A Western based on the true-life story of Jim Beckwourth, born the son of a gentleman and a slave, who went West as General Ashley's blacksmith on a trading expedition and stayed. After distinguishing himself in battle against the Blackfeet, he was claimed by the Crow, among whom he married and lived for a number of years, taking part in raids on the whites. Later adventures included horse-running, store-keeping and gold mining; he died an army scout. Non-fictional in treatment and handled with care.