Chapter Four Summary

Narration discusses the differences in the way the servants at Aubrey's home act between those who were formally at sea and those who have never been to sea. Killick, in particular, is difficult and has an altercation with the butler, Mnason, who is an authority on social affairs on land. Sophie holds a dinner for the post captains of Aubrey's squadron. Maturin had not planned on attending, but Sophie sends Killick to request the doctor's presence, who arrives late with apologies. Maturin is seated between somewhat boring men, one Captain Thomas was the oldest man present and rather cross. When Maturin offers to slice the veal, Thomas learns that Maturin is the ship's surgeon and thereon refuses to speak any more to Maturin since he is not an officer in command.

Pullings speaks to Maturin about Captain Thomas saying that the...