The story revolves around a young woman who returns to her family's estate after being away for several years. She is met with suspicion and hostility by the other characters, particularly her brother-in-law, who harbors a dark secret. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that the brother-in-law has been embezzling funds from his employer and is now in deep financial trouble. The young woman's presence threatens to expose his deceit, leading him to become increasingly unhinged. The story builds towards a tragic confrontation between the two characters, with devastating consequences for all involved.
By Guy De Maupassant · First published 1884 · Genre: Horror, Gothic Fiction, Psychological Fiction