Writer Charles Condomine invites a fortune teller to his home to study for a planned book and learn her particular jargon. A married couple, Mr. and Mrs. Bradman, are also invited to the planned séance. The result of the necromancy is unexpected: Condomine's first wife, Elvia, who died years ago, appears. Was she summoned by her husband's unspoken wish? He is now married to Ruth, which makes his first wife's return from the afterlife somewhat unpleasant. Especially for Ruth, for whom her rival remains invisible for a long time. Meanwhile, Elvira settles down at home and woos her husband. Charles is initially flattered, but gradually two women begin to get on his nerves...