When Broncho Billy leaves home to take the office of sheriff, his dad's parting words are, "My boy, no matter what happens, do your duty." Shortly after his father has a quarrel with a surveyor, who refuses to stop trespassing on his property. Broncho's dad shoots him. The wounded man's pal rushes to Broncho Billy's office and demands that he arrest his father. After some hesitation Broncho remembers his father's parting words, and decides to do his duty. When he goes to his home, the old man threatens to shoot him, but is prevented by his mother. He at last consents to go to jail. After locking him safely in a cell, Broncho resigns as sheriff. Meanwhile the wounded man has regained consciousness and writes a note to Broncho telling him that his father fired in self-defense. Broncho is overjoyed and hastens to the jail where he breaks the glad news to his dad.