# Two Sorts of Fish explained — Swallows and Amazons

> Chapter companion for Swallows and Amazons by Arthur Ransome.

## What happens

Titty and Roger discover Captain Flint's sea-chest on Cormorant Island. The whaling party arrives, and Captain Flint opens the chest to find his typewriter, diaries, and manuscript. He thanks Titty for saving his 'Life' (his book) and gives her a green parrot as a reward. The group discusses plans for next year's adventures, and the chapter ends with the children settling in for their last night on Wild Cat Island as a storm approaches.

## Themes in this chapter

### Adventure and Imagination

The discovery of the sea-chest and the planning of future expeditions highlight the children's imaginative and adventurous spirit.

### Friendship and Alliance

The Swallows and Amazons work together, and Captain Flint joins their plans, strengthening their bonds.

### Nature and the Outdoors

The chapter emphasizes the outdoor setting, from the island to the approaching storm, and the children's connection to the natural world.

## Character check-ins

### Titty Walker

Able-seaman Titty finds Captain Flint's sea-chest and is rewarded with a parrot.

### Roger Walker

The Boy Roger helps Titty and is promised a monkey for next year.

### Captain Flint

Recovers his sea-chest containing his manuscript and diaries, thanks Titty, and gives her a parrot.

### Nancy Blackett

Captain Nancy exclaims over the discovery and discusses future plans.

### John Walker

Captain John praises Titty's find and notes the falling barometer.

### Susan Walker

Mate Susan keeps Captain Flint's steak warm and blows out the candle lantern.

## Key lines

> There's treasure and treasure. It takes all sorts to make a world.

Captain Flint explains that treasure can be many things, not just gold or jewels.

_Reflects the theme that value is subjective, as the manuscript is treasure to him._

> From Captain Flint to the able-seaman who saved his Life.

The label on the parrot cage thanks Titty for saving his manuscript, which he considers his life.

_Highlights the bond between Titty and Captain Flint and the importance of his book._

> Pieces of eight, pieces of eight!

The parrot repeats a classic pirate phrase, adding to the adventure atmosphere.

_Connects to the pirate theme and the children's imaginative play._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/swallows_and_amazons_se/chapters/xxix-two-sorts-of-fish
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/swallows_and_amazons_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/swallows_and_amazons_se/chapters