The Cash Motive
Ahab recognized that while mankind in times of strong emotion disdain all base considerations, such times are evanescent. The permanent constitutional condition of manufactured man is sordidness. Even though the White Whale incited his crew and even bred knight-errantism in them, they needed food for their daily appetites. Just as Crusaders were not content to fight for the holy sepulchre without committing burglaries and picking pockets along the way, Ahab would not strip his men of all hopes of cash. Without perspective promise of it, the crew would mutiny.
Usurpation Fears
Having impulsively revealed the prime private purpose of the Pequod’s voyage, Ahab was conscious that he had laid himself open to the unanswerable charge of usurpation. The crew could, with perfect impunity both moral and legal, refuse further obedience and violently wrest command from him. From even barely hinted imputations of usurpation and possible consequences, Ahab needed to protect himself through his predominating brain, heart, and hand, backed by heedful attention to every atmospheric influence his crew might be subjected to.
Maintaining the Pretense
For all the reasons previously stated, Ahab saw that he must continue true to the natural, nominal purpose of the Pequod’s voyage and observe all customary usages. Moreover, he had to force himself to evince all his well-known passionate interest in the general pursuit of his profession.
Renewed Vigilance
His voice was now often heard hailing the three mast-heads, admonishing the lookouts to keep a bright watch and not omit reporting even a porpoise. This vigilance was not long without reward.
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