 one470 deep483 pang302 , the19 sum213 total478 of89 those427 shallow397 pains97 kindly459 diffused321 through295 feebler143 men62 's483 whole199 lives245 . And236 so281 , such420 hearts431 , though400 summary420 in107 each520 one470 suffering543 ; still278 , if141 the19 gods325 decree23 it162 , in107 their219 life71 -time54 aggregate136 a10 whole199 age157 of89 woe295 , wholly497 made563 up405 of89 instantaneous322 intensities247 ; for190 even198 in107 their219 pointless380 centres127 , those427 noble226 natures531 contain112 the19 entire230 circumferences20 of89 inferior84 souls82 . "The19 harpoon67 ," said252 Ahab232 , half119 way435 rising464 , and236 draggingly83 leaning559 on392 one470 bended422 arm25 --"is487 it162 safe520 ?" "Aye86 , sir271 , for190 it162 was454 not518 darted362 ; this256 is487 it162 ," said252 Stubb, showing445 it162 . "Lay62 it162 before344 me2 ;--any501 missing210 men62 ?" "One470 , two527 , three329 , four175 , five103 ;--there340 were324 five103 oars398 , sir271 , and236 here135 are314 five103 men62 ." "That14 's76 good221 .--Help526 me2 , man17 ; I482 wish95 to261 stand530 . So281 , so281 , I482 see370 him248 ! there340 ! there340 ! going227 to261 leeward265 still278 ; what243 a10 leaping397 spout224 !-- Hands87 off111 from316 me2 ! The19 eternal155 sap18 runs399 up405 in107 Ahab232 's483 bones5 again52 ! Set422 the19 sail218 ; out66 oars398 ; the19 helm285 !" It162 is487 often227 the19 case346 that14 when189 a10 boat439 is487 stove373 , its234 crew126 , being264 picked129 up405 by406 another269 boat439 , help526 to261 work385 that14 second386 boat439 ; and236 the19 chase89 is487 thus362 continued44 with449 what243 is487 called237 double20 -banked oars398 . It162 was454 thus362 now20 . But330 the19 added52 power145 of89 the19 boat439 did444 not518 equal261 the19 added52 power145 of89 the19 whale422 , for190 he362 seemed132 to261 have254 treble-banked his433 every389 fin286 ; swimming367 with449 a10 velocity397 which16 plainly450 showed507 , that14 if141 now20 , under533 these527 circumstances267 , pushed189 on392 , the19 chase89 would282 prove396 an138 indefinitely25 prolonged246 , if141 not518 a10 hopeless189 one470 ; nor137 could375 any501 crew126 endure161 for190 so281 long544 a10 period196 , such420 an138 unintermitted396 , intense89 straining107 at65 the19 oar61 ; a10 thing309 barely221 tolerable198 only517 in107 some265 one470 brief59 vicissitude69 . The19 ship438 itself312 , then45 , as113 it162 sometimes77 happens143 , offered336 the19 most216 promising310 intermediate21 means502 of89 overtaking147 the19 chase89 . Accordingly249 , the19 boats83 now20 made563 for190 her400 , and236 were324 soon18 swayed136 up405 to261 their219 cranes377 --the19 two527 parts470 of89 the19 wrecked527 boat439 having69 been185 previously250 secured284 by406 her400 --and236 then45 hoisting50 everything233 to261 her400 side246 , and236 stacking458 her400 canvas557 high361 up405 , and236 sideways496 outstretching28 it162 with449 stunsails, like410 the19 double20 -jointed449 wings175 of89 an138 albatross298 ; the19 Pequod288 bore27 down133 in107 the19 leeward265 wake205 of89 Moby362 Dick25 . At65 the19 well263 known86 , methodic129 intervals295 , the19 whale422 's483 glittering144 spout224 was454 regularly37 announced451 from316 the19 manned282 mast44 -heads279 ; and236 when189 he362 would282 be341 reported123 as113 just108 gone190 down133 , Ahab232 would282 take279 the19 time577 , and236 then45 pacing253 the19 deck505 , binnacle98 -watch89 in107 hand252 , so281 soon18 as113 the19 last436 second386 of89 the19 allotted15 hour384 expired328 , his433 voice233 was454 heard444 .--"Whose286 is487 the19 doubloon263 now20 ? D67 'ye163 see370 him248 ?" and236 if141 the19 reply271 was454 No235 , sir271 ! straightway210 he362 commanded571 them146 to261 lift229 him248 to261 his433 perch295 . In107 this256 way435 the19 day112 wore92 on392 ; Ahab232 , now20 aloft276 and236 motionless498 ; anon88 , unrestingly136 pacing253 the19 planks284 . As113 he362 was454 thus362 walking523 , uttering341 no235 sound181 , except545 to261 hail75 the19 men62 aloft276 , or519 to261 bid171 them146 hoist9 a10 sail218 still278 higher574 , or519 to261 spread348 one470 to261 a10 still278 greater505 breadth252 --thus362 to261 and236 fro183 pacing253 , beneath320 his433 slouched364 hat107 , at65 every389 turn17 he362 passed87 his433 own248 wrecked527 boat439 , which16 had364 been185 dropped2 upon419 the19 quarter6 -deck505 , and236 lay62 there340 reversed227 ; broken255 bow146 to261 shattered205 stern442 . At65 last436 he362 paused390 before344 it162 ; and236 as113 in107 an138 already93 over82 -clouded31 sky331 fresh540 troops55 of89 clouds342 will584 sometimes77 sail218 across129 , so281 over82 the19 old447 man17 's415 face556 there340 now20 stole135 some265 such420 added52 gloom7 as113 this256 . Stubb saw113 him248 pause391 ; and236 perhaps75 intending102 , not518 vainly116 , though400 , to261 evince433 his433 own248 unabated371 fortitude14 , and236 thus362 keep381 up405 a10 valiant359 place107 in107 his433 Captain295 's483 mind118 , he362 advanced55 , and236 eyeing49 the19 wreck171 exclaimed281 -- "The19 thistle151 the19 ass448 refused412 ; it162 pricked366 his433 mouth414 too11 keenly270 , sir271 ; ha387 ! ha387 ! ha387 !" "What243 soulless340 thing309 is487 this256 that14 laughs259 before344 a10 wreck171 ? Man17 , man17 ! did444 I482 not518 know60 thee15 brave218 as113 fearless132 fire559 (and236 as113 mechanical31 ) I482 could375 swear322 thou173 wert508 a10 poltroon191 . Groan45 nor137 laugh559 should255 be341 heard444 before344 a10 wreck171 ." "Aye86 , sir271 ," said252 Starbuck drawing407 near70 , "'tis a10 solemn303 sight365 ; an138 omen7 , and236 an138 ill236 one470 ." "Omen7 ? omen7 ?--the19 dictionary249 ! If141 the19 gods325 think424 to261 speak337 outright472 to261 man17 , they382 will584 honorably196 speak337 outright472 ; not518 shake180 their219 heads366 , and236 give142 an138 old447 wives473 ' darkling394 hint335 .--Begone52 ! Ye483 two527 are314 the19 opposite107 poles122 of89 one470 thing309 ; Starbuck is487 Stubb reversed227 , and236 Stubb is487 Starbuck; and236 ye483 two527 are314 all145 mankind40 ; and236 Ahab232 stands256 alone2 among483 the19 millions208 of89 the19 peopled23 earth513 , nor137 gods325 nor137 men62 his433 neighbors466 ! Cold330 , cold330 --I482 shiver452 !--How19 now20 ? Aloft276 there340 ! D67 'ye163 see370 him248 ? Sing549 out66 for190 every389 spout224 , though400 he362 spout224 ten198 times121 a10 second386 !" The19 day112 was454 nearly575 done135 ; only517 the19 hem322 of89 his433 golden508 robe147 was454 rustling264 . Soon18 it162 was454 almost518 dark471 , but330 the19 look523 -out66 men62 still278 remained72 unset160 . "Can450 't500 see370 the19 spout224 now20 , sir271 ;--too11 dark471 "--cried506 a10 voice233 from316 the19 air209 . "How19 heading364 when189 last436 seen154 ?" "As113 before344 , sir271 ,--straight346 to261 leeward265 ." "Good221 ! he362 will584 travel362 slower43 now20 'tis night108 . Down133 royals223 and236 top70 -gallant323 stunsails, Mr219 . Starbuck. We465 must226 not518 run172 over82 him248 before344 morning417 ; he362 's483 making415 a10 passage285 now20 , and236 may236 heave308 -to261 a10 while55 . Helm285 there340 ! keep381 her400 full414 before344 the19 wind262 !--Aloft276 ! come420 down133 !-- Mr219 . Stubb, send536 a10 fresh540 hand252 to261 the19 fore259 -mast98 head219 , and236 see370 it162 manned282 till181 morning417 ."--Then45 advancing444 towards417 the19 doubloon263 in107 the19 main501 -mast44 --"Men62 , this256 gold231 is487 mine482 , for190 I482 earned523 it162 ; but330 I482 shall66 let66 it162 abide237 here135 till181 the19 White82 Whale422 is487 dead568 ; and236 then45 , whosoever54 of89 ye483 first13 raises148 him248 , upon419 the19 day112 he362 shall66 be341 killed409 , this256 gold231 is487 that14 man17 's415 ; and236 if141 on392 that14 day112 I482 shall66 again52 raise265 him248 , then45 , ten198 times121 its234 sum213 shall66 be341 divided469 among483 all145 of89 ye483 ! Away443 now20 ! the19 deck505 is487 thine72 , sir271 !" And236 so281 saying9 , he362 placed556 himself282 half119 way435 within503 the19 scuttle27 , and236 slouching282 his433 hat107 , stood1 there340 till181 dawn72 , except545 when189 at65 intervals295 rousing49 himself282 to261 see370 how19 the19 night108 wore92 on392 . CHAPTER293 134152 The19 Chase89 - Second386 Day112 At65 day112 -break327 , the19 three329 mast44 -heads279 were324 punctually431 manned282 afresh59 . "D67 'ye163 see370 him248 ?" cried506 Ahab232 after358 allowing282 a10 little554 space468 for190 the19 light382 to261 spread348 . "See370 nothing324 , sir271 ." "Turn17 up405 all145 hands87 and236 make175 sail218 ! he362 travels134 faster371 than77 I482 thought186 for190 ;-- the19 top70 -gallant323 sails344 !--aye86 , they382 should255 have254 been185 kept290 on392 her400 all145 night108 . But330 no235 matter176 --'tis but330 resting455 for190 the19 rush6 ." Here135 be341 it162 said252 , that14 this256 pertinacious403 pursuit305 of89 one470 particular336 whale422 , continued44 through295 day112 into554 night108 , and236 through295 night108 into554 day112 , is487 a10 thing309 by406 no235 means502 unprecedented54 in107 the19 South257 sea67 fishery136 . For190 such420 is487 the19 wonderful291 skill502 , prescience43 of89 experience127 , and236 invincible59 confidence46 acquired436 by406 some265 great259 natural298 geniuses93 among483 the19 Nantucket283 commanders117 ; that14 from316 the19 simple271 observation102 of89 a10 whale422 when189 last436 descried313 , they382 will584 , under533 certain31 given141 circumstances267 , pretty252 accurately173 foretell201 both558 the19 direction67 in107 which16 he362 will584 continue225 to261 swim226 for190 a10 time577 , while55 out66 of89 sight365 , as113 well263 as113 his433 probable213 rate515 of89 progression350 during309 that14 period196 . And236 , in107 these527 cases108 , somewhat77 as113 a10 pilot559 , when189 about123 losing205 sight365 of89 a10 coast287 , whose286 general37 trending252 he362 well263 knows286 , and236 which16 he362 desires401 shortly425 to261 return407 to261 again52 , but330 at65 some265 further53 point438 ; like410 as113 this256 pilot559 stands256 by406 his433 compass463 , and236 takes362 the19 precise158 bearing354 of89 the19 cape23 at65 present112 visible94 , in107 order343 the19 more348 certainly124 to261 hit322 aright366 the19 remote141 , unseen173 headland98 , eventually163 to261 be341 visited16 : so281 does565 the19 fisherman18 , at65 his433 compass463 , with449 the19 whale422 ; for190 after358 being264 chased389 , and236 diligently344 marked67 , through295 several479 hours127 of89 daylight155 , then45 , when189 night108 obscures392 the19 fish187 , the19 creature82 's96 future44 wake205 through295 the19 darkness493 is487 almost518 as113 established214 to261 the19 sagacious10 mind118 of89 the19 hunter287 , as113 the19 pilot559 's483 coast287 is487 to261 him248 . So281 that14 to261 this256 hunter287 's483 wondrous30 skill502 , the19 proverbial247 evanescence310 of89 a10 thing309 writ57 in107 water520 , a10 wake205 , is487 to261 all145 desired480 purposes415 well263 nigh254 as113 reliable111 as113 the19 steadfast246 land406 . And236 as113 the19 mighty2 iron169 Leviathan384 of89 the19 modern446 railway67 is487 so281 familiarly31 known86 in107 its234 every389 pace384 , that14 , with449 watches458 in107 their219 hands87 , men62 time577 his433 rate515 as113 doctors407 that14 of89 a10 baby236 's483 pulse217 ; and236 lightly284 say306 of89 it162 , the19 up405 train127 or519 the19 down133 train127 will584 reach43 such420 or519 such420 a10 spot46 , at65 such420 or519 such420 an138 hour384 ; even198 so281 , almost518 , there340 are314 occasions115 when189 these527 Nantucketers time577 that14 other282 Leviathan384 of89 the19 deep483 , according281 to261 the19 observed340 humor368 of89 his433 speed468 ; and236 say306 to261 themselves510 , so281 many282 hours127 hence503 this256 whale422 will584 have254 gone190 two527 hundred93 miles278 , will584 have254 about123 reached386 this256 or519 that14 degree209 of89 latitude258 or519 longitude239 . But330 to261 render509 this256 acuteness13 at65 all145 successful1 in107 the19 end149 , the19 wind262 and236 the19 sea67 must226 be341 the19 whaleman98 's483 allies31 ; for190 of89 what243 present112 avail337 to261 the19 becalmed443 or519 wind262 -bound108 mariner265 is487 the19 skill502 that14 assures111 him248 he362 is487 exactly315 ninety2 -three329 leagues116 and236 a10 quarter6 from316 his433 port409 ? Inferable53 from316 these527 statements42 , are314 many282 collateral203 subtile186 matters515 touching80 the19 chase89 of89 whales331 . The19 ship438 tore493 on392 ; leaving231 such420 a10 furrow24 in107 the19 sea67 as113 when189 a10 cannonball27 , missent222 , becomes314 a10 plough-share246 and236 turns136 up405 the19 level378 field275 . "By406 salt183 and236 hemp245 !" cried506 Stubb, "but330 this256 swift376 motion544 of89 the19 deck505 creeps442 up405 one470 's483 legs108 and236 tingles117 at65 the19 heart470 . This256 ship438 and236 I482 are314 two527 brave218 fellows131 !--Ha387 , ha387 ! Some265 one470 take279 me2 up405 , and236 launch26 me2 , spine236 -wise16 , on392 the19 sea67 ,--for190 by406 live554 -oaks481 ! my36 spine236 's483 a10 keel39 . Ha387 , ha387 ! we465 go20 the19 gait41 that14 leaves441 no235 dust434 behind80 !" "There340 she391 blows361 --she391 blows361 !--she391 blows361 !--right499 ahead5 !" was454 now20 the19 mast44 -head116 cry561 . "Aye86 , aye86 !" cried506 Stubb, "I482 knew480 it162 --ye483 can450 't500 escape565 --blow230 on392 and236 split148 your162 spout224 , O24 whale422 ! the19 mad235 fiend59 himself282 is487 after358 ye483 ! blow230 your162 trump25 -- blister26 your162 lungs40 !--Ahab232 will584 dam434 off111 your162 blood208 , as113 a10 miller180 shuts413 his433 watergate27 upon419 the19 stream184 !" And236 Stubb did444 but330 speak337 out66 for190 well263 nigh254 all145 that14 crew126 . The19 frenzies287 of89 the19 chase89 had364 by406 this256 time577 worked245 them146 bubblingly up405 , like410 old447 wine102 worked245 anew262 . Whatever38 pale292 fears259 and236 forebodings435 some265 of89 them146 might496 have254 felt440 before344 ; these527 were324 not518 only517 now20 kept290 out66 of89 sight365 through295 the19 growing66 awe305 of89 Ahab232 , but330 they382 were324 broken255 up405 , and236 on392 all145 sides331 routed337 , as113 timid197 prairie214 hares377 that14 scatter246 before344 the19 bounding36 bison25 . The19 hand252 of89 Fate74 had364 snatched513 all145 their219 souls82 ; and236 by406 the19 stirring130 perils140 of89 the19 previous376 day112 ; the19 rack415 of89 the19 past111 night108 's483 suspense547 ; the19 fixed564 , unfearing454 , blind375 , reckless240 way435 in107 which16 their219 wild230 craft187 went516 plunging93 towards417 its234 flying354 mark169 ; by406 all145 these527 things4 , their219 hearts431 were324 bowled202 along423 . The19 wind262 that14 made563 great259 bellies192 of89 their219 sails344 , and236 rushed199 the19 vessel155 on392 by406 arms536 invisible186 as113 irresistible214 ; this256 seemed132 the19 symbol426 of89 that14 unseen173 agency189 which16 so281 enslaved251 them146 to261 the19 race392 . They382 were324 one470 man17 , not518 thirty521 . For190 as113 the19 one470 ship438 that14 held212 them146 all145 ; though400 it162 was454 put190 together440 of89 all145 contrasting286 things4 --oak170 , and236 maple203 , and236 pine54 wood46 ; iron169 , and236 pitch115 , and236 hemp245 --yet443 all145 these527 ran391 into554 each520 other282 in107 the19 one470 concrete53 hull323 , which16 shot443 on392 its234 way435 , both558 balanced21 and236 directed498 by406 the19 long544 central229 keel39 ; even198 so281 , all145 the19 individualities15 of89 the19 crew126 , this256 man17 's415 valor138 , that14 man17 's415 fear103 ; guilt191 and236 guiltiness22 , all145 varieties23 were324 welded102 into554 oneness389 , and236 were324 all145 directed498 to261 that14 fatal460 goal127 which16 Ahab232 their219 one470 lord106 and236 keel39 did444 point438 to261 . The19 rigging516 lived415 . The19 mast44 -heads279 , like410 the19 tops40 of89 tall373 palms173 , were324 outspreadingly tufted272 with449 arms536 and236 legs108 . Clinging232 to261 a10 spar14 with449 one470 hand252 , some265 reached386 forth152 the19 other282 with449 impatient160 wavings362 ; others317 , shading481 their219 eyes125 from316 the19 vivid180 sunlight333 , sat77 far258 out66 on392 the19 rocking6 yards386 ; all145 the19 spars15 in107 full414 bearing354 of89 mortals72 , ready464 and236 ripe238 for190 their219 fate74 . Ah132 ! how19 they382 still278 strove180 through295 that14 infinite503 blueness4 to261 seek292 out66 the19 thing309 that14 might496 destroy387 them146 ! "Why177 sing549 ye483 not518 out66 for190 him248 , if141 ye483 see370 him248 ?" cried506 Ahab232 , when189 , after358 the19 lapse125 of89 some265 minutes368 since374 the19 first13 cry561 , no235 more348 had364 been185 heard444 . "Sway497 me2 up405 , men62 ; ye483 have254 been185 deceived241 ; not518 Moby362 Dick25 casts468 one470 odd19 jet423 that14 way435 , and236 then45 disappears293 ." It162 was454 even198 so281 ; in107 their219 headlong4 eagerness275 , the19 men62 had364 mistaken49 some265 other282 thing309 for190 the19 whale422 -spout224 , as113 the19 event28 itself312 soon18 proved312 ; for190 hardly182 had364 Ahab232 reached386 his433 perch295 ; hardly182 was454 the19 rope265 belayed98 to261 its234 pin486 on392 deck505 , when189 he362 struck441 the19 key140 -note59 to261 an138 orchestra369 , that14 made563 the19 air209 vibrate393 as113 with449 the19 combined265 discharge320 of89 rifles135 . The19 triumphant436 halloo4 of89 thirty521 buckskin197 lungs40 was454 heard444 , as113 -- much61 nearer303 to261 the19 ship438 than77 the19 place107 of89 the19 imaginary189 jet423 , less261 than77 a10 mile295 ahead5 --Moby362 Dick25 bodily172 burst174 into554 view370 ! For190 not518 by406 any501 calm39 and236 indolent53 spoutings27 ; not518 by406 the19 peaceable31 gush203 of89 that14 mystic455 fountain524 in107 his433 head219 , did444 the19 White82 Whale422 now20 reveal25 his433 vicinity208 ; but330 by406 the19 far258 more348 wondrous30 phenomenon34 of89 breaching306 . Rising464 with449 his433 utmost43 velocity397 from316 the19 furthest361 depths416 , the19 Sperm26 Whale422 thus362 booms102 his433 entire230 bulk181 into554 the19 pure61 element38 of89 air209 , and236 piling284 up405 a10 mountain231 of89 dazzling49 foam160 , shows364 his433 place107 to261 the19 distance264 of89 seven188 miles278 and236 more348 . In107 those427 moments434 , the19 torn237 , enraged19 waves443 he362 shakes560 off111 , seem404 his433 mane261 ; in107 some265 cases108 , this256 breaching306 is487 his433 act10 of89 defiance32 . "There340 she391 breaches24 ! there340 she391 breaches24 !" was454 the19 cry561 , as113 in107 his433 immeasurable434 bravadoes324 the19 White82 Whale422 tossed227 himself282 salmon-like410 to261 Heaven163 . So281 suddenly193 seen154 in107 the19 blue240 plain28 of89 the19 sea67 , and236 relieved158 against417 the19 still278 bluer70 margin173 of89 the19 sky331 , the19 spray76 that14 he362 raised493 , for190 the19 moment258 , intolerably181 glittered23 and236 glared327 like410 a10 glacier204 ; and236 stood1 there340 gradually355 fading336 and236 fading336 away443 from316 its234 first13 sparkling42 intensity285 , to261 the19 dim14 mistiness160 of89 an138 advancing444 shower143 in107 a10 vale52 . "Aye86 , breach361 your162 last436 to261 the19 sun397 , Moby362 Dick25 !" cried506 Ahab232 , "thy43 hour384 and236 thy43 harpoon67 are314 at65 hand252 !--Down133 ! down133 all145 of89 ye483 , but330 one470 man17 at65 the19 fore259 . The19 boats83 !--stand530 by406 !" Unmindful225 of89 the19 tedious235 rope265 -ladders of89 the19 shrouds264 , the19 men62 , like410 shooting225 stars286 , slid132 to261 the19 deck505 , by406 the19 isolated93 backstays98 and236 halyards145 ; while55 Ahab232 , less261 dartingly, but330 still278 rapidly116 was454 dropped2 from316 his433 perch295 . "Lower47 away443 ," he362 cried506 , so281 soon18 as113 he362 had364 reached386 his433 boat439 --a10 spare295 one470 , rigged340 the19 afternoon128 previous376 . "Mr219 . Starbuck, the19 ship438 is487 thine72 -- keep381 away443 from316 the19 boats83 , but330 keep381 near70 them146 . Lower47 , all145 !" As113 if141 to261 strike374 a10 quick241 terror85 into554 them146 , by406 this256 time577 being264 the19 first13 assailant252 himself282 , Moby362 Dick25 had364 turned492 , and236 was454 now20 coming140 for190 the19 three329 crews559 . Ahab232 's483 boat439 was454 central229 ; and236 cheering371 his433 men62 , he362 told82 them146 he362 would282 take279 the19 whale422 head219 -and236 -head219 ,-- that14 is487 , pull35 straight346 up405 to261 his433 forehead380 ,--a10 not518 uncommon88 thing309 ; for190 when189 within503 a10 certain31 limit272 , such420 a10 course171 excludes295 the19 coming140 onset292 from316 the19 whale422 's483 sidelong203 vision304 . But330 ere83 that14 close65 limit272 was454 gained290 , and236 while55 yet443 all145 three329 boats83 were324 plain28 as113 the19 ship438 's483 three329 masts212 to261 his433 eye220 ; the19 White82 Whale422 churning367 himself282 into554 furious89 speed468 , almost518 in107 an138 instant279 as113 it162 were324 , rushing344 among483 the19 boats83 with449 open464 jaws341 , and236 a10 lashing19 tail102 , offered336 appalling282 battle105 on392 every389 side246 ; and236 heedless376 of89 the19 irons363 darted362 at65 him248 from316 every389 boat439 , seemed132 only517 intent359 on392 annihilating261 each520 separate495 plank243 of89 which16 those427 boats83 were324 made563 . But330 skilfully165 manoeuvred83 , incessantly194 wheeling434 like410 trained38 chargers212 in107 the19 field275 ; the19 boats83 for190 a10 while55 eluded40 him248 ; though400 , at65 times121 , but330 by406 a10 plank243 's483 breadth252 ; while55 all145 the19 time577 , Ahab232 's483 unearthly110 slogan244 tore493 every389 other282 cry561 but330 his433 to261 shreds249 . But330 at65 last436 in107 his433 untraceable479 evolutions271 , the19 White82 Whale422 so281 crossed202 and236 recrossed129 , and236 in107 a10 thousand586 ways101 entangled280 the19 slack113 of89 the19 three329 lines241 now20 fast208 to261 him248 , that14 they382 foreshortened78 , and236 , of89 themselves510 , warped355 the19 devoted15 boats83 towards417 the19 planted82 irons363 in107 him248 ; though400 now20 for190 a10 moment258 the19 whale422 drew175 aside408 a10 little554 , as113 if141 to261 rally264 for190 a10 more348 tremendous376 charge308 . Seizing327 that14 opportunity256 , Ahab232 first13 paid490 out66 more348 line25 ; and236 then45 was454 rapidly116 hauling149 and236 jerking2 in107 upon419 it162 again52 -- hoping191 that14 way435 to261 disencumber19 it162 of89 some265 snarls452 --when189 lo418 !-- a10 sight365 more348 savage398 than77 the19 embattled300 teeth82 of89 sharks206 ! Caught105 and236 twisted279 --corkscrewed282 in107 the19 mazes485 of89 the19 line25 , loose159 harpoons6 and236 lances8 , with449 all145 their219 bristling364 barbs226 and236 points245 , came549 flashing181 and236 dripping92 up405 to261 the19 chocks39 in107 the19 bows460 of89 Ahab232 's483 boat439 . Only517 one470 thing309 could375 be341 done135 . Seizing327 the19 boat439 -knife503 , he362 critically355 reached386 within503 --through295 --and236 then45 , without309 --the19 rays43 of89 steel184 ; dragged460 in107 the19 line25 beyond421 , passed87 it162 , inboard331 , to261 the19 bowsman290 , and236 then45 , twice366 sundering26 the19 rope265 near70 the19 chocks39 --dropped2 the19 intercepted179 fagot340 of89 steel184 into554 the19 sea67 ; and236 was454 all145 fast208 again52 . That14 instant279 , the19 White82 Whale422 made563 a10 sudden309 rush6 among483 the19 remaining64 tangles151 of89 the19 other282 lines241 ; by406 so281 doing227 , irresistibly41 dragged460 the19 more348 involved149 boats83 of89 Stubb and236 Flask199 towards417 his433 flukes155 ; dashed304 them146 together440 like410 two527 rolling253 husks350 on392 a10 surf283 -beaten442 beach183 , and236 then45 , diving279 down133 into554 the19 sea67 , disappeared5 in107 a10 boiling99 maelstrom367 , in107 which16 , for190 a10 space468 , the19 odorous485 cedar330 chips333 of89 the19 wrecks480 danced316 round287 and236 round287 , like410 the19 grated410 nutmeg270 in107 a10 swiftly441 stirred101 bowl418 of89 punch117 . While55 the19 two527 crews559 were324 yet443 circling504 in107 the19 waters556 , reaching141 out66 after358 the19 revolving21 line25 -tubs410 , oars398 , and236 other282 floating30 furniture11 , while55 aslope83 little554 Flask199 bobbed49 up405 and236 down133 like410 an138 empty450 vial82 , twitching151 his433 legs108 upwards110 to261 escape565 the19 dreaded15 jaws341 of89 sharks206 ; and236 Stubb was454 lustily368 singing288 out66 for190 some265 one470 to261 ladle377 him248 up405 ; and236 while55 the19 old447 man17 's415 line25 --now20 parting285 --admitted434 of89 his433 pulling217 into554 the19 creamy205 pool298 to261 rescue59 whom324 he362 could375 ;-- in107 that14 wild230 simultaneousness380 of89 a10 thousand586 concreted320 perils140 ,-- Ahab232 's483 yet443 unstricken boat439 seemed132 drawn564 up405 towards417 Heaven163 by406 invisible186 wires26 ,--as113 , arrow44 -like410 , shooting225 perpendicularly41 from316 the19 sea67 , the19 White82 Whale422 dashed304 his433 broad267 forehead380 against417 its234 bottom461 , and236 sent411 it162 turning69 over82 and236 over82 , into554 the19 air209 ; till181 it162 fell421 again52 -- gunwale198 downwards468 --and236 Ahab232 and236 his433 men62 struggled258 out66 from316 under533 it162 , like410 seals221 from316 a10 sea67 -side246 cave84 . The19 first13 uprising375 momentum66 of89 the19 whale422 --modifying350 its234 direction67 as113 he362 struck441 the19 surface328 --involuntarily124 launched336 him248 along423 it162 , to261 a10 little554 distance264 from316 the19 centre389 of89 the19 destruction423 he362 had364 made563 ; and236 with449 his433 back457 to261 it162 , he362 now20 lay62 for190 a10 moment258 slowly149 feeling384 with449 his433 flukes155 from316 side246 to261 side246 ; and236 whenever15 a10 stray133 oar61 , bit72 of89 plank243 , the19 least453 chip157 or519 crumb101 of89 the19 boats83 touched367 his433 skin428 , his433 tail102 swiftly441 drew175 back457 , and236 came549 sideways496 smiting280 the19 sea67 . But330 soon18 , as113 if141 satisfied376 that14 his433 work385 for190 that14 time577 was454 done135 , he362 pushed189 his433 pleated479 forehead380 through295 the19 ocean224 , and236 trailing15 after358 him248 the19 intertangled203 lines241 , continued44 his433 leeward265 way435 at65 a10 traveller258 's483 methodic129 pace384 . As113 before344 , the19 attentive484 ship438 having69 descried313 the19 whole199 fight330 , again52 came549 bearing354 down133 to261 the19 rescue59 , and236 dropping279 a10 boat439 , picked129 up405 the19 floating30 mariners347 , tubs410 , oars398 , and236 whatever38 else212 could375 be341 caught105 at65 , and236 safely206 landed451 them146 on392 her400 decks386 . Some265 sprained415 shoulders476 , wrists260 , and236 ankles446 ; livid283 contusions443 ; wrenched302 harpoons6 and236 lances8 ; inextricable140 intricacies223 of89 rope265 ; shattered205 oars398 and236 planks284 ; all145 these527 were324 there340 ; but330 no235 fatal460 or519 even198 serious97 ill236 seemed132 to261 have254 befallen16 any501 one470 . As113 with449 Fedallah the19 day112 before344 , so281 Ahab232 was454 now20 found260 grimly226 clinging232 to261 his433 boat439 's483 broken255 half119 , which16 afforded37 a10 comparatively203 easy281 float231 ; nor137 did444 it162 so281 exhaust202 him248 as113 the19 previous376 day112 's483 mishap116 . But330 when189 he362 was454 helped204 to261 the19 deck505 , all145 eyes125 were324 fastened426 upon419 him248 ; as113 instead398 of89 standing144 by406 himself282 he362 still278 half119 -hung479 upon419 the19 shoulder168 of89 Starbuck, who319 had364 thus362 far258 been185 the19 foremost61 to261 assist7 him248 . His433 ivory76 leg331 had364 been185 snapped459 off111 , leaving231 but330 one470 short522 sharp427 splinter415 . "Aye86 , aye86 , Starbuck, 'tis sweet417 to261 lean279 sometimes77 , be341 the19 leaner445 who319 he362 will584 ; and236 would282 old447 Ahab232 had364 leaned265 oftener222 than77 he362 has399 ." "The19 ferrule57 has399 not518 stood1 , sir271 ," said252 the19 carpenter262 , now20 coming140 up405 ; I482 put190 good221 work385 into554 that14 leg331 ." "But330 no235 bones5 broken255 , sir271 , I482 hope211 ," said252 Stubb with449 true483 concern180 . "Aye86 ! and236 all145 splintered330 to261 pieces283 , Stubb!--d67 'ye163 see370 it162 .-- But330 even198 with449 a10 broken255 bone184 , old447 Ahab232 is487 untouched151 ; and236 I482 account102 no235 living117 bone184 of89 mine482 one470 jot9 more348 me2 , than77 this256 dead568 one470 that14 's76 lost308 . Nor137 white82 whale422 , nor137 man17 , nor137 fiend59 , can450 so281 much61 as113 graze154 old447 Ahab232 in107 his433 own248 proper249 and236 inaccessible341 being264 . Can450 any501 lead362 touch486 yonder41 floor418 , any501 mast44 scrape455 yonder41 roof259 ?-- Aloft276 there340 ! which16 way435 ?" "Dead568 to261 leeward265 , sir271 ." "Up405 helm285 , then45 ; pile312 on392 the19 sail218 again52 , ship438 keepers271 ! down133 the19 rest302 of89 the19 spare295 boats83 and236 rig415 them146 --Mr219 . Starbuck away443 , and236 muster209 the19 boat439 's483 crews559 ." "Let66 me2 first13 help526 thee15 towards417 the19 bulwarks411 , sir271 ." "Oh367 , oh367 , oh367 ! how19 this256 splinter415 gores314 me2 now20 ! Accursed203 fate74 ! that14 the19 unconquerable398 captain295 in107 the19 soul428 should255 have254 such420 a10 craven429 mate508 !" "Sir271 ?" "My36 body348 , man17 , not518 thee15 . Give142 me2 something181 for190 a10 cane69 --there340 , that14 shivered34 lance76 will584 do353 . Muster209 the19 men62 . Surely388 I482 have254 not518 seen154 him248 yet443 . By406 heaven163 it162 cannot be341 !--missing210 ?--quick241 ! call259 them146 all145 ." The19 old447 man17 's415 hinted253 thought186 was454 true483 . Upon419 mustering420 the19 company280 , the19 Parsee18 was454 not518 there340 . "The19 Parsee18 !" cried506 Stubb--"he362 must226 have254 been185 caught105 in107 -" "The19 black581 vomit434 wrench160 thee15 !--run172 all145 of89 ye483 above502 , alow61 , cabin192 , forecastle367 --find138 him248 --not518 gone190 --not518 gone190 !" But330 quickly183 they382 returned214 to261 him248 with449 the19 tidings395 that14 the19 Parsee18 was454 nowhere209 to261 be341 found260 . "Aye86 , sir271 ," said252 Stubb--"caught105 among483 the19 tangles151 of89 your162 line25 -- I482 thought186 I482 saw113 him248 dragging248 under533 ." "My36 line25 ! my36 line25 ? Gone190 ?--gone190 ? What243 means502 that14 little554 word486 ?-- What243 death543 -knell92 rings25 in107 it162 , that14 old447 Ahab232 shakes560 as113 if141 he362 were324 the19 belfry64 . The19 harpoon67 , too11 !--toss237 over82 the19 litter212 there340 ,-- d67 'ye163 see370 it162 ?--the19 forged119 iron169 , men62 , the19 white82 whale422 's483 --no235 , no235 , no235 ,-- blistered284 fool5 ; this256 hand252 did444 dart293 it162 !--'tis in107 the19 fish187 !--Aloft276 there340 ! Keep381 him248 nailed419 -Quick241 !--all145 hands87 to261 the19 rigging516 of89 the19 boats83 -- collect378 the19 oars398 --harpooneers! the19 irons363 , the19 irons363 !--hoist9 the19 royals223 higher574 --a10 pull35 on392 all145 the19 sheets281 !--helm285 there340 ! steady21 , steady21 for190 your162 life71 ! I482 'll300 ten198 times121 girdle9 the19 unmeasured439 globe23 ; yea204 and236 dive316 straight346 through295 it162 , but330 I482 'll300 slay543 him248 yet443 ! "Great259 God185 ! but330 for190 one470 single77 instant279 show460 thyself402 ," cried506 Starbuck; "never206 , never206 wilt401 thou173 capture361 him248 , old447 man17 -- In107 Jesus305 ' name477 no235 more348 of89 this256 , that14 's76 worse561 than77 devil411 's483 madness282 . Two527 days351 chased389 ; twice366 stove373 to261 splinters30 ; thy43 very515 leg331 once248 more348 snatched513 from316 under533 thee15 ; thy43 evil2 shadow438 gone190 --all145 good221 angels29 mobbing16 thee15 with449 warnings133 :--what243 more348 wouldst30 thou173 have254 ?-- Shall66 we465 keep381 chasing227 this256 murderous86 fish187 till181 he362 swamps201 the19 last436 man17 ? Shall66 we465 be341 dragged460 by406 him248 to261 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 sea67 ? Shall66 we465 be341 towed376 by406 him248 to261 the19 infernal84 world126 ? Oh367 , oh367 ,-- Impiety282 and236 blasphemy161 to261 hunt418 him248 more348 !" "Starbuck, of89 late351 I482 've149 felt440 strangely155 moved492 to261 thee15 ; ever208 since374 that14 hour384 we465 both558 saw113 --thou173 know60 'st193 what243 , in107 one470 another269 's483 eyes125 . But330 in107 this256 matter176 of89 the19 whale422 , be341 the19 front196 of89 thy43 face556 to261 me2 as113 the19 palm114 of89 this256 hand252 --a10 lipless68 , unfeatured83 blank156 . Ahab232 is487 for190 ever208 Ahab232 , man17 . This256 whole199 act10 's483 immutably272 decreed292 . 'Twas rehearsed484 by406 thee15 and236 me2 a10 billion213 years116 before344 this256 ocean224 rolled226 . Fool5 ! I482 am375 the19 Fates553 ' lieutenant47 ; I482 act10 under533 orders199 . Look523 thou173 , underling310 ! that14 thou173 obeyest110 mine482 .--Stand530 round287 men62 , men62 . Ye483 see370 an138 old447 man17 cut310 down133 to261 the19 stump277 ; leaning559 on392 a10 shivered34 lance76 ; propped26 up405 on392 a10 lonely137 foot467 . 