Untitled story (Franey was a fool.)

Introduction

“Franey Was A Fool” is an unfinished and untitled story (about 700 words) that captures the tension and danger of colonial East Africa, where the actions of one foolish man, Franey, put himself and his more prudent companion, Cleary, in peril. The narrative illustrates the complexities and dangers of navigating cultural boundaries and the extreme measures one might take to survive.

Summary

The story begins with Cleary reflecting on his misfortune in meeting Franey in Mombasa and being persuaded to join him on a journey across the East African veldt. Cleary regrets this decision, especially as Franey consistently displays a lack of common sense and decency, behaviors particularly dangerous in the volatile environment of East Africa.

As they walk toward their camp, Cleary senses imminent trouble. A young Masai girl is carrying water along a path parallel to theirs. Franey, ignoring Cleary’s warnings, approaches the girl with lecherous intent. Cleary, aware of the cultural and social ramifications, warns Franey to leave her alone, emphasizing that the Masai cannot be treated with the same disregard as other tribes.

Franey, dismissive and foolish, grabs the girl, prompting her to scream. This act of aggression attracts the attention of nearby Masai youths who are tending cattle. The village, full of fierce warriors, is within earshot, and the situation quickly escalates. Cleary realizes that they are surrounded and that any explanation will be futile. The Masai will see them both as offenders and punish them accordingly.

Cleary’s quick thinking leads him to a grim but clear solution. Understanding that fighting the Masai would be hopeless and only result in their deaths, he decides to kill Franey himself to show the Masai that he is not complicit in the offense. He shoots Franey through the head, instantly killing him. This action stuns the Masai, who had not expected such a turn of events.

Cleary then addresses the Masai, asserting his respect for their customs and distancing himself from Franey’s actions. He declares that Franey was neither his kin nor friend and that he has avenged the insult to their race. This calculated display of respect and authority causes the Masai to hesitate, giving Cleary a chance to defuse the situation.

Characters

  • Cleary: The protagonist, a pragmatic and quick-thinking man who understands the cultural complexities of East Africa. He ultimately kills Franey to prevent a violent retaliation from the Masai.
  • Franey: A foolish and lecherous man whose actions endanger both himself and Cleary. His lack of respect for the Masai customs leads to his death at the hands of Cleary.
  • Masai Girl: A young woman who becomes the target of Franey’s unwanted advances, triggering the conflict.
  • Masai Youths: Young warriors tending cattle who respond aggressively to Franey’s assault on the Masai girl.
  • Older Masai Man: An elder who arrives as Cleary addresses the Masai, potentially playing a role in the resolution of the conflict.

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