The Empty Coffins

As the nineteenth century winds down, and the Wild West comes to an end with it, many new issues begin to emerge. The influx of humanity forced Westerners to change the way they lived their lives, and how lawmen enforced the law. And not in a small way, because with the arrival of all those “civilized” people also came a new brand of criminal. This book exemplifies the transition the men behind the star faced as they moved forward toward a new century.

Matt is finally released to return to activity by Dr. Killebrew—as long as he takes it easy. But before he can even think about convalescence, Matt and his entire family face a veiled threat of death unless he resigns as sheriff. After mulling things over, Matt decides to do the only thing he knows—find the head of the snake and cut it off.

Joined by Judge Robert Mason, Chief Deputy Lalo Cantu, and all three of their wives, they follow the only clues they have and head for Austin. Once there, their investigation takes them through a web of corruption involving all levels of the populace—from the bordellos in “Guy Town” to the halls of the Texas state capitol. As they close in on those wanting Matt out of the way, assisted by a small group of concerned locals, Matt adopts new techniques, new procedures, even new armament. Will crooked political influence and power end Matt’s career, or his life? Or will law and order prevail?