The Riddle of the Sands · Chapter
Blindfold to Memmert explained
In a dense fog, Carruthers and Davies decide to navigate their dinghy from Bensersiel to the island of Memmert, using only their knowledge of the tides, a compass, and a boathook.
What happens
In a dense fog, Carruthers and Davies decide to navigate their dinghy from Bensersiel to the island of Memmert, using only their knowledge of the tides, a compass, and a boathook. The journey is a grueling test of endurance and skill, culminating in their arrival at Memmert after hours of blind navigation.
Themes in this chapter
Adventure and Self-Discovery
The blindfold journey to Memmert is a test of courage and skill, pushing both characters to their limits and deepening their trust in each other.
The Sea and Nature
The fog, tides, and sandbanks are central to the chapter, highlighting the power and unpredictability of the natural environment.
Deception and Appearance
The fog serves as a literal and metaphorical veil, allowing the characters to move unseen while pursuing their secretive mission.
Characters to notice
- Arthur H. Davies
Davies leads the daring navigation through the fog, using his expertise in tides and channels to guide the dinghy to Memmert.
- Carruthers
Carruthers assists in rowing and follows Davies' instructions, experiencing both doubt and admiration for Davies' skill.
- Dollmann
Dollmann is mentioned as one of the men who went to Memmert, and his presence is part of the motivation for the journey.
- Grimm
Grimm is seen arriving on the steamer at Bensersiel, confirming the men's movements.
Key passages
““Row straight out at right angles to the pier,” he said now. I did so, Davies sounding with his scull between the strokes.”
Davies instructs Carruthers to row perpendicular to the pier while he uses his oar to feel for the bottom, navigating blindly through the fog.
This demonstrates Davies' methodical approach to navigation in zero visibility.
““To Memmert?” said Davies, slowly; “by Jove! that’s an idea!””
Davies seizes on Carruthers' joking suggestion to go to Memmert, turning it into a serious plan.
This marks the pivotal moment when the risky journey is conceived.
““Three feet and the current with us. Well over it,” he said. “I’ll paddle on while you rest and feed.””
Davies confirms they have passed the critical shallow point and allows Carruthers to rest while he continues rowing.
This shows the teamwork and division of labor during the arduous trip.