It is early evening, and the full moon rising in the east is obscured by swiftly gathering storm clouds, casting the open range land into deep shadow. Protected by the darkness, Hop, Tank and John Temple lie flat on a small rise of land overlooking the ranch house of Carlos Mendes, where they're assured Gail Nolan is being held prisoner. As the thunder growls overhead, the boys observe the activity around the ranch house, planning their next move...