1894. In Rome, after a career change, Ugo is now working for a notary, who manages the properties of several wealthy families. One evening, while he's going home, Ugo is attacked by a street gang. Vittorio De Cesari, cavalry officer, saves him with his sabre, and disperses the crooks. Ugo and Vittorio soon become close friends. The officer is the scion of a noble family, owner of an estate on the Alban Hills, and he chooses Ugo as its new administrator.