While these events unfolded at the opium-house, Mr. Fogg, unaware of the risk of missing the steamer, calmly accompanied Aouda through the streets of the English quarter, making necessary purchases for their long journey ahead. For an Englishman like Mr. Fogg, traveling the world with just a carpet-bag was manageable; however, a lady could not be expected to travel comfortably under such circumstances. He carried out his task with his usual calmness and always responded to Aouda’s concerns, who was puzzled by his patience and generosity:
"It is part of my journey’s plan."
After completing their shopping, they returned to the hotel and dined at a lavish table d'hôte. Afterwards, Aouda, shaking hands with her protector in the English manner, retired to her room to rest. Mr. Fogg spent the evening engrossed in reading The Times and the Illustrated London News.
Had he been capable of surprise, it would have been at the absence of his servant at bedtime. But knowing the steamer would not leave for Yokohama until the next morning, he did not worry. When Passepartout failed to appear the next morning to answer his master’s bell, Mr. Fogg, showing no irritation, simply took his carpet-bag, called Aouda, and sent for a palanquin.
It was eight o’clock; by half-past nine, at high tide, the Carnatic would leave the harbor. Mr. Fogg and Aouda entered the palanquin, their luggage following on a wheelbarrow, and half an hour later they reached the quay to embark. Mr. Fogg then learned the Carnatic had sailed the previous evening. Expecting to find both the steamer and his servant, he had to give up both without any sign of disappointment, merely telling Aouda, "It is an accident, madam; nothing more."
At that moment, a man who had been watching him closely approached. It was Fix, who bowed and asked Mr. Fogg, "Were you, like me, a passenger on the Rangoon, which arrived yesterday?"
"I was, sir," Mr. Fogg replied coldly. "But I have not the honor—"
"Pardon me; I thought I would find your servant here."
"Do you know where he is, sir?" Aouda asked anxiously.
"What! Is he not with you?" Fix feigned surprise.
"No," said Aouda. "He has not appeared since yesterday. Could he have boarded the Carnatic without us?"
"Without you, madam?" Fix answered. "Excuse me, did you intend to sail on the Carnatic?"
"Yes, sir."
"So did I, madam, and I am very disappointed. The Carnatic, after repairs, left Hong Kong twelve hours earlier than scheduled without notice; now we must wait a week for another steamer."
Hearing "a week," Fix’s heart leapt with joy. Mr. Fogg detained in Hong Kong for a week! The warrant could arrive, and fortune favored the law. But his horror grew when Mr. Fogg calmly said, "But there are other vessels besides the Carnatic in Hong Kong harbor."
Offering his arm to Aouda, Mr. Fogg headed to the docks to find a departing vessel. Fix, stunned, followed as if tied to Mr. Fogg by an invisible thread. Chance seemed to have abandoned Fix, who had been so lucky before. For three hours, Phileas Fogg searched the docks, determined to charter a vessel to Yokohama if necessary, but found only ships loading or unloading, unable to sail. Fix began to hope again.
But Mr. Fogg, undeterred, continued, resolved to go as far as Macao if needed, when a sailor approached.
"Is your honor looking for a boat?"
"Do you have one ready to sail?"
"Yes, a pilot-boat—No. 43—the best in the harbor."
"Does she go fast?"
"Between eight and nine knots per hour. Would you like to see her?"
"Yes."
"Your honor will be satisfied. Is it for a sea excursion?"
"No; for a voyage."
"A voyage?"
"Yes, will you take me to Yokohama?"
The sailor looked surprised. "Is your honor joking?"
"No. I missed the Carnatic and must reach Yokohama by the 14th to catch the boat to San Francisco."
"I’m sorry," said the sailor, "but it’s impossible."
"I offer one hundred pounds per day and two hundred pounds extra if I arrive on time."
"Are you serious?"
"Very much so."
The pilot walked away, gazing at the sea, torn between desire for money and fear of the long voyage. Fix was tense.
Mr. Fogg asked Aouda, "You wouldn’t be afraid, would you, madam?"
"Not with you, Mr. Fogg," she replied.
The pilot returned, nervously shuffling his hat.
"Well, pilot?" asked Mr. Fogg.
"Well, your honor," he said, "I can’t risk myself, my men, or my little boat of twenty tons on such a long voyage at this time of year. Besides, we couldn’t reach Yokohama in time; it’s sixteen hundred and sixty miles from Hong Kong."
"Only sixteen hundred," said Mr. Fogg.
"It’s the same."
Fix breathed easier.
"But," added the pilot, "there might be another way."
Fix held his breath.
"How?" asked Mr. Fogg.
"By going to Nagasaki, southern Japan, or Shanghai, only eight hundred miles away. Sailing to Shanghai would be easier, as the currents run northward, helping us."
"Pilot," said Mr. Fogg, "I must take the American steamer at Yokohama, not Shanghai or Nagasaki."
"Why not?" asked the pilot. "The San Francisco steamer doesn’t start at Yokohama. It stops at Yokohama and Nagasaki but starts from Shanghai."
"Are you sure?"
"Absolutely."
"When does it leave Shanghai?"
"On the 11th at seven in the evening. We have four days, ninety-six hours. With good luck, southwest wind, and calm seas, we could make the eight hundred miles."
"And you could go—"
"In an hour, as soon as provisions are aboard and sails set."
