:Place: A public square in
Smyrna :Time: 18th century Martin, a speculator, and Gripon, a dodgy banker, are two greedy villains who collaborate to find treasure in the pyramid in Smyrna. When Martin tells Gripon that there are no treasures in the pyramid, he doesn't believe him and thinks Martin tried to cheat him. He leaves Martin locked in the pyramid. Jérôme and Henriette fall in love with each other but the only way out for their love is to escape from both Martin and Gripon. However, they are delayed by various misfortunes. Gripon later finds out that he has been cheated and it is he of all people who conclude that there is no honesty in the world any more.