When Kimble applies for a road construction job, one of the owners, Alex (Pat) Patton, played by actor Jack Warden, recognizes him. Overruling the other owner, Pearl Saunders, played by actress Celeste Holm, Pat hires Kimble. The two owners have a complex, antagonistic relationship and Kimble is used as a pawn in their disputes. Pat also has medical problems he wants Kimble to treat privately. Pearl wants Kimble gone, but Pat is blackmailing Kimble to make him stay.
Pat has a history in the small town of Caldwell, Nebraska, and is hated by the townspeople. Actor Harold Gould plays a town official who harasses Pat. Using an assumed business name, Pat is building a luxury hotel, even though the town is small and not near a freeway. The riotous actions of the townspeople bring police to the scene. The hatred of the townspeople, the secret plans of Pat, the involvement of police, and the desperation of Pearl cause danger for Kimble.
Pat has a history in the small town of Caldwell, Nebraska, and is hated by the townspeople. Actor Harold Gould plays a town official who harasses Pat. Using an assumed business name, Pat is building a luxury hotel, even though the town is small and not near a freeway. The riotous actions of the townspeople bring police to the scene. The hatred of the townspeople, the secret plans of Pat, the involvement of police, and the desperation of Pearl cause danger for Kimble.