Science Fiction Short Story Review: "The Big Fix" by George O. Smith

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Wally Wilson was playing poker with his friends Phil Howland, Chicago Charlie, and the Greek. It’s just before the Kentucky Derby. Normally, one’s ability to read people is helpful in this game, but in this particular world, everyone is a telepath to some degree. And everyone has some ability to block. So you wouldn’t think crime would be much of a problem in general. How could anything be concealed? The boys are so engrossed in their game they don’t notice the approach of Tomboy Thompson, who enters the room without knocking. The Greek swears “something he never read in Plato.” “You, Wally Wilson,” the Tomboy says around a cigar in her mouth, “get these grifters out of here. I got words.” The Greek challenges her. “Who says?” “Barcelona says.” No one need ask who Barcelona is. His buddies have no problem leaving now, especially since Wally has just won most of the pot. Tomboy Taylor tells Wally Barcelona wants to see Flying Heels, Moonbeam and Lady Grace in the Derby next month. He doesn’t have to ‘fix’ anything. Just see those horses take the top three spots in that order. Barcelona doesn’t know much about horse racing, but he’s heard that Wally knows all there is to know. Wally knows enough to realize those horses won’t even get near the finish line. This is a silly, funny little story, involving a drunk and an officer of the law. (Not the same person, in case you’re wondering.) Much of it is tongue-in-cheek and a lot of it is exaggeration, but cute exaggeration. I trust I give nothing away when I say the bad guy gets his comeuppance and Wally gets the girl. This novelette is available from Librivox and from Project Gutenberg. @sol_cee This is NOT horror. @celticeagle This is funny. _____ Title: “The Big Fix” Author: George O. Smith (1911-1981) First published: Astounding Science Fiction Dec. 1959 Source: ISFDB