As the morning sun slips over the ragged peaks of a distant range, the stage coach rolls along the dusty, narrow road bound for Pleasant Dale. Looking very pale from the constant rocking, is California Carlson. Hopalong riding at his side, is pretending not to notice his pal's plight. The other passenger, evidently a scholar, dozes peacefully in his seat. Not for long though, after Hoppy discovers their stage and horses are running away, driverless!