Bert Verbloeme has survived the war but lost the love of his life. Now he suffers from a depression and has to learn how to live a meaningful life again.

An elderly judge crosses paths with a young delinquent who looks exactly like his dead son. He decides to help him where he can but the boy betrays his trust by escaping prison and turning to crime once again. He flees to the house of the judge who supplies him with an alibi for a robbery turned murder. The judge knows he is putting his career at stake but he feels it is worth it for the boy’s sake.

Twelve year old 'Boefje' spends most of his time in the alleys, on rooftops and in the harbor of Rotterdam. A local clergyman takes pity on him and attempts to teach him good manners.

Merijntje Gijzen is a small boy growing up in Brabant, in the south of the Netherlands. One day, out on one of his walks, he meets infamous poacher 'De Kruik,' and the two become friends. De Kruik is in love with Janekee but she is more interested in the new village policeman.