The humble little cabin in the great Gila Wilderness of New Mexico Territory is more than a home to Evan Shelby. It's his last chance for life. He was diagnosed with tuberculosis and his condition was considered hopeless until he moved out here. It's been six months now since he showed any symptoms, and he's come to love the land and people in this little ranching community. But he's not the only one who loves the land. A major Texas cow outfit just opened a land office, and they plan to start a huge cattle ranch. They're not offering much money for folks' land, but they have plenty of hardcases to help convince people to sell. His friends have asked Evan to help, but as the invaders clash with the locals and tensions keep mounting, Evan may have the toughest battle of his life in front of him.