In turn-of-the-century Paris, Georges Randal is brought up by his wealthy uncle, who steals his inheritance. Georges hopes to marry his cousin Charlotte, but his uncle arranges for her to marry a rich neighbour. In retaliation, Georges steals the fiancé's family jewels, and enjoys the experience so much that he embarks upon a lifetime of burglary.

An eighteen-year-old student is infatuated with an older woman, the mistress of a famous racing driver. Taking advantage of a misunderstanding between the two lovers, he manages to seduce her and falls in love.