After attempting suicide, Francesca Cunningham (Ann Todd) hires Dr. Larsen (Herbert Lom) who, using hypnotism, delves into her subconscious in search of answers. Francesca recounts several failed romances to Dr. Larsen, shown in flashbacks, many of which were sabotaged by her cousin and musical tutor, Nicholas (James Mason), a jealous taskmaster who cares for Francesca deeply. As the subsequent veils are lifted from her clouded mind, Francesca is forced to confront her feelings for Nicholas.