When Chris Beth said 'Yes' to a struggling country minister's proposal, life seemed almost too good to be true. Could it last? The settlers in their little Oregon community could scarcely afford a resident preacher's salary, and Chris Beth's teaching contract would soon end. Another separation. More adjustments. Threatening and captivating adventures reveal the heartaches and joys of real pioneer life - wagon caravans of starving people rumbling through frontier territory, fear of Indian uprisings, drought, plagues of grasshoppers, and the faith and commitment of people shouldering heavy burdens in a common bond of love. Even present and strengthing their arms to hold each other up is Love's Silent Song.