'Tis Ahab232 --his433 body348 's483 part207 ; but330 Ahab232 's483 soul428 's483 a10 centipede364 , that14 moves115 upon419 a10 hundred93 legs108 . I482 feel461 strained516 , half119 -stranded299 , as113 ropes461 that14 tow160 dismasted331 frigates263 in107 a10 gale440 ; and236 I482 may236 look523 so281 . But330 ere83 I482 break483 , yell316 hear386 me2 crack83 ; and236 till181 ye483 hear386 that14 , know60 that14 Ahab232 's483 hawser379 tows117 his433 purpose514 yet443 . Believe191 ye483 , men62 , in107 the19 things4 called237 omens156 ? Then45 laugh559 aloud352 , and236 cry561 encore458 ! For190 ere83 they382 drown522 , drowning35 things4 will584 twice366 rise251 to261 the19 surface328 ; then45 rise251 again52 , to261 sink190 for190 evermore274 . So281 with449 Moby362 Dick25 --two527 days351 he362 's483 floated6 --to261 -morrow376 will584 be341 the19 third301 . Aye86 , men62 , he362 'll300 rise251 once248 more348 ,--but330 only517 to261 spout224 his433 last436 ! D67 'ye163 feel461 brave218 men62 , brave218 ?" "As113 fearless132 fire559 ," cried506 Stubb. "And236 as113 mechanical31 ," muttered180 Ahab232 . Then45 as113 the19 men62 went516 forward364 , he362 muttered180 on392 : "The19 things4 called237 omens156 ! And236 yesterday235 I482 talked7 the19 same541 to261 Starbuck there340 , concerning368 my36 broken255 boat439 . Oh367 ! how19 valiantly138 I482 seek292 to261 drive548 out66 of89 others317 ' hearts431 what243 's483 clinched353 so281 fast208 in107 mine482 !-- The19 Parsee18 --the19 Parsee18 !--gone190 , gone190 ? and236 he362 was454 to261 go20 before344 :-- but330 still278 was454 to261 be341 seen154 again52 ere83 I482 could375 perish441 --How19 's483 that14 ?-- There340 's483 a10 riddle41 now20 might496 baffle67 all145 the19 lawyers259 backed270 by406 the19 ghosts44 of89 the19 whole199 line25 of89 judges305 :--like410 a10 hawk328 's483 beak560 it162 pecks154 my36 brain158 . I482 'll300 , I482 'll300 solve262 it162 , though400 !" When189 dusk180 descended99 , the19 whale422 was454 still278 in107 sight365 to261 leeward265 . So281 once248 more348 the19 sail218 was454 shortened111 , and236 everything233 passed87 nearly575 as113 on392 the19 previous376 night108 ; only517 , the19 sound181 of89 hammers44 , and236 the19 hum345 of89 the19 grindstone83 was454 heard444 till181 nearly575 daylight155 , as113 the19 men62 toiled411 by406 lanterns362 in107 the19 complete191 and236 careful252 rigging516 of89 the19 spare295 boats83 and236 sharpening46 their219 fresh540 weapons489 for190 the19 morrow376 . Meantime210 , of89 the19 broken255 keel39 of89 Ahab232 's483 wrecked527 craft187 the19 carpenter262 made563 him248 another269 leg331 ; while55 still278 as113 on392 the19 night108 before344 , slouched364 Ahab232 stood1 fixed564 within503 his433 scuttle27 ; his433 hid316 , heliotrope363 glance362 anticipatingly gone190 backward19 on392 its234 dial100 ; sat77 due266 eastward244 for190 the19 earliest69 sun397 . CHAPTER293 135270 The19 Chase89 - Third301 Day112 The19 morning417 of89 the19 third301 day112 dawned55 fair320 and236 fresh540 , and236 once248 more348 the19 solitary407 night108 -man17 at65 the19 fore259 -mast98 -head219 was454 relieved158 by406 crowds451 of89 the19 daylight155 look523 -outs52 , who319 dotted399 every389 mast44 and236 almost518 every389 spar14 . "D67 'ye163 see370 him248 ?" cried506 Ahab232 ; but330 the19 whale422 was454 not518 yet443 in107 sight365 . "In107 his433 infallible59 wake205 , though400 ; but330 follow408 that14 wake205 , that14 's76 all145 . Helm285 there340 ; steady21 , as113 thou173 goest376 , and236 hast174 been185 going227 . What243 a10 lovely126 day112 again52 ! were324 it162 a10 new36 -made63 world126 , and236 made563 for190 a10 summer408 -house306 to261 the19 angels29 , and236 this256 morning417 the19 first13 of89 its234 throwing120 open464 to261 them146 , a10 fairer378 day112 could375 not518 dawn72 upon419 that14 world126 . Here135 's483 food248 for190 thought186 , had364 Ahab232 time577 to261 think424 ; but330 Ahab232 never206 thinks344 ; he362 only517 feels450 , feels450 , feels450 ; that14 's76 tingling14 enough217 for190 mortal371 man17 ! to261 think424 's483 audacity337 . God185 only517 has399 that14 right499 and236 privilege414 . Thinking385 is487 , or519 ought170 to261 be341 , a10 coolness38 and236 a10 calmness232 ; and236 our234 poor533 hearts431 throb504 , and236 our234 poor533 brains279 beat449 too11 much61 for190 that14 . And236 yet443 , I482 've149 sometimes77 thought186 my36 brain158 was454 very515 calm39 -- frozen446 calm39 , this256 old447 skull9 cracks292 so281 , like410 a10 glass27 in107 which16 the19 contents347 turned492 to261 ice443 , and236 shiver452 it162 . And236 still278 this256 hair237 is487 growing66 now20 ; this256 moment258 growing66 , and236 heat218 must226 breed450 it162 ; but330 no235 , it162 's483 like410 that14 sort42 of89 common304 grass418 that14 will584 grow163 anywhere436 , between77 the19 earthy21 clefts296 of89 Greenland110 ice443 or519 in107 Vesuvius581 lava198 . How19 the19 wild230 winds399 blow230 it162 ; they382 whip190 it162 about123 me2 as113 the19 torn237 shreds249 of89 split148 sails344 lash266 the19 tossed227 ship438 they382 cling126 to261 . A10 vile221 wind262 that14 has399 no235 doubt71 blown147 ere83 this256 through295 prison26 corridors372 and236 cells102 , and236 wards65 of89 hospitals270 , and236 ventilated41 them146 , and236 now20 comes268 blowing248 hither342 as113 innocent156 as113 fleeces125 . Out66 upon419 it162 !--it162 's483 tainted283 . Were324 I482 the19 wind262 , I482 'd67 blow230 no235 more348 on392 such420 a10 wicked5 , miserable364 world126 . I482 'd67 crawl445 somewhere201 to261 a10 cave84 , and236 slink73 there340 . And236 yet443 , 'tis a10 noble226 and236 heroic402 thing309 , the19 wind262 ! who319 ever208 conquered140 it162 ? In107 every389 fight330 it162 has399 the19 last436 and236 bitterest197 blow230 . Run172 tilting295 at65 it162 , and236 you227 but330 run172 through295 it162 . Ha387 ! a10 coward92 wind262 that14 strikes323 stark376 naked70 men62 , but330 will584 not518 stand530 to261 receive327 a10 single77 blow230 . Even198 Ahab232 is487 a10 braver522 thing309 --a10 nobler354 thing309 than77 that14 . Would282 now20 the19 wind262 but330 had364 a10 body348 ; but330 all145 the19 things4 that14 most216 exasperate451 and236 outrage16 mortal371 man17 , all145 these527 things4 are314 bodiless23 , but330 only517 bodiless23 as113 objects326 , not518 as113 agents242 . There340 's483 a10 most216 special326 , a10 most216 cunning198 , oh367 , a10 most216 malicious361 difference3 ! And236 yet443 , I482 say306 again52 , and236 swear322 it162 now20 , that14 there340 's483 something181 all145 glorious466 and236 gracious375 in107 the19 wind262 . These527 warm178 Trade335 Winds399 , at65 least453 , that14 in107 the19 clear408 heavens494 blow230 straight346 on392 , in107 strong145 and236 steadfast246 , vigorous113 mildness354 ; and236 veer192 not518 from316 their219 mark169 , however44 the19 baser332 currents218 of89 the19 sea67 may236 turn17 and236 tack22 , and236 mightiest395 Mississippies of89 the19 land406 swift376 and236 swerve110 about123 , uncertain396 where579 to261 go20 at65 last436 . And236 by406 the19 eternal155 Poles122 ! these527 same541 Trades111 that14 so281 directly58 blow230 my36 good221 ship438 on392 ; these527 Trades111 , or519 something181 like410 them146 --something181 so281 unchangeable13 , and236 full414 as113 strong145 , blow230 my36 keeled299 soul428 along423 ! To261 it162 ! Aloft276 there340 ! What243 d67 'ye163 see370 ?" "Nothing324 , sir271 ." "Nothing324 ! and236 noon445 at65 hand252 ! The19 doubloon263 goes205 a10 -begging104 ! See370 the19 sun397 ! Aye86 , aye86 , it162 must226 be341 so281 . I482 've149 over82 -sailed248 him248 . How19 , got286 the19 start117 ? Aye86 , he362 's483 chasing227 me2 now20 ; not518 I482 , him248 -- that14 's76 bad458 ; I482 might496 have254 known86 it162 , too11 . Fool5 ! the19 lines241 -- the19 harpoons6 he362 's483 towing78 . Aye86 , aye86 , I482 have254 run172 him248 by406 last436 night108 . About123 ! about123 ! Come420 down133 , all145 of89 ye483 , but330 the19 regular400 look523 outs52 ! Man17 the19 braces403 !" Steering252 as113 she391 had364 done135 , the19 wind262 had364 been185 somewhat77 on392 the19 Pequod288 's483 quarter6 , so281 that14 now20 being264 pointed413 in107 the19 reverse303 direction67 , the19 braced84 ship438 sailed248 hard337 upon419 the19 breeze227 as113 she391 rechurned250 the19 cream227 in107 her400 own248 white82 wake205 . "Against417 the19 wind262 he362 now20 steers232 for190 the19 open464 jaw213 ," murmured238 Starbuck to261 himself282 , as113 he362 coiled4 the19 new36 -hauled80 main501 -brace403 upon419 the19 rail51 . "God185 keep381 us569 , but330 already93 my36 bones5 feel461 damp264 within503 me2 , and236 from316 the19 inside438 wet299 my36 flesh331 . I482 misdoubt83 me2 that14 I482 disobey180 my36 God185 in107 obeying163 him248 !" "Stand530 by406 to261 sway497 me2 up405 !" cried506 Ahab232 , advancing444 to261 the19 hempen451 basket296 . "We465 should255 meet16 him248 soon18 ." "Aye86 , aye86 , sir271 ," and236 straightway210 Starbuck did444 Ahab232 's483 bidding340 , and236 once248 more348 Ahab232 swung205 on392 high361 . A10 whole199 hour384 now20 passed87 ; gold231 -beaten442 out66 to261 ages146 . Time577 itself312 now20 held212 long544 breaths192 with449 keen202 suspense547 . But330 at65 last436 , some265 three329 points245 off111 the19 weather405 bow146 , Ahab232 descried313 the19 spout224 again52 , and236 instantly186 from316 the19 three329 mast44 -heads279 three329 shrieks400 went516 up405 as113 if141 the19 tongues202 of89 fire559 had364 voiced72 it162 . "Forehead380 to261 forehead380 I482 meet16 thee15 , this256 third301 time577 , Moby362 Dick25 ! On392 deck505 there340 !--brace403 sharper339 up405 ; crowd16 her400 into554 the19 wind262 's483 eye220 . He362 's483 too11 far258 off111 to261 lower47 yet443 , Mr219 . Starbuck. The19 sails344 shake180 ! Stand530 over82 that14 helmsman457 with449 a10 top70 -maul191 ! So281 , so281 ; he362 travels134 fast208 , and236 I482 must226 down133 . But330 let66 me2 have254 one470 more348 good221 round287 look523 aloft276 here135 at65 the19 sea67 ; there340 's483 time577 for190 that14 . An138 old447 , old447 sight365 , and236 yet443 somehow425 so281 young389 ; aye86 , and236 not518 changed21 a10 wink250 since374 I482 first13 saw113 it162 , a10 boy110 , from316 the19 sand380 -hills352 of89 Nantucket283 ! The19 same541 --the19 same541 !-- the19 same541 to261 Noah69 as113 to261 me2 . There340 's483 a10 soft226 shower143 to261 leeward265 . Such420 lovely126 leewardings! They382 must226 lead362 somewhere201 -- to261 something181 else212 than77 common304 land406 , more348 palmy4 than77 the19 palms173 . Leeward265 ! the19 white82 whale422 goes205 that14 way435 ; look523 to261 windward170 , then45 ; the19 better34 if141 the19 bitterer197 quarter6 . But330 good221 bye96 , good221 bye96 , old447 mast44 -head116 ! What243 's483 this256 ?--green549 ? aye86 , tiny266 mosses28 in107 these527 warped355 cracks292 . No235 such420 green549 weather405 stains221 on392 Ahab232 's483 head219 ! There340 's483 the19 difference3 now20 between77 man17 's415 old447 age157 and236 matter176 's483 . But330 aye86 , old447 mast44 , we465 both558 grow163 old447 together440 ; sound181 in107 our234 hulls133 , though400 are314 we465 not518 , my36 ship438 ? Aye86 , minus153 a10 leg331 , that14 's76 all145 . By406 heaven163 this256 dead568 wood46 has399 the19 better34 of89 my36 live554 flesh331 every389 way435 . I482 can450 't500 compare184 with449 it162 ; and236 I482 've149 known86 some265 ships21 made563 of89 dead568 trees354 outlast426 the19 lives245 of89 men62 made563 of89 the19 most216 vital204 stuff471 of89 vital204 fathers305 . What243 's483 that14 he362 said252 ? he362 should255 still278 go20 before344 me2 , my36 pilot559 ; and236 yet443 to261 be341 seen154 again52 ? But330 where579 ? Will584 I482 have254 eyes125 at65 the19 bottom461 of89 the19 sea67 , supposing247 I482 descend252 those427 endless489 stairs330 ? and236 all145 night108 I482 've149 been185 sailing232 from316 him248 , wherever408 he362 did444 sink190 to261 . Aye86 , aye86 , like410 many282 more348 thou173 told82 'st485 direful137 truth350 as113 touching80 thyself402 , O24 Parsee18 ; but330 , Ahab232 , there340 thy43 shot443 fell421 short522 . Good221 bye96 , mast44 -head116 --keep381 a10 good221 eye220 upon419 the19 whale422 , the19 while55 I482 'm250 gone190 . We465 'll300 talk173 to261 -morrow376 , nay358 , to261 -night108 , when189 the19 white82 whale422 lies27 down133 there340 , tied101 by406 head219 and236 tail102 ." He362 gave572 the19 word486 ; and236 still278 gazing117 round287 him248 , was454 steadily379 lowered279 through295 the19 cloven26 blue240 air209 to261 the19 deck505 . In107 due266 time577 the19 boats83 were324 lowered279 ; but330 as113 standing144 in107 his433 shallop244 's483 stern442 , Ahab232 just108 hovered400 upon419 the19 point438 of89 the19 descent181 , he362 waved366 to261 the19 mate508 ,--who319 held212 one470 of89 the19 tackle346 --ropes461 on392 deck505 -- and236 bade411 him248 pause391 . "Starbuck!" "Sir271 ?" "For190 the19 third301 time577 my36 soul428 's483 ship438 starts248 upon419 this256 voyage137 , Starbuck." "Aye86 , sir271 , thou173 wilt401 have254 it162 so281 ." "Some265 ships21 sail218 from316 their219 ports92 , and236 ever208 afterwards418 are314 missing210 , Starbuck!" "Truth350 , sir271 : saddest235 truth350 ." "Some265 men62 die229 at65 ebb443 tide523 ; some265 at65 low407 water520 ; some265 at65 the19 full414 of89 the19 flood167 ;--and236 I482 feel461 now20 like410 a10 billow510 that14 's76 all145 one470 crested296 comb522 , Starbuck. I482 am375 old447 ;--shake180 hands87 with449 me2 , man17 ." Their219 hands87 met130 ; their219 eyes125 fastened426 ; Starbuck's483 tears470 the19 glue287 . "Oh367 , my36 captain295 , my36 captain295 !--noble226 heart470 --go20 not518 --go20 not518 !--see370 , it162 's483 a10 brave218 man17 that14 weeps18 ; how19 great259 the19 agony242 of89 the19 persuasion55 then45 !" "Lower47 away443 !"-cried506 Ahab232 , tossing213 the19 mate508 's483 arm25 from316 him248 . "Stand530 by406 for190 the19 crew126 !" In107 an138 instant279 the19 boat439 was454 pulling217 round287 close65 under533 the19 stern442 . "The19 sharks206 ! the19 sharks206 !" cried506 a10 voice233 from316 the19 low407 cabin192 -window192 there340 ; "O24 master131 , my36 master131 , come420 back457 !" But330 Ahab232 heard444 nothing324 ; for190 his433 own248 voice233 was454 high361 -lifted403 then45 ; and236 the19 boat439 leaped314 on392 . Yet443 the19 voice233 spake511 true483 ; for190 scarce462 had364 he362 pushed189 from316 the19 ship438 , when189 numbers285 of89 sharks206 , seemingly261 rising464 from316 out66 the19 dark471 waters556 beneath320 the19 hull323 , maliciously141 snapped459 at65 the19 blades141 of89 the19 oars398 , every389 time577 they382 dipped377 in107 the19 water520 ; and236 in107 this256 way435 accompanied26 the19 boat439 with449 their219 bites221 . It162 is487 a10 thing309 not518 uncommonly194 happening106 to261 the19 whale422 -boats83 in107 those427 swarming41 seas350 ; the19 sharks206 at65 times121 apparently261 following181 them146 in107 the19 same541 prescient468 way435 that14 vultures107 hover244 over82 the19 banners371 of89 marching57 regiments64 in107 the19 east524 . But330 these527 were324 the19 first13 sharks206 that14 had364 been185 observed340 by406 the19 Pequod288 since374 the19 White82 Whale422 had364 been185 first13 descried313 ; and236 whether454 it162 was454 that14 Ahab232 's483 crew126 were324 all145 such420 tiger293 -yellow95 barbarians15 , and236 therefore94 their219 flesh331 more348 musky280 to261 the19 senses161 of89 the19 sharks206 -- a10 matter176 sometimes77 well263 known86 to261 affect298 them146 ,--however44 it162 was454 , they382 seemed132 to261 follow408 that14 one470 boat439 without309 molesting35 the19 others317 . "Heart470 of89 wrought22 steel184 !" murmured238 Starbuck gazing117 over82 the19 side246 , and236 following181 with449 his433 eyes125 the19 receding266 boat439 --"canst502 thou173 yet443 ring579 boldly445 to261 that14 sight365 ?--lowering240 thy43 keel39 among483 ravening439 sharks206 , and236 followed234 by406 them146 , open464 -mouthed to261 the19 chase89 ; and236 this256 the19 critical38 third301 day112 ?