At the eve of Crimean war orphaned Regina lives with her grandmother in a small cabin near a lavish villa. As the summer approaches there is great anticipation of a big ball to be held.
The priest's daughter, Vappu Kankare first irritates and then admires the ambitious habitant, Jalmar "Jali" Kinnunen. After the studies, Vappu and Jali get married, but the marriage is disappointing.
