Jeffords studies the ways of the Apache and tries to persuade officials to understand the plight of the Indian, not slaughter him. In an attempt to accomplish through talk what weapons cannot, Jeffords confronts Cochise, Chief of the Apaches. Mutual respect leads Cochise to guarantee the safety of the Pony Express riders through Apache Territory. Later, when the Army seeks to open the Arizona territory to settlers, Jeffords arranges a treaty with Cochise and receives the Broken Arrow, an ancient Apache token of peace, friendship, and understanding. Jeffords is appointed as the of Cochise.
