Part 2 Chapter 18 Summary

The Nautilus stays clear of the American coast, much to Ned Land's despair. He, Conseil and Aronnax discuss the fact that they have been prisoners for six months. They are leery of Captain Nemo because he hardly spends any time with them anymore but prefers to be alone in his rooms. Aronnax is getting motivated to escape: he wants to publish his amazing book. Aronnax again describes more fish and even relates legends about them.

On April 20 Ned Land points out the seaweed has strange movement. Aronnax says they are near caverns that would be perfect for poulps or giant squids. Conseil joins in as they talk about giant poulps that take down ships. Conseil says they don't get bigger than four feet. Aronnax says there are skeletons in museums that are two yards long with tentacles stretching twenty-six more feet...