Chapter 2: Inside Out

I believe I know, or knew Tiger well enough, to accurately guess how his mind would work and how he would eventually decide, no matter how conflicted he feels. A tiger doesn’t change it’s stripes. Even though it’s been decades since I last saw or talked to Tiger, I doubt he would dramatically change inwardly.

Where does the story go next? Tiger has been placed hypothetically in a quandary of self conflict. He is at a crossroads. Decision point. Does he or doesn’t he continue with the enticing proposition and gain it’s fiduciary reward? There are several paths Tiger can choose.

Basically, on it’s face, it seems there are only two alternatives, refuse or accept. If we modify those choices with a bit of chicanery and misrepresentation tossed in, then the options multiply. Tiger could accept on face, but in his secret heart, plan to betray or entrap the child pornographers. Bring in law enforcement at the opportune time to catch them with their pants down, literally.

Tiger could experience a change of heart some time later. Start with agreeing to the proposal,with every intention of following through, then become so offended and disgusted, he might call the law!

Other scenarios can be imagined, but additional conflict arises with any of these trickery options. Tiger’s personal sense of honor is triggered. Tiger is a man of his word. Does what he promises, and sticks to his promises.

Even though Tiger has little respect left for Mr. Tynsall, and neither do I, he still has a legal and moral commitment to his employer. He must guard and protect the employer’s interests. If he doesn’t, he will feel ashamed to collect his paycheck. Tiger isn’t by nature, a fraud or a thief. Tiger is a warrior first, and applies that intense do or die tenaciousness to every endeavor. That is how we beat the odds and successfully crossed the Atlantic with ancient worn-out equipment easily rationally condemned as unfit for the voyage.

Enough of this shill-shallying indecision. Tiger would give up the million dollar lease, offered directly to him, as not rightfully his.

“Mr. Tynsall? A business opportunity has presented itself, I can’t in good conscience accept or recommend, but neither should the decision be mine to make. A cartel of child pornographers want to lease Speedy and the barge as a hotel, film location, and base of operations. They offer a one million dollar, one year lease. The equipment will remain stationed in Abidjian. No plans to move it.”

“Where are these people originally from? Do you have any additional information? More details would be helpful.”

“The three scouts that arrived yesterday evening and stayed aboard last night, are from Albania, Turkmenistan, and the Ukraine. No details known about their bosses or companies home base, except I presume, they’re also from within the former USSR.”

“A million dollars for a one year lease? Any chance of renewing after a year?”

“Possible. Wasn’t discussed.”

“Why didn’t you call with this information sooner, last night?”

“Offer extended this morning and the phone only available now.”

“This is something I should handle in person. I’ll advise you, or have you notified of my itinerary and flight arrival time. See you in a few days. Keep them on the hook. Don’t commit, but suggest a deal is highly likely. A million bucks is a strong enticement. What did the offer you, as go between?”

“They offered the million to me personally.”

“And you were too honorable and kicked it up to me? Your loyalty will not go unrewarded, Tiger. Thank you.”

“We will see how magnanimous Mr Tynsall is, if the deal is made. Tiger still has to decide if he will hang with the boats if they’re chartered to people that he despises. The decision point is merely kicked a bit further down the road.

After arranging for catering and bar service, Tiger reports back aboard. Informs the scouts.

“Boss is flying over in a few days. The decision is out of my hands. Hospitality arrangements are made, should be here within hours. Girls are your own problem. I’m not a pimp. “

Tiger’s decision to stay or not to stay, wasn’t postponed for long. Mr Tynsall was seduced by the million dollars, agreement was reached, contracts were signed. Tiger is on the spot.

Hope you enjoy this story.