Page 261 - AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS

Around the World in 80 Days

‘I know it,’ said Passepartout, turning to another
passenger, ‘but a simple idea—‘
‘Ideas are no use,’ returned the American, shrugging his
shoulders, ‘as the engineer assures us that we can pass.’

‘Doubtless,’ urged Passepartout, ‘we can pass, but
perhaps it would be more prudent—‘
‘What! Prudent!’ cried Colonel Proctor, whom this
word seemed to excite prodigiously. ‘At full speed, don’t
you see, at full speed!’
‘I know—I see,’ repeated Passepartout; ‘but it would
be, if not more prudent, since that word displeases you, at
least more natural—‘
‘Who! What! What’s the matter with this fellow?’ cried
several.
The poor fellow did not know to whom to address
himself.
‘Are you afraid?’ asked Colonel Proctor.
‘I afraid? Very well; I will show these people that a
Frenchman can be as American as they!’
‘All aboard!’ cried the conductor.
‘Yes, all aboard!’ repeated Passepartout, and
immediately. ‘But they can’t prevent me from thinking
that it would be more natural for us to cross the bridge on
foot, and let the train come after!’

260 of 339