A Thunder of Trumpets

Introduction

“A Thunder of Trumpets,” a collaboration between Robert E. Howard and Thurston Torbett, appeared posthumously in the September 1938 issue of Weird Tales. The story combines elements of adventure, romance, and the supernatural, set against the exotic backdrop of India.

The advertisement in the preceding issue of Weird Tales declared:

Robert E. Howard’s part in the story is the last fiction that flowed from his inspired pen before his untimely death. (Weird Tales Aug 1938).

Summary

The story begins with Bernice Andover, a young woman from New York, being thrown from her horse during a thunderstorm in the jungles near the palace of Jhundra Singh. As she recovers from the fall, an old, decrepit tiger approaches her. Before the tiger can attack, a man named Ranjit appears and drives the beast away simply by looking into its eyes. Ranjit, tall and handsome, is mysterious and powerful, immediately capturing Bernice’s interest.

Ranjit escorts Bernice back to the palace, where she is staying with her fiancé, Sir Hugh Bradberry, and her Aunt Cecelia. Sir Hugh is negotiating oil concessions with the local prince, Jhundra Singh, but the process is fraught with political and religious tensions.

Bernice is fascinated by Ranjit and spends much time with him, exploring the jungle and ancient ruins. Ranjit’s presence and words have a profound impact on her, making her feel alive and connected to a deeper reality. However, she remains unaware of the true nature of his powers and his connection to the spiritual realm.

As Bernice and Ranjit’s relationship deepens, Sir Hugh becomes preoccupied with his negotiations. Meanwhile, Jhundra Singh faces opposition from various religious and political factions, complicating the oil deal. Bernice’s feelings for Ranjit grow, but she is torn between her duties and her desires.

One day, Ranjit confesses his love for Bernice and reveals his true nature. He explains that he has lived for centuries, mastering mystical arts and seeking spiritual enlightenment. He struggles with his feelings for Bernice, as they conflict with his spiritual path. Despite his internal conflict, he decides to renounce his spiritual aspirations for her sake, believing it to be his duty to support her.

Bernice, overwhelmed by the revelation and her feelings, is unsure of her love for Ranjit. As they prepare to confront Sir Hugh, a riot breaks out in the village, orchestrated by rival business interests and religious extremists. The mob attacks the palace, and Sir Hugh is injured. Ranjit uses his mystical powers to disperse the rioters, revealing his true strength and otherworldly nature.

In the aftermath of the riot, Ranjit realizes that he cannot be with Bernice, as their worlds are too different. He lifts the veil of illusion, showing Bernice his true, ancient form. Shocked and repulsed, Bernice understands that they can never be together. Ranjit disappears, leaving Bernice to care for the injured Sir Hugh. She returns to the palace, accepting her life with Sir Hugh and the limitations of her reality.

Characters

  • Bernice Andover: A young woman from New York, engaged to Sir Hugh Bradberry, who finds herself drawn to the mysterious Ranjit.
  • Ranjit Bhatarka: A mystical figure with extraordinary powers, who falls in love with Bernice and struggles between his spiritual path and his feelings for her.
  • Sir Hugh Bradberry: Bernice’s fiancé, a British businessman negotiating oil concessions with Prince Jhundra Singh.
  • Aunt Cecelia: Bernice’s stately and conventional aunt, who accompanies her niece and Sir Hugh to India.
  • Jhundra Singh: The local prince, caught between his desires for wealth and the pressures from various political and religious factions.
  • The Tiger: An old, decrepit beast that threatens Bernice before being driven away by Ranjit.

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