The action takes place during the January Uprising. A Russian commander imposed a tribute on a town inhabited by Jews; the money was appropriated by an adjutant, and eleven hostages faced court martial for allegedly failing to pay tribute and forging the commander's signature. A legend is woven into the plot: the sacred number 36 indicates thirty-six righteous. Nameless, unknown to anyone, they live as paupers or simpletons, carrying the burden of the world's sins on their shoulders. A good deed or a miracle that averts misfortune betrays them; however, the perpetrator of the miracle must die. The film has not survived to this day.