makes him a blood-brother. Vittoro insists that a brave child should have a father, and leaves. Hondo returns to the fort and sees Buffalo Baker (Ward Bond), a fellow scout. He reports to the major that C Troop was wiped out by Apaches and has an encounter with a settler angry that the cavalry is not better protecting the settlers. In a saloon, Hondo gets into a fight with the same settler. Baker later tells Hondo the man is "Ed Lowe" (Leo Gordon); who he realizes is Angie's absentee husband. Meanwhile, Vittoro, sure that Angie's husband is dead, gives her an ultimatum to take an Apache husband by the rainy season. The next morning, Ed Lowe accuses Hondo of stealing his horse, seeing the "EL" brand. His friends defend Hondo, who immediately leaves to return the horse to the ranch. Upset about the fight and horse, Ed follows Hondo to bushwhack him. While camped, Hondo is set upon by Apache, who also attack Ed. In the confusion, Hondo saves Ed's life, but when he turns his back, Ed draws on him, and Hondo kills him. He finds Ed was clutching a photograph of Johnny, which he takes. In the ensuing chase, the Apache capture and torture Hondo for information about the cavalry's movements. When Vittoro sees the photo of his blood-brother, he decides to subject Hondo to a one-on-one fight to the death with Silva, whose brother Hondo killed. Hondo is victorious, but lets Silva live; the Apache drop Hondo off at the ranch, where Angie lies about him being her husband. Hondo and Angie grow close as he recuperates. Hondo attempts to reveal the truth of her husband's death, but is interrupted by Vittoro's return. The chief tells them that the pony soldiers will soon come. He asks Hondo to mislead the cavalry as a test; Hondo refuses to lie, and Vittoro is satisfied. Angie admits she loves Hondo and they kiss. The next day, the cavalry arrive at the ranch and expect Angie to leave. She and Hondo refuse. While they camp, another scout blackmails Hondo for his Winchester rifle - he says he will tell Angie how Hondo killed Ed if he doesn't give him the rifle. Hondo punches him, but Angie overhears. The cavalry eventually leave and Hondo stays behind. Hondo prepares to go, but first tells Angie the truth about her husband's death. He also