Through his narration it is revealeld that Maria died young, leaving behind her an old woman who adopted her after her mother's death and her wedding gifts (dowry).
Finally, after several years, he was struck by inexplicable sadness about Maria's fate and decided to visit her estate.
Her adoptive mother started to notice changes in Maria's behavior, but was unsure whether they were the result of falling into madness or of purification.
The old woman retires to bed, and Moma unsuccessfully attempts to find a key to unlock the chest with Maria's dowry.
One of them believes that the fire must have been caused by an ember from the fireplace, but another one claims it is impossible as the house has been empty for seven years.