--For190 when189 three329 days351 flow44 together440 in107 one470 continuous447 intense89 pursuit305 ; be341 sure41 the19 first13 is487 the19 morning417 , the19 second386 the19 noon445 , and236 the19 third301 the19 evening581 and236 the19 end149 of89 that14 thing309 --be341 that14 end149 what243 it162 may236 . Oh367 ! my36 God185 ! what243 is487 this256 that14 shoots536 through295 me2 , and236 leaves441 me2 so281 deadly49 calm39 , yet443 expectant379 ,--fixed564 at65 the19 top70 of89 a10 shudder17 ! Future44 things4 swim226 before344 me2 , as113 in107 empty450 outlines303 and236 skeletons154 ; all145 the19 past111 is487 somehow425 grown299 dim14 . Mary221 , girl30 ; thou173 fadest in107 pale292 glories29 behind80 me2 ; boy110 ! I482 seem404 to261 see370 but330 thy43 eyes125 grown299 wondrous30 blue240 . Strangest86 problems112 of89 life71 seem404 clearing84 ; but330 clouds342 sweep471 between77 --Is487 my36 journey301 's483 end149 coming140 ? My36 legs108 feel461 faint316 ; like410 his433 who319 has399 footed83 it162 all145 day112 . Feel461 thy43 heart470 ,--beats241 it162 yet443 ? Stir290 thyself402 , Starbuck!-- stave416 it162 off111 --move361 , move361 ! speak337 aloud352 !--Mast44 -head116 there340 ! See370 ye483 my36 boy110 's483 hand252 on392 the19 hill219 ?--Crazed292 ; aloft276 there340 !-- keep381 thy43 keenest347 eye220 upon419 the19 boats83 :--mark169 well263 the19 whale422 !-- Ho31 ! again52 !--drive548 off111 that14 hawk328 ! see370 ! he362 pecks154 --he362 tears470 the19 vane254 "-- pointing295 to261 the19 red293 flag270 flying354 at65 the19 main501 -truck120 --"Ha387 , he362 soars444 away443 with449 it162 !--Where579 's483 the19 old447 man17 now20 ? see370 'st119 thou173 that14 sight365 , oh367 Ahab232 !--shudder17 , shudder17 !" The19 boats83 had364 not518 gone190 very515 far258 , when189 by406 a10 signal264 from316 the19 mast44 -heads279 -- a10 downward157 pointed413 arm25 , Ahab232 knew480 that14 the19 whale422 had364 sounded163 ; but330 intending102 to261 be341 near70 him248 at65 the19 next27 rising464 , he362 held212 on392 his433 way435 a10 little554 sideways496 from316 the19 vessel155 ; the19 becharmed89 crew126 maintaining140 the19 profoundest320 silence309 , as113 the19 head219 -bent406 waves443 hammered193 and236 hammered193 against417 the19 opposing402 bow146 . "Drive548 , drive548 in107 your162 nails174 , oh367 ye483 waves443 ! to261 their219 uttermost129 heads366 drive548 them146 in107 ! ye483 but330 strike374 a10 thing309 without309 a10 lid157 ; and236 no235 coffin284 and236 no235 hearse34 can450 be341 mine482 :--and236 hemp245 only517 can450 kill219 me2 ! Ha387 ! ha387 !" Suddenly193 the19 waters556 around66 them146 slowly149 swelled213 in107 broad267 circles3 ; then45 quickly183 upheaved366 , as113 if141 sideways496 sliding540 from316 a10 submerged402 berg173 of89 ice443 , swiftly441 rising464 to261 the19 surface328 . A10 low407 rumbling41 sound181 was454 heard444 ; a10 subterraneous6 hum345 ; and236 then45 all145 held212 their219 breaths192 ; as113 bedraggled340 with449 trailing15 ropes461 , and236 harpoons6 , and236 lances8 , a10 vast43 form238 shot443 lengthwise288 , but330 obliquely122 from316 the19 sea67 . Shrouded465 in107 a10 thin445 drooping279 veil69 of89 mist322 , it162 hovered400 for190 a10 moment258 in107 the19 rainbowed air209 ; and236 then45 fell421 swamping42 back457 into554 the19 deep483 . Crushed197 thirty521 feet349 upwards110 , the19 waters556 flashed479 for190 an138 instant279 like410 heaps86 of89 fountains170 , then45 brokenly271 sank310 in107 a10 shower143 of89 flakes120 , leaving231 the19 circling504 surface328 creamed3 like410 new36 milk362 round287 the19 marble364 trunk389 of89 the19 whale422 . "Give142 way435 !" cried506 Ahab232 to261 the19 oarsmen59 , and236 the19 boats83 darted362 forward364 to261 the19 attack74 ; but330 maddened273 by406 yesterday235 's483 fresh540 irons363 that14 corroded348 in107 him248 , Moby362 Dick25 seemed132 combinedly possessed95 by406 all145 the19 angels29 that14 fell421 from316 heaven163 . The19 wide465 tiers76 of89 welded102 tendons454 overspreading222 his433 broad267 white82 forehead380 , beneath320 the19 transparent129 skin428 , looked232 knitted481 together440 ; as113 head219 on392 , he362 came549 churning367 his433 tail102 among483 the19 boats83 ; and236 once248 more348 flailed279 them146 apart526 ; spilling25 out66 the19 irons363 and236 lances8 from316 the19 two527 mates264 ' boats83 , and236 dashing14 in107 one470 side246 of89 the19 upper403 part207 of89 their219 bows460 , but330 leaving231 Ahab232 's483 almost518 without309 a10 scar101 . While55 Daggoo and236 Queequeg were324 stopping406 the19 strained516 planks284 ; and236 as113 the19 whale422 swimming367 out66 from316 them146 , turned492 , and236 showed507 one470 entire230 flank434 as113 he362 shot443 by406 them146 again52 ; at65 that14 moment258 a10 quick241 cry561 went516 up405 . Lashed97 round287 and236 round287 to261 the19 fish187 's483 back457 ; pinioned279 in107 the19 turns136 upon419 turns136 in107 which16 , during309 the19 past111 night108 , the19 whale422 had364 reeled429 the19 involutions27 of89 the19 lines241 around66 him248 , the19 half119 torn237 body348 of89 the19 Parsee18 was454 seen154 ; his433 sable275 raiment114 frayed127 to261 shreds249 ; his433 distended106 eyes125 turned492 full414 upon419 old447 Ahab232 . The19 harpoon67 dropped2 from316 his433 hand252 . "Befooled30 , befooled30 !"--drawing407 in107 a10 long544 lean279 breath150 --"Aye86 , Parsee18 ! I482 see370 thee15 again52 .--Aye86 , and236 thou173 goest376 before344 ; and236 this256 , this256 then45 is487 the19 hearse34 that14 thou173 didst317 promise461 . But330 I482 hold204 thee15 to261 the19 last436 letter539 of89 thy43 word486 . Where579 is487 the19 second386 hearse34 ? Away443 , mates264 , to261 the19 ship438 ! those427 boats83 are314 useless327 now20 ; repair373 them146 if141 ye483 can450 in107 time577 , and236 return407 to261 me2 ; if141 not518 , Ahab232 is487 enough217 to261 die229 --Down133 , men62 ! the19 first13 thing309 that14 but330 offers287 to261 jump50 from316 this256 boat439 I482 stand530 in107 , that14 thing309 I482 harpoon67 . Ye483 are314 not518 other282 men62 , but330 my36 arms536 and236 my36 legs108 ; and236 so281 obey67 me2 .-- Where579 's483 the19 whale422 ? gone190 down133 again52 ?" But330 he362 looked232 too11 nigh254 the19 boat439 ; for190 as113 if141 bent406 upon419 escaping173 with449 the19 corpse133 he362 bore27 , and236 as113 if141 the19 particular336 place107 of89 the19 last436 encounter250 had364 been185 but330 a10 stage22 in107 his433 leeward265 voyage137 , Moby362 Dick25 was454 now20 again52 steadily379 swimming367 forward364 ; and236 had364 almost518 passed87 the19 ship438 ,--which16 thus362 far258 had364 been185 sailing232 in107 the19 contrary166 direction67 to261 him248 , though400 for190 the19 present112 her400 headway492 had364 been185 stopped564 . He362 seemed132 swimming367 with449 his433 utmost43 velocity397 , and236 now20 only517 intent359 upon419 pursuing392 his433 own248 straight346 path234 in107 the19 sea67 . "Oh367 ! Ahab232 ," cried506 Starbuck, "not518 too11 late351 is487 it162 , even198 now20 , the19 third301 day112 , to261 desist472 . See370 ! Moby362 Dick25 seeks168 thee15 not518 . It162 is487 thou173 , thou173 , that14 madly218 seekest461 him248 !" Setting151 sail218 to261 the19 rising464 wind262 , the19 lonely137 boat439 was454 swiftly441 impelled104 to261 leeward265 , by406 both558 oars398 and236 canvas557 . And236 at65 last436 when189 Ahab232 was454 sliding540 by406 the19 vessel155 , so281 near70 as113 plainly450 to261 distinguish76 Starbuck's483 face556 as113 he362 leaned265 over82 the19 rail51 , he362 hailed411 him248 to261 turn17 the19 vessel155 about123 , and236 follow408 him248 , not518 too11 swiftly441 , at65 a10 judicious384 interval114 . Glancing18 upwards110 he362 saw113 Tashtego, Queequeg, and236 Daggoo, eagerly100 mounting473 to261 the19 three329 mast44 -heads279 ; while55 the19 oarsmen59 were324 rocking6 in107 the19 two527 staved26 boats83 which16 had364 but330 just108 been185 hoisted367 to261 the19 side246 , and236 were324 busily181 at65 work385 in107 repairing51 them146 . One470 after358 the19 other282 , through295 the19 port409 -holes41 , as113 he362 sped227 , he362 also119 caught105 flying354 glimpses446 of89 Stubb and236 Flask199 , busying73 themselves510 on392 deck505 among483 bundles492 of89 new36 irons363 and236 lances8 . As113 he362 saw113 all145 this256 ; as113 he362 heard444 the19 hammers44 in107 the19 broken255 boats83 ; far258 other282 hammers44 seemed132 driving280 a10 nail367 into554 his433 heart470 . But330 he362 rallied71 . And236 now20 marking279 that14 the19 vane254 or519 flag270 was454 gone190 from316 the19 main501 -mast44 -head116 , he362 shouted300 to261 Tashtego, who319 had364 just108 gained290 that14 perch295 , to261 descend252 again52 for190 another269 flag270 , and236 a10 hammer364 and236 nails174 , and236 so281 nail367 it162 to261 the19 mast44 . Whether454 fagged17 by406 the19 three329 days351 ' running296 chase89 , and236 the19 resistance262 to261 his433 swimming367 in107 the19 knotted506 hamper425 he362 bore27 ; or519 whether454 it162 was454 some265 latent70 deceitfulness444 and236 malice157 in107 him248 : whichever364 was454 true483 , the19 White82 Whale422 's483 way435 now20 began132 to261 abate30 , as113 it162 seemed132 , from316 the19 boat439 so281 rapidly116 nearing98 him248 once248 more348 ; though400 indeed522 the19 whale422 's483 last436 start117 had364 not518 been185 so281 long544 a10 one470 as113 before344 . And236 still278 as113 Ahab232 glided152 over82 the19 waves443 the19 unpitying132 sharks206 accompanied26 him248 ; and236 so281 pertinaciously31 stuck120 to261 the19 boat439 ; and236 so281 continually303 bit72 at65 the19 plying78 oars398 , that14 the19 blades141 became70 jagged263 and236 crunched315 , and236 left159 small350 splinters30 in107 the19 sea67 , at65 almost518 every389 dip19 . "Heed163 them146 not518 ! those427 teeth82 but330 give142 new36 rowlocks83 to261 your162 oars398 . Pull35 on392 ! 'tis the19 better34 rest302 , the19 sharks206 ' jaw213 than77 the19 yielding345 water520 ." "But330 at65 every389 bite517 , sir271 , the19 thin445 blades141 grow163 smaller236 and236 smaller236 !" "They382 will584 last436 long544 enough217 ! pull35 on392 !--But330 who319 can450 tell392 "-- he362 muttered180 --"whether454 these527 sharks206 swim226 to261 feast330 on392 the19 whale422 or519 on392 Ahab232 ?--But330 pull35 on392 ! Aye86 , all145 alive298 , now20 --we465 near70 him248 . The19 helm285 ! take279 the19 helm285 ! let66 me2 pass153 ,"--and236 so281 saying9 two527 of89 the19 oarsmen59 helped204 him248 forward364 to261 the19 bows460 of89 the19 still278 flying354 boat439 . At65 length202 as113 the19 craft187 was454 cast99 to261 one470 side246 , and236 ran391 ranging261 along423 with449 the19 White82 Whale422 's483 flank434 , he362 seemed132 strangely155 oblivious86 of89 its234 advance70 --as113 the19 whale422 sometimes77 will584 --and236 Ahab232 was454 fairly211 within503 the19 smoky178 mountain231 mist322 , which16 , thrown359 off111 from316 the19 whale422 's483 spout224 , curled253 round287 his433 great259 Monadnock31 hump20 ; he362 was454 even198 thus362 close65 to261 him248 ; when189 , with449 body348 arched4 back457 , and236 both558 arms536 lengthwise288 high361 -lifted403 to261 the19 poise108 , he362 darted362 his433 fierce394 iron169 , and236 his433 far258 fiercer273 curse48 into554 the19 hated499 whale422 . As113 both558 steel184 and236 curse48 sank310 to261 the19 socket43 , as113 if141 sucked355 into554 a10 morass27 , Moby362 Dick25 sideways496 writhed310 ; spasmodically203 rolled226 his433 nigh254 flank434 against417 the19 bow146 , and236 , without309 staving279 a10 hole73 in107 it162 , so281 suddenly193 canted438 the19 boat439 over82 , that14 had364 it162 not518 been185 for190 the19 elevated541 part207 of89 the19 gunwale198 to261 which16 he362 then45 clung336 , Ahab232 would282 once248 more348 have254 been185 tossed227 into554 the19 sea67 . As113 it162 was454 , three329 of89 the19 oarsmen59 --who319 foreknew267 not518 the19 precise158 instant279 of89 the19 dart293 , and236 were324 therefore94 unprepared22 for190 its234 effects531 -- these527 were324 flung255 out66 ; but330 so281 fell421 , that14 , in107 an138 instant279 two527 of89 them146 clutched169 the19 gunwale198 again52 , and236 rising464 to261 its234 level378 on392 a10 combing99 wave556 , hurled46 themselves510 bodily172 inboard331 again52 ; the19 third301 man17 helplessly100 dropping279 astern39 , but330 still278 afloat2 and236 swimming367 . Almost518 simultaneously558 , with449 a10 mighty2 volition431 of89 ungraduated, instantaneous322 swiftness395 , the19 White82 Whale422 darted362 through295 the19 weltering213 sea67 . But330 when189 Ahab232 cried506 out66 to261 the19 steersman290 to261 take279 new36 turns136 with449 the19 line25 , and236 hold204 it162 so281 ; and236 commanded571 the19 crew126 to261 turn17 round287 on392 their219 seats261 , and236 tow160 the19 boat439 up405 to261 the19 mark169 ; the19 moment258 the19 treacherous166 line25 felt440 that14 double20 strain468 and236 tug88 , it162 snapped459 in107 the19 empty450 air209 ! "What243 breaks522 in107 me2 ? Some265 sinew54 cracks292 !--'tis whole199 again52 ; oars398 ! oars398 ! Burst174 in107 upon419 him248 !" Hearing325 the19 tremendous376 rush6 of89 the19 sea67 -crashing boat439 , the19 whale422 wheeled542 round287 to261 present112 his433 blank156 forehead380 at65 bay279 ; but330 in107 that14 evolution38 , catching263 sight365 of89 the19 nearing98 black581 hull323 of89 the19 ship438 ; seemingly261 seeing426 in107 it162 the19 source254 of89 all145 his433 persecutions410 ; bethinking40 it162 --it162 may236 be341 --a10 larger50 and236 nobler354 foe479 ; of89 a10 sudden309 , he362 bore27 down133 upon419 its234 advancing444 prow451 , smiting280 his433 jaws341 amid240 fiery42 showers128 of89 foam160 . Ahab232 staggered259 ; his433 hand252 smote261 his433 forehead380 . "I482 grow163 blind375 ; hands87 ! stretch318 out66 before344 me2 that14 I482 may236 yet443 grope65 my36 way435 . Is487 't500 night108 ?" "The19 whale422 ! The19 ship438 !" cried506 the19 cringing103 oarsmen59 . "Oars398 ! oars398 ! Slope98 downwards468 to261 thy43 depths416 , O24 sea67 that14 ere83 it162 be341 for190 ever208 too11 late351 , Ahab232 may236 slide118 this256 last436 , last436 time577 upon419 his433 mark169 ! I482 see370 : the19 ship438 ! the19 ship438 ! Dash355 on392 , my36 men62 ! Will584 ye483 not518 save556 my36 ship438 ?" But330 as113 the19 oarsmen59 violently340 forced28 their219 boat439 through295 the19 sledge398 -hammering86 seas350 , the19 before344 whale422 -smitten83 bow146 -ends301 of89 two527 planks284 burst174 through295 , and236 in107 an138 instant279 almost518 , the19 temporarily22 disabled345 boat439 lay62 nearly575 level378 with449 the19 waves443 ; its234 half119 -wading27 , splashing40 crew126 , trying83 hard337 to261 stop48 the19 gap31 and236 bale65 out66 the19 pouring22 water520 . Meantime210 , for190 that14 one470 beholding248 instant279 , Tashtego's483 mast44 -head116 hammer364 remained72 suspended245 in107 his433 hand252 ; and236 the19 red293 flag270 , half119 -wrapping439 him248 as113 with449 a10 plaid127 , then45 streamed122 itself312 straight346 out66 from316 him248 , as113 his433 own248 forward364 -flowing298 heart470 ; while55 Starbuck and236 Stubb, standing144 upon419 the19 bowsprit120 beneath320 , caught105 sight365 of89 the19 down133 -coming140 monster480 just108 as113 soon18 as113 he362 . "The19 whale422 , the19 whale422 ! Up405 helm285 , up405 helm285 ! Oh367 , all145 ye483 sweet417 powers140 of89 air209 , now20 hug17 me2 close65 ! Let66 not518 Starbuck die229 , if141 die229 he362 must226 , in107 a10 woman448 's483 fainting69 fit12 . Up405 helm285 , I482 say306 --ye483 fools379 , the19 jaw213 ! the19 jaw213 ! Is487 this256 the19 end149 of89 all145 my36 bursting288 prayers173 ? all145 my36 life71 -long544 fidelities354 ? Oh367 , Ahab232 , Ahab232 , lo418 , thy43 work385 . Steady21 ! helmsman457 , steady21 . Nay358 , nay358 ! Up405 helm285 again52 ! He362 turns136 to261 meet16 us569 ! Oh367 , his433 unappeasable31 brow474 drives269 on392 towards417 one470 , whose286 duty468 tells449 him248 he362 cannot depart297 . My36 God185 , stand530 by406 me2 now20 !" "Stand530 not518 by406 me2 , but330 stand530 under533 me2 , whoever23 you227 are314 that14 will584 now20 help526 Stubb; for190 Stubb, too11 , sticks335 here135 . I482 grin401 at65 thee15 , thou173 grinning424 whale422 ! Who319 ever208 helped204 Stubb, or519 kept290 Stubb awake255 , but330 Stubb's483 own248 unwinking282 eye220 ? And236 now20 poor533 Stubb goes205 to261 bed273 upon419 a10 mattrass16 that14 is487 all145 too11 soft226 ; would282 it162 were324 stuffed502 with449 brushwood129 ! I482 grin401 at65 thee15 , thou173 grinning424 whale422 ! Look523 ye483 , sun397 , moon45 , and236 stars286 ! I482 call259 ye483 assassins146 of89 as113 good221 a10 fellow369 as113 ever208 spouted395 up405 his433 ghost246 . For190 all145 that14 , I482 would282 yet443 ring579 glasses527 with449 ye483 , would282 ye483 but330 hand252 the19 cup13 ! Oh367 , oh367 ! oh367 , oh367 ! thou173 grinning424 whale422 , but330 there340 'll300 be341 plenty406 of89 gulping78 soon18 ! Why177 fly324 ye483 not518 , O24 Ahab232 ! For190 me2 , off111 shoes436 and236 jacket481 to261 it162 ; let66 Stubb die229 in107 his433 drawers350 ! A10 most216 mouldy508 and236 over82 salted212 death543 , though400 ;--cherries183 ! cherries183 ! cherries183 ! Oh367 , Flask199 , for190 one470 red293 cherry31 ere83 we465 die229 !" "Cherries183 ? I482 only517 wish95 that14 we465 were324 where579 they382 grow163 . Oh367 , Stubb, I482 hope211 my36 poor533 mother276 's483 drawn564 my36 part207 -pay496 ere83 this256 ; if141 not518 , few49 coppers276 will584 now20 come420 to261 her400 , for190 the19 voyage137 is487 up405 ." From316 the19 ship438 's483 bows460 , nearly575 all145 the19 seamen6 now20 hung479 inactive373 ; hammers44 , bits256 of89 plank243 , lances8 , and236 harpoons6 , mechanically143 retained155 in107 their219 hands87 , just108 as113 they382 had364 darted362 from316 their219 various183 employments216 ; all145 their219 enchanted229 eyes125 intent359 upon419 the19 whale422 , which16 from316 side246 to261 side246 strangely155 vibrating436 his433 predestinating head219 , sent411 a10 broad267 band541 of89 overspreading222 semicircular261 foam160 before344 him248 as113 he362 rushed199 . Retribution25 , swift376 vengeance72 , eternal155 malice157 were324 in107 his433 whole199 aspect147 , and236 spite431 of89 all145 that14 mortal371 man17 could375 do353 , the19 solid494 white82 buttress25 of89 his433 forehead380 smote261 the19 ship438 's483 starboard309 bow146 , till181 men62 and236 timbers125 reeled429 . Some265 fell421 flat445 upon419 their219 faces97 . Like410 dislodged506 trucks364 , the19 heads366 of89 the19 harpooneers aloft276 shook161 on392 their219 bull76 -like213 necks279 . Through295 the19 breach361 , they382 heard444 the19 waters556 pour415 , as113 mountain231 torrents231 down133 a10 flume4 . "The19 ship438 ! The19 hearse34 !