Montana 1984 Len McAuley Larry Watson

Len McAuley  “At one time Len had been a heavy drinker, given especially to week long benders when he would plunge so deeply into a drunken gloom that it seemed unlikely he would ever climb out.”  “Len McAuley was stepping through the hedge that divided our property from his. He was hatless, barefoot and his dungarees were riding low on his hips. His shirt was untucked and unbuttoned, flapping open in the wind. Even at a glance and from a distance, I could see how rib skinny and pale his torso was, But there were ropey strands of sinew along his arms.”  “When grandfathers term expired, his deputy, Len McAuley, would serve a term; after Lens term grandfather would run again, and this way they kept the office in proper hands.” Quotes About Len

Len McAuley  Alcoholic  Caring  Reliable  Aged  Scruffy  Skilled

Len McAuley  What is Len McAuley’s Appearance? “He was tall, gaunt stoop-shouldered, shy, and soft spoken.” He is in his sixties.  What are his Strengths and Weaknesses? His Weakness is his alcoholism. He is reliable and skilled with a gun  What does the character think/say about themselves? He owes the Hayden family, He also thinks he’s a true peace officer because he knows when to look and when to look away. He knows he is capable of being sheriff.  How does the character act and react? He reacts very quickly and doesn’t lose control in high pressure situations.

Len McAuley  Is the character associated with particular settings or personal possessions? His gun, as he is skilled with it and used it to help the Hayden family.  What beliefs and values does the character have? He believes in not breaking the law and enforces that. He also holds his friends very highly, like David’s family.  Describe his personality He is honest and reliable, even though he has an alcohol problem.  What do other characters say/think about him? David thinks of him as his grandparent, more than his actual grandfather.