- description
- # CHAPTER LXI. THE SURGEON OF THE FLEET.
## Overview
This chapter, titled "CHAPTER LXI. THE SURGEON OF THE FLEET.", is part of the novel [White-Jacket](arke:01KG8AJ89Z18FKVJV5H0488ZAZ). It was extracted from the file [white_jacket.txt](arke:01KG89J19NC56FFGBCM2SWEZZY) and is contained within the [Melville Complete Works](arke:01KG89HMDZKNY753EZE1CJ8HZW) collection. The chapter spans from line 9476 to 9639 of the source text.
## Context
This chapter follows "CHAPTER LX. A MAN-OF-WAR’S-MAN SHOT AT." and precedes "CHAPTER LXII. A CONSULTATION OF MAN-OF-WAR SURGEONS.". It introduces the character of Cadwallader Cuticle, the fleet surgeon.
## Contents
This chapter focuses on the character of Cadwallader Cuticle, M. D., the fleet surgeon. It describes his appearance as a small, withered man with a mind that belied his physical state, shining with "basilisk brilliancy." Cuticle is portrayed as an enthusiast of his profession, particularly morbid anatomy, and possesses a collection of anatomical casts. The narrative highlights his apparent detachment from the suffering of his patients, attributing it to a "purely scientific origin" rather than inherent cruelty. The chapter includes anecdotes illustrating his peculiar nature, such as his reaction to a prank involving a sago pudding mistaken for a cancerous tumor, and his intense focus during surgical procedures. It is divided into three chunks, detailing his appearance, his peculiar habits and collections, and his professional demeanor.
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- CHAPTER LXI. THE SURGEON OF THE FLEET.
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- 9639
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- 2026-01-30T20:47:39.667Z
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- title
- CHAPTER LXI.
THE SURGEON OF THE FLEET.