en Cuevana 3. The Fidalgos da Casa Mourisca are ruined. Poor management and the pride of D. Luís have led the estate to this situation. However, Jorge, the eldest son, is not happy with this and decides to ask for help from a farmer who has prospered: Tomé da Póvoa. Tomé da Póvoa has a daughter who was educated outside the village and is now returning home. Jorge falls in love with her. But the proud and inflexible D. Luís, Jorge's father, does not agree with either Jorge's proposed economic recovery plan or his passion for a commoner.