Dr. Stanley Wayne carries his new wife, Vera, across the threshold. They've married following the death of his first wife, Vera's friend, who drowned while Vera, who can't swim, was unable to go for help. Vera settles in, redecorating to put her own stamp on the place, encouraged by her husband and by Kate, the family cook. The only creature that seems to object is Claire, the dead woman's cat. While friendly to everyone else, Claire trips Vera, musses her new dress, and wails at night. After a party, Dr. Wayne leaves to see a patient, and Vera decides it's time to take care of Claire.