Meaning: This quote is from Joshua Slocum's book "Sailing Alone Around the World," which details Slocum's solo journey around the globe. The quote reflects Slocum's contemplative and philosophical approach to his experiences during his voyage.

Slocum embarked on his solo journey in 1895, becoming the first person to sail around the world alone. Throughout his voyage, he encountered numerous challenges and obstacles, both physical and mental, as he navigated the vast and often treacherous oceans. The quote captures a moment of introspection and philosophical musings during his arduous journey.

The phrase "a philosophical turn of thought now was not amiss" suggests that Slocum found it beneficial to engage in philosophical reflection at that particular moment. It implies that, amidst the difficulties and trials he faced, taking a philosophical approach helped him maintain his patience and resilience. Slocum recognized the importance of adopting a philosophical mindset to navigate the challenges of his solo expedition successfully.

The latter part of the quote, "else one's patience would have given out almost at the harbour entrance," further emphasizes the significance of maintaining patience and perseverance. Slocum acknowledges that without a philosophical perspective, the trials and tribulations he faced could have easily worn down his patience, possibly even before reaching the safety of the harbor. This highlights the mental fortitude required to endure the hardships of his journey and the role of philosophical contemplation in sustaining his resilience.

The reference to "the term of her probation was eight days" likely pertains to a specific phase or trial in Slocum's voyage, where he had to endure challenging conditions for a set period. This further underscores the idea of enduring a period of testing and the need for philosophical reflection to navigate such trials successfully.

Slocum's use of the term "probation" also carries a sense of judgment or evaluation, suggesting that he viewed his experiences during the voyage as a test of his abilities and character. By incorporating this term, Slocum conveys the idea that his journey was not only a physical endeavor but also a personal and existential trial, where his response to adversity was under scrutiny.

Overall, the quote encapsulates the challenges and introspective moments that characterized Slocum's remarkable solo voyage around the world. It reflects his recognition of the value of philosophical contemplation in maintaining resilience and patience amidst the daunting trials he faced. Slocum's ability to embrace a philosophical mindset during his journey not only speaks to his personal strength but also offers a timeless lesson in navigating adversity with resilience and introspection.

In conclusion, Joshua Slocum's quote from "Sailing Alone Around the World" captures a pivotal moment of philosophical reflection during his historic solo voyage. It underscores the importance of maintaining patience and resilience through philosophical contemplation, offering insight into Slocum's mindset as he navigated the challenges of his extraordinary journey.