Caray, Caray!

For characters and places go to mai tai's guide to la Pola

MONDAY

Nicolasa asks Pola when if she will go back to Santa Fé. Pola says tomorrow, but first I will meet with Candelaria in the chicharía to explain some ideas to the people. She has to find Vivianito. Nic says it is Cata’s fault that he is missing. But, she stops talking about it because she says she doesn’t have the right to speak and doesn’t want to risk her baby’s freedom.

Gertrudis talks to Domingo again. You should treat Cata better – OK, folks, this is the part that you can fill in – her lines, his lines, etc.

The only thing he wants his wife to be is faithful (uh, oh!) Domingo chastises himself because he hasn’t even done what Jaoquín talked about. He is reminded about that by Pola. Pola has done in months what took them years to do. He says he is a coward.

Add Cata’s lines here. She’s praying. Pola finds her and asks about the man who has put her between happiness and tragedy. Is it Juliano? Cata denies it, but the cat is out of the bag.

Viviano tells Alejo that he was going to Santa Fé to find Pola, and he doesn’t believe anything Alejo says. He is as stubborn as his sister, Alejo tells Arcos. The only thing you will find in Santa Fé is to kill Pola of anguish.

Sámano asks Leandro why his brother is talking to that boy. Leandro has no idea. We have to escape, says Sámano. We have to stay here to serve our king. Leandro agrees with him. There are two cities – Santa Marta and Popayan that have not committed treason and that are not under banderas americanas (American flags). Leandro tells him that he has family in Popayan and that they will help them. Then we will go there, says Sámano.

Speaking of Popayan, Francisco returns to the manse – but, he doesn’t have any mail from Gaspar, Alejo and Leandro. He is especially disappointed that Leandro hasn’t written because he doesn’t think it was a very serious argument. He and María Teresa talk about the junta and are wondering about what has happened to the viceroys. Francisco tells María Teresa that the governor is coming – it is Thursday – card playing night. María Teresa is worried. She doesn’t want to take advantage of the Valencias – diezmodo las provisions. But, Francisco tells her that when Gaspar put him in charge he gave them rights. He is the administrator.

Sámano and his military escort arrive in Guaduas. Alejo decides to personally deliver Vivianito to his house. Sámano gets off his horse before Alejo can order them to dismount. Alejo tells Arcos to find them pernoctar (somewhere to spend the night) – get these people a place to stay while I return this boy to his house.

In the chicharía Pola asks Candelaria where are all the people. Candelaria asks Pola about the soldier who dishonored her. It didn’t happen, says Pola. On cue, the soldiers enter the chicharía. Sámano intimidates men sitting at a table so they get up and move. Sámano tells Leandro that this place will be useful for their plans – a little bit of chicha goes a long way. (OK, he didn’t say it like that.) Sámano tells Arcos that he needs a little diversion. Then he grabs one of the barmaids.

Pola sees it and flashes back to the day Sámano tried to order the troops to fire on the civilian crowd.

Alejo takes Vivianito to Domingo’s and finds out that Pola isn’t there. Cata hugs Vivianito who tells her that’s the first time she’s ever done that.

At the Valencia manse the governor explains the political situation to Francisco. The provinces that have taken power are now the rule. The viceroys are on the way to Spain. Popayan is still loyal to the king. Francisco asks about the deputy that Santa Fé wanted from Popayan. If we do that, says the governor, we will legitimize them. Francisco counsels prudence. It is very confusing says the governor. We have to determine what side we are on.

With the girl clenched to him on his lap, Sámano says that it is a Spanish custom to conquer the Indians. Arcos finds Pola. Yes, she remembers him – you are my future husband. Do you want to know about Alejo. Not important, she says. Why are you here, she asks. He tells her they are escorting Sámano to Cartagena.

Pola hears the barmaid yell, let me go, let me go. Sámano roughs her up. Pola grabs Arcos’ dagger. Let’s give him the goodbye he deserves, she says. She holds the blade to his throat. He remembers her as the mestiza from Guaduas.

Cata tells Alejo that Pola is at the chicharía. Do you remember me? Gertrudis remembers that he is the soldier who stole Pola’s honor.

