The opera opens with Salud, a young Andalucian woman who lives with her Grand Mother and Uncle. Amid the songs of workers at a nearby forge and street vendors, Grand Mother enters noticing her Grand Daughter . Worried that her lover Paco has deserted her, Salud sends her Grand Mother to look for him.

Shortly, Grand Mother returns to report that Paco is on his way. He enters and the young couple vow their undying love, Salud's Uncle Saravor, comes out of the house. Out of earshot, he tells Grand Mother that Paco is engaged to another woman Carmela. Their wedding, in fact is to take place the following day. Grand Mother convinces Sarvaor not to ruin Salud's happiness. Carmela enters, Paco for a moment reconsiders his decision to marry Carmela but they leave together.

The second act takes place the following evening. The wedding festivities are in full swing and Salud, her Grand Mother and Uncle observe the scene. Salud, who knows now of Paco's deceit, confronts and curses him before falling dead at his feet.