"It’s a deal. Are you the boat’s master?"
"Yes; John Bunsby, master of the Tankadere."
"Would you like earnest money?"
"If it wouldn’t trouble your honor—"
"Here’s two hundred pounds on account," said Phileas Fogg, turning to Fix, "if you want to take advantage—"
"Thanks, sir; I was about to ask."
"Very well. We sail in half an hour."
"But poor Passepartout?" Aouda said, worried about the servant’s disappearance.
"I’ll do all I can to find him," said Phileas Fogg.
While Fix, nervous and feverish, went to the pilot-boat, the others went to the Hong Kong police station. Phileas Fogg gave Passepartout’s description and money for the search. After similar steps at the French consulate and collecting luggage from the hotel, they returned to the wharf.
It was three o’clock; pilot-boat No. 43, with crew and provisions aboard, was ready to depart.
The Tankadere was a neat twenty-ton craft, as elegant as a racing yacht. Its shining copper sheathing, galvanized ironwork, and ivory-white deck showed John Bunsby’s pride. Its two masts leaned slightly backward, carrying brigantine, foresail, storm-jib, and standing-jib, rigged for running before the wind, capable of brisk speed proven in pilot-boat races. The crew consisted of John Bunsby, the master, and four hardy sailors familiar with Chinese seas. John Bunsby, about forty-five, vigorous, sunburnt, with lively eyes and confident expression, inspired trust.
Phileas Fogg and Aouda boarded, finding Fix already settled. Below deck was a square cabin with walls bulging into cots over a circular divan, a central table with a swinging lamp. The quarters were small but neat.
"I’m sorry I have nothing better to offer," said Mr. Fogg to Fix, who bowed silently.
Fix felt humbled to benefit from Mr. Fogg’s kindness.
"Though a scoundrel, he is polite!" he thought.
The sails and English flag were hoisted at ten past three. Mr. Fogg and Aouda sat on deck, casting a last glance at the quay, hoping to see Passepartout. Fix feared the servant might appear, forcing an unpleasant explanation. But Passepartout did not come, likely still under opium’s influence.
John Bunsby finally gave the order to sail, and the Tankadere, catching the wind under its sails, bounded briskly over the waves.
Background and Author Introduction
This passage is from Around the World in Eighty Days, a classic adventure novel written by Jules Verne, a French author renowned for his pioneering science fiction and adventure stories. Published in 1873, the novel follows the meticulous English gentleman Phileas Fogg as he attempts to circumnavigate the globe in 80 days to win a wager. The story is celebrated for its vivid depiction of 19th-century travel, the spirit of adventure, and the triumph of determination and ingenuity.
Jules Verne’s works often combine detailed scientific knowledge with thrilling narratives, inspiring readers to dream of exploration and discovery. His influence extends beyond literature into inspiring real-world explorers and inventors.
Detailed Analysis and Meaning
This excerpt captures a critical moment when Mr. Fogg faces unexpected challenges: missing the steamer, losing his servant Passepartout, and negotiating an alternative route. Despite setbacks, Fogg remains calm, resourceful, and determined, embodying resilience and adaptability. His unshakable composure contrasts with Fix’s anxious pursuit, highlighting Fogg’s rationality and self-control.
The passage also introduces themes of trust and companionship, seen in Fogg’s protective care for Aouda and his efforts to find Passepartout. The interaction with the pilot illustrates negotiation skills and strategic thinking, as Fogg quickly adapts plans to meet his goal.
Lessons and Inspirations for Students
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Resilience in Adversity: Mr. Fogg’s calm acceptance of obstacles teaches students the importance of staying composed and thinking clearly when plans go awry.
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Problem-Solving: Fogg’s quick thinking to find an alternative route and negotiate with the pilot encourages creativity and flexibility in overcoming challenges.
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Patience and Generosity: His patience with Aouda and kindness to Fix, even when Fix is an adversary, show the value of empathy and politeness.
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Determination and Goal-Orientation: Fogg’s unwavering commitment to his journey inspires students to set clear goals and pursue them persistently.
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Teamwork and Responsibility: Fogg’s concern for Passepartout and Aouda demonstrates responsibility toward others and the importance of teamwork.
Practical Applications in Life, Study, and Social Situations
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In School: When facing difficult subjects or unexpected setbacks, students can emulate Fogg’s calm approach and look for alternative strategies rather than giving up.
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In Social Life: Patience and kindness, even toward those who may oppose or challenge us, can build respect and positive relationships.
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In Personal Goals: Setting clear objectives and adapting plans flexibly helps maintain progress despite obstacles.
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In Teamwork: Taking care of others and working collaboratively leads to stronger support systems and success.
Cultivating Positive Qualities from the Story
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Practice Calmness: When stressed, take deep breaths and think through problems step-by-step like Mr. Fogg.
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Be Adaptable: Learn to adjust plans when circumstances change, seeing challenges as opportunities to grow.
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Show Empathy: Treat others with kindness and respect, even if they seem difficult or are rivals.
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Stay Determined: Keep your goals in mind and work steadily toward them, regardless of distractions.
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Value Companionship: Support friends and teammates, understanding that success is often a shared effort.
By studying Around the World in Eighty Days, students not only enjoy an exciting adventure but also learn timeless lessons about courage, intelligence, and human kindness that can guide them throughout life.
