Scratchy Wilson will have his day. When word gets around that Sheriff Jack Potter is arriving on the afternoon train with his bride, Scratchy intends to raise all kinds of hell.
Published in 1898, Craneโs story was indicative of the growing sentiment for the American West. The rather pedestrian name of Potter for a gun-slinging protagonist may seem atypical of the Western genre. However, a Mr. Robert Potter signed the Texas Declaration of Independence. Also, in 1888, Archibald Gunterโs best-selling novel Mr. Potter of Texas was widely read, whoโs historically based titular character was the clichรฉd heart of gold, ranger, Congressman, cattleman, sheriff type of guy. So, in 1898, the name of Potter was a legendary symbol of a frontiersman who helped to pave the way of civilization in the American West.
B.J. Harrisonโs authentic and textured narration brings a greater depth to this American classic.