The war has come leaving in its wake a chasm between North and South, turning friends and brothers into enemies.

When Paul Bristol returns home from Europe, he knows his involvement in the war is inevitable, though reluctant.

Lowell Rocklin, Clay's youngest son, encounters General Longstreet, who understands the South's current dilemma and encourages Lowell to make an observation balloon for the Confederate army.

Seeking an escape from the monotony and drudgery of days-on-end army life, Frank Rocklin, an actor, approaches his commanding general with a bold plan to spy on Vicksburg and assess its military condition.

It's such a peaceful February in the Rockies that no one realizes hundreds are still dying as the Civil War rages on in the South.