Round the Moon · Chapter
J. T. Maston Called In explained
The chapter details the aftermath of the projectile's fall into the Pacific Ocean, as observed by the crew of the Susquehanna.
What happens
The chapter details the aftermath of the projectile's fall into the Pacific Ocean, as observed by the crew of the Susquehanna. Captain Blomsberry sends telegrams to the Gun Club and others, sparking debate about the fate of the travelers. Meanwhile, J. T. Maston and J. Belfast, observing from Long's Peak, argue over the projectile's visibility until a telegram reveals its fall, prompting Maston to rush to San Francisco to organize a recovery mission.
Themes in this chapter
Human Audacity and Ingenuity
The chapter showcases the audacity of the Gun Club's enterprise and the ingenuity of the recovery plans, despite the catastrophic outcome.
The Role of Chance and the Impossible
The unexpected fall of the projectile into the Pacific and the debate over its fate emphasize the role of chance in the mission's outcome.
National Identity and Rivalry
The global reaction to the news and the involvement of American institutions like the Gun Club and Navy highlight national pride and rivalry in scientific achievement.
Characters to notice
- J. T. Maston
Observes from Long's Peak, argues with Belfast about the projectile's visibility, and upon learning of its fall, rushes to San Francisco to organize recovery.
- J. Belfast
Director of Cambridge Observatory, accompanies Maston at Long's Peak, disputes Maston's claims, and receives the telegram about the projectile's fall.
- Captain Blomsberry
Commander of the Susquehanna, sends telegrams announcing the projectile's fall into the Pacific, and leads the decision to head to San Francisco.
- Lieutenant Bronsfield
Assists Captain Blomsberry in recording the projectile's coordinates and accompanies him to the telegraph office.
- Major Elphinstone
Sent by the Gun Club to San Francisco to advise on recovering the projectile.
- Murchison
Engineer on the Susquehanna, reports that the ship is ready to set sail.
Key passages
“It is 'they' come back, the young midshipman had said, and they had all understood.”
The young midshipman exclaimed that the travelers had returned, and everyone grasped the meaning.
Reaction on the Susquehanna upon seeing the projectile fall.
“Suppose I had broken the mirror? said he. You would have paid for it, answered Belfast severely.”
Maston joked about breaking the telescope mirror, but Belfast sternly reminded him he would be liable.
Exchange after Maston's fall into the telescope.
“The bullet must be fished up, answered J. T. Maston, and as soon as possible!”
Maston insisted that the projectile must be recovered from the ocean without delay.
Maston's urgent call to action upon learning of the fall.