In 1881, former Army Lt. John Haven (Dick Powell) acts as a secret government agent on a covert mission to investigate the theft of numerous gold shipments. Haven confides his mission to Capt. George Ilse (Tom Powers), who is doubtful over the shifty Haven's intent. Haven agrees to report his results to reliable gold mine owner Mary Caslon (Agnes Moorehead), then searches for the town's financier, Charlie (Jane Greer), whose nefarious dealings immediately bring her under suspicion.