He did not understand the advantage or uses of sails.

He had lost his own paddles in the storm, otherwise he would in all probability have left the island on his own account.

He was like a fish out of water when the novelty of his situation wore off.

On the other hand, I thought of water, provisions, and other equally vital necessaries.

So Gunda had to rest content for a time, and he grew, if possible, more morose and sullen than ever.
During this period of impatient waiting, we made many experimental voyages out to sea, and generally got the boat into capital trim for the great and eventful journey.