“This devil loves mankind because men are going to always make the choice that will send him into ascendancy. He's been winning the game for a long time.”

“Most sailing ships take what they call trainees, who pay to be part of the crew. The Picton Castle takes people who are absolutely raw recruits. But you can't just ride along. You're learning to steer the ship, navigation; you're pulling lines, keeping a lookout; in the galley you're cooking.”