The Sea-Wolf

Maud approaches Humphrey with her misgivings about the Ghost. He cautions her: “You bring with you certain fine conceptions of humanity, manhood, conduct, and such things; but here you will find them misconceptions” (162). Humphrey is fatalistic, explaining to Maud that Larsen’s tainted sense of morality rules the ship. He says he is “a slave to that monster” (163) and incapable of challenging Larsen. Instead, Humphrey proposes that they form a secret alliance against the captain, evading his anger by pretending to go along with his whims. Humphrey claims that this is the best way forward for them, both being incapable of physically matching Larsen.

Humphrey cautions Maud that “All your experience of men and things is worthless here. You must begin over again” (164). He says that while Maud may be used to “command[ing]” (164) men with her eyes, she will not find Larsen so easily managed. When Larsen approaches them, Humphrey and Maud quickly change the topic to poetry and publication to not arouse his suspicion. As Humphrey leaves to complete his duties, he sees that Maud is taking his advice and not attempting to combat Larsen, instead engaging him in conversation.