Two shoeshine girls and a newspaper vendor survive in the Mapocho neighborhood of Santiago. While looking for better luck, Maruja becomes involved with a businessman who helps her become a famous singer. Meanwhile, the two shoeshine boys happen to come across some money from a bank robbery, changing their luck.

The owner of a ranch pretends to a woman who is in love with a young blacksmith and spur craftsman. Because of his jealousy, the owner threatens the young man to pay a high mortgage to continue living on his ranch.