8 The Trip Down the Ganges

CHAPTER 8 The Trip Down the Ganges The party made rapid progress toward Allahabad. They moved so quickly, in fact, that they reached the train station by midmorning. Once they arrived in Allahabad, Phileas asked Passepartout to run some errands.

Passepartout was happy to do so. Besides, he was eager to explore the city. By the time Passepartout returned, it was time to say good-bye to Ali. Phileas paid him and said, "Ali, you have been such a great help to us—would you like to keep Kiouni?" "Sir! Are you sure? She is worth a fortune," Ali replied. "That is so kind of you! I can't believe it!" "It is a well deserved gift," Phileas said. Passepartout said, "Oh, I am so glad you are going to take her, Ali. Kiouni will be a brave and faithful friend." He patted the elephant's trunk. Kiouni, in turn, picked up Passepartout and lifted him high into the air. The butler laughed and patted the elephant on the head. Kiouni gently placed him back down on the ground. A whistle blew. It was time to board the train. Sir Francis carried Aouda and carefully set her down in the cabin. Soon they were

speeding along toward Benares. A few hours later, Aouda woke up. She was startled and scared. She was also surprised to be on a speeding train and not trapped in a hut with bandits all around. "Where am I?" she asked. "You are safe now, dear girl," Phileas replied "We have saved you from those awful men and are taking you to Benares with us. My name is Phileas Fogg. This is my butler, Passepartout, and our friend Sir Francis." She thanked them all for their help in saving her life and said she would never be able to repay them for everything they had done. "Nonsense. It was our pleasure," Phileas said. "My family has all been killed by the bandits. They would have killed me, too, if you hadn't saved me." "That means your life will always be in

danger if you stay here. Would you like us to take you to Hong Kong? That is where we are headed next." "That would be appreciated," Aouda said quietly. "Thank you again for all your kindness." When the train reached Benares, the travelers said good-bye to Sir Francis. He wished them all success and said that he hoped to see them again soon.