# Wanted, a North Wind explained — The Riddle of the Sands

> Chapter companion for The Riddle of the Sands by Erskine Childers.

## What happens

Carruthers examines Davies's logbook and notices a missing page, hinting at a secret. They sail to Sonderburg, visit a Danish war memorial, and discuss naval warfare. At a local inn, Davies inquires about duck shooting in the Schlei Fjord, emphasizing the need for a north wind.

## Themes in this chapter

### Nationalism and Patriotism

Davies's emotional reaction to the war memorial and his discussion of Germany as a 'thundering great nation' highlight patriotic and nationalistic sentiments.

### Military Preparedness

Davies's interest in naval warfare and his books on sea power reflect a focus on military strategy and preparedness.

### The Sea and Nature

The chapter describes the tranquil Sound, jellyfish, and the need for a north wind, emphasizing the sea's role in the journey.

## Character check-ins

### Arthur H. Davies

Davies is preoccupied and passionate about naval history; he shows emotional response at the Alsen memorial and discusses war and wind with Carruthers.

### Carruthers

Carruthers reads the logbook, notices the missing page, and accompanies Davies to Sonderburg and the inn, feeling out of place among the fishermen.

### Bartels

Not directly mentioned in this chapter; no interaction.

### Hans

Not directly mentioned in this chapter; no interaction.

## Key lines

> I hate towns

Davies expresses his dislike for urban areas.

_Davies's preference for the open sea and remote places is evident._

> Germany's a thundering great nation; I wonder if we shall ever fight her.

Davies speculates about a future war with Germany, showing his preoccupation with national conflict.

_This reflects Davies's patriotic and military concerns._

> It was a landing in boats, I suppose. I wonder they managed it.

Davies marvels at the difficulty of the Prussian amphibious assault during the 1864 war.

_His emotional response to the memorial underscores his interest in naval history._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_riddle_of_the_sands_se/chapters/v-wanted-a-north-wind
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_riddle_of_the_sands_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_riddle_of_the_sands_se/chapters