The life of small country nobles before the revolution. Old Bekina decides to remarry. His son fears that the meager inheritance will be shared with the birth of a new child, but the father does not care. Platon then decides to find the "ideal" woman for his father: a childless widow, who is also sterile. He is accompanied in his quest by Kirile who thinks only of eating and drinking. Elene Bregvadze seems to be a good fit in every way. Plato takes her home. The wedding takes place and soon, Elene gives birth to a son.
