Erik Dahlberg

Old Virtanen is a respected night watchman at a textile factory and a single father to his daughter Aino, who is about to graduate from high school. The heartless factory owner Kuusela fires Virtanen, who is forced to look for a new job. When Aino, who is in love with the manager's son Veikko, disappears after her graduation party, her father, who has fallen ill with worry, is overcome with despair.

After being harassed at the office by her boss, Eila gets sacked and tries to find a new job. After difficulties, she eventually begins to work as a model to a sculptor.

At the request of author Zacharias, Fredrik begins composing an opera, inspired by a summer walk in Backas, Espoo. He falls in love with Ebba, who sings like a nightingale about a young mermaid on the shore of the lake. Fredrik's infatuation causes a scandal in Helsinki society circles, as he is married.

A fictional love story between famous composer Gabriel Linsén and opera singer Maria Sawina in 19th century Finland.