In 1760, Poul arrives in the Faroe Islands as the new pastor. He meets the free spirit Barbara, who at 28 is already a widow twice over. Both of her previous husbands were the islands' pastors, and her reputation is somewhat dubious. Shortly after Poul's arrival, some warships dock in town briefly. Barbara and some other women have fun with the sailors, much to the disapproval of the townspeople. Several women are left pregnant. But Poul cannot resist Barbara's charms, and decides to make an honest woman of her. When another young man arrives on the island, though, it seems unlikely that Poul has 'tamed' his bride.