Page 25 - Unlikely Stories 1

Madagascar Madness

Jewry to this backward island have been the answer, a new beginning
for an ancient people? Would they have used their skills and
intelligence to transform Madagascar into a modern nation,
integrating with the local population in a partnership of self-interest?
We’ll never know, because in 1942, Britain fought a naval battle here,
landed troops and defeated Vichy. The Free French took over, and
the Madagascar Plan was abandoned. News from Europe became
spotty—but now you have confirmed the result: instead of
transporting Jews they murdered them. It was madness to hope that
salvation and refuge could be found here for our people. Madness.”
“But you, sir: what did you do when Vichy took over?”
“I left this place and joined guerillas deep in the forest. It was
there I contracted malaria. It went untreated, of course. I am dying.
That is why I will not be traveling back to the States with you, young
man. There will be no antidote in my final chapter. Leave me here, in
peace, with my secrets.”
Private Seidell stood up, shaking his head to clear it. Had that
beverage been slightly alcoholic?
“I don’t know whether to believe you or not. Certainly no
one back at HQ will believe me! In my opinion you are mentally
unbalanced. Perhaps you really are a Romanian. But your physical
deterioration is obvious: you would not survive a trip on these dirt
roads back to town. If you have no American ID, then I am not
obligated to report your existence. So I can honor your wishes as well
as my duty. Goodbye.”
He saluted the old man, fallen silent after the effort of a long
conversation. Then he turned, walked carefully back to his jeep, and
drove away as fast as he could from the compound and its madness.

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