Final answer:
Mr. Belsey attempts to observe and understand certain events or situations while the ship is outside of Hamburg.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the given excerpts, Mr. Belsey attempts to observe and understand certain events or situations. While the ship is outside of Hamburg, Mr. Belsey sends someone to deliver instructions to the leadsmen and whispers among the officers.
He goes into hiding to observe the results and has an audience of people assembled before him. The purpose of these actions is not explicitly stated, but it implies that Mr. Belsey is investigating or monitoring something.