A film that, with the aid of an excellent plot, gives a very clear idea of the daily life of the oppressed Russian peasant. A typical example is seen, with his wife and child, partaking of his frugal morning meal. In the corner is a little shrine, and before going out to the labors of the day the devout workman crosses himself before the emblem of his religion. At mid-day, the wife gets ready some food, and takes it to her husband in the fields. On her way back she is waylaid by an official. Her husband hears her cries, and runs to the spot, knocking down the cowardly fellow. The official, enraged at being thwarted, has the husband arrested and horsewhipped. Some time afterward, near the same spot, the official is thrown from his horse and severely injured. The peasant’s child comes to his assistance, and calls her father, who, however, is more disposed to take vengeance on his enemy than to help him. The child’s entreaties prevail, and the official is carefully tended at the peasant’s home. The kindness shown to him brings about repentance, and he appoints the peasant to a position as bailiff.