Marianne is a young orphan of mysterious birth, taken in by caring people. She grows up in 18th century French society, going through various adventures, loves and trials.
The only survivor of a coach attacked by bandits, a two-year-old girl is taken in by a priest and her sister.
Marianne becomes the companion of a rich, dying widow, Mrs. Dursan. But the reappearance of her disinherited son and his family create trouble.
Arriving in Paris with the priest's sister, Marianne finds herself distraught when she dies. Under the protection of Mr. de Climal, she finds a job with Mme. Dutour.
Pursued by Mr de Climal who wants to make her his mistress, Marianne takes refuge in a convent, Valville, madly in love, finds her.
Marianne is going to marry Valville, but her humble origins are discovered, the young girl is kidnapped by order of the Miran's family.
Following Mlle Varthon's machinations, Marianne doubts Valville's intentions and refuses to marry him.
