Regarding loads of the period in which Taylor was writing, these are the velocities reported in 1935-1950 ads/catalogs/etc:
38 auto: 130 grain bullet at 1,000 fps
38 super: 130 gr. bullet at 1,250 fps
38 Special: 158 grain lead RN at 770 fps
38 special hi-speed: 150 grain metal piercing bullet at 1175 fps (primarily intended for the 38/44)
45acp (military ball): 230 fmj at 860fps
45 acp (metal piercing): 230 grain pointed fmj at 940 fps

Unless he got into some of the experimental loads (as were used in the development of the .357 magnum), a handloader of the period would be unlikely to exceed these velocities. I've got notes on some casual experiments with these bullets on heavy bone and skulls, if anyone is interested.