Plot Summary:The wagon train passes through a drought stricken area on the way to Fort Mescalero where they plan to restock the water supply. They spot the drunk Dr. Colter Craven and his wife stranded with a broken axle and wheel. The doctor was asked to leave Fort Mescalero but the couple is forced to go there with the wagon train. Adams soon discovers the doctor is an alcoholic but still has some medical skills. At Fort Mescalero the owner Park Cleatus wants to gouge the train for water asking $25 per barrel. Adams decides to only water the stock continuing on to the river. Cleatus is hoping the train will abandon property on the way which he can collect. Hawks finds a steep but passable shortcut to the river saving the train. Creel Weatherby has a pregnant wife about to give birth but she needs a C-section to save her and the baby. Dr. Craven says he is unable to operate due to mental stress he suffered in the Civil War at Shiloh. Adams tells him a story about a friend who had a drinking problem but overcame it - Ulysses Simpson Grant. After listening to Adams and drinking a pot of coffee, Dr. Craven is ready to operate.
