In 1868, Christopher Newman, a wealthy young American, decides to step away from his business endeavors and ventures to Paris. His goals are to unwind, cultivate his appreciation for art, and seek out a future wife. While exploring the Louvre one day, he meets Mlle Nioche, an aspiring artist and copyist, who introduces him to her father, an unsuccessful shopkeeper. Impressed, Newman buys a painting from her and also arranges to take French lessons from her father.

Encounters with Aristocracy

Through an American associate, Mrs. Tristram, Newman is introduced to Claire de Cintré, a young widow of mixed French and English heritage. Claire's first marriage was to a malevolent older man, Monsieur de Cintré, whose death left her with a profound aversion to marriage. Despite her reluctance, Newman is captivated and believes she is the perfect woman to become his wife. However, integrating into the French aristocracy presents a challenge for an American businessman. During his first visit, Claire’s brother, the Marquis de Bellegarde, prevents Newman from entering their home.

Lessons and Promises

Honoring his commitment, M. Nioche visits Newman one morning to begin their French lessons. Newman finds the old man intriguing and learns that Mlle Nioche holds sway over her father, who fears that she might leave him for a more affluent life as a mistress. In an act of compassion, Newman vows to provide Mlle Nioche with a dowry, on the condition she continues painting for him.

Forging Unlikely Friendships

After traveling across Europe over the summer, Newman returns to Paris in the fall, discovering that the Tristrams have facilitated a shift in the Bellegardes' attitude, resulting in their willingness to welcome him. One evening, Claire’s younger brother, Valentin, visits Newman, and despite their differing perspectives, the two develop a friendship. Valentin admires Newman's freedom, while Newman longs to be accepted into Valentin’s social circle. Their camaraderie grows, and Newman confides his desire to marry Claire, asking Valentin to advocate on his behalf. Despite warning Newman about the obstacles his social status presents, Valentin agrees to help as best he can.

A Proposal in the Air

Newman expresses his intentions to Claire and requests permission from her mother, Madame de Bellegarde, and the Marquis to court her. Reluctantly, they consent, largely due to financial considerations. While visiting Mlle Nioche at the Louvre to check on her progress, Newman meets Valentin and introduces him to Mlle Nioche. Mrs. Bread, the Bellegardes' longstanding English servant, reassures Newman that he is advancing in his courtship. Claire accepts Newman’s proposal, but their happiness is short-lived as Valentin becomes embroiled in a duel concerning Mlle Nioche, leading him to Switzerland.

Unraveling Family Secrets

The following morning, Newman visits Claire, only to be told by Mrs. Bread that she is leaving town. Seeking answers, he is informed that the Bellegardes refuse to accept a commercial man into their family. Upon returning home, Newman receives a telegram from Valentin, who is gravely injured, requesting his presence in Switzerland.

Burdened by grief, Newman reaches Switzerland to find Valentin on the verge of death. Before passing, Valentin speculates about his family's interference and suggests that Mrs. Bread holds a hidden family secret. If uncovered, it could compel the family to allow his marriage to Claire. Valentin succumbs to his injuries the next day, leaving Newman to attend his funeral.

The Choice of Silence

Three days after Valentin’s funeral, Newman visits Claire once more, only to learn of her plans to join a convent. On the brink of desperation, he confronts the Bellegardes, threatening exposure of their secret unless they relent. That night, Mrs. Bread confides that...