The One-Way Trail: A story of the cattle country

"The One-Way Trail: A Story of the Cattle Country" by Ridgwell Cullum is a tale unfolding in the tough Montana cattle lands, depicting the interconnected lives of cowboys and ranchers facing challenges of affection and aspiration. The narrative begins by highlighting Jim Thorpe, a contemplative supervisor haunted by his history, and Dan McLagan, a bold rancher with aspirations of building a cattle empire. The initial discussions between them after a cattle drive uncover opposing world views as Jim wrestels with romantic feelings for Eve Marsham, complicated by the rival attentions of his own cousin, Will Henderson. The initial scene creates a landscape of devotion, backstabbing, and intense emotional turbulence amid the imposing backdrop of the cattle business revealing themes that underscore the difficult aspects of life.