The Civil War and Return to Missouri

The Civil War is drawing to a close, and Barton and Tallman Edwards return to their Ozark home and a dim future.

Attempt at Gathering Wild Cattle

They decide to try their hand at gathering wild cattle in South Texas. After an aborted start, thanks to some creative horse trading, they return to Missouri long enough to dispose of their slim holdings.

Challenges and Conflicts

From that start, they find themselves in almost constant fights with overbearing Yankee soldiers, rustlers, thieves, Indians, and the constantly changing weather.

Dream of Establishing a Ranch

Their dream of establishing a ranch in the mountains of Texas fuels their fighting spirits, and they are determined to see their dream to fruition.