Texas Fists

Introduction

“Texas Fists” is a story of adventure, camaraderie, and rivalry, narrated by Steve Costigan, a sailor on the Sea Girl.

The story was probably accepted circa March by Fiction House. It was published in the May edition and Howard earned $75 for the story.

Howard mixes action with a touch of romance and humor, set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Texas and Mexico, showcasing the rugged landscapes and the equally rugged individuals who inhabit them.

Summary

After a brawl in Tampico, Mexico, Costigan is approached by a group of cowboys from the Diamond J ranch, who are in search of a strong fighter to take on a formidable opponent from a nearby mining company. Despite initial reluctance, Costigan is drugged and taken to the ranch, where he agrees to fight after a series of misadventures and a demonstration of his unwillingness to be coerced.

The central event is Costigan’s bout with Snoots (Biff) Leary, an old acquaintance from Galveston, now working for the mining company. The fight is intense, evenly matched, and interrupted by an attack on the mine by the bandit Lopez the Terrible and his gang. The subplot of Lopez’s attempt to kidnap Joan, the ranch owner’s daughter, adds a layer of drama and showcases Costigan’s and Leary’s heroism beyond the ring.

The story concludes with Costigan and Leary, despite being wounded, deciding to finish their fight, underscoring their competitive spirit and mutual respect. The tale is punctuated with humor, the themes of loyalty, and the valor of standing up for friends and what’s right.

Characters

  • Steve Costigan: The protagonist, a sailor and skilled fighter with a strong sense of justice and loyalty.
  • Snoots (Biff) Leary: Costigan’s old friend and rival from Galveston, working for the mining company.
  • Slim: A cowboy from the Diamond J ranch who initially recruits Costigan to fight for them.
  • Joan (Miss Joan): The daughter of Bill Dornley, the owner of the Diamond J ranch, and the love interest of the story.
  • Lopez the Terrible: A bandit leader who tries to kidnap Joan but is thwarted by Costigan and Leary.
  • Menly: The manager of the mining company and organizer of the fight.
  • Diamond J Cowboys (Red, Tex, Joe, Yuma, Buck, Jim, Shorty, Pete, and the Kid): Cowhands of the Diamond J ranch who support Costigan.
  • Bill Dornley: Owner of the Diamond J ranch, mentioned but does not appear in the story.
  • Mike: Costigan’s bulldog, mentioned as part of his circle but does not play an active role in the plot.

Alternate title:

SHANGHIED MITTS.

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