benefactors. The opening of the book introduces us to a bustling marketplace where a charming nine-year-old girl named Albina is attempting to sell flowers. A hurried civil servant, Langenheim, pauses to buy flowers from her, leading to a significant connection between their families. Langenheim's relationship with his wife, Therese, is painted against the backdrop of his career challenges and interactions with people who are envious of his position. As the story unfolds, we learn about Albina's origins as a foundling and her tireless efforts to assist her foster family. The beginning sets the stage for Albina's journey towards a new life filled with hopes and aspirations, intertwined with the Langenheims’ struggles and aspirations as well. (This is an automatically generated summary.)