The captain refuses to turn back because he is determined to prove himself by getting more oil first. His internal conflict is that he is prioritizing the oil over his wife's feelings. Mrs. Keeney becomes sad and distant because her husband is more focused on earning the respect of others.
Despite Mrs. Keeney's persuasion, the captain abrubtly changes his mind because he is determined to claim the ile first as it is his personal desire. He choses to prioritize his goal of returning with a full ship than to comfort his wife.
