The aura of mystery surrounding the Pequod is enhanced by Ahab's absence and the unidentifiable figures who seem to be boarding the ship before dawn. Elijah toys with Ishmael through his cryptic statements, first insisting on a conversation and then offering only hints of his meaning. Typical is his farewell: "I was going to warn ye against — but never mind, never mind …. Shan't see ye again very soon, I guess; unless it's before the Grand Jury," an apparent suggestion of possible murder or mutiny during the voyage. Like the biblical Elijah, a prophet of the truth, Moby-Dick's Elijah also speaks the truth, but in such a cryptic way that Ishmael, and the reader, is left to wonder at his meaning. Ishmael's uncertainty increases the more he knows, or doesn't know, about the trip. As a sensitive observer, he is aware of the unusual circumstances but still determined to have his whaling adventure.
The mood is lightened by the appearance of Peleg and Bildad, two old salts who act as if they would love to stay with the ship but have other responsibilities, most likely profitable ones, on land. Starbuck, the first mate, is briefly introduced and seems a steadying influence as he competently takes charge of the voyage in Ahab's absence.
