What unfortunate truth did Kumalo learn from the elderly man and, despite this, why did he trust this second stranger enough to get on the bus with him?

Answer 1

In Alan Paton's novel "Cry, the Beloved Country," the protagonist Stephen Kumalo, a rural Zulu pastor, learns a harsh lesson about the dangers and deceit in urban Johannesburg. When Kumalo first arrives in the city in search of his son Absalom, he encounters an elderly man who offers to help him. Unfortunately, this man takes advantage of Kumalo's naivety and steals his money. This experience is a painful introduction to the treacherous aspects of city life and leaves Kumalo wary.

However, later in the story, Kumalo encounters another stranger, a young man named Msimangu, who is also a minister. Despite his previous encounter, Kumalo decides to trust Msimangu for several reasons. First, Msimangu demonstrates an understanding of Kumalo's dire situation and offers genuine assistance. Msimangu's demeanor and position as a fellow clergyman make him appear trustworthy and compassionate. Additionally, in a larger context of faith and hope, Kumalo recognizes that he cannot navigate the complexities of Johannesburg alone and thus must place his trust in others, despite the risks. So, he opts to get on the bus with Msimangu, hoping that his trust will be well-placed this time.