In the Old West, a man named Ross McEwen robs a bank without using violence, taking only what he needs to settle a family debt. He leaves an IOU promising to repay the money, which baffles both the bank officials and the pursuing sheriff, Pat Garrett. Traversing a rugged landscape, Ross evades a posse of determined lawmen by adopting various disguises and employing his wits. The chase intensifies as he encounters various characters, including a kind-hearted nurse named Fay Hollister, who unwittingly aids him, unaware of his criminal act.

As Ross continues his journey, he struggles with his moral compass, knowing that Fay believes in his inherent goodness. He also encounters rancher Monte Marlin, who becomes suspicious of his motives. The intertwined fates of these characters escalate tension and moral dilemma, highlighting themes of justice, redemption, and the complexities of human nature. Through a series of challenging and revealing situations, Ross is forced to confront his own values while evading capture, leading to unexpected consequences that challenge everyone's perception of right and wrong.