Kirk Severn of the K7 Ranch shields Dick Chase, an archaeologist, and his wife, Esther, from the inexplicable pursuit of the ruffian crew who work for Warde Taylor, boss of the Bar T spread. When Hilda, Taylor’s daughter, learns that her father is behind the efforts to kill them and Kirk too, she is both unhappy and mystified, for she loves Kirk and trusts him.

What is the secret that has led Esther Chase into such great danger? How is it that Esther and Hilda look so much alike? Where does the lynching of the bandit Pecos Jack, twenty years before, fit into the puzzle? And who is El Topo, the scourge of the cattlemen?

Hilda and Kirk have many a close call before the riddles are unraveled and the guns silent.

Mystery tightens the suspense in this novel of hard-riding, fastshooting days in the Territory of New Mexico when friends could be counted on until death - and so could enemies.