Over the Alps in Italy lay the heavyweight boxing championship of Europe, secure in the possession of fierce Erminio Spalla. Undaunted, huge Piet Vanderveer of Holland journeyed to Milan, undressed, put on his fighting gloves, attacked the champion. An enormous crowd of Italians, no less demonstrative than most of their countrymen, loosed vociferous cheers as first one big man and then the other launched staggering blows. Piet rushed the fight. Erminio beat him back. On came Piet again, pummeling, fighting close. Erminio thumped him solidly. By the 20th round honors stood even. Then Erminio fell upon brave Piet in a final burst of violence, won the decision, retained his title. The crowd made known its pleasure.
More Must-Reads from TIME
- How Canada Fell Out of Love With Trudeau
- Trump Is Treating the Globe Like a Monopoly Board
- Bad Bunny On Heartbreak and New Album
- See Photos of Devastating Palisades Fire in California
- 10 Boundaries Therapists Want You to Set in the New Year
- The Motivational Trick That Makes You Exercise Harder
- Nicole Kidman Is a Pure Pleasure to Watch in Babygirl
- Column: Jimmy Carter’s Global Legacy Was Moral Clarity
Contact us at letters@time.com