I see why this is a classic of the "solo sailor memoir" category. It is so well written, with a subtle sly understated sense of humor. The fact that he solo circumnavigated the world in the late 1890's is a bonus. His cultural observations are interesting. And as an old sailor who didn't make the transition to steam, he knew that he was on the edge of the old ways.

Note: Even in the 1890's, people complained about the increased automation and the lack of time to properly "visit" with people.