Final answer:
The motor boat in the abandoned house serves as a last resort for safety, symbolizes shelter, and fosters a strong sense of brotherhood among the characters.
Step-by-step explanation:
The motor boat stayed in the abandoned house as a form of last resort and safety for the characters. The group, which included a captain, oiler, cook, and correspondent, found themselves in a desperate situation at sea, facing the peril of the waves, and the abandoned house provided a temporary haven.
The boat itself can also represent a form of shelter or abode as indicated in the excerpts, similar to a house, providing the characters a sense of stability and brotherhood as they navigate their challenges. Each member of the group demonstrates a strong devotion to one another, which becomes a significant experience in their lives, suggesting that the presence and support of each other are as critical as the physical shelter of the house or boat.