Cole Yancey decides to move from St. Louis to California in 1869 to be closer to the family already arrived and settled in the West.

He joins a group of other emigrants tracking from East to West for various reasons.

Two damaged souls are driving the McCain schooner: Oliver, who has contracted tuberculosis; and his daughter, Janetta, who has contracted a pregnancy. In late January she had been attacked and assaulted. Now, four months later, she has managed to conceal her condition and has concocted a story about it. A widow, making a fresh start, will be more acceptable to rigid moralists.

Cole Yancey has stumbled upon the fact that Janetta's cooking is far superior to the camp cook. Also, he enjoys Oliver's company. As often as possible, he joins the McCains for supper.

After a mob action incited by an un-reverend Reverend who knows about Janetta's pregnancy, the McCains separate themselves from the main caravan, out of danger's way.

And Cole decides to accompany them.

As Oliver's frail health declines even more, as Janetta's pregnancy advances in clumsiness and bulk, Cole is burdened by worrisome responsibility. Chief of which is to get this little band safely to California, which will demand every ounce of expertise and courage.