Comes a Horseman

Aging cattle rancher Jacob William Ewing is deeply affected by the death of his son, who died during World War II. The funeral is a tense affair, showcasing the strained relations between him and rival rancher Ella Connors.

After the funeral, Jacob confronts Ella about her decision to sell parts of her land to war veterans Frank and Billy Joe. Despite acknowledging her resilience, he proposes marriage in an attempt to gain control over her land, but she firmly rejects him.

Back at the Ewing ranch, family friend Neil Atkinson suggests drilling for oil to help revitalize their struggling cattle business. Jacob, however, is confident that he will soon acquire Ella's land without needing to resort to such measures.

As night falls, Frank and Billy Joe camp on their newly acquired land. They face harassment from Jacob's henchman, Emil Kroegh, which escalates into violence, resulting in Frank stabbing Kroegh in self-defense.

The next day, ranch hand Dodger discovers the aftermath of the violent encounter and brings the injured Frank to Ella. Feeling responsible for the turmoil that Frank and Billy Joe have experienced, she tends to his wounds.

Ewing confronts Frank with the sheriff, revealing his role in the assault but offering him a deal to avoid charges in exchange for his land. Frank, however, refuses the offer, determined to stay and work with Ella despite the risks.

After witnessing Ewing driving cattle across Frank’s land, Ella takes matters into her own hands, creating a stampede to protect their interests. This bold move signifies her growing resolve in the face of adversity.

As their partnership develops, Ella and Frank grow closer, and she reluctantly agrees to formalize their business arrangement. They face new opportunities, including potential interest in oil deposits on Ella's land.

News of Dodger's accidental death linked to oil testing shocks Ella and deepens her sense of loss. This tragedy pushes her to confront painful memories of a past affair with Ewing, fueled by vengeance against her father.

Feeling threatened by Ella and Frank's success, Ewing resorts to sabotage of their business. During a catastrophic thunderstorm, they face a disaster at their cattle pen but work together to avert catastrophe.

The season culminates in tragedy as news of Neil's tragic death in a plane crash reaches everyone, leading to increased tension. With impending foreclosure looming, Hoverton comes to Ewing to discuss the critical situation.

Ewing, in a fit of rage, demands Ella sell her land, but she firmly refuses, stating he would have to kill her first. Her unwavering stance indicates her determination to protect her home and legacy.

In a shocking moment, Ewing reveals Hoverton's corpse in Ella's home, leading to a chaotic fire as he attempts to destroy evidence of his wrongdoing. This incident escalates the conflict to a deadly level.

Just in time, Frank revives to help Ella escape from the burst of violence. They leap out of a window as gunfire erupts around them, demonstrating their courage and commitment to each other.

In the poignant conclusion, Frank and Ella return to the ranch determined to rebuild their lives together. Their journey through loss and resilience marks the start of a hopeful new chapter, free from Ewing's turmoil.