Viggi Störteler publishes literary products under the pseudonym "Kurt von Walde" and sees a chance for success in a romantic correspondence with his wife Gritli. During a four-month stay in Berlin, he writes her turgid love letters, which she is supposed to answer wittily. Gritli, however, feels unable to find appropriate words and knows no other way to help herself than by a little trick: she copies Viggi's letter, signs it with her name and slips it without comment to the young village teacher Wilhelm. He believes it is a romance and replies promptly. His reply letter is sent to Berlin with Gritli's handwriting. More love letters follow. Viggi Störteler is delighted by his wife's talent - until he discovers the true author after his return.