The Harvest is over and the Patron and his wife, DON ESTEBAN and DONA MERCEDES, host a fiesta. All the families of his tenants and labourers are invited to celebrate.
The village swains all attend with gusto because MARIA, the Patrons daughter is now of age to be presented for marriage. GASTON, a villager and a playmate of her youth, is confident of winning her hand, and playfully lays his claim on Maria for all to see. Maria is shy and unsure but delighted.
Merrymaking and dancing fill the air. Unbeknownst to all, Don Esteban had planned a match for Maria with DON CARLOS. the son of one of his peers.
DON CARLOS' arrival is received with mixed reactions. The couple is introduced to each other and MARIA is captivated . GASTON becomes possessive and jealous. A challenge ensues and upsets Maria. Her friends try to remedy the situation by distracting her and DON CARLOS indulges her by joining her as she dances. GASTON, seeing that Don Carlos is indeed captivated by Maria. swallows his pride and leaves.
MARIA is beset with indecision. Does she choose her flippant. but dear childhood friend or the exciting. self possessed gentleman her father has chosen, for her husband? A vivid dream gives her the answer.
The VILLAGERS are dressed in their best to attend another celebration in DON ESTEBANS villa. We see them playfully imitating a wedding tradition on their way there. As the scene opens, the villa is decked up for a wedding fete. DONA MERCEDES opens the festivity with a dance and unites GASTON and DON CARLOS as friends. MARIA immerges with her wedding finery and the chosen groom is raised to fulfill the wedding traditions. All celebrate in a wedding dance.
