Final answer:
Characters in the passage demonstrate a mix of compassion and belief in the angel's survival skills by equipping it with supplies before setting it adrift. The themes of survival and the unpredictable nature of the sea are prominent in the context of the quotation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The passage provided suggests a theme of survival and the human condition when faced with the power of nature. The actions taken by the characters in placing the angel on a raft may reflect a combination of motivations, including compassion and belief in the angel's ability to survive. The references to the sea and the potential for drowning highlight the omnipresent risk faced by sailors and the precariousness of life at sea, a common theme in maritime literature.
The characters' decision to send the angel off with provisions suggests a sense of compassion, as they provide for its basic needs. However, given the context of the high seas and the challenges to survival, it could also show a belief in the angel's ability to fend for itself. Indifference does not seem to be a driving factor, as they took the time to ensure the raft had supplies, indicating some level of concern.