Johann Heinrich von Manfred, a former Prussian militarist known as El Tigre for legendary action in the developing southwestern United States, is now a wealthy banker and ranch owner. Because of problems resulting from misunderstandings about the treaty of Guadalupe Hildago, he must defend his property first by gun and sword, followed by more politic means dictated by the changing mores of society. Coincidentally, he must deal with bank problems, and no sooner prevails than he must return to Prussia to aid his sister whose estate is being threatened by political maneuvering by Otto von Bismark's governmental agency against her missing husband.

The story again depicts vibrant action ranging across two continents and provides a tale of familial loyalty and of a deep love that extends through the years.