Meaning: This quote is from Joshua Slocum, a renowned Canadian seaman and adventurer who is best known for being the first person to sail single-handedly around the world. The quote reflects Slocum's experience and observations during his solo circumnavigation, which took place between 1895 and 1898.

In the quote, Slocum reflects on his physical well-being and the overall success of his journey. The first question, "Was the crew well?", suggests that Slocum was concerned about the condition of his vessel and the people aboard. This question encapsulates the responsibility and care a captain feels for the well-being of their crew and the ship itself. It highlights the sense of duty and leadership that Slocum felt as he navigated the often treacherous waters of his global voyage.

The second question, "Was I not?" reflects Slocum's introspection and personal assessment of his own health and state of being. It indicates his self-awareness and mindfulness regarding his own well-being during the arduous and solitary journey. Slocum's ability to reflect on his physical and mental condition amidst the challenges of solo sailing demonstrates his resilience and self-reliance as an explorer.

Slocum then goes on to express that he had "profited in many ways by the voyage". This statement suggests that the journey had enriched him in various aspects beyond mere financial gain. His experiences at sea, the encounters with different cultures, and the navigation of diverse environments likely contributed to his personal growth and understanding of the world. Slocum's voyage was not just a physical endeavor but also a profound learning experience that broadened his horizons.

The next part of the quote, "I had even gained flesh, and actually weighed a pound more than when I sailed from Boston", provides a tangible measure of Slocum's physical well-being and the impact of his journey on his body. This detail underscores the physical demands of solo sailing and the resilience required to endure the rigors of such an undertaking. Slocum's ability to not only maintain his weight but to gain a pound speaks to his adaptability and resourcefulness in sustaining himself throughout the long and challenging voyage.

This quote from Joshua Slocum encapsulates the physical, personal, and emotional dimensions of his historic circumnavigation. It provides insight into the mindset of a remarkable explorer who faced and overcame the trials of solo sailing around the world. Slocum's reflections on the well-being of his crew, his own condition, and the overall gains from the voyage offer a glimpse into the extraordinary journey and the indomitable spirit of a pioneering seafarer.