Lashing the Marlin to the Skiff

Santiago ties the marlin alongside the skiff, passing ropes through its gills and mouth and around its tail. The fish is so large it seems like a second boat. He steps the mast, hoists the patched sail, and sets a course southwest toward home. He eats a few shrimps from Gulf weed and drinks some water. The skiff sails well, and the old man feels a sense of accomplishment despite his exhaustion.