The nephew of President Hayes has been murdered in Crows Creek so he orders the Governor to hire a first class Marshal, someone with a proven track record for solving crimes. Unfortunately the best person for the job is Daniel Wheetman, an Englishman who has no experience of the West; he cannot ride or shoot, and his abrupt manner and lack of social skills would only mean a quick and violent death. So a rough tough cowboy called Murphy is hired to keep the Marshal alive. Daniel is under the misconception that all villains will automatically surrender once challenged by an officer of the law, whereas Murphy has a 'shoot now ask questions later' policy. Together they take on a powerful Cattle Barron and a corrupt Sheriff.

John Vale has been living in sunny Blackpool by the Sea since 1952 and has had various occupations; ranging from digging worms for fishermen to being a college lecturer.He has written a book about The Beatles and two novels in the Rhodri Williams detective series and has; what can be considered, a healthy interest in boats