--the19 second386 hearse34 !" cried506 Ahab232 from316 the19 boat439 ; "its234 wood46 could375 only517 be341 American272 !" Diving279 beneath320 the19 settling98 ship438 , the19 whale422 ran391 quivering336 along423 its234 keel39 ; but330 turning69 under533 water520 , swiftly441 shot443 to261 the19 surface328 again52 , far258 off111 the19 other282 bow146 , but330 within503 a10 few49 yards386 of89 Ahab232 's483 boat439 , where579 , for190 a10 time577 , he362 lay62 quiescent460 . "I482 turn17 my36 body348 from316 the19 sun397 . What243 ho31 , Tashtego! Let66 me2 hear386 thy43 hammer364 . Oh367 ! ye483 three329 unsurrendered197 spires115 of89 mine482 ; thou173 uncracked364 keel39 ; and236 only517 god185 -bullied hull323 ; thou173 firm415 deck505 , and236 haughty459 helm285 , and236 Pole20 -pointed413 prow451 ,--death543 --glorious466 ship438 ! must226 ye483 then45 perish441 , and236 without309 me2 ? Am375 I482 cut310 off111 from316 the19 last436 fond174 pride279 of89 meanest486 shipwrecked25 captains124 ? Oh367 , lonely137 death543 on392 lonely137 life71 ! Oh367 , now20 I482 feel461 my36 topmost346 greatness309 lies27 in107 my36 topmost346 grief318 . Ho31 , ho31 ! from316 all145 your162 furthest361 bounds169 , pour415 ye483 now20 in107 , ye483 bold356 billows295 of89 my36 whole199 foregone9 life71 , and236 top70 this256 one470 piled126 comber318 of89 my36 death543 ! Towards417 thee15 I482 roll473 , thou173 all145 -destroying403 but330 unconquering whale422 ; to261 the19 last436 I482 grapple208 with449 thee15 ; from316 hell169 's483 heart470 I482 stab21 at65 thee15 ; for190 hate267 's483 sake523 I482 spit265 my36 last436 breath150 at65 thee15 . Sink190 all145 coffins259 and236 all145 hearses124 to261 one470 common304 pool298 ! and236 since374 neither74 can450 be341 mine482 , let66 me2 then45 tow160 to261 pieces283 , while55 still278 chasing227 thee15 , though400 tied101 to261 thee15 , thou173 damned572 whale422 ! Thus362 , I482 give142 up405 the19 spear188 !" The19 harpoon67 was454 darted362 ; the19 stricken328 whale422 flew424 forward364 ; with449 igniting423 velocity397 the19 line25 ran391 through295 the19 grooves189 ;--ran391 foul528 . Ahab232 stooped14 to261 clear408 it162 ; he362 did444 clear408 it162 ; but330 the19 flying354 turn17 caught105 him248 round287 the19 neck239 , and236 voicelessly26 as113 Turkish124 mutes127 bowstring203 their219 victim300 , he362 was454 shot443 out66 of89 the19 boat439 , ere83 the19 crew126 knew480 he362 was454 gone190 . Next27 instant279 , the19 heavy421 eye220 -splice4 in107 the19 rope265 's483 final357 end149 flew424 out66 of89 the19 stark376 -empty450 tub339 , knocked49 down133 an138 oarsman60 , and236 smiting280 the19 sea67 , disappeared5 in107 its234 depths416 . For190 an138 instant279 , the19 tranced110 boat439 's483 crew126 stood1 still278 ; then45 turned492 . "The19 ship438 ? Great259 God185 , where579 is487 the19 ship438 ?" Soon18 they382 through295 dim14 , bewildering120 mediums185 saw113 her400 sidelong203 fading336 phantom101 , as113 in107 the19 gaseous189 Fata154 Morgana314 ; only517 the19 uppermost226 masts212 out66 of89 water520 ; while55 fixed564 by406 infatuation133 , or519 fidelity93 , or519 fate74 , to261 their219 once248 lofty161 perches390 , the19 pagan118 harpooneers still278 maintained345 their219 sinking60 look523 -outs52 on392 the19 sea67 . And236 now20 , concentric129 circles3 seized337 the19 lone19 boat439 itself312 , and236 all145 its234 crew126 , and236 each520 floating30 oar61 , and236 every389 lancepole, and236 spinning170 , animate339 and236 inanimate305 , all145 round287 and236 round287 in107 one470 vortex265 , carried232 the19 smallest443 chip157 of89 the19 Pequod288 out66 of89 sight365 . But330 as113 the19 last436 whelmings intermixingly poured476 themselves510 over82 the19 sunken83 head219 of89 the19 Indian303 at65 the19 mainmast323 , leaving231 a10 few49 inches301 of89 the19 erect245 spar14 yet443 visible94 , together440 with449 long544 streaming118 yards386 of89 the19 flag270 , which16 calmly170 undulated265 , with449 ironical188 coincidings, over82 the19 destroying46 billows295 they382 almost518 touched367 ;--at65 that14 instant279 , a10 red293 arm25 and236 a10 hammer364 hovered400 backwardly142 uplifted533 in107 the19 open464 air209 , in107 the19 act10 of89 nailing83 the19 flag270 faster371 and236 yet443 faster371 to261 the19 subsiding83 spar14 . A10 sky331 -hawk328 that14 tauntingly337 had364 followed234 the19 main501 -truck120 downwards468 from316 its234 natural298 home450 among483 the19 stars286 , pecking64 at65 the19 flag270 , and236 incommoding35 Tashtego there340 ; this256 bird443 now20 chanced424 to261 intercept23 its234 broad267 fluttering2 wing101 between77 the19 hammer364 and236 the19 wood46 ; and236 simultaneously558 feeling384 that14 etherial84 thrill165 , the19 submerged402 savage398 beneath320 , in107 his433 death543 -gasp310 , kept290 his433 hammer364 frozen446 there340 ; and236 so281 the19 bird443 of89 heaven163 , with449 archangelic22 shrieks400 , and236 his433 imperial249 beak560 thrust379 upwards110 , and236 his433 whole199 captive401 form238 folded305 in107 the19 flag270 of89 Ahab232 , went516 down133 with449 his433 ship438 , which16 , like410 Satan229 , would282 not518 sink190 to261 hell169 till181 she391 had364 dragged460 a10 living117 part207 of89 heaven163 along423 with449 her400 , and236 helmeted85 herself263 with449 it162 . Now20 small350 fowls206 flew424 screaming64 over82 the19 yet443 yawning480 gulf375 ; a10 sullen335 white82 surf283 beat449 against417 its234 steep108 sides331 ; then45 all145 collapsed230 , and236 the19 great259 shroud260 of89 the19 sea67 rolled226 on392 as113 it162 rolled226 five103 thousand586 years116 ago141 . Epilogue436 "AND236 I482 ONLY517 AM375 ESCAPED197 ALONE2 TO261 TELL392 THEE15 " Job269 . The19 drama23 's483 done135 . Why177 then45 here135 does565 any501 one470 step204 forth152 ?-- Because540 one470 did444 survive308 the19 wreck171 . It162 so281 chanced424 , that14 after358 the19 Parsee18 's483 disappearance97 , I482 was454 he362 whom324 the19 Fates553 ordained246 to261 take279 the19 place107 of89 Ahab232 's483 bowsman290 , when189 that14 bowsman290 assumed460 the19 vacant367 post2 ; the19 same541 , who319 , when189 on392 the19 last436 day112 the19 three329 men62 were324 tossed227 from316 out66 of89 the19 rocking6 boat439 , was454 dropped2 astern39 . So281 , floating30 on392 the19 margin173 of89 the19 ensuing74 scene228 , and236 in107 full414 sight365 of89 it162 , when189 the19 halfspent suction26 of89 the19 sunk336 ship438 reached386 me2 , I482 was454 then45 , but330 slowly149 , drawn564 towards417 the19 closing533 vortex265 . When189 I482 reached386 it162 , it162 had364 subsided445 to261 a10 creamy205 pool298 . Round287 and236 round287 , then45 , and236 ever208 contracting521 towards417 the19 button282 -like410 black581 bubble81 at65 the19 axis20 of89 that14 slowly149 wheeling434 circle282 , like410 another269 Ixion86 I482 did444 revolve125 . Till181 , gaining225 that14 vital204 centre389 , the19 black581 bubble81 upward557 burst174 ; and236 now20 , liberated257 by406 reason238 of89 its234 cunning198 spring148 , and236 , owing98 to261 its234 great259 buoyancy15 , rising464 with449 great259 force406 , the19 coffin284 life71 -buoy84 shot443 lengthwise288 from316 the19 sea67 , fell421 over82 , and236 floated6 by406 my36 side246 . Buoyed26 up405 by406 that14 coffin284 , for190 almost518 one470 whole199 day112 and236 night108 , I482 floated6 on392 a10 soft226 and236 dirgelike main501 . The19 unharming122 sharks206 , they382 glided152 by406 as113 if141 with449 padlocks264 on392 their219 mouths26 ; the19 savage398 sea67 -hawks53 sailed248 with449 sheathed146 beaks509 . On392 the19 second386 day112 , a10 sail218 drew175 near70 , nearer303 , and236 picked129 me2 up405 at65 last436 . It162 was454 the19 devious350 -cruising298 Rachel3 , that14 in107 her400 retracing265 search352 after358 her400 missing210 children374 , only517 found260 another269 orphan121 . ETYMOLOGY439 (Supplied338 by406 a10 Late351 Consumptive295 Usher139 to261 a10 Grammar367 School315 ) The19 pale292 Usher139 --threadbare353 in107 coat7 , heart470 , body348 , and236 brain158 ; I482 see370 him248 now20 . He362 was454 ever208 dusting423 his433 old447 lexicons97 and236 grammars161 , with449 a10 queer156 handkerchief286 , mockingly476 embellished27 with449 all145 the19 gay323 flags486 of89 all145 the19 known86 nations274 of89 the19 world126 . He362 loved13 to261 dust434 his433 old447 grammars161 ; it162 somehow425 mildly115 reminded25 him248 of89 his433 mortality226 . "While55 you227 take279 in107 hand252 to261 school315 others317 , and236 to261 teach250 them146 by406 what243 name477 a10 whale422 -fish187 is487 to261 be341 called237 in107 our234 tongue375 leaving231 out66 , through295 ignorance211 , the19 letter539 H349 , which16 almost518 alone2 maketh29 the19 signification189 of89 the19 word486 , you227 deliver492 that14 which16 is487 not518 true483 ." --HACKLUYT125 "WHALE422 . ... Sw290 . and236 Dan363 . hval. This256 animal22 is487 named312 from316 roundness402 or519 rolling253 ; for190 in107 Dan363 . hvalt is487 arched4 or519 vaulted309 ." --WEBSTER281 'S483 DICTIONARY249 "WHALE422 . ... It162 is487 more348 immediately172 from316 the19 Dut500 . and236 Ger223 . Wallen92 ; A10 .S483 . Walw-ian, to261 roll473 , to261 wallow252 ." --RICHARDSON451 'S483 DICTIONARY249 KETOS, Greek261 . CETUS225 , Latin420 . WHOEL, Anglo-Saxon479 . HVALT, Danish208 . WAL325 , Dutch325 . HWAL, Swedish231 . WHALE422 , Icelandic340 . WHALE422 , English69 . BALEINE383 , French491 . BALLENA33 , Spanish124 . PEKEE-NUEE-NUEE, Fegee. PEKEE-NUEE-NUEE, Erromangoan. EXTRACTS173 (Supplied338 by406 a10 Sub-Sub-Librarian) It162 will584 be341 seen154 that14 this256 mere393 painstaking360 burrower287 and236 grub364 -worm128 of89 a10 poor533 devil411 of89 a10 Sub-Sub appears268 to261 have254 gone190 through295 the19 long544 Vaticans and236 street100 -stalls of89 the19 earth513 , picking331 up405 whatever38 random439 allusions117 to261 whales331 he362 could375 anyways213 find138 in107 any501 book230 whatsoever268 , sacred32 or519 profane535 . therefore94 you227 must226 not518 , in107 every389 case346 at65 least453 , take279 the19 higgledy-piggledy141 whale422 statements42 , however44 authentic384 , in107 these527 extracts173 , for190 veritable282 gospel77 cetology. Far258 from316 it162 . As113 touching80 the19 ancient463 authors244 generally402 , as113 well263 as113 the19 poets5 here135 appearing341 , these527 extracts173 are314 solely41 valuable72 or519 entertaining41 , as113 affording206 a10 glancing18 bird443 's483 eye220 view370 of89 what243 has399 been185 promiscuously283 said252 , thought186 , fancied100 , and236 sung57 of89 Leviathan384 , by406 many282 nations274 and236 generations124 , including123 our234 own248 . So281 fare19 thee15 well263 , poor533 devil411 of89 a10 Sub-Sub, whose286 commentator170 I482 am375 . Thou173 belongest475 to261 that14 hopeless189 , sallow115 tribe273 which16 no235 wine102 of89 this256 world126 will584 ever208 warm178 ; and236 for190 whom324 even198 Pale292 Sherry388 would282 be341 too11 rosy415 -strong145 ; but330 with449 whom324 one470 sometimes77 loves205 to261 sit215 , and236 feel461 poor533 -devilish181 , too11 ; and236 grow163 convivial355 upon419 tears470 ; and236 say306 to261 them146 bluntly402 , with449 full414 eyes125 and236 empty450 glasses527 , and236 in107 not518 altogether31 unpleasant421 sadness23 -- Give142 it162 up405 , Sub-Subs! For190 by406 how19 much61 more348 pains97 ye483 take279 to261 please153 the19 world126 , by406 so281 much61 the19 more348 shall66 ye483 for190 ever208 go20 thankless362 ! Would282 that14 I482 could375 clear408 out66 Hampton320 Court243 and236 the19 Tuileries264 for190 ye483 ! But330 gulp364 down133 your162 tears470 and236 hie560 aloft276 to261 the19 royal161 -mast44 with449 your162 hearts431 ; for190 your162 friends169 who319 have254 gone190 before344 are314 clearing84 out66 the19 seven188 -storied388 heavens494 , and236 making415 refugees393 of89 long544 pampered140 Gabriel152 , Michael232 , and236 Raphael183 , against417 your162 coming140 . Here135 ye483 strike374 but330 splintered330 hearts431 together440 --there340 , ye483 shall66 strike374 unsplinterable glasses527 ! "And236 God185 created37 great259 whales331 ." --GENESIS162 . "Leviathan384 maketh29 a10 path234 to261 shine262 after358 him248 ; One470 would282 think424 the19 deep483 to261 be341 hoary29 ." --JOB269 . "Now20 the19 Lord106 had364 prepared59 a10 great259 fish187 to261 swallow195 up405 Jonah41 ." --JONAH41 . "There340 go20 the19 ships21 ; there340 is487 that14 Leviathan384 whom324 thou173 hast174 made563 to261 play89 therein68 ." --PSALMS156 . "In107 that14 day112 , the19 Lord106 with449 his433 sore446 , and236 great259 , and236 strong145 sword273 , shall66 punish365 Leviathan384 the19 piercing305 serpent264 , even198 Leviathan384 that14 crooked236 serpent264 ; and236 he362 shall66 slay543 the19 dragon225 that14 is487 in107 the19 sea67 ." --ISAIAH393 "And236 what243 thing309 soever324 besides465 cometh138 within503 the19 chaos133 of89 this256 monster480 's483 mouth414 , be341 it162 beast136 , boat439 , or519 stone398 , down133 it162 goes205 all145 incontinently420 that14 foul528 great259 swallow195 of89 his433 , and236 perisheth144 in107 the19 bottomless376 gulf375 of89 his433 paunch89 ." --HOLLAND173 'S483 PLUTARCH305 'S483 MORALS29 . "The19 Indian303 Sea67 breedeth51 the19 most216 and236 the19 biggest224 fishes13 that14 are314 : among483 which16 the19 Whales331 and236 Whirlpooles called237 Balaene, take279 up405 as113 much61 in107 length202 as113 four175 acres506 or519 arpens of89 land406 ." --HOLLAND173 'S483 PLINY159 . "Scarcely71 had364 we465 proceeded121 two527 days351 on392 the19 sea67 , when189 about123 sunrise445 a10 great259 many282 Whales331 and236 other282 monsters129 of89 the19 sea67 , appeared88 . Among483 the19 former157 , one470 was454 of89 a10 most216 monstrous395 size503 . ... This256 came549 towards417 us569 , open464 -mouthed, raising99 the19 waves443 on392 all145 sides331 , and236 beating124 the19 sea67 before344 him248 into554 a10 foam160 ." --TOOKE111 'S483 LUCIAN99 . "THE19 TRUE483 HISTORY183 ." "He362 visited16 this256 country362 also119 with449 a10 view370 of89 catching263 horse409 -whales331 , which16 had364 bones5 of89 very515 great259 value567 for190 their219 teeth82 , of89 which16 he362 brought85 some265 to261 the19 king324 . ... The19 best315 whales331 were324 catched419 in107 his433 own248 country362 , of89 which16 some265 were324 forty525 -eight316 , some265 fifty406 yards386 long544 . He362 said252 that14 he362 was454 one470 of89 six415 who319 had364 killed409 sixty332 in107 two527 days351 ." --OTHER282 OR519 OCTHER'S483 VERBAL52 NARRATIVE81 TAKEN222 DOWN133 FROM316 HIS433 MOUTH414 BY406 KING324 ALFRED41 , A10 .D236 . 