San Ildefonso is a small border town in New Mexico. Its existence dates back to well before the Mexican War after which it became part of the Mexican territories ceded to the United States. Its prize possession has always been the existence of water, and its inhabitants are not in the least concerned with distant governments. Lzaro Guardia is in charge of the way station of the Forthright Stage & Freight Company of San Ildefonso. When renegades from below the border attempt to raid and seize San Ildefonso, Lzaro assumes the rle of el jefe, leader of the defense. Faced with adversity, their lives and families threatened, the residents of San Ildefonso respond with hope and extraordinary courage.