Holger Gabrielsen

Opposite Regensen lives the brave and well-off coppersmith Smidt with his equally brave wife and their delightful young daughter Rikke, as well as the three journeymen Madsen, Mikkel and Lars, who, according to old craftsman custom, both eat and stay with the master. When an acquaintance of journeyman Madsen comes to visit, he learns that he is unhappily in love with Rikke, and he promises to help him get in touch with her.

Erik Menkel is released after six years, convicted of the murder of Viktor Smith. He is sought out by an old college friend of Smith's, who wants Menkel to finish Smith's work. At the same time, Menkel knew a young woman who is looking for him. Jerle lets Erik Menkel disappear so that no one knows Menkel is still alive. Barbara discovers that Menkel is living with Jerle and seeks him out. Jerle has a terrible secret.