8904 . "And236 whereas18 all145 the19 other282 things4 , whether454 beast136 or519 vessel155 , that14 enter204 into554 the19 dreadful405 gulf375 of89 this256 monster480 's483 (whale422 's483 ) mouth414 , are314 immediately172 lost308 and236 swallowed104 up405 , the19 sea67 -gudgeon retires78 into554 it162 in107 great259 security105 , and236 there340 sleeps136 ." --MONTAIGNE198 . - APOLOGY256 FOR190 RAIMOND102 SEBOND255 . "Let66 us569 fly324 , let66 us569 fly324 ! Old447 Nick250 take279 me2 if141 is487 not518 Leviathan384 described483 by406 the19 noble226 prophet25 Moses417 in107 the19 life71 of89 patient516 Job269 ." --RABELAIS295 . "This256 whale422 's483 liver442 was454 two527 cartloads261 ." --STOWE364 'S483 ANNALS303 . "The19 great259 Leviathan384 that14 maketh29 the19 seas350 to261 seethe46 like410 boiling99 pan23 ." --LORD106 BACON111 'S483 VERSION550 OF89 THE19 PSALMS156 . "Touching80 that14 monstrous395 bulk181 of89 the19 whale422 or519 ork565 we465 have254 received12 nothing324 certain31 . They382 grow163 exceeding320 fat351 , insomuch160 that14 an138 incredible98 quantity316 of89 oil118 will584 be341 extracted69 out66 of89 one470 whale422 ." --IBID166 . "HISTORY183 OF89 LIFE71 AND236 DEATH543 ." "The19 sovereignest269 thing309 on392 earth513 is487 parmacetti for190 an138 inward337 bruise461 ." --KING324 HENRY466 . "Very515 like410 a10 whale422 ." --HAMLET292 . "Which16 to261 secure92 , no235 skill502 of89 leach330 's483 art462 Mote82 him248 availle578 , but330 to261 returne160 againe82 To261 his433 wound342 's483 worker189 , that14 with449 lowly117 dart293 , Dinting83 his433 breast272 , had364 bred128 his433 restless92 paine192 , Like410 as113 the19 wounded396 whale422 to261 shore280 flies419 thro17 ' the19 maine253 ." --THE19 FAERIE244 QUEEN443 . "Immense301 as113 whales331 , the19 motion544 of89 whose286 vast43 bodies392 can450 in107 a10 peaceful319 calm39 trouble328 the19 ocean224 til140 it162 boil217 ." --SIR271 WILLIAM166 DAVENANT117 . PREFACE15 TO261 GONDIBERT. "What243 spermacetti is487 , men62 might496 justly91 doubt71 , since374 the19 learned277 Hosmannus in107 his433 work385 of89 thirty521 years116 , saith419 plainly450 , Nescio38 quid58 sit215 ." --SIR271 T500 . BROWNE400 . OF89 SPERMA9 CETI430 AND236 THE19 SPERMA9 CETI430 WHALE422 . VIDE431 HIS433 V303 . E443 . "Like410 Spencer26 's483 Talus165 with449 his433 modern446 flail199 He362 threatens157 ruin462 with449 his433 ponderous213 tail102 . ... Their219 fixed564 jav'lins218 in107 his433 side246 he362 wears270 , And236 on392 his433 back457 a10 grove263 of89 pikes59 appears268 ." --WALLER42 'S483 BATTLE105 OF89 THE19 SUMMER408 ISLANDS59 . "By406 art462 is487 created37 that14 great259 Leviathan384 , called237 a10 Commonwealth84 or519 State135 --(in107 Latin420 , Civitas312 ) which16 is487 but330 an138 artificial310 man17 ." --OPENING306 SENTENCE284 OF89 HOBBES189 'S483 LEVIATHAN384 . "Silly314 Mansoul swallowed104 it162 without309 chewing339 , as113 if141 it162 had364 been185 a10 sprat468 in107 the19 mouth414 of89 a10 whale422 ." --PILGRIM253 'S483 PROGRESS538 . "That14 sea67 beast136 Leviathan384 , which16 God185 of89 all145 his433 works64 Created37 hugest83 that14 swim226 the19 ocean224 stream184 ." --PARADISE215 LOST308 . "There340 Leviathan384 , Hugest83 of89 living117 creatures5 , in107 the19 deep483 Stretched63 like410 a10 promontory273 sleeps136 or519 swims403 , And236 seems19 a10 moving316 land406 ; and236 at65 his433 gills111 Draws365 in107 , and236 at65 his433 breath150 spouts75 out66 a10 sea67 ." --IBID166 . "The19 mighty2 whales331 which16 swim226 in107 a10 sea67 of89 water520 , and236 have254 a10 sea67 of89 oil118 swimming367 in107 them146 ." --FULLLER'S483 PROFANE535 AND236 HOLY61 STATE135 . "So281 close65 behind80 some265 promontory273 lie212 The19 huge132 Leviathan384 to261 attend120 their219 prey347 , And236 give142 no235 chance292 , but330 swallow195 in107 the19 fry387 , Which16 through295 their219 gaping59 jaws341 mistake471 the19 way435 ." --DRYDEN117 'S483 ANNUS584 MIRABILIS216 . "While55 the19 whale422 is487 floating30 at65 the19 stern442 of89 the19 ship438 , they382 cut310 off111 his433 head219 , and236 tow160 it162 with449 a10 boat439 as113 near70 the19 shore280 as113 it162 will584 come420 ; but330 it162 will584 be341 aground42 in107 twelve293 or519 thirteen430 feet349 water520 ." --THOMAS116 EDGE323 'S483 TEN198 VOYAGES368 TO261 SPITZBERGEN78 , IN107 PURCHAS274 . "In107 their219 way435 they382 saw113 many282 whales331 sporting320 in107 the19 ocean224 , and236 in107 wantonness361 fuzzing up405 the19 water520 through295 their219 pipes17 and236 vents250 , which16 nature159 has399 placed556 on392 their219 shoulders476 ." --SIR271 T500 . HERBERT368 'S483 VOYAGES368 INTO554 ASIA112 AND236 AFRICA269 . HARRIS75 COLL160 . "Here135 they382 saw113 such420 huge132 troops55 of89 whales331 , that14 they382 were324 forced28 to261 proceed367 with449 a10 great259 deal543 of89 caution162 for190 fear103 they382 should255 run172 their219 ship438 upon419 them146 ." --SCHOUTEN136 'S483 SIXTH1 CIRCUMNAVIGATION399 . "We465 set422 sail218 from316 the19 Elbe189 , wind262 N422 . E443 . in107 the19 ship438 called237 The19 Jonas188 -in107 -the19 -Whale422 . ... Some265 say306 the19 whale422 can450 't500 open464 his433 mouth414 , but330 that14 is487 a10 fable18 . ... They382 frequently475 climb80 up405 the19 masts212 to261 see370 whether454 they382 can450 see370 a10 whale422 , for190 the19 first13 discoverer160 has399 a10 ducat295 for190 his433 pains97 . ... I482 was454 told82 of89 a10 whale422 taken222 near70 Shetland155 , that14 had364 above502 a10 barrel180 of89 herrings392 in107 his433 belly511 . ... One470 of89 our234 harpooneers told82 me2 that14 he362 caught105 once248 a10 whale422 in107 Spitzbergen78 that14 was454 white82 all145 over82 ." --A10 VOYAGE137 TO261 GREENLAND110 , A10 .D236 . 1671573 HARRIS75 COLL160 . "Several479 whales331 have254 come420 in107 upon419 this256 coast287 (Fife192 ) Anno263 1652136 , one470 eighty148 feet349 in107 length202 of89 the19 whale422 -bone184 kind451 came549 in107 , which16 (as113 I482 was454 informed16 ), besides465 a10 vast43 quantity316 of89 oil118 , did444 afford282 500377 weight213 of89 baleen25 . The19 jaws341 of89 it162 stand530 for190 a10 gate481 in107 the19 garden121 of89 Pitferren." --SIBBALD76 'S483 FIFE192 AND236 KINROSS162 . "Myself99 have254 agreed481 to261 try266 whether454 I482 can450 master131 and236 kill219 this256 Sperma9 -ceti430 whale422 , for190 I482 could375 never206 hear386 of89 any501 of89 that14 sort42 that14 was454 killed409 by406 any501 man17 , such420 is487 his433 fierceness182 and236 swiftness395 ." --RICHARD141 STRAFFORD353 'S483 LETTER539 FROM316 THE19 BERMUDAS31 . PHIL140 . TRANS188 . A10 .D236 . 166825 . "Whales331 in107 the19 sea67 God185 's483 voice233 obey67 ." --N422 . E443 . PRIMER569 . "We465 saw113 also119 abundance154 of89 large385 whales331 , there340 being264 more348 in107 those427 southern187 seas350 , as113 I482 may236 say306 , by406 a10 hundred93 to261 one470 ; than77 we465 have254 to261 the19 northward63 of89 us569 ." --CAPTAIN295 COWLEY359 'S483 VOYAGE137 ROUND287 THE19 GLOBE23 , A10 .D236 . 17295 . "... and236 the19 breath150 of89 the19 whale422 is487 frequendy attended206 with449 such420 an138 insupportable224 smell124 , as113 to261 bring173 on392 a10 disorder410 of89 the19 brain158 ." --ULLOA136 'S483 SOUTH257 AMERICA133 . "To261 fifty406 chosen13 sylphs396 of89 special326 note59 , We465 trust495 the19 important104 charge308 , the19 petticoat445 . Oft9 have254 we465 known86 that14 seven188 -fold142 fence314 to261 fail126 , Tho84 ' stuffed502 with449 hoops170 and236 armed299 with449 ribs92 of89 whale422 ." --RAPE43 OF89 THE19 LOCK297 . "If141 we465 compare184 land406 animals440 in107 respect441 to261 magnitude203 , with449 those427 that14 take279 up405 their219 abode122 in107 the19 deep483 , we465 shall66 find138 they382 will584 appear443 contemptible178 in107 the19 comparison255 . The19 whale422 is487 doubtless101 the19 largest139 animal22 in107 creation182 ." --GOLDSMITH43 , NAT13 . HIST117 . "If141 you227 should255 write570 a10 fable18 for190 little554 fishes13 , you227 would282 make175 them146 speak337 like410 great259 wales21 ." --GOLDSMITH43 TO261 JOHNSON69 . "In107 the19 afternoon128 we465 saw113 what243 was454 supposed423 to261 be341 a10 rock264 , but330 it162 was454 found260 to261 be341 a10 dead568 whale422 , which16 some265 Asiatics335 had364 killed409 , and236 were324 then45 towing78 ashore122 . They382 seemed132 to261 endeavor41 to261 conceal118 themselves510 behind80 the19 whale422 , in107 order343 to261 avoid444 being264 seen154 by406 us569 ." --COOK41 'S483 VOYAGES368 . "The19 larger50 whales331 , they382 seldom140 venture40 to261 attack74 . They382 stand530 in107 so281 great259 dread251 of89 some265 of89 them146 , that14 when189 out66 at65 sea67 they382 are314 afraid248 to261 mention510 even198 their219 names360 , and236 carry160 dung146 , lime-stone398 , juniper-wood78 , and236 some265 other282 articles259 of89 the19 same541 nature159 in107 their219 boats83 , in107 order343 to261 terrify503 and236 prevent491 their219 too11 near70 approach23 ." --UNO537 VON270 TROIL231 'S483 LETTERS170 ON392 BANKS145 'S483 AND236 SOLANDER499 'S483 VOYAGE137 TO261 ICELAND203 IN107 1772129 . "The19 Spermacetti Whale422 found260 by406 the19 Nantuckois, is487 an138 active54 , fierce394 animal22 , and236 requires205 vast43 address512 and236 boldness186 in107 the19 fishermen24 ." --THOMAS116 JEFFERSON396 'S483 WHALE422 MEMORIAL161 TO261 THE19 FRENCH491 MINISTER26 IN107 1778518 . "And236 pray311 , sir271 , what243 in107 the19 world126 is487 equal261 to261 it162 ?" --EDMUND492 BURKE544 'S483 REFERENCE116 IN107 PARLIAMENT221 TO261 THE19 NANTUCKET283 WHALE422 -FISHERY136 . "Spain20 --a10 great259 whale422 stranded299 on392 the19 shores116 of89 Europe153 ." --EDMUND492 BURKE544 . (SOMEWHERE201 .) "A10 tenth243 branch384 of89 the19 king324 's483 ordinary225 revenue332 , said252 to261 be341 grounded52 on392 the19 consideration196 of89 his433 guarding51 and236 protecting213 the19 seas350 from316 pirates19 and236 robbers480 , is487 the19 right499 to261 royal161 fish187 , which16 are314 whale422 and236 sturgeon423 . And236 these527 , when189 either45 thrown359 ashore122 or519 caught105 near70 the19 coast287 , are314 the19 property398 of89 the19 king324 ." --BLACKSTONE152 . "Soon18 to261 the19 sport171 of89 death543 the19 crews559 repair373 : Rodmond unerring110 o24 'er359 his433 head219 suspends19 The19 barbed27 steel184 , and236 every389 turn17 attends185 ." --FALCONER111 'S483 SHIPWRECK98 . "Bright205 shone14 the19 roofs88 , the19 domes50 , the19 spires115 , And236 rockets83 blew234 self442 driven228 , To261 hang253 their219 momentary102 fire559 Around66 the19 vault84 of89 heaven163 . "So281 fire559 with449 water520 to261 compare184 , The19 ocean224 serves294 on392 high361 , Up405 -spouted395 by406 a10 whale422 in107 air209 , To261 express91 unwieldy107 joy430 ." --COWPER23 , ON392 THE19 QUEEN443 'S483 VISIT229 TO261 LONDON41 . "Ten198 or519 fifteen289 gallons141 of89 blood208 are314 thrown359 out66 of89 the19 heart470 at65 a10 stroke436 , with449 immense301 velocity397 ." --JOHN416 HUNTER287 'S483 ACCOUNT102 OF89 THE19 DISSECTION115 OF89 A10 WHALE422 . (A10 SMALL350 SIZED133 ONE470 .) "The19 aorta203 of89 a10 whale422 is487 larger50 in107 the19 bore27 than77 the19 main501 pipe124 of89 the19 water520 -works64 at65 London41 Bridge7 , and236 the19 water520 roaring182 in107 its234 passage285 through295 that14 pipe124 is487 inferior84 in107 impetus202 and236 velocity397 to261 the19 blood208 gushing316 from316 the19 whale422 's483 heart470 ." --PALEY402 'S483 THEOLOGY3 . "The19 whale422 is487 a10 mammiferous41 animal22 without309 hind110 feet349 ." --BARON361 CUVIER158 . "In107 40285 degrees31 south257 , we465 saw113 Spermacetti Whales331 , but330 did444 not518 take279 any501 till181 the19 first13 of89 May236 , the19 sea67 being264 then45 covered452 with449 them146 ." --COLNETT'S483 VOYAGE137 FOR190 THE19 PURPOSE514 OF89 EXTENDING231 THE19 SPERMACETI283 WHALE422 FISHERY136 . "In107 the19 free483 element38 beneath320 me2 swam111 , Floundered182 and236 dived149 , in107 play89 , in107 chace355 , in107 battle105 , Fishes13 of89 every389 color13 , form238 , and236 kind451 ; Which16 language322 cannot paint94 , and236 mariner265 Had364 never206 seen154 ; from316 dread251 Leviathan384 To261 insect171 millions208 peopling306 every389 wave556 : Gather311 'd67 in107 shoals340 immense301 , like410 floating30 islands59 , Led46 by406 mysterious304 instincts242 through295 that14 waste232 And236 trackless435 region145 , though400 on392 every389 side246 Assaulted518 by406 voracious275 enemies62 , Whales331 , sharks206 , and236 monsters129 , arm25 'd67 in107 front196 or519 jaw213 , With449 swords533 , saws55 , spiral261 horns450 , or519 hooked91 fangs21 ." --MONTGOMERY386 'S483 WORLD126 BEFORE344 THE19 FLOOD167 . "Io29 ! Paean384 ! Io29 ! sing549 . To261 the19 finny468 people482 's483 king324 . Not518 a10 mightier403 whale422 than77 this256 In107 the19 vast43 Atlantic198 is487 ; Not518 a10 fatter298 fish187 than77 he362 , Flounders218 round287 the19 Polar25 Sea67 ." --CHARLES436 LAMB89 'S483 TRIUMPH191 OF89 THE19 WHALE422 . "In107 the19 year347 1690117 some265 persons5 were324 on392 a10 high361 hill219 observing278 the19 whales331 spouting81 and236 sporting320 with449 each520 other282 , when189 one470 observed340 : there340 --pointing295 to261 the19 sea67 --is487 a10 green549 pasture330 where579 our234 children374 's483 grand229 -children374 will584 go20 for190 bread387 ." --OBED196 MACY39 'S483 HISTORY183 OF89 NANTUCKET283 . "I482 built20 a10 cottage29 for190 Susan148 and236 myself99 and236 made563 a10 gateway100 in107 the19 form238 of89 a10 Gothic157 Arch198 , by406 setting151 up405 a10 whale422 's483 jaw213 bones5 ." --HAWTHORNE396 'S483 TWICE366 TOLD82 TALES527 . "She391 came549 to261 bespeak402 a10 monument45 for190 her400 first13 love391 , who319 had364 been185 killed409 by406 a10 whale422 in107 the19 Pacific294 ocean224 , no235 less261 than77 forty525 years116 ago141 ." --IBID166 . "No235 , Sir271 , 'tis a10 Right499 Whale422 ," answered100 Tom166 ; "I482 saw113 his433 sprout127 ; he362 threw459 up405 a10 pair106 of89 as113 pretty252 rainbows20 as113 a10 Christian235 would282 wish95 to261 look523 at65 . He362 's483 a10 raal66 oil118 -butt, that14 fellow369 !" --COOPER35 'S483 PILOT559 . "The19 papers434 were324 brought85 in107 , and236 we465 saw113 in107 the19 Berlin68 Gazette43 that14 whales331 had364 been185 introduced265 on392 the19 stage22 there340 ." --ECKERMANN215 'S483 CONVERSATIONS10 WITH449 GOETHE258 . "My36 God185 ! Mr219 . Chace355 , what243 is487 the19 matter176 ?" I482 answered100 , "we465 have254 been185 stove373 by406 a10 whale422 ." --"NARRATIVE81 OF89 THE19 SHIPWRECK98 OF89 THE19 WHALE422 SHIP438 ESSEX27 OF89 NANTUCKET283 , WHICH16 WAS454 ATTACKED507 AND236 FINALLY69 DESTROYED197 BY406 A10 LARGE385 SPERM26 WHALE422 IN107 THE19 PACIFIC294 OCEAN224 ." BY406 OWEN129 CHACE355 OF89 NANTUCKET283 , FIRST13 MATE508 OF89 SAID252 VESSEL155 . NEW36 YORK523 , 1821399 . "A10 mariner265 sat77 in107 the19 shrouds264 one470 night108 , The19 wind262 was454 piping310 free483 ; Now20 bright205 , now20 dimmed317 , was454 the19 moonlight122 pale292 , And236 the19 phospher gleamed61 in107 the19 wake205 of89 the19 whale422 , As113 it162 floundered182 in107 the19 sea67 ." --ELIZABETH474 OAKES117 SMITH189 . "The19 quantity316 of89 line25 withdrawn35 from316 the19 boats83 engaged479 in107 the19 capture361 of89 this256 one470 whale422 , amounted77 altogether31 to261 10474 ,440 yards386 or519 nearly575 six415 English69 miles278 . ... "Sometimes77 the19 whale422 shakes560 its234 tremendous376 tail102 in107 the19 air209 , which16 , cracking203 like410 a10 whip190 , resounds218 to261 the19 distance264 of89 three329 or519 four175 miles278 ." --SCORESBY. "Mad235 with449 the19 agonies104 he362 endures275 from316 these527 fresh540 attacks444 , the19 infuriated8 Sperm26 Whale422 rolls475 over82 and236 over82 ; he362 rears24 his433 enormous327 head219 , and236 with449 wide465 expanded507 jaws341 snaps248 at65 everything233 around66 him248 ; he362 rushes411 at65 the19 boats83 with449 his433 head219 ; they382 are314 propelled445 before344 him248 with449 vast43 swiftness395 , and236 sometimes77 utterly46 destroyed197 . ... It162 is487 a10 matter176 of89 great259 astonishment5 that14 the19 consideration196 of89 the19 habits272 of89 so281 interesting409 , and236 , in107 a10 commercial551 point438 of89 view370 , so281 important104 an138 animal22 (as113 the19 Sperm26 Whale422 ) should255 have254 been185 so281 entirely148 neglected209 , or519 should255 have254 excited283 so281 little554 curiosity501 among483 the19 numerous558 , and236 many282 of89 them146 competent348 observers53 , that14 of89 late351 years116 , must226 have254 possessed95 the19 most216 abundant17 and236 the19 most216 convenient470 opportunities263 of89 witnessing247 their219 habitudes247 ." --THOMAS116 BEALE27 'S483 HISTORY183 OF89 THE19 SPERM26 WHALE422 , 1839386 . "The19 Cachalot4 " (Sperm26 Whale422 ) "is487 not518 only517 better34 armed299 than77 the19 True483 Whale422 " (Greenland110 or519 Right499 Whale422 ) "in107 possessing507 a10 formidable150 weapon223 at65 either45 extremity410 of89 its234 body348 , but330 also119 more348 frequently475 displays295 a10 disposition131 to261 employ161 these527 weapons489 offensively434 and236 in107 manner153 at65 once248 so281 artful57 , bold356 , and236 mischievous163 , as113 to261 lead362 to261 its234 being264 regarded393 as113 the19 most216 dangerous2 to261 attack74 of89 all145 the19 known86 species69 of89 the19 whale422 tribe273 ." --FREDERICK107 DEBELL BENNETT39 'S483 WHALING155 VOYAGE137 ROUND287 THE19 GLOBE23 , 1840288 . October360 13128 . "There340 she391 blows361 ," was454 sung57 out66 from316 the19 mast44 -head116 . "Where579 away443 ?" demanded223 the19 captain295 . "Three329 points245 off111 the19 lee472 bow146 , sir271 ." "Raise265 up405 your162 wheel135 . Steady21 !" "Steady21 , sir271 ." "Mast44 -head116 ahoy26 ! Do353 you227 see370 that14 whale422 now20 ?" "Ay46 ay46 , sir271 ! A10 shoal520 of89 Sperm26 Whales331 ! There340 she391 blows361 ! There340 she391 breaches24 !" "Sing549 out66 ! sing549 out66 every389 time577 !" "Ay46 Ay46 , sir271 ! There340 she391 blows361 ! there340 --there340 --thar522 she391 blows361 -bowes30 -bo-o24 -os!" "How19 far258 off111 ?" "Two527 miles278 and236 a10 half119 ." "Thunder356 and236 lightning171 ! so281 near70 ! Call259 all145 hands87 ." --J115 . ROSS386 BROWNE400 'S483 ETCHINGS114 OF89 A10 WHALING155 CRUIZE. 