A man attempts to steal Blue's horse but Buck stops him only to learn he is an old friend of Buck's from wilder times. The man Tracy Conlin is nearly dead from the heat but recovers at the High Chaparral. John sensing he is wanted which Buck confirms asks Buck to have him leave. Tracy who once saved Buck's life asks for more time, a horse, and $50 which Buck does not have but agrees to. While trying to purchase supplies in Tucson, John and Victoria are told they can no longer purchase supplies as Fey Leyton has bought all the stores. She hates the Montoyas for refusing her husband water leading to them selling High Chaparral and her husband's death. when a bartender refuses Buck, Blue, and Tracy drinks, Tracy pulverizes the bouncer catching Leyton's eye. She offers him a job to run the Cannons off High Chaparral. He takes the job but her ideas on how to do it prove too weak. He tells her John and Buck will have to be killed to get the ranch. She agrees to his demand for half the ranch along with a business and personal relationship. Tracy clips John on the head with a rifle shot. Buck catches Tracy but when Tracy knocks him out, it is Blue who must end the fight - for good.
—Anonymous