This opening excerpt introduces the title character and establishes the relationship between him and the medium in which he works.

ONE SUNSHINY morning, in the good old times of the town of Boston, a young carver in wood, well known by the name of Drowne, stood contemplating a large oaken log, which it was his purpose to convert into the figure-head of a vessel. And while he discussed within his own mind what sort of shape or similitude it were well to bestow upon this excellent piece of timber, there came into Drowne's workshop a certain Captain Hunnewell, owner and commander of the good brig called the Cynosure, which had just returned from her first voyage to Fayal.

Full text of "Drowne’s Wooden Image" from Mosses From an Old Manse