Henry Graham (Matthau) is an idler who has squandered his inherited wealth. Unwilling to demean himself by actually working for a living, he is contemplating suicide when his loyal servant Harold (George Rose) suggests acquiring wealth the old-fashioned way: by marriage. Henry is revolted, as he is extremely self-centered and basically loathes other people. Then he has a "pleasant" thought: There's no reason his wife couldn't have a fatal "accident".
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He finds the perfect candidate in botany professor Henrietta Lowell (May). Not only is she rich, she has no relatives and is so clumsy that it's a minor miracle she hasn't hurt herself already. Henry has no trouble sweeping her off her feet, and they do get married.
While waiting long enough so that the police will not suspect him, he finds himself managing her highly disorganized life, as well as putting a stop to her servants taking advantage of her trusting nature and stealing from her. When Henrietta discovers a new species of fern, she names it after him. Even he is touched by the honor, though it doesn't affect his plans.
When Henrietta invites him along on her annual field trip into the wilderness, Henry seizes his opportunity. While paddling down a river, he tips the canoe over, aware that Henrietta doesn't know how to swim. As he is contemplating his soon-to-be inheritance, he spots the fern she named for him. He suddenly realizes that he has come to love his wife, jumps into the water and rescues her.
Best part of story, including ending:
It's a dark comedy, but not too dark. Supposedly it was much grimmer before it was taken out of May's hands (she also wrote and directed) and recut.
Best scene in story:
After Henry saves his wife, she starts planning his future as an English professor. His resignation to his unexpected fate is priceless.
Opinion about the main character:
Henry's lack of conscience (and comeuppance) may not be to everyone's taste, but I found it funny.
