The Devil and the Dark Water

Although everyone else seems to ignore the symbol on the sail, Arent is shaken by the similarity to his scar. As a young boy, he went hunting with his father. He doesn’t remember what happened on that trip, but he was found three days later with the scar. There was no sign of his father, who was never seen again. His thoughts are interrupted by Drecht, who offers to introduce him to the captain.

Arent and Drecht find Captain Crauwels in the great cabin looking over a map with his first mate, Isaack Larme, and van Schooten. Crauwels questions why they have over 300 people on board but rations for only 150. Van Schooten assures him that they can resupply from another ship, the Leeuwarden, or stop off at the cape; they could not carry more rations because of all Haan’s cargo. Crauwels comments on a large object “brought aboard in the dead of night” but has no hope of finding out what it is (68).

Kers, a priest, interrupts their conversation. He asks for permission to go amongst the crew and spread God’s word. The captain warns him against the dangers of doing so but allows him to proceed.

Arent asks Crauwels about the man with leprosy—Bosey—and learns his name.