A Woman of Experience

Elsa Elsbergen volunteers for nursing work during 1914 Vienna, but her lies about her sordid past are uncovered, leading to her being turned down. Despite this setback, her patriotism catches the attention of Captain Muller, who sees her as suitable for intelligence work. Her disappointment stems from her desire to serve despite her past revelations.

Captain Muller, convinced of Elsa's patriotism, recruits her for the Austrian Department of Intelligence. Major Schmidt, her superior, then assigns her to gain friendly access to Captain Otto von Lichstein, suspected of spying for the enemy. Elsa accepts this undercover assignment despite her initial reluctance.

Elsa successfully catches the eye of Captain Otto von Lichstein at a social party. She agrees to meet him again the following night, beginning a covert relationship that is part espionage and personal intrigue. The encounter sets the stage for her complex involvement with enemy agents.

On her way home, Elsa is nearly run down by a horse-drawn cab. Inside, Count Karl Runyi, a Royal Navy officer, apologizes and insists on escorting her home. Their interaction quickly develops into a mutual attraction, and they start seeing each other nightly, defying Elsa's professional duties.

Despite her supervisor Schmidt reprimanding her for her relationship with Karl, Elsa refuses to give him up. She prioritizes her feelings for Karl over her espionage responsibilities, engaging in a secret romance that complicates her loyalties.

Karl, initially hesitant about risking his safety, is persuaded by Elsa to seize a pivotal opportunity to join a dangerous submarine operation. She lies in her letter to him, claiming she has found someone else, making him reconsider his priorities and encouraging him to pursue glory.

Elsa begins a romantic relationship with Captain von Lichstein, whom she entertains and spies on. During one encounter, she overhears von Lichstein planning a major espionage operation involving secret submarine routes, indicating her deepening involvement in espionage activities.

Elsa secretly calls Schmidt to warn him about von Lichstein, but a struggle ensues. In the chaos, von Lichstein splashes his drink and a gun goes off, seriously wounding Elsa. The arrival of Schmidt's team prompts von Lichstein to commit suicide out of despair and guilt.

Karl successfully completes his mission and returns to Vienna as a celebrated hero. His courageous actions and the bravery he demonstrated during the dangerous submarine operation earn him admiration from the public and the military.

Despite her injury and secrets, Elsa confesses that she has no other romantic interests, and Karl proposes marriage. Their engagement signifies a turning point, blending personal love with the ongoing wartime narrative.

Karl's mother, Countess Runyi, learns about Elsa's sordid past and threatens to tell Karl, risking their engagement. Elsa's loyalty is tested as she refuses to break their relationship, asserting her love despite the potential consequences.

Katie, Elsa's loyal maid, discloses Elsa's heroism and sacrifices during her espionage activities to the Countess, which sways her opinion. Although moved, the Countess remains cautious and wary of Elsa's past and uncertain future.

Elsa reveals that she has only six months to live due to her war injury. Despite this devastating news, she chooses to marry Karl. Their wedding signifies hope and love amidst the turmoil and tragedy of wartime.