A local miner's son returns to Medicine Bow from college with the technical knowledge and financial backers to reopen his father's silver mine. Due to financial constraints, corners are cut putting people and cattle in danger.

A feud between ranchers and a railroad tycoon result in murder charges against a rancher when the tycoon's son is killed. Ryker and the Judge try to prove his innocence but must rely on a woman who disappears deserted by the murdered man.