On October 2nd 1872 Phileas Fogg set out on his adventure to circumnavigate the world. Jules Verne's novel Around the World in 80 Days was published in 1873 and is one of his most popular works. Fogg accepts a wager of £20,000 that he can complete his round the world trip in 80 days and, accompanied by his valet Passepartout, the book describes his journey and trials.

The first tune is a jig version of an Irish reel which also goes under the name The Sword in Hand, although it probably stems from the Scottish tune Hey the Bonnie Breastknots. The reel has the alternative title The Wise Maid.