During the Napoleonic wars, a Spanish officer and an opposing officer find a book written by the former's grandfather.
Set in the 19th century Warsaw. The indolence of aristocrats who, secure with their pensions, are too lazy to undertake new business risks, frustrates Wokulski. His ability to make money is respected but his lack of family and social rank is condescended to. Because of his "help" (in secret) to "the doll's" impecunious but influential father, the girl becomes aware of his affection.
An ironic look at a climber who decides to do anything to get a job he thinks will launch him into a better career.
