АCT I

Chamounix village in the Savoy mountains, autumn

Antonio and Maddalena, whose lives passed in the village, fear that they and their daughter Linda will soon have to leave their homes if the mistress of the land, the Marquise, does not renew their lease. They hope for the intercession of the Marquise’s brother, who is favorable towards them and Linda. The Marquis’s beneficence extends so far that he is ready to take Linda from the village to the castle, promising to arrange her future. However, as Linda herself is not at home, the Marquis has to be content with the gratitude of her parents. The choir of the villagers praises the kindness of the owner of the estate.