This novel takes place in the pioneering days of the USA. A wagon train is moving slowly westwards. At the head are three persons: A young woman called Clara, riding her horse; a man of about 55 years; and another man, Richard Rouzee, aka Dusky Dick. This man is the guide, but his reputation is not the best as he is reputed to have lost two of the wagon trains he has guided.

This novel opens in Mexico on a hacienda when Manuel Navaja rushes into the compound shouting a warning about the spotting of Indian braves. Everyone rushes towards safety and the inner doors to the hacienda are fastened securely. Soon they are shaking under the pressure of repeated attack.

The story is set in Texas and features the Kiowa Indians, brigands and robbers. As the story opens, a group of young men all under 30 are enjoying the spoils of a good day of hunting deer and buffalo. One of the group is trying to persuade the others of something he has seen.