Charles is pleased with the results of his grand opening at the store in Denver. During the return to Philadelphia, he asks Ghost to begin traveling with him. They have problems that must be worked out between them. Charles and Ghost build a relationship, and Charles takes him on many trips so Ghost learns how to work with others, and understand how the businesses operate. Trouble in the new Chicago to New York track job forces Charles to investigate. Blank is already on site and Ghost travels with Charles to see how his father settles an explosive situation that could soon get out of hand. Disturbing news of a small wagon train massacre leaves Charles worried that the Sioux could be in danger. The election is over, and Abraham Lincoln has been elected president. The south is threatening to withdraw from the Union, and before long, Fort Sumter in South Carolina is bombarded by Confederate Soldiers. Fear reigns high, and Charles's businesses begin to suffer. Charles is devastated when he learns that his son has run away from home to join the army to fight in the civil war.