Most importantly, the new and improved Martin loves his wife. Years pass and Martin and Bertrande are happy. They have 2 more children. Their sexual compatibility develops into a comfortable and profound emotional intimacy. One day, a vagabond accuses Martin of being an imposter, and rumors begin to spread.
Doubts begin to fester.
To complicate matters, Martin has asked his uncle for his share of the farm's profits. But since he left home, his Uncle has cleverly married Bertrande's widowed mother, thus consolidating his holdings. He is furious at Martin's presumption and attacks him. There is jealousy and gossip. Bertrande saves Martin from an attempted lynching.