The Pequod is now deep in the Japanese cruising grounds, which are living up to their name. The crew are spending almost all of their time hunting whales, only able to rest in those brief interludes when a whale dives into the depths of the ocean, and they must wait on the surface until it returns. During these brief interludes, the almost supernatural calm of the Pacific Ocean seems almost to be the same as a peaceful meadow. Even Ahab is in affected by these intense moments of peace and reflection. We get a glimpse into the thoughts of Starbuck and Stubb in their murmured asides. Starbuck looks deep within and finds that his faith is his last bastion, and for Stubb, it is his jolly nature.