what kind of reception does santiago receive at the terrace care?

Initially the other fishermen mock Santiago. When Santiago returns with the carcass, they are impressed. Santiago certainly isn't a hero but he is not mocked. The The man at the Tarrace gives the boy a can of coffee to bring to the old man. As the boy leaves he says, "tell him (Santiago) I'm sorry". I think there is a certain amount of respect for Santiago and a certain amount of sadness.