August 15, 1839, Messina, Italy. In the home of Marshall don Peppino Padellani di Opiri, preparations for the feast of the Ascension are underway, but for Agata, the Marshall's daughter, there are more important matters at hand. She and the wealthy Giacomo Lepre have fallen in love. Her mother, however, is determined that the two young people will not marry. When, one month later, Marshall don Peppino dies, Agata's mother decides to ferry her daughter...