1846211 . "The19 Whale422 -ship98 Globe23 , on392 board540 of89 which16 vessel155 occurred205 the19 horrid280 transactions348 we465 are314 about123 to261 relate3 , belonged455 to261 the19 island516 of89 Nantucket283 ." --"NARRATIVE81 OF89 THE19 GLOBE23 ," BY406 LAY62 AND236 HUSSEY192 SURVIVORS232 . A10 .D236 . 1828125 . Being264 once248 pursued460 by406 a10 whale422 which16 he362 had364 wounded396 , he362 parried424 the19 assault223 for190 some265 time577 with449 a10 lance76 ; but330 the19 furious89 monster480 at65 length202 rushed199 on392 the19 boat439 ; himself282 and236 comrades410 only517 being264 preserved335 by406 leaping397 into554 the19 water520 when189 they382 saw113 the19 onset292 was454 inevitable113 ." --MISSIONARY170 JOURNAL7 OF89 TYERMAN AND236 BENNETT39 . "Nantucket283 itself312 ," said252 Mr219 . Webster281 , "is487 a10 very515 striking22 and236 peculiar291 portion120 of89 the19 National145 interest323 . There340 is487 a10 population4 of89 eight316 or519 nine140 thousand586 persons5 living117 here135 in107 the19 sea67 , adding169 largely211 every389 year347 to261 the19 National145 wealth438 by406 the19 boldest154 and236 most216 persevering355 industry113 ." --REPORT238 OF89 DANIEL66 WEBSTER281 'S483 SPEECH378 IN107 THE19 U242 . S483 . SENATE256 , ON392 THE19 APPLICATION258 FOR190 THE19 ERECTION247 OF89 A10 BREAKWATER211 AT65 NANTUCKET283 . 1828125 . "The19 whale422 fell421 directly58 over82 him248 , and236 probably244 killed409 him248 in107 a10 moment258 ." --"THE19 WHALE422 AND236 HIS433 CAPTORS129 , OR519 THE19 WHALEMAN98 'S483 ADVENTURES266 AND236 THE19 WHALE422 'S483 BIOGRAPHY359 , GATHERED165 ON392 THE19 HOMEWARD282 CRUISE117 OF89 THE19 COMMODORE415 PREBLE368 ." BY406 REV51 . HENRY466 T500 . CHEEVER152 . "If141 you227 make175 the19 least453 damn468 bit72 of89 noise254 ," replied163 Samuel77 , "I482 will584 send536 you227 to261 hell169 ." --LIFE71 OF89 SAMUEL77 COMSTOCK36 (THE19 MUTINEER64 ), BY406 HIS433 BROTHER46 , WILLIAM166 COMSTOCK36 . ANOTHER269 VERSION550 OF89 THE19 WHALE422 -SHIP98 GLOBE23 NARRATIVE81 . "The19 voyages368 of89 the19 Dutch325 and236 English69 to261 the19 Northern252 Ocean224 , in107 order343 , if141 possible277 , to261 discover291 a10 passage285 through295 it162 to261 India258 , though400 they382 failed564 of89 their219 main501 object100 , laid181 -open464 the19 haunts132 of89 the19 whale422 ." --MCCULLOCH214 'S483 COMMERCIAL551 DICTIONARY249 . "These527 things4 are314 reciprocal78 ; the19 ball141 rebounds295 , only517 to261 bound108 forward364 again52 ; for190 now20 in107 laying116 open464 the19 haunts132 of89 the19 whale422 , the19 whalemen451 seem404 to261 have254 indirectly155 hit322 upon419 new36 clews17 to261 that14 same541 mystic455 North174 -West569 Passage285 ." --FROM316 "SOMETHING181 " UNPUBLISHED107 . "It162 is487 impossible305 to261 meet16 a10 whale422 -ship98 on392 the19 ocean224 without309 being264 struck441 by406 her400 near70 appearance138 . The19 vessel155 under533 short522 sail218 , with449 look523 -outs52 at65 the19 mast44 -heads279 , eagerly100 scanning505 the19 wide465 expanse98 around66 them146 , has399 a10 totally287 different276 air209 from316 those427 engaged479 in107 regular400 voyage137 ." --CURRENTS218 AND236 WHALING155 . U242 . S483 . EX144 . EX144 . "Pedestrians265 in107 the19 vicinity208 of89 London41 and236 elsewhere154 may236 recollect219 having69 seen154 large385 curved331 bones5 set422 upright145 in107 the19 earth513 , either45 to261 form238 arches314 over82 gateways376 , or519 entrances24 to261 alcoves445 , and236 they382 may236 perhaps75 have254 been185 told82 that14 these527 were324 the19 ribs92 of89 whales331 ." --TALES527 OF89 A10 WHALE422 VOYAGER25 TO261 THE19 ARCTIC364 OCEAN224 . "It162 was454 not518 till181 the19 boats83 returned214 from316 the19 pursuit305 of89 these527 whales331 , that14 the19 whites418 saw113 their219 ship438 in107 bloody357 possession379 of89 the19 savages247 enrolled13 among483 the19 crew126 ." --NEWSPAPER547 ACCOUNT102 OF89 THE19 TAKING146 AND236 RETAKING303 OF89 THE19 WHALE422 -SHIP98 HOBOMACK. "It162 is487 generally402 well263 known86 that14 out66 of89 the19 crews559 of89 Whaling155 vessels150 (American272 ) few49 ever208 return407 in107 the19 ships21 on392 board540 of89 which16 they382 departed467 ." --CRUISE117 IN107 A10 WHALE422 BOAT439 . "Suddenly193 a10 mighty2 mass36 emerged100 from316 the19 water520 , and236 shot443 up405 perpendicularly41 into554 the19 air209 . It162 was454 the19 while55 ." --MIRIAM251 COFFIN284 OR519 THE19 WHALE422 FISHERMAN18 . "The19 Whale422 is487 harpooned290 to261 be341 sure41 ; but330 bethink51 you227 , how19 you227 would282 manage345 a10 powerful147 unbroken290 colt230 , with449 the19 mere393 appliance240 of89 a10 rope265 tied101 to261 the19 root24 of89 his433 tail102 ." --A10 CHAPTER293 ON392 WHALING155 IN107 RIBS92 AND236 TRUCKS364 . "On392 one470 occasion211 I482 saw113 two527 of89 these527 monsters129 (whales331 ) probably244 male447 and236 female239 , slowly149 swimming367 , one470 after358 the19 other282 , within503 less261 than77 a10 stone398 's483 throw345 of89 the19 shore280 " (Terra198 Del128 Fuego25 ), "over82 which16 the19 beech392 tree482 extended531 its234 branches364 ." --DARWIN78 'S483 VOYAGE137 OF89 A10 NATURALIST122 . "'Stern442 all145 !' exclaimed281 the19 mate508 , as113 upon419 turning69 his433 head219 , he362 saw113 the19 distended106 jaws341 of89 a10 large385 Sperm26 Whale422 close65 to261 the19 head219 of89 the19 boat439 , threatening193 it162 with449 instant279 destruction423 ;--'Stern442 all145 , for190 your162 lives245 !'" --WHARTON209 THE19 WHALE422 KILLER429 . "So281 be341 cheery117 , my36 lads252 , let66 your162 hearts431 never206 fail126 , While55 the19 bold356 harpooneer is487 striking22 the19 whale422 !" --NANTUCKET283 SONG12 . "Oh367 , the19 rare296 old447 Whale422 , mid84 storm218 and236 gale440 In107 his433 ocean224 home450 will584 be341 A10 giant110 in107 might496 , where579 might496 is487 right499 , And236 King324 of89 the19 boundless386 sea67 ." --WHALE422 SONG12 .References
1 Lincoln, Abraham, Writings of Abraham Lincoln, The: Vol 32 Stevenson, Robert, Treasure Island3 Montgomery, Lucy Maud, Anne of Avonlea4 Roget, Roget's Thesaurus5 Jonson, Ben, Every Man in His Humor6 Verne, Jules, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea7 Wells, H.G., Modern Utopia, A8 Rawlinson, George, History of Phoenicia9 Payne, John, Tales from the Arabic: Vols 1-310 Hardy, Thomas, Mayor of Casterbridge, The11 Lincoln, Abraham, Writings of Abraham Lincoln, The: Vol 712 Twain, Mark, Prince and the Pauper, The13 Gibbon, Edward, Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire: Vol 614 Stoker, Bram, Dracula15 Liszt, Franz, Life of Chopin16 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 1117 Twain, Mark, Adventures of Tom Sawyer, The18 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 1319 Dumas, Alexander, Count of Monte Cristo, The20 DaVinci, Leonardo, Notebooks of Leonardo DaVinci, The21 Dickens, Charles, Old Curiosity Shop, The22 Elliot, George, Middlemarch23 Bulfinch, Thomas, Bulfinch's Mythology24 Plutarch, Plutarch's Lives25 Various, Project Gutenberg Encyclopaedia: Vol. 126 Joyce, James, Ulysses27 Motley, John, Netherlands, The28 Johnson, E. Pauline, Legends of Vancouver29 Macaulay, Critical and Historical Essays: Vol 230 Bell, Robert, Ancient Poems, Ballads and Songs of England31 Various, Complete State of the Union Addresses32 Shakespeare, William, King John33 Cervantes, Miguel de, Don Quixote34 Wharton, Edith, Age of Innocence, The35 Cellini, Benvenuto, Autobiography of Benvenuto Cellini (Symonds)36 Bandini, Helen Elliott, History of California37 King, Leonard, Legends of Babylon and Egypt38 Gibbon, Edward, Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire: Vol 239 Marhsall, Logal, Sinking of the Titanic40 Tolstoi, Leo, Anna Karenina41 Hugo, Victor, Les Miserables42 Livingstone, David, Zambesi Expedition43 Sterne, Laurence, Tristram Shandy44 Long, William J., Outlines of English Literature45 Josephus, Flavius, Wars of the Jews, The46 Muhlbach, Louise, Henry VIII And His Court47 Shakespeare, William, Antony and Cleopatra48 Rostand, Edmond, Cyrano de Bergerac49 Orczy, Baroness, Emmuska, Scarlet Pimpernel, The50 Shaw, George B., Major Barbara51 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 0752 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 0253 Veblen, Thorstein, Theory of the Leisure Class, The54 Lang, Andrew, Homer and His Age55 Boyesen, Hjalmar Hjorth, Boyhood in Norway56 Shakespeare, William, Pericles57 Rousseau, J.J., Confessions58 Jonson, Ben, Every Man Out of His Humor59 Dumas, Alexander, Man in the Iron Mask [novel]60 Joyce, James, Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, A61 Anonymous, Story of the Volsungs, The62 Shakespeare, William, King Henry VI: Part 163 Malory, Thomas, Mort d'Arthur, Le: Vol 164 Ebers, G., Word Only a Word, A65 Jonson, Ben, Eocene, or The Silent Woman66 Lincoln, Abraham, Writings of Abraham Lincoln, The: Vol 167 Kropotkin, Mutual Aid68 Wells, H.G., War of the Worlds, The69 Gibbon, Edward, Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire: Vol 570 Hardy, Thomas, Jude the Obscure71 Goldsmith, Oliver, She Stoops to Conquer72 Burroughs, Edgar Rice, Gods of Mars73 Dostoyevsky, Fyodor, Notes From The Underground74 Richardson, Samuel, Pamela75 Rabb, Kate Milner, National Epics76 Various, Junior Classics, The77 Hadden, J. Cuthbert, Haydn78 Hooker, J.D., Himalayan Journals79 de Spinoza, Benedict, Ethics: Part 380 Haviland, Laura S., Woman's Life Work, A81 Paine, Thomas, Rights of Man, The82 Various, Holy Bible: New Testament (Douay-Rheims)83 Meredith, George, Entire PG Works by George Meredith, The84 Dante, La Divina Commedia di Dante (H.F. Cary)85 Conrad, Joseph, Heart of Darkness, The86 Dickens, Charles, Bleak House87 Pinches, Religion of Babylonia and Assyria, The88 Thackeray, William, Vanity Fair89 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 1490 Lincoln, Abraham, Writings of Abraham Lincoln, The: Vol 491 Doyle, Arthur C., Return of Sherlock Holmes, The92 Various, PG Memoirs of Three Civil War Generals, The93 Proudhon, P. J., What is Property?94 Anonymous, Venerable Mother Mary of the Incarnation95 Trollope, Anthony, Doctor Thorne: Ecclesiastical Novel #396 Baum, L. Frank, Marvelous Land of Oz, The: Oz Book 197 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 1598 Dana, Richard Henry, Two Years Before the Mast99 Donnelly, Ignatius, Atlantis: The Antideluvian World100 Rockwood, Roy, Lost on the Moon101 Burroughs, Edgar Rice, Tarzan of the Apes: Tarzan #1102 Schiller, Frederich, Works of Frederich Schiller in English, The103 Paine, Thomas, Age of Reason, The104 Gilbert, Sullivan, Complete Plays of Gilbert and Sullivan105 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 01106 Baker, Samuel White, In the Heart of Africa107 Macaulay, Critical and Historical Essays: Vol 1108 Shakespeare, William, Othello109 Shakespeare, William, King Henry VI: Part 3110 Shelley, Percy, Complete Works of Percy Bysshe Shelley, The111 Darwin, Charles, Descent of Man, The112 Abhedananda, Swami, Reincarnation113 Various, Holy Bible: Old Testament (Douay-Rheims): Vol 2114 Dickenson, Emily, Poems of Emily Dickenson: Series 2115 Maugham, W. Somerset, Of Human Bondage116 Hooker, J. D., Himalayan Journals (Complete)117 Pepys, Samuel, Diary of Samuel Pepys118 Yarrow, C.H., Mortuary Customs of North American Indians119 Shakespeare, William, King Henry IV: Part 1120 Verne, Jules, From Earth to the Moon121 Wodehouse, P. G., My Man Jeeves122 Stowe, Harriet Beecher, Uncle Tom's Cabin123 Confucius, Analects of Confucius, The124 Bourrienne, Memoirs of Napoleon, The125 Gibbon, Edward, Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire: Vol 4126 Various, Malayan Literature127 Maupassant, Complete Short Stories of Maupassant128 Sadlier, Mary Anne Madden, Purgatory129 McGee, T.D., Popular History of Ireland, A130 Shakespeare, William, Sir John Oldcastle: Apocryphal131 Shakespeare, William, Much Ado About Nothing132 Smyrnaeus, Quintus, Fall of Troy, The133 Innes, Arthur, England Under the Tudors134 More, Thomas, Utopia135 Amundsen, Roald, South Pole, The: Vol 1136 Hawthorne, Julian, History of the United States [1492-1775]: Vol. 1137 Tacitus, Reign of Tiberius, The (Gordon)138 Various, Complete US Presidential Inagural Addresses139 Wurdz, Gideon, Foolish Dictionary, The140 Suetonius, Lives of Twelve Caesars, The141 Rabelais, Francis, Gargantua and Pantagruel142 Shakespeare, William, Complete Shakespeare's First Folio, The143 Proust, Marcel, Swann's Way144 Various, Holy Bible: Old Testament (Douay-Rheims): Vol 1145 Various, Seven Icelandic Short Stories146 Sewell, Robert, Forgotten Empire, A147 Butler, Samuel, Way of All Flesh, The148 Synge, J. M., Playboy of the Western World, The149 Grahame, Kenneth, Wind and the Willows, The150 Abrahams, Israel, Judaism151 Burnett, Frances, Secret Garden, The152 Higginson, T., Army Life in a Black Regiment153 Hume, David, Principles of Morals, The154 Gibbon, Edward, Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire: Vol 3155 Verne, Jules, In Search of the Castaways156 Alcott, Louisa May, Little Women157 Lonnrot, Elias, Kalevala, The (Crawford)158 Lumb, T.W., Authors of Greece159 Jonson, Ben, Volpone; Or, The Fox160 Chaucer, Geoffrey, Canterbury Tales, The161 Lynch Botta, Anne C., Handbook of Universal Literature From The Best and Latest Authorities162 Tacitus, Germany and the Agricola of Tacitus163 Nordhoff, Communistic Societies of the United States, The164 Voltaire, Candido, o El Optimismo165 Cruttwel, C. T., History of Roman Literature166 Godden, G. M., Henry Fielding: A Memoir167 Locke, William, Red Planet, The168 Huxley, Thomas, Evolution of Theology: An Anthropological Study169 Dante, La Divina Commedia di Dante (Longfellow)170 Lang, Andrew, Myth, Ritual, and Religion: Vol. 1171 Young, T.F., Canada and Other Poems172 Swift, Jonathan, Gulliver's Travels173 Gibbon, Edward, Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire: Vol 1174 Tennyson, Robert, Idylls of the King175 Pope, Alexander, Essay on Criticism176 Shakespeare, William, All's Well That Ends Well177 Various, Bhagavad-Gita,The (Sir Edward Arnold)178 Aurelius, Marcus, Thoughts of Marcus Aurelius, The179 Wilson, Woodrow, Why We Are At War180 Bronte, Emily, Wuthering Heights181 Dickens, Charles, Nicholas Nickelby182 Crane, Stephen, Red Badge of Courage, The183 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 12184 Shakespeare, William, Romeo and Juliet185 Aristotle, Treatise on Government, A186 Augustine, Confessions of St. Augustine, The187 Douglass, Frederick, Frederick Douglass, Narrative of the Life of188 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 08189 Huxley, Thomas, Science & Education190 Nietzsche, Friedrich, Thus Spake Zarathustra191 Smollett, Adventures of Roderick Random, The192 Various, Project Gutenberg's Book of English Verse193 London, Jack, Call of the Wild, The194 Carroll, Lewis, Alice in Wonderland195 Kyd, Thomas, Spanish Tragedy, The196 Ginzberg, Louis, Legends of the Jews: Vol 4197 Various, Moorish Literature198 Verne, Jules, Off on a Comet199 Jacobs, Joseph, Engish Fairy Tales200 Baum, L. Frank, Wonderful Wizard of Oz, The: Oz Book 2201 Fletcher, R.H., History of English Literature, A202 Stoker, Bram, Jewel of Seven Stars, The203 Poe, Edgar Allen, Works of Edgar Allen Poe, The: Vol 2204 Nietzsche, Friedrich, Beyond Good and Evil205 Doyle, Arthur C., Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes, The206 