The story begins with a mysterious man named Attilla arriving at the Talera trading post on the West African coast. Attilla appears suddenly, seemingly materializing out of the morning fog. He doesn't divulge much about himself, repelling brazen questions with an air of quiet authority. The local traders, including the seasoned Slade, are baffled by Attilla's presence, as no one seems to know him despite his apparent familiarity with the Coast.

Attilla stays at the trading post as a guest of Fairly, a young trader who is drinking himself to death. Fairly, in a drunken stupor, confides in Attilla, sharing that he has been sent to this forsaken place by a woman he loved. Despite his state, Fairly appreciates Attilla's quiet intelligence and company.

Fairly, who is a good-looking young man despite his dissipation, contrasts sharply with Attilla. Tall and lean, with inscrutable grey eyes and a lazy drawl, Attilla exudes an air of mystery and strength. The two men share a conversation on the veranda, with Fairly revealing his bitterness and Attilla listening attentively.

The narrative then shifts to a confrontation between Attilla and Fairly. They travel to a sand spit on the river to settle a dispute through a boxing match. Despite Fairly's height and weight advantage, Attilla's skill and precision in boxing quickly become evident. Attilla lands powerful blows, knocking Fairly out without receiving a single hit in return.

After the fight, Attilla warns Fairly to send a woman who is visiting him down the river immediately, hinting at impending trouble. Fairly, though startled, doesn't question Attilla further. The story concludes with Attilla noticing a visitor at Fantsley's place, a striking woman named Taluva, chieftainess of the up-river Jekra. Her presence hints at further complexities and tensions in the region.