Moby Dick

And, doubtless, my going on this whaling voyage, formed part of the grand programme of Providence that was drawn up a long time ago. It came in as a sort of brief interlude and solo between more extensive performances. I take it that this part of the bill must have run something like this: 

"GRAND CONTESTED ELECTION FOR THE PRESIDENCY OF THE UNITED STATES. 

"WHALING VOYAGE BY ONE ISHMAEL. 

"BLOODY BATTLE IN AFFGHANISTAN."