No man will be a sailor who has contrivance enough to get himself into a jail; for being in a ship is being in a jail, with the chance of being drowned... a man in a jail has more room, better food, and commonly better company.

Summary

This quote implies that being a sailor is like being in a jail, as both situations confine individuals and involve risks. It suggests that someone who is resourceful enough to avoid being imprisoned would also avoid becoming a sailor. The comparison goes on to state that a person in jail has more space, better food, and usually better companionship than a sailor. Overall, the quote highlights the hardships and dangers associated with a life at sea, contrasting it with the relative comfort and security of being in jail.