Fernandez, an old Spanish grandee, maintains a kingdom back in the hills that he rules with an iron hand. His vast wealth has accumulated during a long career of smuggling. Some of Fernandez men clash with the cowboys employed by Ace Brent, western empire builder. They return to their stronghold leading a thoroughbred horse, the pet of Barbara Brent. Barbara, accompanied by her father and the son of Brent’s best friend, descend upon Fernandez to demand the return of the horse. Admiring their boldness Fernandez grants their demands. Later when he learns from his lieutenant that Barbara has discovered that he is a smuggler he rushes a force of men after the Brent party. Barbara and Tom are captured. Tom is put on the torture rack. Barbara pretends to faint and when the Spaniards leave the chamber she loosens Tom’s bonds and they escape. Pursued they take refuge in a cabin which is surrounded by the men of Fernandez. They are rescued by the cowpunchers who have been warned by Barbara’s wounded father. The government is warned of the smuggling and vengeance is meted out to the proud old grandee.