This story and these characters could have been another "Lonesome Dove", but Larry McMurtry wanted us to "show him the money". This is an an epic short story that could have been developed into a true epic novel. The quality of the writing is right up there with "Texasville" and you will die laughing on several occasions. On the bright side for Mr. McMurtry, it is perfect for a movie instead of a mini-series, so he'll reach a much larger, royalty paying, audience.