Ben Wade is a famous gangster. Born to a drunk and a lady of easy virtue, he is abandoned by his mother shortly after his father's death. However, he is unusually smart and well-mannered for a bandit, and easily quotes the Scripture. He is also an unscrupulous and cunning murderer, a good shot, a charming womanizer, and a natural leader. His gang believes him, obeys him and is ready to stand for him in trouble; they don't question his authority even when he shoots one of his own men. Ben is constantly on the run; he's got a large reward on his head; but he escapes every time, sometimes even out of jail. He knows the weaknesses of human nature and how to use them; but he also has respect for truly strong personalities.