Giovanni used to be a humble, mild-mannered government clerk, but his life was turned upside-down when he met Giulio. a notorious forger who at once set about manipulating the overconfident man. Giovanni did what he never should have: associated himself with the crook. Giulio soon got hold of Giovanni's money, ruined his career, and manhandled him into marrying his own mistress, the beautiful Ginevra. The marriage was unhappy, but Giovanni found a little solace when his son Ciro was born. Seven years later, Giulio returns.