Sailing ships with all their masts and sails were quickly disappearing in the 1800's. They were being replaced by the new steamships for traveling by sea, carrying mail and passengers. The old wooden hulls were soon replaced with iron for more strength and durability. Many steamships of the day either had side or rear paddlewheels for propulsion while others were beginning to use steam driven props. Along with the development of passenger travel by sea, many of the steamships featured grand saloons, elegant heavy wooden furniture and beautiful cabins. For those who could afford it, there were private cabins and specialty accommodations on the upper decks. The steamships accommodated passengers on long and short cruises, providing many things for the passenger's enjoyment including fine food, drinking and gambling. Because of two lawmen's curiosity and interest in a poker game on a very fine luxurious steamship, Marshal Michael Creek and his deputy find themselves in a situation where they can get paid to enjoy a cruise. But it soon becomes apparent that it could also cost them their lives.