It was a time in the 1800's when sailing ships with all of their masts and sails were quickly disappearing. They were being replaced by the new steamships for traveling by sea, carrying mail and passengers. The old wooden hulls were soon replaced with iron for more strength and durability. Along with the development of passenger travel by sea, the steamships accommodated passengers on long and short cruises, providing many things for the passenger's enjoyment including fine food, drinking and gambling. When two lawmen's curiosity and interest in a high stakes poker game on a very fine luxurious steamship becomes too great, Marshal Michael Creek and his deputy find themselves in a situation where they can get paid to enjoy a cruise. It soon becomes apparent that it could also cost them their lives.