In a small Mediterranean port, Lionel, a kind-hearted athlete, saves a young woman in dire straits who was about to kill herself. He is assisted by William Chaminade, a vet whose business is failing and who provides emergency first aid to the suicide candidate. The victim explains to them that if she tried to take her own life it is because of her husband who did not fulfill his conjugal duties any longer. She 'd rather be dead than sink into the dishonor of adultery.