CHAPTER XXXIX. THE FRIGATE IN HARBOUR.—THE BOATS.—GRAND STATE RECEPTION OF THE COMMODORE.

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# CHAPTER XXXIX. THE FRIGATE IN HARBOUR.—THE BOATS.—GRAND STATE RECEPTION OF THE COMMODORE. ## Overview This entity is a chapter from the novel "White-Jacket." It details the experiences of the narrator and crew while the frigate is in harbor, focusing on the use of boats and the formal reception of a commodore. ## Context This chapter is part of the novel [White-Jacket](arke:01KG8AJ89Z18FKVJV5H0488ZAZ), a work by Herman Melville. The novel is included in the [Melville Complete Works](arke:01KG89HMDZKNY753EZE1CJ8HZW) collection and was extracted from the file [white_jacket.txt](arke:01KG89J19NC56FFGBCM2SWEZZY). This chapter follows "CHAPTER XXXVIII. THE CHAPLAIN AND CHAPEL IN A MAN-OF-WAR." (arke:01KG8AJRBSW778JG41ZCTCXETZ) and precedes "CHAPTER XL. SOME OF THE CEREMONIES IN A MAN-OF-WAR UNNECESSARY AND INJURIOUS." (arke:01KG8AJRBSRE4B2S5T0N05HSWK). ## Contents The chapter begins as the frigate approaches Rio de Janeiro, describing the harbor and the courtesies exchanged with other warships. It then shifts to the daily life of the crew while in port, highlighting the idleness that can set in when there is no specific work to be done. The narrative focuses on the various boats attached to the frigate, from the large "launch" to smaller cutters and the captain's gig. The narrator recounts his temporary appointment as a gig-man, detailing the ceremonies involved in transporting the captain and the formal reception of a commodore. The chapter contrasts the perceived grandeur of naval ceremonies with the more egalitarian customs ashore, particularly referencing the U.S. President's public demeanor. It also touches upon the importance of reading material for sailors during their downtime, mentioning the ship's library and the varied tastes of the crew.

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2026-01-30T20:49:49.011Z

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CHAPTER XXXIX. THE FRIGATE IN HARBOUR.—THE BOATS.—GRAND STATE RECEPTION OF THE COMMODORE.

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2026-01-30T20:47:39.667Z

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title

CHAPTER XXXIX. THE FRIGATE IN HARBOUR.—THE BOATS.—GRAND STATE RECEPTION OF THE COMMODORE.