"The Nautilus was piercing the water with its sharp spur, after having accomplished nearly ten thousand leagues in three months and a half, a distance greater than the great circle of the earth. Where were we going now, and what was reserved for the future?"

The Nautilus, a submarine captained by the mysterious Captain Nemo, had actually traveled an amazing range in a short amount of time. This quote reflects the sense of marvel and anticipation that the crew must have felt as they continued their journey. They had no concept what was in store for them, or where they were going. The quote likewise acts as a reminder of the power of innovation and the capacity of expedition. It is a suggestion that, even in the 19th century, the world was still full of secret and adventure. The quote also functions as a pointer that, even with the most innovative innovation, there are still some things that remain unknown and unknowable.