In which we are introduced to the idyllic village of Symford, with its quaint characters and picturesque cottages, where the earnest Mr. Fritzing arrives seeking a peaceful home for his niece, Priscilla, whose radiant presence enlivens the dusty farm. His attempts to secure their dream cottage meet with brusque resistance from the imperious agent Mr. Dawson, whose brusque manner and staunch defence of the estate's tenants presage a subtle clash of wills.