Double-Cross

Introduction

“Double Cross” is a powerful story by Robert E. Howard that showcases themes of racism, betrayal, and redemption through the world of boxing in a small Southern town. The story’s main character is Ace Jessel, an African American heavyweight boxing champion who returns to his hometown seeking acceptance and camaraderie but instead finds prejudice and a scheme to ruin him.

Based on the description in a letter to Tevis Clyde Smith (letter #149 in Collected Letters V2), probably around December 1930, this story is based on a fight between Joe Goddard and Joe Choynsky. Joe Goddard fought Joe Choynsky three times, twice in 1891 for the heavyweight championship of Australia (Goddard won both), and once in Philadelphia in 1898 (no decision). The story was rejected. Here’s an extract from the letter:

I’m not surprized that Byrne turned down the story. Like all my work, it was weak in plot construction. Few action stories have a plot worth a damn, but how the authors get by with them, I don’t know. I can’t. Perhaps the editors resented the touch of realism in the action. The fight was simply a dramatic description of the Goddard-Choynsky bout with a few changes, such as the ending; in the first fight Goddard eventually won by his rough tactics; flinging his body against Choynsky and crushing him through the ropes weakened the lighter man so much Goddard knocked him out later in the bout.

First published in Bran Mak Morn: A Play and Others (Cryptic Publications, 1983).

The story “Double Cross” is a vivid illustration of Howard’s ability to weave complex themes of honor, racism, and personal integrity into the fabric of a boxing tale, set against the backdrop of the American South’s deeply entrenched racial prejudices.

The Story

Ace Jessel, longing for his roots, returns to his small Southern hometown with his manager, John Taverel, to face a community that has changed. Despite his global fame and sportsmanship, he’s met with coldness and hostility due to racial prejudices. His former acquaintances, both white and black, treat him with suspicion and distance, leading to his decision to leave. However, before departing, Ace is tricked into a rigged boxing match designed to disgrace him and strip him of his title.

Ace’s encounter with Clive Damor, a white man from his past now fallen into disgrace and alcoholism, adds depth to the narrative, exploring themes of downfall, friendship, and racial barriers. Despite their shared history, societal norms and Clive’s pride initially keep them apart.

The boxing match is set against Ace, with the entire setup – from the opponent, Dmitra Kamanos (previously known as Battling Hansen), to the officials – arranged to ensure his defeat. Unbeknownst to Ace, the match is not a friendly exhibition but a carefully laid trap to humiliate him publicly. The twist comes from Clive Damor, who, moved by Ace’s loyalty and integrity, reveals the plot, enabling Ace to confront his situation with dignity and strength.

The climax unfolds in the ring where Ace, despite the odds, fights not just for his title but for his honor and the respect of his people. The match, filled with foul play and dishonesty, ends dramatically when the lights are cut at a critical moment, saving Ace from a counted defeat. It’s revealed that Clive orchestrated the blackout as a last-minute rescue.

In the aftermath, Ace’s victory is more than a physical triumph; it’s a moral victory over those who sought to undermine him based on racial prejudice. Clive, inspired by Ace’s character and resilience, decides to turn his life around, having bet on Ace and won enough to start anew.

Characters

  • Ace Jessel: The African American heavyweight champion of the world. He is depicted as a dignified, honorable man who faces racial prejudice in his hometown. His character represents resilience, integrity, and the struggle against societal and racial barriers.
  • John Taverel: Ace’s manager, who supports and protects him. He is skeptical of the hometown visit and the boxing exhibition, acting as a voice of reason and caution.
  • Clive Damor: A white man from Ace’s past, now a drunkard and outcast. His character arc from a disillusioned fall to redemption, aided by his rekindled friendship with Ace, highlights themes of personal downfall and the potential for change.
  • Aaron Gold: The unscrupulous promoter of the rigged boxing match. He symbolizes the corruption and deceit Ace faces in his quest for acceptance.
  • Dmitra Kamanos (Battling Hansen): Ace’s opponent, known for his dirty fighting tactics. His role in the plot is to physically challenge Ace and to serve as an instrument in the scheme to discredit him.
  • Joe Cameron: A respected sportswriter who intervenes during the boxing match to ensure fair play. His character represents the voice of justice and authority in the narrative.

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