CHAPTER XIII THE FIRST PRIZES.
After leaving the slaves, Gervaise joined his companions on the poop.
They were engaged in an animated discussion as to whether it was advisable to grant indulgences to slaves.

The majority approved of the steps Gervaise had taken, but some asserted that these concessions would only lead them to look for more, and would create discontent among the crews of other galleys not so favoured.
"Well, comrades," said Gervaise, "I think that so far I am better qualified than any of you to give an opinion; but it may be that it will fall to the lot of some of you to be a slave in Turkish hands.

In that case, I can affirm with certainty, that you will keenly appreciate any alleviation, however small, of your lot.

You must remember that the one feeling of the slave is dull despair.

Death is the only relief he has to look forward to.