Leopold Kohák married a rich widow a long time ago and now he has nothing to do compared to his energetic wife. He's growing old and troubled by the fact that he betrayed his first love Emca and his beloved river Sázava where he spent his childhood and youth. A visit from an old friend Lebeda brings it all back to him. After a nervous breakdown Leopold secretly visits his home instead of going to the spa. As a tramp wandering from place to place he supports himself by casual labor. Mrs Koháková sends someone to look for the missing husband. Living an active life brings the lost spark back into Leopold's life. He shaves, changes his clothes and becomes astonishingly young-looking.