Captain Evan H. Shelby, a graduate of West Point with a distinguished military career, was retired from active service when he contracted tuberculosis. His condition was considered hopeless – until he went west to occupy a humble cabin in the great Gila Wilderness. Now he has been without symptoms for half a year – and another six months could mean a cure. Shelby has come to love the Rosita farming and ranching community. Then a major Texas cow outfit opens an office there, intending to buy out landowners and create a massive cattle ranch. The money they are offering is anything but generous, and they have sent several hardcases into Rosita to support their front men. Shelby develops a friendship with Lucinda Holloway, head of the cattle outfit. But tensions are mounting as the invaders clash with the locals…