The Quick and the Dead

Synopsis

First published in 1956, but still relevant and thought-provoking today, this book is an absolute revelation on test flying with the British aircraft organisations and manufacturers in the 1950s. Written from the pilots viewpoint, with refreshing candour and honesty which allegedly cost him his job at the Daily Express this account details what really went on behind the scenes in the defence world. Waterton pulls no punches in recounting the non co-operation of civil servants and designers in improving/altering recognised faults (often minor) when developing aircraft to the cost of lives lost. Mainly centring on his work with the mighty Gloster Meteor and the Javelin interceptors, this is an astonishing insight into the workings of the aircraft industry. Uncomfortable reading for many, it was seen by his supporters as a wake-up call at a time when British ingenuity and prowess were being overtaken by the Americans and Russians.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Riders

* Summary:
* The Mattson family, led by John Herod, arrives in the frontier town of Redemption.
* They are greeted by Ellen, the town's only doctor, and Valentine Case, a professional gunfighter.
* Real Example:
* John Herod's imposing physique and ruthless demeanor foreshadow his antagonistic role in the town.

Chapter 2: The Shadow

* Summary:
* Ellen learns from Herod that he intends to take over the town and impose his rule.
* Real Example:
* Valentine Case's cryptic warnings to Ellen about Herod's true nature hint at a brewing conflict.

Chapter 3: The Law

* Summary:
* Billy, Ellen's alcoholic brother, drunkenly confronts Herod in a saloon, leading to a violent altercation.
* Real Example:
* Billy's reckless challenge to Herod demonstrates the fragile order in Redemption and the potential for chaos.

Chapter 4: The Execution

* Summary:
* Herod executes Billy in front of the town, asserting his authority and igniting deep resentment.
* Real Example:
* Billy's public execution serves as a stark symbol of Herod's brutality and the suppression of dissent.

Chapter 5: The Duel

* Summary:
* Valentine Case challenges Herod to a duel, hoping to avenge Billy and restore justice.
* Real Example:
* The high-stakes duel represents a pivotal moment in the conflict between Herod's tyranny and the town's yearning for freedom.

Chapter 6: The Aftermath

* Summary:
* Case wins the duel, killing Herod and restoring a fragile peace to Redemption.
* Real Example:
* Case's victory is a testament to the power of courage and the indomitable spirit of the town's people.

Chapter 7: The Legacy

* Summary:
* Redemption attempts to rebuild after the violence, but the scars of the past linger.
* Real Example:
* Ellen's continued efforts to heal the town and foster reconciliation symbolize the resilience and hope that can emerge from even the darkest of times.