This story takes place in the year 1880. Facing the turmoil of being placed in an orphanage, thirteen year old Jeff McNeely makes a life altering decision for himself and his six year old sister, Hilary. He hides Hilary in the back of Judge Ben Noble's wagon, making a promise to her that some day he will find her again. This story follows the sorrows and triumphs of that decision as the two children work toward being reunited again.