Moby Dick Chapter 17-21

In which the curious observances of Queequeg’s devout Ramadan engage Ishmael’s respectful wonder, and the peculiarities of whalemen’s preparation for a long voyage come richly to light amidst the bustling Pequod’s outfitting. And in these days of portent and industry, strange portents and stranger warnings, in the shape of a ragged prophet named Elijah, begin to haunt the steps of our newly made shipmates as the shadow of Captain Ahab looms but remains unseen.