12. Thirteen Steps

Complete story — includes the ending

The casino is converted into a courtroom, where Ruth pleads guilty to mortally shooting Sidney. Despite a written statement from Cullen stating she protected an officer of the law, Ruth is sentenced to hang. Cullen begs Campbell to pardon her, as a hanging would serve no purpose. Campbell offers to do so, if Ruth accepts the pardon, which she doesn't. Louise informs Campbell of the article that she is publishing about his kangaroo court. He says Ruth made her decision, but Louise asks if Sidney's appointment as marshal and his burning of the church were also Ruth's decisions. Campbell asks if Ruth should be made a saint; Louise is still deciding on a devil. Cullen's attempts to change Ruth's mind prove futile. Ruth professes to love Cullen but said she remained quiet when he returned with his new family. She tells him to always choose family and to go to them. The gallows get constructed in the town square, and Ruth is hanged. Campbell asks Louise to not print the article, or their relationship will end. She chooses the former. The steam shovel gets tested and works. Durant tells Cullen to wire General Grant that the summit will be reached by month's end. Cullen replies, "I quit."