Around the World in Eighty Days · Chapter
XXV In which a slight glimpse is had of San Francisco explained
Phileas Fogg, Aouda, and Passepartout arrive in San Francisco and spend the day exploring the city before their train to New York.
What happens
Phileas Fogg, Aouda, and Passepartout arrive in San Francisco and spend the day exploring the city before their train to New York. They encounter a violent political rally between supporters of Camerfield and Mandiboy, during which Fogg and Fix are attacked. Fix takes a blow meant for Fogg, and Fogg learns the assailant is Colonel Stamp Proctor, vowing to return to America to settle the score. The chapter ends with the party boarding the train.
Themes in this chapter
Determination and Resilience
Fogg remains cool and determined even when caught in a violent riot, and vows to return to America to confront Colonel Proctor.
Cultural Encounter and Imperialism
The chapter contrasts the old lawless San Francisco with its modern, commercial character, and highlights the presence of Chinese and Indian communities.
Characters to notice
- Phileas Fogg
Arrives in San Francisco, remains calm during the political riot, and vows to return to America to fight Colonel Proctor.
- Passepartout
Disembarks with a clumsy fall, observes the city from the carriage, and suggests buying firearms for protection against Sioux and Pawnees.
- Aouda
Accompanies Fogg through San Francisco, observes the riot from a safe position, and escapes unharmed.
- Fix
Meets Fogg by chance in San Francisco, joins him for the day, takes a blow meant for Fogg during the riot, and is now seen as an ally.
- Colonel Stamp Proctor
Leads the attack on Fogg and Fix during the political rally; Fogg learns his name and vows to duel him.
Key passages
“A big brawny fellow with a red beard, flushed face, and broad shoulders, who seemed to be the chief of the band, raised his clenched fist to strike Mr. Fogg, whom he would have given a crushing blow, had not Fix rushed in and received it in his stead.”
A large, red-bearded man leading the mob tried to punch Fogg, but Fix stepped in and took the blow instead.
Fix's action solidifies his shift from antagonist to ally.
“I will come back to America to find him. It would not be right for an Englishman to permit himself to be treated in that way, without retaliating.”
Fogg declares he will return to America to duel Colonel Proctor, as his honor as an Englishman demands retaliation.
Shows Fogg's adherence to personal honor and his willingness to fight abroad.