Two war orphans, Joseph, apprentice printer, and Lisette, typist, live with their grandmother in Belleville. Lisette loves his next door neighbor, the painter Amedee, but this one does not offer him a union. Joseph Amedee learning is the son of a general, advocates for Lisette and everything ends in marriage.

Two navy ensigns, Manuel d'Astures and the Viscount of Brazza, nicknamed Boy, return to Spain after a long mission at sea. The latter is surprised to find his father with a woman he hates instantly. Soon afterward, he falls for a countess, whose lavish lifestyle ruins him. Unfortunately, the lender from whom he has just borrowed money is murdered and Boy is suspected.