Introduction
UNTITLED STORY Untitled story (It was the end of the fourth round.). 700 words unfinished.
Appeared as THREE PERILS OF SAILOR COSTIGAN which consists of this story and two others:
UNTITLED STORY (“I had just hung by sparring partner, Battling O’Toole…”) and UNTITLED STORY (“The night Sailor Steve …”).
Summary
In this gripping fragment, Steve Costigan, a formidable boxer, finds himself in a tense situation during a match against One-Round McGarley. Amidst the chaos of the fight, Steve’s cornerman, Flathead Richards, a well-meaning but somewhat clueless figure, informs Steve about a missed note from Miss Melicent Lynch, who wishes to see him urgently at the Elite Hotel. Realizing the note is from his wealthy great-aunt Melicent, the only family member with substantial wealth, Steve’s motivation skyrockets. Despite being in a difficult spot in the match, the thought of his great-aunt waiting ignites a fierce determination in Steve.
In a swift and decisive action spurred by the desire to meet his great-aunt, Steve channels his frustration and anger into a powerful comeback, swiftly knocking out McGarley. Without even waiting for the referee’s count, Steve rushes to the dressing room, changes at a record pace, and makes a beeline for the hotel, leaving the audience and a reporter bewildered by his sudden burst of performance.
Characters
- Steve Costigan: The main protagonist, a tough and resilient boxer with a deep respect and affection for his great-aunt.
- Flathead Richards: Steve’s cornerman, who, despite his lack of finesse and occasional blunder, delivers crucial information about Miss Melicent Lynch’s note.
- One-Round McGarley: Steve’s opponent in the ring, who becomes an unwitting obstacle in Steve’s rush to meet his great-aunt.
- Miss Melicent Lynch: Steve’s wealthy great-aunt, whose unexpected desire to meet with Steve spurs him into action. She is portrayed as a successful businesswoman with a strong personality and a selective fondness for family members.
- Mike: Steve’s loyal white bulldog, who follows him out into the street, underscoring Steve’s companionship and support outside the ring.
- Clement Fitzmalley: Mentioned as a second cousin of Steve, disliked by him, who also resides in London and is part of the larger family dynamic involving Aunt Melicent’s fortune.
Published in:
- THE HOWARD REVIEW #2, Dennis McHaney, March 1975 (see above)
- DENNIS DORGAN, NeO, July 1987 (French)
- THE PERILS OF SAILOR COSTIGAN, Dennis McHaney, December 1987 (see above)
- THE KING-SIZE HOWARD REVIEW, Dennis McHaney, 1987 (see above)
- THE BOOK OF THE HOWARD REVIEW, Dennis McHaney, June 2009 (see above)
- THE COLLECTED BOXING FICTION OF ROBERT E. HOWARD: FISTS OF IRON, REH Foundation Press, June 2013
- THE BOOK OF THE HOWARD REVIEW, Old Tiger Press (Dennis McHaney), August 2021 (see above)