Chapter 14, "Queeg on the Carpet" Summary

Willie asks Keefer what to put in his written report. Keefer shows him what he has written and teaches him Navy words. Queeg wants to make Willie sweat from the effort of writing an official document about a shirt tail. Keefer, however, enjoys writing Navy letters. He says Queeg is a refreshing change from De Vriess, who bullied by sarcasm while looking you in the eye. Queeg can't look anybody in the eyes, so he retreats into his official captain's identity.

Captain Queeg takes his written report to Captain Grace at ComServPac. Grace reads the report and calls it unsatisfactory, looking straight at Queeg, whose lower lip trembles. The report says nothing Grace did not know and explains nothing he wanted explained. Queeg has divided the blame among his exec, first lieutenant, chief...