The stage Hondo and Angie are on is attacked by comancheros lead by Rodrigo. When Rodrigo discovers there is no payroll he takes Angie hostage, demanding a $3,000 ransom. Hondo returns to Fort Lowell and attempts to raise the ransom but falls well short. Captain Richards says he cannot assist as that would mean going into Mexico. Hondo rides out to keep the rendezvous with Rodrigo, which is in Mexico, while Buffalo Baker rides to Col. Crook to see if he will help. Angie's presence in the comanchero camp arouses jealousy in Teresa, Rodrigo's girl, and she attempts to kill Angie. Hondo arrives but it is soon discovered he does not have the $3,000 and Rodrigo is ready to hang him until Hondo tells him of a $10,000 Army payroll being transported in the U.S. the next day. Hondo and Angie are taken along on the payroll holdup and during the attack on the pay wagon Teresa again tries to kill Angie. Hondo has to try and rescue her and fend off Rodrigo at the same time.