To prevent a blood feud between the Kers of Slitrig and the Johnstones, a wrestling match is arranged in which each family will be represented by a chosen contestant. With Cessford to gain most in the middle, and the two families fighting to win or nobble each other's champion, it is a wonder the bout ever gets into the ring. But it does, and the honour of the Kers is satisfied at a terrible cost in blood.