Dick Sands, the Boy Captain · Chapter
The New Crew explained
Dick Sands takes command of the Pilgrim and works with the inexperienced but willing crew of freedmen to set sail eastward.
What happens
Dick Sands takes command of the Pilgrim and works with the inexperienced but willing crew of freedmen to set sail eastward. He teaches them seamanship, sets all sails, and begins navigating by dead reckoning. A compass is accidentally broken, but Dick maintains hope of reaching South America. Mrs. Weldon and little Jack adapt to the new routine, and the crew grows more competent.
Themes in this chapter
- Coming of Age and Responsibility
Dick Sands, a young apprentice, steps into the role of captain, directing the crew and making critical navigational decisions.
- Courage and Perseverance
Despite limited experience and a broken compass, Dick remains determined to reach South America, and the crew works diligently to learn seamanship.
Characters to notice
- Dick Sands
Assumes captaincy, directs the crew in setting sails, takes the helm, and manages navigation despite lacking astronomical skills.
- Mrs. Weldon
Regains calmness through religious faith and Dick's confidence; converses with Dick about the voyage and reassures Jack.
- Jack Weldon
Plays on deck, romps with Dingo, and laughs after a fall when a rope breaks.
- Hercules
Uses his great strength in handling ropes, though cautioned by Dick; jokingly blames Jack for breaking a rope.
- Tom
Appointed boatswain, takes a watch, learns to steer, and addresses Dick as 'Captain Sands.'
- Negoro
Not directly present in this chapter; no actions or dialogue.
Key passages
“Dick Sands, captain of the Pilgrim , would not lose a moment in getting his ship under sail.”
Dick Sands immediately began preparing the Pilgrim to sail.
Highlights Dick's urgency and assumption of command.
“The idea more than once crossed Dick's mind whether he would not take the Pilgrim back again to New Zealand; the distance was considerably less than it was to America...”
Dick considered returning to New Zealand because it was closer than America.
Shows Dick's internal deliberation about the best course.
“A misfortune, however, was in store for them. On the night of the 12th, while Dick was on watch, the compass in the cabin became detached from its fastening and fell on the floor.”
On the night of the 12th, the cabin compass fell and broke.
Foreshadows potential navigational trouble, possibly due to Negoro's sabotage.
