Having just fathered a son of his own, master thief Robert returns to his parents, whose simple firm near the coast he left silently years ago, having been a brat out of control. Mother Svea's unconditional welcome is balanced by father Heinrich's due doubts. To both's horror, having proudly unveiled his criminal professional, he sets off to face his godfather, the arrogant local count Gustav. rather then imposing execution stat, Gustaf sets the boaster a triple challenge which is accepted. Robert must steal the best horse from the court stables despite guards, next from the count's bedroom the sheets and a wedding ring. Finally the curate and sexton from the dilapidated parish church.