# III explained — The Rescue

> Chapter companion for The Rescue by Joseph Conrad.

## What happens

In the dead of night, Captain Lingard's brig encounters a sudden and violent squall. The crew, including the kassab and Wasub, endure the storm, while Shaw, the mate, goes below after being relieved. The yacht's gig, with Carter aboard, is taken in tow. As the squall passes, Lingard and his crew continue their course, with Carter's boat following behind.

## Themes in this chapter

### Fate and Free Will

The crew's belief in Lingard's 'magic words' and the unpredictable nature of the storm highlight the tension between human agency and the forces of nature.

### Civilization vs. Nature

The squall represents the raw power of nature, while the brig and its crew symbolize human attempts to navigate and control the natural world.

## Character check-ins

### Captain Lingard

Commands the brig through the squall, giving orders and ensuring the safety of the vessel and crew.

### Shaw

The mate of the brig, who is relieved by Wasub and goes below, but not before expressing his opinion about making more sail.

### Carter

In the yacht's gig, which is taken in tow by the brig. He comes aboard briefly and then returns to his boat.

### Haji Wasub

Relieves Shaw on watch and is mentioned as a Haji by the kassab.

## Key lines

> It was a great rain and a mighty wind, O men, but no wind can ever hurt this ship. That I knew while I stood minding the sail which is under my care.

The kassab boasts that the ship is protected from any storm, attributing its safety to his own vigilance and the captain's magic.

_Highlights the crew's superstition and faith in Lingard's powers._

> I have heard him shout at the wind—louder than the wind? I have heard, being far forward. And before, too, in the many years I served this white man I have heard him often cry magic words that make all safe.

The kassab claims to have heard Lingard shout at the wind and use magic words to ensure safety, based on years of service.

_Reinforces the theme of superstition and the crew's belief in Lingard's supernatural abilities._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_rescue_se/chapters/iii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_rescue_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_rescue_se/chapters