Lessing was a German philosopher, writer and art critic. He writings during the Enlightenment Era were a major influence in German literature. Major von Tellheim is a disabled officer staying at an inn. His possessions are removed from his room because the manager believes he will not pay his bill. The plot twists around several turns and a betrothal ring is spotted by his former fiance. She is overjoyed, but the honorable Tellheim will not marry, because of his poor financial condition.