After his wife`s death, José de Sousa marries D. Maria, a bourgeois lady who elevates her little step-daughter Claudia with contempt, while allowing her natural daughter, Luísa, all wishes and luxuries. Claudia is brought up mainly by Berta, a servant. When Luisa and Claudia come to adulthood, D. Maria schemes in order to present her daughter to the very rich Viscount of the Royal Manor. Will Claudia`s beauty and good spirits prevail against D. Maria`s cunning?