Cook, James, First Voyage Round the World207 Shakespeare, William, Merchant of Venice, The208 MacCaffrey, J., History of the Catholic Church209 Ogg, Frederic Austin, Old Northwest, The210 Hardy, Thomas, Tess of the d'Urbervilles211 Bagehot, Walter, English Constitution, The212 Baker, Samuel, Eight Years Wandering in Ceylon213 Dickens, Charles, Great Expectations214 Adams, Henry, Education of Henry Adams, The215 Ward, Adolphus, Chaucer216 Bacon, Francis, Essays of Francis Bacon, The217 Plato, Republic, The218 Homer, Iliad, The (Pope)219 Defoe, Daniel, Moll Flanders220 A Kempis, Thomas, Imitation of Christ, The221 Trollope, Anthony, Last Chronicle of Barset, The: Ecclesiastical Novel #4222 Austen, Jane, Pride and Prejudice223 Scott, Walter, Rob Roy224 Milton, John, Paradise Lost225 Eliot, George, Mill in the Floss, The226 Malory, Thomas, Mort d'Arthur, Le: Vol 2227 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 10228 Plato, Death of Socrates: Apology: 1 of 3229 Proudhon, P. J., Philosophy of Misery, The230 Berdhardt, Sarah, Idols of Paris, The231 Pfeiffer, Ida, Visit to Iceland232 Forster, E.M., Howard's End233 Aesop, Aesop's Fables234 Doyle, Arthur C., Study in Scarlet, A235 Trollope, Anthony, Barchester Towers: Ecclesiastical Novel #2236 Dostoyevsky, Fyodor, Crime and Punishment237 Boccaccio, Giovanni, Decameron, The: Vol 01238 McSpadden, J. Walker, Robin Hood239 Rodenbough, Afghanistan-Anglo-Russian Dispute, The240 Beesley, Lawrence, Loss of the SS Titanic, The241 Amundsen, Roald, South Pole, The: Vol 2242 Hearn, Lafcadio, In Ghostly Japan243 Dumas, Alexander, Ten Years Later244 Scott, Walter, Lady of the Lake, The245 Herodotus, History of Herodotus: Vol 1246 Lucan, Pharsalia [The Civil War]247 Poe, Edgar Allen, Works of Edgar Allen Poe, The: Vol 4248 Gorky, Maxin, Through Russia249 Xenophon, Cyropaedia (Dakyns)250 Sinclair, Upton, Jungle, The251 Ginzberg, Louis, Legends of the Jews: Vol 1252 Shedlock, Marie, Art of the Story-Teller, The253 Bronte, Charlotte, Jane Eyre254 Kellerman, Ivy, Complete Grammar of Esperanto, A255 Feis, Jacob, Shakspere And Montaigne256 Koestlin, Julius, Life of Luther257 Ginzberg, Louis, Legends of the Jews: Vol 3258 Darwin, Charles, On the Origin of Species259 Flaubert, Gustave, Madame Bovary260 Montgomery, Lucy Maud, Anne of Green Gables261 Tolstoi, Leo, War and Peace262 von Clausewitz, Carl, On War: Vol 1263 Irving, W., Life of George Washington, The: Vol 1264 Dumas, Alexander, Twenty Years After265 Verne, Jules, Mysterious Island, The266 Rohmer, Sax, Insidious Dr. Fu Manchu, The267 Dryden, John, Discourses on Satire & Epic Poetry268 Tacitus, Tacitus on Germany (Gordon)269 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 04270 Webster, Hutton, Early European History271 Wodehouse, P.G., Swoop, The272 Johnson, Samuel, Johnson's Notes to Shakespeare : Vol. I Comedies273 Creasy, Fifteen Decisive Battles of The World, The274 Marlowe, Christopher, Tamburlaine the Great, Part 1275 DeTroyes, Chretien, Four Arthurian Romances276 Twain, Mark, Is Shakespeare Dead?277 Davis, Jefferson, Speeches of the Honorable Jefferson Davis278 Harris, Joel Chandler, Uncle Remus/Songs/Sayings279 Skinner, Charles, Myths and Legends of Our Own Land280 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 03281 Wheatley, Henry, Literary Blunders282 Dickens, Charles, David Copperfield283 Poe, Edgar Allen, Works of Edgar Allen Poe, The: Vol 3284 Cather, Willa, My Antonia285 Niecks, Frederick, Frederick Chopin as a Man and Musician: Vol 1286 Pedley, Ehtel, Dot and the Kangaroo287 Smith, Adam, Wealth of Nations288 Johnson, Elias, Legends, Traditions, and Laws of the Iroquois289 Abbott & Dickenson, Guide to Reading, A290 Lewis & Clark, Journals of Lewis and Clarke 1804-1806, The291 Turgenev, Ivan, Knock, Knock and Others292 Cervantes, Miguel de, Don Quixote293 Doyle, Arthur C., Sign of Four, The294 Doyle, Arthur C., Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, The295 Montaigne, Complete Essays of Montaigne, The296 Barrow, George, Bible in Spain, The297 Paine, Thomas, Common Sense298 Anonymous, Diary of a U-boat Commander, The299 Abbott, John S. C., David Crockett: His Life and Adventures300 Leacock, Stephen, Nonsense Novels301 Ketcham, Henry, Life of Abraham Lincoln, The302 Hope, Anthony, Prisoner of Zenda, The303 Roosevelt, Theodore, Autobiography of Theodore Roosevelt304 Smith, Goldwin, Specimens of Greek Tragedy305 Arbiter, Petronius, Satyricon of Petronius Arbiter, The306 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 05307 James, Henry, Turn of the Screw, The308 Aristophanes, Frogs, The309 Virgil, Aeneid, The (Dryden)310 Hardy, Thomas, Return of the Native, The311 Leroux, Gaston, Phantom of the Opera, The312 Pennell, Robert, History of Rome from 476 AD313 Shakespeare, William, Taming of the Shrew, The314 Ariosto, Ludovico, Orlando Furioso315 Dreiser, Theodore, Sister Carrie316 Dickens, Charles, Oliver Twist317 De Vere, Aubrey, Legends of Saint Patrick, The318 Kipling, Rudyard, Jungle Book, The319 Doyle, Arthur C., His Last Bow320 Fielding, Henry, History of Tom Jones, The321 Anderson, Sherwood, Winesburg, Ohio322 Dostoyevsky, Fyodor, Idiot, The323 Parker, G., Trail of the Sword324 Bunyan, John, Pilgrim's Progress325 Poe, Edgar Allen, Works of Edgar Allen Poe, The: Vol 5326 de Spinoza, Benedict, Ethics: Part 5327 Homer, Odyssey, The (Butler)328 Hawk, Black, Autobiography of Black Hawk, The329 Whitcomb, Harriet M., Annals of Jamaica Plain330 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 16331 Kipling, Rudyard, Captains Courageous332 Nukariya, Kaiten, Religion of the Samurai, The333 Leacock, Stephen, Sunshine Sketches of a Little Town334 Shakespeare, William, Comedy of Errors, The335 Chesterton, G.K., Man Who Knew Too Much, The336 Lytton, E.B., Caxtons, The337 Thucydides, History of the Peloponnesian War338 Shakespeare, William, Macbeth339 Tolstoi, Leo, Resurrection340 Loti, Pierre, Iceland Fisherman, An341 Shelly, Mary, Frankenstein342 Various, Myths and Legends of the Sioux343 US Government, Declaration of Independence344 Ozaki, Yei Theodora, Japanese Fairy Tales345 Dumas, Alexander, Three Musketeers, The346 Ransome, Arthur, Russia in 1919347 Burroughs, Edgar Rice, Return of Tarzan, The: Tarzan #2348 United States Presidents, United States Presidents' Inaugural Speeches: From Washington to Clinton349 de Spinoza, Benedict, Ethics: Part 4350 Frazer, James G., Golden Bough, The351 US Government, Project Trinity: Official Report352 Hope, Laura, Bobbsey Twins at Snow Lodge353 Allen, Grant, African Millionaire, The354 James, William, Golden Bowl, The355 Wollstonecraft, Mary, Vindication of the Rights of Women356 London, Jack, White Fang357 Ullman & Wade, Shock & Awe358 Marx & Engles, Communist Manifesto359 Scott, Walter, Marmion360 Juglar, Clement, Brief History of Panics, A361 Cooper, James, Last of the Mohicans, The362 Grammaticus, Saxo, Danish History, Books I-IX363 Joyce, James, Dubliners364 Kipling, Rudyard, Works of Rudyard Kipling, The: Vol 1365 Paine, Thomas, American Crisis, The366 Morris, William, Well at the End of the World, The367 McElroy, John, Andersonville368 Johnson, Allen, Jefferson and his Colleagues369 Empey, Arthur Guy, Over the Top370 Baum, L. Frank, Road to Oz, The: Oz Book 5371 Dickens, Charles, Hard Times372 Zola, Emile, L'assommoir373 Rockwell, F.P., Home Vegetable Gardening374 Dickens, Charles, Christmas Carol, A375 Various, Holy Bible (King James Version)376 Haggard, H. Rider, She377 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 06378 Plato, Death of Socrates: Phaedo: 3 of 3379 Masefield, John, Martin Hyde the Duke's Messenger380 Hesse, Herman, Siddhartha381 Kipling, Rudyard, The Man Who Would Be King382 Shakespeare, William, Winter's Tale, The383 Hugo, Victor, Han d'Islande384 Gogol, Nikolai, Inspector-General, The385 Huxley, Thomas, Reception of the Origin of Species, The386 Watkin, Edward William, Canada and the States387 MacDonald, George, Princess and the Goblin, The388 Trollope, Anthony, Warden, The: Ecclesiastical Novel #1389 Hawthorne, Nathaniel, Scarlet Letter, The390 Jacobs, Joseph, Celtic Fairy Tales391 Shakespeare, William, King Henry IV: Part 2392 Wollenstonecraft, Mary, Letters on Sweden, Norway and Denmark393 Slouschz, Nahum, Renascence of Hebrew Literature, The (1743-1885)394 Anonymous, Beowulf395 Rhodius, Apollonius, Argonautica, The396 Halleck, Reuben, History of American Literature397 Wells, H.G., Time Machine, The398 Parkman, Francis, Jesuits in North America399 Thebaud, Irish Race in the Past and the Present400 Poe, Edgar Allen, Works of Edgar Allen Poe, The: Vol 1401 Marlowe, Christopher, Tamburlaine the Great, Part 2402 Wallace, Lew, Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ403 Homer, The Iliad404 Spencer, Herbert, Philosophy of the Style, The405 Shakespeare, William, King Henry VI: Part 2406 Sewell, Anna, Black Beauty407 Ibsen, Henrik, Ghosts408 Rand, Ayn, Anthem409 Jonson, Ben, Alchemist, The410 Constant, Private Life of Napoleon, The411 Anonymous, Njal's Saga412 Ross, Edmund G., History of the Impeachment of Andrew Johnson413 Fullerton, George, Handbook of Ethical Theory414 Shakespeare, William, Troilus and Cressida415 Haliburton, Thomas, Clockmaker, The416 Lincoln, Abraham, The Writings of Abraham Lincoln, v2417 Fa-Hien, Record of Buddhistic Kingdoms418 Judson, Katharine, Myths and Legends of Calif. and the Old Southwest419 Milton, John, Aeropagitica420 Tzu, Sun, Art of War, The421 Carroll, Lewis, Through the Looking Glass422 Shakespeare, William, Hamlet423 Verne, Jules, Journey to the Interior of the Earth, A424 Stephens, James, Irish Fairy Tales425 Williamson, Thames Ross, Problems in American Democracy426 Gladden, Washington, Who Wrote the Bible?427 Schiller, History of the Thirty Years' War, The428 Polidori, John, Vampyre, A Tale (The)429 Anonymous, Nibelungenlied, The430 Forbes, George, History of Astronomy431 Various, Federalist Papers, The432 DuBois, W. E. B., Conservation of the Races, The433 Descartes, Rene, Descartes' Reason Discourse434 Lawrence, D.H., Women in Love435 Burroughs, Edgar Rice, A Princess of Mars436 Doyle, Arthur C., Valley of Fear, The437 Shakespeare, William, King Henry V438 Raspe, R. E., Adventures of Baron Munchausen, The439 Various, Collection of Hesiod, Homer and Homerica440 Orr, C.E., How to Live a Holy Life441 Johnson, Samuel, Works of Samuel Johnson: Vol 4442 Shakespeare, William, Rape of Lucrece, The443 Wodehouse, P.G., Damsel in Distress444 Bird, H.E., Chess History and Reminiscences445 Bird, Isabella L., Unbeaten Tracks in Japan446 Dickens, Charles, Tale of Two Cities, A447 Lincoln, Abraham, Writings of Abraham Lincoln, The: Vol 6448 Smith, Joseph, Book of Mormon, The449 Irving, Washington, Legend of Sleepy Hollow, The450 Anonymous, Song of Roland, The451 Verne, Jules, Five Weeks in a Balloon452 Baum, L. Frank, Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz: Oz Book 4453 Christie, Agatha, Secret Adversary, The454 Burton, Richard, 1001 Nights [Arabian Nights]: Vol 09455 Baum, L. Frank, Magic of Oz, The: Oz Book 3456 Blake, William, Songs of Innocence and Experience457 Anonymous, Fall of the Niebelungs, The458 Tolstoi, Leo, Childhood459 Anonymous, Cinderella460 Mohammad, Koran/Q'uran, The461 Pyle, Howard, Adventures of Robin Hood, The462 Marlowe, Christopher, Doctor Faustus463 Defoe, Daniel, From London to Land's End464 Cheyne, Thomas, Reconciliation of Races and Religions, The465 Lang, Andrew, Helen of Troy466 Masters, Edgar Lee, Spoon River Anthology467 Giles, Herbet A., Religions of Ancient China468 Pope, Alexander, Essay on Man469 de Spinoza, Benedict, Ethics: Part 1470 Shaw, George B., Pygmalion471 Franklin, Benjamin, Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, The472 Bradley, Glenn D., Story of the Pony Express, The473 Shakespeare, William, Love's Labour's Lost474 Shakespeare, William, King Henry VIII475 Ginzberg, Louis, Legends of the Jews: Vol 2476 Grimm & Grimm, Grimm's Fairy Tales477 Kerst & Krehbiel, Beethoven: The Man And The Artist478 Nennius, History of the Britons, The479 Henry, O., Voice of the City, The480 Abbott, John, Napoleon Boneparte481 Barclay, Florence L., Rosary, The482 Shaw, George B., Major Barbara, Preface to483 Shakespeare, William, Two Gentlemen of Verona484 Gordon, Irwin L., Who Was Who: 5000 BC - 1914485 Shakespeare, William, Midsummer Night's Dream, A486 Shakespeare, William, Sir Thomas More: Apocryphal487 Pegge, Samuel, Forme of Cury, The : Roll of Ancient English Cookery Compiled, A488 Shakespeare, William, Lover's Complaint, A489 Steele, Robert, Mediaeval Lore490 Shakespeare, William, Venus and Adonis491 Lamb, Charles and Mary, Tales from Shakespeare492 DuBois, W. E. B., Souls of Black Folk, The493 Wake, Forbidden Gospels and Epistles494 Teresa of Avila, Life of St. Teresa of Jesus495 Shakespeare, William, Cromwell: Apocryphal496 Coleridge, Rime of the Ancient Mariner, The497 Otis, James, Toby Tyler498 Verne, Jules, Around the World in 80 Days499 Piozzi, Hesther Lynch, Anecdotes of Johnson500 Proust, Marcel, Du Cote de Chez Swann501 Shakespeare, William, King Lear502 Herodotus, History of Herodotus: Vol 2503 Machiavelli, Nicolo, The Prince (Marriott)504 Shakespeare, William, Tragedy of Titus Andronicus, The505 Shakespeare, William, King Richard III506 Burroughs, Edgar Rice, Warlord of Mars507 Kant, Immanuel, Critique of Pure Reason, The508 Donn-Byrne, Brian Oswald, Messer Marco Polo509 Marlowe, Christopher, Jew of Malta, The510 Shakespeare, William, Julius Caesar511 Shakespeare, William, As You Like It512 Barrie, J.M., Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens513 Tagore, Rabindranath, Fugitive, The514 Plato, Death of Socrates: Crito: 2 of 3515 Shakespeare, William, Two Noble Kinsmen, The: Apocryphal516 Wells, H.G., Island of Dr. Moreau, The517 St. Vincent Millay, Edna, Few Figs from Thistles, A518 Lincoln, Abraham, Writings of Abraham Lincoln, The: Vol 5519 Shakespeare, William, Tempest, The520 Congreve, William, Way of the World, The521 Bronte, Anne, Agnes Grey522 Twain, Mark, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The523 Doyle, Arthur C., Hound of the Baskervilles, The524 Shakespeare, William, King Richard II525 Shakespeare, William, Sonnets526 Shakespeare, William, Timon of Athens527 Haaren & Poland, Famous Men of the Middle Ages528 Shakespeare, William, Phoenix and the Turtle, The529 Fenimore Cooper, Susan, Female Suffrage530 Milton, John, Paradise Regained531 Shakespeare, William, Measure for Measure532 Henry, Patrick, Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death533 Plunkett, Edward J. M. D., Time and the Gods534 US Government, United States' Bill of Rights535 Twain, Mark, Dog's Tale, A536 Chekov, Anton, Uncle Vanya537 Dante, La Divina Commedia di Dante538 Isola, Antonia, Simple Italian Cookery539 Bierce, Ambrose, Occurrence At Owl Creek Bridge, An540 Various, Original Narratives of Early American History541 Leacock, Stephen, Arcadian Adventures with the Idle Rich542 Barker, Nettie Garmer, Kansas Women in Literature543 Wilde, Oscar, Happy Prince & Other Tales, The544 Wilde, Oscar, Soul of Man Under Socialism, The545 Perkins, Charlotte, Yellow Wallpaper, The546 De Beaumont, Marie Le Prince, Beauty and the Beast, The547 Wilde, Oscar, Importance of Being Earnest, The548 Darwin, Charles, Autiobiography of Charles Darwin, The549 Brockwell, Maurice W., Leonardo da Vinci550 Taylor, F.W., Principles of Scientific Management, The551 Lubienski, Maciej hr., Ironia Pozorow552 Twain, Mark, How Tell a Story and Others553 Aristophanes, Clouds, The554 Huxley, Thomas, Criticisms on Origin of Species555 Virgil, Aeneid, The556 Shakespeare, William, Coriolanus557 Tarbell, F.B., History of Greek Art, A558 de Spinoza, Benedict, Ethics: Part 2559 Aristophanes, Birds, The560 Shakespeare, William, Cymbeline561 O'Neill, Eugene, Anna Christie562 Shakespeare, William, Twelfth Night563 Yazov, Ivan, Epopee to the Forgotten564 Edwards, Owen, Short History of Wales565 Shakespeare, William, Merry Wives of Windsor, The566 Lenz, Jacob, Der Landprediger567 Lonnrot, Elias, Kalevala, The568 Austen, Jane, Sense and Sensibility569 Various, Reina Valera New Testament of the Bible 1909570 Moore, Joseph, How Members of Congress Are Bribed571 Thoreau, Henry David, On the Duty of Civil Disobedience572 Marlowe, Christopher, Massacre at Paris, The573 Edwards, Owen, Cartrefi Cymru574 Shakespeare, William, Macbeth575 Dickenson, Emily, Poems of Emily Dickenson: Series 1576 Stroobant, Eugeen, Myne eerste vlerken577 Anonymous, Pi to a Million Digits578 Chaucer, Geoffrey, Troilus and Crisyde579 Johnson, Samuel, Preface to a Dictionary of the English Language580 Garibaldi, Giuseppe, Clelia581 Lear, Edward, Book of Nonesense, The582 US Government, United States' Constitution583 Aristotle, Poetics (On the Art of Poetry)584 Caeser, Julius, Caesar's Commentaries on the Gallic Wars585 Shakespeare, William, Passionate Pilgrim, The586 Anonymous, Number "e" ["Natural Log" 1 million places]