What do you say, men? Will you go after him? I think you all look brave.”
“Aye, aye!” shouted the harpooners and seamen, running closer to the excited old man.
“A sharp eye for the white whale and a sharp lance for Moby Dick” the crew shouted together.
“God bless you men. Steward, get some grog for the men. Starbuck, what is the matter? Don’t you want to chase the white whale?” asked Ahab.
“I am willing to hunt Moby Dick and I am willing to face death, if it is for business we are hunting him. But I am not willing to hunt Moby Dick just for your vengeance. How much money is Moby Dick worth on the market?” asked Starbuck.
“Money, always money!” shouted Ahab, “Businessmen have measured the world round with gold coins. But this vengeance will bring a great profit here in my heart.”
“But this is ridiculous,” said Starbuck, “Moby Dick is just an animal. When he took off your leg, he did not do it because he wanted to hurt you. He did it for pure instinct. Moby Dick is just a stupid animal!”
