Night of Battle

Introduction

“Night of Battle,” also published as “Shore Leave for a Slugger,” thrusts Steve Costigan into a whirlwind of adventure and misadventure in Singapore. First published in Fight Stories in March 1932. Howard earned  $60.00 for the story. Published again with the byline Mark Adam in the same magazine in the Fall 1942 issue and the title was changed to “Shore Leave for a Slugger“. See also “Night of Battle (synopsis)“.

Through a mix of brawn and bravery, Costigan and O’Brien navigate the treacherous underbelly of Singapore, fighting not just for personal gain but for justice. The story, rich with Howard’s signature blend of action and humor, highlights themes of loyalty, courage, and the thin line between friend and foe in the lawless ports of the Orient.

From the letters

In a letter (#183) to Tevis Clyde Smith, November 1931 we learn:

I sold Byrne a Costigan story recently — $60 this time. He’s been cutting my rates steadily. By God, if he falls below that, I’ll give the series to Street & Smith — and I suppose get it rejected. I thought when he hit the $75 level it was the limit.

The story was most likely “Night of Battle” which he got $60.00 for. Sent to Fight Stories circa October/November 1931.

Summary

The tale begins with Costigan brooding over his ill luck in Singapore, a premonition that soon unfolds into reality. He is set to box Black Jack O’Brien but finds himself ensnared in a deeper plot involving Johnny Kyelan, a young barkeep who uncovers the identity of the nefarious Black Mandarin, the mastermind behind a series of crimes in the Orient. Johnny, seeking refuge and protection, turns to Costigan, entrusting him with a significant sum of money before Costigan heads to his fight, leaving Johnny locked in his room for safety.

The boxing match between Costigan and O’Brien ends in a draw, marked by sheer brutality and an undying fighting spirit from both contenders. After the fight, the plot thickens when Costigan and O’Brien, united by circumstance, search for the vanished Johnny and their wagered money. Their quest leads them to Kerney’s Temple of Chance, a gambling den, where they confront Bad Bill Kerney himself. In a dramatic turn of events, Costigan demolishes Kerney through the wall into a secret room, revealing Johnny, bound and gagged.

The climax unfolds with a frantic brawl against Kerney and his gang, punctuated by the timely arrival of the police, led by the valiant actions of old Bunger, a seemingly inconsequential character who rises to the occasion. The revelation that Kerney is the Black Mandarin and the master criminal behind the gang ensnares the villains in the law’s grip, thanks to Johnny’s testimony.

Characters

  • Steve Costigan: The protagonist, a sailor and boxer, known for his fighting prowess and sense of justice.
  • Black Jack O’Brien: Costigan’s boxing opponent, who later becomes his ally in the quest to save Johnny and retrieve their money.
  • Johnny Kyelan: A young bartender who discovers the identity of the Black Mandarin and seeks Costigan’s protection.
  • Bad Bill Kerney: The antagonist, a gambling hall owner and the leader of the criminal gang known as the Black Mandarins.
  • Mike: Costigan’s loyal white bulldog, who plays a critical role in the climactic fight.
  • Old Bunger: A former pickpocket turned friend, who helps alert the police during the final showdown.
  • Ace Larnigan: Manager of the Arena where Costigan and O’Brien box.
  • The Police: Authorities who arrest Kerney and his gang, thanks to the efforts of Costigan, O’Brien, and Kyelan.
  • The Sea Girl: Steve Costigan mentions this ship as not being in port at the time, indicating his affiliation with it, as is common in his adventures. The Sea Girl is often the vessel on which Costigan serves and represents in his boxing matches across various ports.
  • The Water Snake: Black Jack O’Brien’s ship, which, like the Sea Girl, is not in port during the events of the story. O’Brien’s connection to the Water Snake mirrors Costigan’s to the Sea Girl, setting up a rivalry not just between two men but potentially between two crews as well.

Alternate title:

SHORE LEAVE FOR A SLUGGER.

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