The Night of the Tottering Tontine

Tontines were an investment instrument that used to be popular before 1900. People got together and pooled money, which was then invested to provide the promised dividends to the surviving investor(s). No dividends were paid until the end of the policy period, which might be anywhere from 10 to 25 years. Contrary to what is implied in the story, tontines did not automatically last until the last surviving member claimed the proceeds. They first gained popularity in Europe, where many governments used them to raise money without having to resort to more unpopular choices like raising taxes. After the late 1800's they fell out of favor, and are now outlawed in many countries.

When the tree is blown up, it clearly falls in front of, and not on top of Gordon. Further, Gordon never falls off of his horse. Yet, when West goes to the tree from the other side, Gordon clearly emerges from right under the tree.