The Cartwrights all live on their ranch, the Ponderosa, near the new silver mining town, Virginia City. Virginia City sprang up practically over night when gold, then silver was found in what became known as the Comstock Lode. Ben has little to do with mining. He respects the land and will do nothing that can't be easily replaced. Joe escorts Lotta into town and asks if he can see her after her performance. She doesn't disagree.