Woman’s World

The general manager of Gifford Motors dies, triggering Ernest Gifford to invite three candidate couples to New York City so he can evaluate them in person. He intends to judge both the candidates and their wives, to see who best fits the company and the leadership role. The invitation sets the stage for a weekend of testing under pressure.

Bill and Katie Baxter, Elizabeth Burns and Sidney, and Jerry Talbot and Carol arrive in New York and meet Gifford. He briefs them on the purpose of the gathering and begins noting the subtle dynamics between the couples. First impressions reveal contrasting personalities: Katie's clumsiness, Elizabeth's poise, Jerry's ambition, and Carol's provocative charm looming over Jerry.

The group is unexpectedly invited to spend a weekend at the estate of Gifford's sister Evelyn Andrews. The change of setting shifts the balance from corporate to domestic pressures. The weekend serves as a social test as couples interact away from the office.

Elizabeth generously helps Katie buy appropriate clothing within a limited budget, underscoring her graciousness and willingness to mentor Mrs. Baxter. The two women form a supportive bond that contrasts with the husbands' competitive tone. The shopping session also highlights how appearances influence perceptions.

Carol schemes to sway Gifford in favor of her husband by flirting and pushing her influence. Jerry protests her interference, insisting he will stand on merit rather than his wife's tactics. The tension reveals how appearances and charm can complicate serious professional judgments.

Before dinner, Gifford privately identifies his favorite candidate and wife, choosing to wait before revealing his decision. He wants to see how the couples handle pressure and whether they value character over charm. The group senses the impending test without knowing the outcome.

Carol makes a final push to sway the decision, pressing her agenda during dinner. Gifford reveals that despite Jerry being his favorite, a fatal handicap will deny him the job. The moment shifts the focus from charm to unavoidable limitation.

Jerry tells Carol that their marriage is over and that she must leave, insisting his promotion has nothing to do with her influence. He asserts his own merit and independence from her manipulation. Carol's role in his ascent begins to unravel as the truth comes to light.

Gifford confirms the test results and congratulates the new general manager for passing the test. He explains that the weekend was a deliberate evaluation of integrity and compatibility. The other two couples react with relief as they realize the reality behind appearances.

The chosen candidate's appointment is formally announced, bringing the suspense to a close. The wives reflect on their roles and what the test revealed about their relationships. A sense of relief settles over the group as acceptance of the decision sinks in.

The families return to their daily lives with a renewed understanding of merit over influence. Katie, Elizabeth, and Carol consider the lessons learned about partnership and professional integrity. Gifford's decisive test leaves everyone with a clearer sense of their own paths moving forward.