Retired wealthy sea captain Jim McKay arrives in the vast expanse of the West to wed fiancée Pat Terrill. McKay is a man whose values and way of life are a puzzle into ranch foreman and this ranchers Steve Leech takes an immediate dislike for him. Pat is selfish, spoiled and controlled by her wealthy father. The Major is included in a ruthless civil war, over-watering rights with a roughhewn clan. The land involved is owned by Julie Maragon and Terrill and Hannassey need it.