[The Unexpected Detention and Financial Sacrifice in Calcutta]-[Around the World in 80 Days - Part 10]

The Unexpected Interruption in Calcutta

Upon the arrival of the train in Calcutta, Phileas Fogg’s primary objective was to ensure a timely departure for the Hong Kong steamer. Fogg’s methodical nature was immediately challenged when a policeman intercepted him and his butler, Passepartout, demanding they accompany him. Despite Fogg’s insistence that there must be "some mistake," the group, including Aouda, was escorted to a building with "bars on the windows." Fogg, maintaining his characteristic composure, reassured his companions that they would be "on board the steamer by noon," unaware of the legal entanglement awaiting them.

The Temple Incident and Legal Charges

Inside the courtroom of Judge Obadiah, the situation escalated. It was revealed that Passepartout was being charged with "illegally entering a temple." The prosecution provided irrefutable evidence in the form of "Passepartout's shoes," which served as the "proof" of his presence at the sacred site. When confronted with his own footwear, Passepartout inadvertently admitted his guilt, leading Judge Obadiah to impose a sentence of a "one hundred and fifty pounds" fine and a "one week in jail" term. This turn of events posed a significant threat to Fogg’s rigid travel schedule.

The Financial Strategy of Phileas Fogg

Demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his journey and his staff, Fogg immediately intervened. He offered to pay bail to secure Passepartout’s release, despite the judge warning him that the cost was "rather steep." Upon learning the amount was "two thousand pounds," Fogg displayed his immense wealth and determination by producing a "roll of bills out of his carpet bag" to settle the payment. Fogg’s willingness to be "so free with his money" underscored his prioritization of the journey’s momentum over personal financial conservation.

Detective Fix’s Frustration

Observing the proceedings from the back of the courtroom was Detective Fix. Fix had hoped that this legal complication would serve as a "sure-fire way of keeping Phileas in India" until he could secure the necessary arrest warrant. However, Fogg’s decisive action in paying the bail thwarted Fix’s plans, leaving the detective "looking very angry indeed."

Resolution and Departure

With the legal matter temporarily resolved—though the judge noted the money would be kept if Passepartout failed to return—Fogg urged his group to head to the "wharf right now." Passepartout, feeling a "heavy heart" for the financial burden his "mistakes" had caused his employer, reclaimed his shoes and followed Fogg. As they departed, the brief encounter with Fix left a lingering sense of mystery, though the urgency of the steamer’s departure prevented any further contemplation of the detective’s presence. Fogg’s ability to navigate unforeseen obstacles through sheer financial power remains the defining characteristic of his expedition.