1860 - The tumultuous Pre - Civil War period. A beloved race horse, a river boat and a family business await two orphaned teenagers in San Francisco. Getting there in time to save the family inheritance challenges Sara and Aaron Robbins' faith and "can do" spirit. Seventeen-year-old Sara, an avowed Suffragette, and fifteen-year-old Aaron agree to stow away abused friend, Peggy O'Neil. Their good deed brings the pursuit of Peggy's brutal stepfather, who vows revenge. A fourth teen, White Hawk, a Cheyenne Indian, joins the journey when he seeks to avenge his brother's murder. The decision to help the injured White Hawk brings new dangers and reveals the fears and prejudices of the period. Accepting stagecoach passage from handsome Cass Bartlett, a young man on a secret military mission, adds romance and adventure. This is a story of youthful courage, faith lost and found, the pursuing of dreams and promises in spite of the dangers of the journey.