A screenplay set in a fictional frame, this tale of two generations offers a questioning take on the western. Eager to head up the thriving enterprise her father made of his pioneer ranch, Hallie Bonfield returns home from school in the East to find trouble waiting. As a former romance with her ranch manager, Ken McKenna, reignites, she learns he intends to confront a neighboring rancher in a likely fatal encounter. Appalled, she strives to deter him and prevent the outbreak of a feud, but is caught up in emotions that allow latent violence to smolder. Her parents' story holds a family secret that lies at the root of hostility. A letter reveals it, but leaves open the question: will forces unleashed by unresolved wrong exact full requital?