Jesse Bodine and Kate Haverill were enjoying a beautiful spring day when a sudden storm caused them to take shelter near the banks of a stream. From their hiding place, they witness the murder of Jesse s uncle, who was returning from the West with a pouch of gold. An already restless Jesse decides it s time to head west and make his own fortune. Kate s brother Ransome decides to go with Jesse, but a hurt and angry Kate tells him she won t be waiting for his return.