Michael Strogoff · Chapter
The Rivals explained
Michael Strogoff, having escaped the Uzbek horsemen by crossing the river, finds himself on foot and without provisions near Kolyvan.
What happens
Michael Strogoff, having escaped the Uzbek horsemen by crossing the river, finds himself on foot and without provisions near Kolyvan. As he considers his next move, a battle erupts between Russian and Tartar forces in the town. Seeking shelter, he enters a telegraph office where he unexpectedly encounters the rival journalists Harry Blount and Alcide Jolivet, who are competing to send the first dispatches to their European papers. Blount deliberately delays Jolivet by telegraphing nonsense verses, but Jolivet eventually outmaneuvers him. Meanwhile, the battle intensifies, and a shell strikes the telegraph office.
Themes in this chapter
Resilience and Endurance
Michael Strogoff, despite losing his horse and being exhausted, resolves to continue his journey to Irkutsk, declaring 'By Heaven, I will get there!'
Loyalty and Patriotism
Michael's determination is fueled by his loyalty to Russia: 'God will protect our sacred Russia.'
Courage and Heroism
Michael shows courage by pressing on through enemy territory and seeking refuge in a town under attack.
Characters to notice
- Michael Strogoff
After losing his horse in the river, Michael is on foot near Kolyvan, exhausted and hungry. He takes refuge in a telegraph office and observes the rival journalists.
- Harry Blount
The English correspondent for the Daily Telegraph. He arrives at the telegraph office and deliberately sends nonsense verses to delay his rival, Jolivet.
- Alcide Jolivet
The French correspondent for a Paris paper. He competes with Blount to send the first dispatch and eventually outmaneuvers him by taking the wicket while Blount is distracted.
Key passages
“By Heaven, I will get there!”
Michael vows to reach his destination no matter the obstacles.
Demonstrates Michael's unwavering resolve.
“God will protect our sacred Russia.”
Michael expresses faith that divine protection will aid his mission for Russia.
Highlights his patriotism and religious faith.
“Ten kopecks a word.”
The telegraph clerk states the cost per word for sending a message.
Reflects the clerk's calm professionalism amid chaos.
“John Gilpin was a citizen of credit and renown; a trainband captain eke was he of famous London town.”
Blount telegraphs a nonsense poem to occupy the line and delay his rival.
Illustrates the competitive rivalry between the journalists.