The narrative unfolds in a remote plantation in Portuguese West Africa, where a white trader observes a juju ceremony led by a witch doctor, involving a terrified native girl. The protagonist, who is on the plantation of Evan Graham, is puzzled by the open practice of juju among the slaves, especially under the watchful eye of their master. Graham is depicted as a morally ambiguous character, allowing the practice of black magic while exploiting the natives for labor. As the protagonist reflects on the juju rituals, he becomes increasingly aware of the tension in the air, exacerbated by the arrival of Graham's brother, Arthur, who is on a gorilla hunt. Arthur reveals that a male gorilla has been stalking him since he shot its mate, creating a sense of impending danger. The protagonist is drawn into the complexities of colonial life, where the exploitation of natives and the threat of violence loom large. The story escalates when the natives, under the influence of juju, begin to organize against Graham, leading to a violent confrontation. The protagonist and the two women accompanying him, Alicia and Mrs. Braymore, find themselves caught in a web of deceit and danger as Graham's true nature is revealed. He is not merely a plantation owner but a manipulative figure who has used fear and superstition to control the natives. Graham's plan to eliminate his brother and take over the plantation is thwarted when a real gorilla appears, drawn by the chaos. The gorilla attacks Graham, leading to his demise. The protagonist and the women are left to navigate the aftermath of the violence, grappling with their survival in a land where the lines between civilization and savagery blur. Ultimately, the story explores themes of power, exploitation, and the primal instincts that surface in the face of danger. The protagonist's journey reflects a struggle against both external threats and internal moral dilemmas, culminating in a tense resolution that leaves the characters forever changed. The narrative serves as a commentary on colonialism, the complexities of human nature, and the unpredictable forces of the wild.
By Murray Leinster · First published 1950 · Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure · 10 chapters