Thu, Sep 16, 1965
Thirteen years after his family was run out of town by the wealthy, formidable bank owner Will Varner, Ben Quick returns to Frenchman's Bend, Mississippi to reclaim his family's farm and put an end to Varner's vise-like grip on the town's residents. Meanwhile, intent on seeing his daughter Clara married, Varner encourages a romance between her and the dull but socially acceptable Duane Galloway. Much to Varner's chagrin, Clara shows more interest in Ben Quick, and the attraction is mutual.
Thu, Oct 21, 1965
Ben wanders onto the farm of Lonnie McBain and his sister Sharon and becomes involved in their fight to hold on to their property which Varner wants for the construction of a sawmill. Though they're being offered alternate land and a canceled mortgage, the McBains want to stay since it's the only place Sharon, a deaf-mute, feels comfortable and safe. Minnie manages to soften Varner's resolve, though it may not be in time to stop an act of violence.
Thu, Nov 4, 1965
Former resident Scott Manning, a celebrated professional football player, comes home to Frenchman's Bend and receives a hero's welcome by the adoring town. Clara isn't so welcoming, though. She and Manning were once involved, and unknown to her, he plans to rekindle their romance in an effort to get his hands on the Varner fortune.
Thu, Nov 11, 1965
Ben finds himself pursued by the needy, emotional Vicki Sue Dane, daughter of determined senator Jonathan Dane. Ben ends up jailed after Vicki falsely accuses him of trying to molest her. She's also attempting to conceal a letter from her father sent by the headmistress of her school.
Thu, Nov 18, 1965
In dire need of help with his harvest, Ben hires itinerant workers Buck and Leona Mills, a brother and sister team who share with him the same troubled relationship with the Varner family. The Millses once defied Will. He's never forgotten, and Ben's support of them creates tension in a tenuous arrangement they have.
Thu, Dec 2, 1965
While Will is away, old family friend Roger Lake arrives in Frenchman's Bend for a surprise visit with the family. He's carrying tickets to South America and a cache of money. Unknown to Clara and Jody, he is also involved in the manhunt for a murderer, but a suspicious Ben is on hand ready to protect Clara.
Thu, Dec 9, 1965
Martha Ross, an elegant, worldly writer, hires Ben to remodel her lodge, and the two develop an attraction to one another. After Martha loans Ben the money he needs to beat Varner in a business deal, her unmentioned husband Jim arrives on the scene and takes issue with her relationship with Ben.