Janek, a poor clerk, falls in love with Zosia Grzybek, who comes from the small town of Budy. From the very beginning, her parents are hostile towards their daughter's partner. Soon, the girl's parents inherit a substantial sum of money. Thanks to this, they go to Warsaw to introduce their daughter into society and to enjoy the attractions of the big city themselves. Janek also goes to the capital, where he meets a man named Lopek, who is well versed in the social life of the capital. Lopek is supposed to help Janek win the hand of his beloved, but his services always cost 10% of the profits from the venture.