The railroad is debating whether to build a new line into North Fork or into Center City. The townsfolk of North Fork want the rail line and elect Lucas to go to Yuma and speak with the railroad company on the town's behalf. In the meantime, Dave Stafford, a con-man who's been hired by the wealthy Mr. Britton to ensure that the railroad line goes to Center City, tries to find a way to be named as the town's representative instead of Lucas. When Lucas learns he is heir to the will of a notorious outlaw killed recently, the town begins to doubt Lucas' worthiness to act as their representative.