Minko, a storekeeper in "The Black River" logging camp courts his assistant Sevda. He goes down to the town hoping to be with her on New Year`s Eve. There he spots his wife Donka arriving from the village. Minko keeps out of sight and Donka sets out for the "The Black River". The lorry driver Dobri joins her. During the long and difficult journey over the snow-covered mountain, the two are attracted to each other. When Donka slips, he embraces her and makes love to her. Minko and Sevda celebrate in the town restaurant. He has bought her a coat. There is an argument and Minko gets involved in a fight. Donka and Dobri reach the camp. Dobri is sorry and in order to make up for it, he fetches Minko. As a present Minko gives his wife the coat which Sevda has returned to him after the quarrel. In the pockets, Donka finds someone else`s lipstick and handkerchief. She leaves her husband. Dobri offers her a fresh start. There is no reply. Day is breaking.