The narrative revolves around two characters, Pinecoffin and Nafferton, who represent contrasting personalities within the British colonial administration in India. Pinecoffin is a diligent Assistant Commissioner with a strong interest in agricultural development, particularly regarding pigs, while Nafferton is a more cynical and manipulative figure who seeks to exploit Pinecoffin's enthusiasm for his own amusement. The conflict begins with a horse sale that leads to a rivalry between the two men. Nafferton, seeking to undermine Pinecoffin, concocts a scheme involving pigs, claiming that they could significantly reduce food costs for the British Army in India. He cleverly entraps Pinecoffin into providing extensive information about pigs, knowing that Pinecoffin's dedication to his work will compel him to comply. As Pinecoffin delves deeper into the subject, he becomes increasingly absorbed in the minutiae of pig breeding, distribution, and agricultural implications. Nafferton, meanwhile, continues to manipulate the situation, requesting more and more detailed reports, which Pinecoffin dutifully provides. This leads to a series of absurd exchanges, with Pinecoffin producing lengthy documents on various aspects of pigs, while Nafferton feigns earnestness and concern for the project. The situation escalates when Nafferton, feeling secure in his manipulation, complains to the government about Pinecoffin's lack of cooperation, framing it as a failure to support a potentially lucrative industry. This results in Pinecoffin being reprimanded and pressured to continue his work on pigs, despite his growing frustration and exhaustion. Eventually, Pinecoffin's efforts culminate in a public embarrassment when Nafferton publishes a sarcastic critique of Pinecoffin's work in a newspaper, mocking his scholarly approach to the subject. This betrayal leaves Pinecoffin feeling humiliated and betrayed, as he realizes he has been used as a pawn in Nafferton's game. In the end, Pinecoffin confronts Nafferton, expressing his discontent over the public ridicule. Nafferton feigns sympathy, suggesting they are even due to their mutual grievances. The story concludes with a sense of unresolved tension, highlighting the absurdity of bureaucratic life and the often petty rivalries that can arise within it. The narrative serves as a critique of colonial administration, showcasing the absurdities and trivialities that can dominate the lives of those within it.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1925 · Genre: Satire, Fiction, Humor