Malcolm spent the afternoon checking the updates made to La Belle Sauvage, the small boat he was so fond of. He found the new tarpaulin of coal-silk to be both lightweight and water-resistant, just as Mr. van Texel described. The ease of using the clips to secure the tarpaulin to the sides of the boat added to his satisfaction, demonstrating a well-thought-out design.

The color of the tarpaulin matched the boat's water-green hue, allowing Malcolm to envision that once it was properly set up, he and La Belle Sauvage would be nearly undetectable. This not only heightened his sense of adventure but also increased his determination to protect his vessel while navigating the waters.