The next morning, Starbuck discovers that some of the casks in the hold of the ship must be leaking oil. He finds Ahab in his cabin, poring over an ocean chart and not at all interested in being disturbed. Starbuck suggests that the ship must stop to check the casks and make whatever repairs are necessary. Ahab insists that the Pequod’s mission is to pursue Moby Dick and runs Starbuck off by threatening him with a musket. Shortly thereafter, Ahab relents and orders that the ship stop for inspection and repairs.
