Reflective And Accepting With A Touch Of Humor.

Ishmael returns to the Spouter-Inn and finds Queequeg engaged in his own cultural practices. Despite Queequeg's savage appearance and pagan idolatry, Ishmael feels drawn to him, and they bond over a shared smoke. Queequeg declares them married in the way of his culture, meaning they are now close friends.

Upon returning from the chapel to the Spouter-Inn, Ishmael observes Queequeg practicing his own rituals with a little idol and counting the pages of a book. Initially indifferent to Ishmael's presence, Queequeg eventually engages with him, and the two develop a connection, discussing the town, sharing tobacco, and examining a book together. Ishmael's willingness to befriend Queequeg despite their cultural differences grows, culminating in a symbolically matrimonial bond between them. Queequeg then generously shares his money with Ishmael. After some reflection, Ishmael overcomes his religious scruples and participates in Queequeg's idol worship. They go to bed, not as strangers, but as intimate friends who share their souls with each other in the quiet of the night.