CHAPTER XIX -Gulliver of Mars

Chapter XIX of “Gulliver of Mars” details an adventurous escape by sea under the veil of early morning mist. Gulliver and Heru narrowly evade capture by soldiers in a war-canoe thanks to a combination of stealth and luck. As they drift silently, the soldiers, suspecting their presence, ultimately dismiss the possibility and move on, allowing Gulliver and Heru to continue their escape toward a small harbour town.

Upon arrival at the town, Gulliver quickly seeks help from a friendly fish-shop owner, explaining their dire situation. The fish-shop owner, astounded by their audacity and moved by their plea, agrees to assist them. Heru’s charm and earnest request seal their fate towards safety, drawing the fish-shop owner’s commitment to their cause.

Their escape plan involves a clever diversion—using a fishing boat to sail out of the immediate danger zone, hidden under nets. In a tense moment, soldiers nearly discover them, but the fisherman convincingly deters their interest with a mix of bravado and quick wit, ensuring the soldiers’ departure with a promise of beer from his wife. This bold interaction underscores the fisherman’s loyalty to Gulliver and Heru despite the imminent threat to himself.

The chapter closes as they sail away from the town, out of the soldiers’ reach, thanks to the fisherman’s courage and the sea’s cooperation. The fisherman is rewarded modestly with a gold button and affectionate gratitude from Heru. Their departure from the island on friendly terms with the small community they encountered suggests a hopeful continuation of their journey.

This segment of “Gulliver of Mars” encapsulates themes of risk, adventure, and the unexpected alliances formed in the face of adversity, all set against the backdrop of Mars’s fantastical seascapes. The narrative thrives on the element of suspense and the universal appeal of a daring escape, driven by the quick thinking and cooperation among the characters.