Note: Borderline genre; this story has its place among Maupassant's fantastic fiction because of its dreamy nature and the extraordinary effect that the photograph has on the narrator. First published in Le Figaro, 5 January 1885.

Synopsis: The narrator is walking in the country when he sees a house which seems to exactly suit him. It is for sale, and when he inquires and goes in, a photograph of a woman catches his eye and he is struck by the conviction that she is his soulmate. He learns her story and goes away sure that they are destined to meet and love one another.