Since the capable landlady Maria bears a striking resemblance to the ruler of a miniature state, she is tasked with playing the role of princess during her absence.
Don Juan arrives in a Spanish town and immediately becomes embroiled in amorous adventures. While looking for love affairs, he meets the beautiful Donna Anna, the commander's daughter, who mistakes the masked cavalier for Don Octavio because of his height and clothing.
A man embezzles some money in order to pay his debts and the daughter of his boss, who is in love with his son, asks a rich former suitor of hers for help.
When the great potato famine hits Ireland, the diaspora begins as thousands emigrate. Among those leaving the Emerald Isle is Katie O'Neill and her husband, who decide that the promised land is South Africa and make their way there.