RE: Beast Shape - I agree with GlassEye on this one. Since the authors go to the trouble to specify that "If the form you assume has any of the following abilities, you gain the listed ability: climb 30 feet, fly 30 feet (average maneuverability), swim 30 feet, darkvision 60 feet, low-light vision, and scent," my read would be that things they did not put on the list aren't granted.
RE: Francis John - every character is granted a "re-working." I can't find the section in the wiki right off hand, but the intent is for just this situation. "Oops, I'm not sure what I was thinking when I made that particular choice!" It seems like mechanics are fair game for a re-write, but background has to remain the same. Any other judges who can lay hands on the specific rules or process for this please feel free to chime in!