Small detachments of soldiers were sent to build and man the garrisons on the far flung reaches of the frontier. They were often attacked by hostile natives and bands of outlaws, and had to endure both freezing winters and blazing sun. Although they did their job well, they may not have succeeded without the help of the masked rider himself. As today's story opens, it is midwinter, a storm is raging, and Jerry - a deserter from the fort - seeks refuge at the home of his mother...