When gambler Jay Partridge rigs an election and becomes sheriff of Rhyolite County, he has big plans. From now on, he'll get what he wants--including rancher Bill Raine's daughter, Norma. When Cole Bridger, the owner of the Fishhook spread, saves Bill Raine from a sniper's bullet, Sheriff Partridge tries to arrest him for murder! The evidence proves that the sniper shot first, so Partridge has to let Cole go. Now strange things are happening to Cole. He finds Fishhook cattle with obviously altered brands; then his missing horsehair riata turns up as a clue in a murder. This time, when Partridge arrests Cole, it looks like there won't be a reprieve.