 Two families are on opposite sides of a kidnapping case. Walter Gretzler and his nephew Norman have abducted John Graham, youngest son of retired industrialist Marshall Graham. Walter, a long-time criminal, used a police car at Norman s garage to cause John Graham to stop along a rural road. Philip Graham, Marshall s estranged, oldest son, is forced to make decisions for the family when Marshall Graham suffers a stroke while returning to the United States from Europe. Philip doesn t want to pay a $300,000 ransom; he feels his brother will be killed the moment any money is paid. Philip, though is unsure and leans on Erskine. The FBI inspector tells Philip he can t make the decision for him. Meanwhile, Colby and other FBI men are tracking down who stripped John Graham s abandoned sports car, hoping for clues that will help track down the kidnappers. Walter Gretzler, at the same time, is ready to kill John Graham, ransom or no ransom.