Two cronies, Brument and Cornu, are on trial. They are accused of attempting to murder Brumant's wife. The woman's interrogation reveals that both gentlemen were, as usual, heavily intoxicated that day. Brumant, who is having financial problems, has offered his wife to his cronies for sale. The price will depend on how much water she displaces when immersed in a barrel. And they immediately make the attempt...