# Now the men

The word "Now" does not mean "at this moment," but is used to draw attention to the important point that follows.

# for any sign from Ahab

"Sign" is metonymy for an action that gives a meaning. Alternate translation: "for any action from Ahab that would show them that Ahab wanted to be merciful" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metonymy]])