Fleeing a loveless home, young Jack Brady hitches a ride with Rajid, travelling tinker and raconteur.    For thirteen deprived years he'd only known his small conservative town, now the world beckoned.   That world, filled with violence and intolerance has its moments of reprieve.  First the vivacious Eleanor takes him under her wing (and into her bed), then it's a stint on a gambling riverboat, rigorous months trapping in the northern wilderness and years living with the local Sioux, as fearful and hunted as he is, but with so much more to lose.   After years of looking over his shoulder he reaches the town of Independence.  He prays this is an omen.