Paul, a successful business man, on his way to Athens needs to change trains and to wait an hour for the connection in his hometown he left long ago. The memory of his youth rankles with him. However being led by his recollections and convinced by a porter, he decides to ascertain the fate of his family. About a quarter of century he deserted his family and his beloved - Anna von dem Hugel, who, on her side fell in love with Paul's brother, Heribert. He decides to find out if any family members are still alive. His confession as a prodigal son takes place not in a church, but in that central station, at the cemetery...