Set in 1835-36, this historical novel portrays the transition between America's fur trading era and the migration. The four main characters represent the mountain men of the era and the "newcomer" breed. The story also describes the challenges faced by the first newcomers and their conflicts with the culture and the elements, and the immeasurable contribution of the mountain men to the opening of the west. Readers should note that the novel was discovered after the author passed away and remains in draft form.