The book begins with Hunt and Beth adopting Tabitha, then takes John Ewing to Indiana, where he’s taught the art of pig farming. Hunt and Beth enjoy a day in Indiana with Clover and Mary, Beth’s sister, before returning to Denver with Tabitha and setting up her trust with the Bank of Denver. The men confront Hunt about Lester Barlowe, the man they had delivered to the prison in Canon City. The deputies are convinced that Lester does not belong in prison and ask Hunt to do what he can to secure a reversal of the sentence. Hunt goes to Judge C.W. Crawford and asks for help. Lester is returned to Denver for a new trial with the Chief Justice from Washington. Razer has taken a liking to Catherine Waters, the widow of Deputy John Waters. The feeling is mutual. Shortly after Razer left for Chicago, Catherine Waters began working at Lawson’s Cafe, awaiting Razer’s return. Walker’s dog, Scar, attacks a rabid coyote and is isolated at the veterinarian’s clinic to be sure he isn’t infected. A madman, thief, and murderer is being chased by the California U.S. Deputy Marshals. Hunt sends his men to Utah, attempting to block the criminals’ escape. The Purgatory River Ranch is attacked by a notorious Mexican gang that leaves no one alive. The rancher’s daughter and four hired hands were away from the ranch during the attack and returned to find the home burnt and Ma, Pa, brother, and six ranch hands dead. With the help of the U.S. Cavalry, Hunt sends his men to the ranch to follow the tracks and try to save the cattle before they are slaughtered and then skinned for their hides. U.S. Deputy Marshal Bridge wants to buy a ranch and needs a wife. He falls in love with a young widow who plays hard to get. Bridge falls in love with the Purgatory Ranch girl when she is brought to Denver, buys her a diamond ring, and asks her to marry him. She demands that certain conditions be met before she marries him.