A young nobleman inherits a dilapidated family chateau and, appalled by its decay, concocts an extravagant plan to stage its loss in order to win sympathy and the regard of a wealthy young woman he loves. The story follows his schemes and misadventures, the eccentric guardians and retainers who complicate them, and episodes set in seaside resorts and Parisian society. Blending romance and light comedy, the narrative examines social pretension, resourcefulness, and the clash between appearance and reality.