On the way home, Mr. Earnshaw, the owner of the estate Wuthering Heights, brings to the estate an orphan found on the streets of Liverpool. Thus Heathcliff becomes a part of the household and grows close to the mistress's daughter Catherine; over time they become inseparable. Years later the estate falls into ruin due to Earnshaw's drinking, and the grown Heathcliff remains at home in the role of a servant. Catherine dreams of escaping the dreary life on the moors and accepts the proposal of her wealthy neighbor Edgar Linton. After hearing her declare that such a marriage would degrade her, Heathcliff leaves the house. Years later he returns, wealthy and ruthless, buys Wuthering Heights, and again grows close to Catherine.