Sámano orders the men to put their arms down. Candelaria asks Pola if she is crazy. In this village people think badly of me because of this man. He accused me of being a thief. He belongs in jail. Tell everyone that I didn’t steal from you. I am not accustomed to taking orders from women, says Sámano.

Alejo asks Cata and Gertrudis how can he convince them. Swear. He swears. He finally admits that the only person who can clear all this up is Pola. He is going to find her. Vivianito says take me with you or I will run behind.

Pola puts the dagger to Sámano’s chin and draws blood. She tells him that any man who would take a woman by force deserves it. He begs her not to kill him. Finally, he tells everybody that she didn’t rob him – perdoname, he says. You assassin. He was on the point of committing a massacre in Santa Fé. Sámano says he has a passport – meaning he has a right to travel freely. He belongs in jail, she says. She is going to talk to the mayor. Everyone in the chicharía cheers. Sámano looks scared.

Francisco gambles away Ignacia’s piano.

To Gertrudis, Cata says maybe he came to marry her. Gertrudis says that he could have done that many times before. They will have to wait for Pola to find out.

Alejo arrives at the chicharía. He asks about the soldiers. Candelaria convinces him to have a drink or she’s not talking. They went to the mayor’s. he is looking for Apolonia Salvatiera – La Pola. I know her. She is very beautiful. She was going to marry the mayor but some soldier la quitó la honra. A few minutes ago she practically degolló (cut the throat) of a Spanish officer.

Pola tries to convince the mayor to put Sámano in jail. The mayor flashes back to a conversation he had with Sámano and remembers about how Sámano feels about the worth of a woman like Pola – un gusano de tierra (maggot). Sámano tells the mayor that you aren’t going to give in to the caprichos of this girl.

The mayor says that in Guaduas the chapetones will pass the night in the jail. Sámano threatens him by saying he will return and at that time it will be all of you begging me for mercy. He is going to destroy them.

I don’t believe it, says Pola. If you put a dagger to my throat, I will not cry like a girl. Leandro tells her that she manages the people very well. Promise me one thing, he asks: Make my brother happy. She doesn’t understand. You have no idea what he has sacrificed for you. I don’t understand. You will, says Leandro.

The governor thanks Francisco and María Teresa for a good, as usual, evening. I hope you have better luck next time. He will send for the piano tomorrow. Francisco tells María Teresa not to say one single reproachful word. What are we going to do, she asks. Francisco says that he has relieved them of his instrument of torture – referring to María ignacia’s playing.

Alejo and Vivianito arrive at the mayor’s. Arcos says I thought you had forgotten us. Sámano is spending the night in jail. Some of the guards are on duty; others have been give a place to stay by the mayor.

Pola goes to sleep in the stable. Vivianito comes in and wakes her. She goes outside to thank the man who found Vivianito. It is, of course, Alejo. Alejo reaches for her, but she punches him in the stomache (ouch). She tells him she was serious about not wanting to see him again. She takes off on her horse and it begins to storm.

At the jail Leandro joins Sámano who says at last someone remembered me. He swears that girl will pay for this. Leandro (is he having some loyalty to Sámano issues?) asks if the accusations are true. Sámano claims not to remember. Anyway, he says, it is his right. Sámano notes that Leandro is quiet. Don’t tell me you wanted her, too. Leandro tells Sámano that it is his brother who knows her. Did he want to cabalgar with the woman. No, he doesn’t look for her to cabalgar. He wants to marry her. Sámano laughs.

Alejo chases after Pola. A branch breaks, and she falls off her horse. She says he should have fallen. She has a scratch on her forehad. Look, my blood is blue. Why did you come to Guaduas. Alejo tells her he is there to escort Sámano to Cartagena and to take the opportunity to come here and ask her to marry him.

This is the fourth time, and it hs never happened. Then he tells her about María Ignacia’s accusation. I don’t want to know anything about you, she says. Swear it, says Alejo, that you don’t want to know anything about me.

Then – there is nothing I want more than to look into your pretty eyes. But, it is the same thing that gives me pain – go back from where you came. I don’t want to have anything to do with anyone who doesn’t believe in me for the color of my skin.

Then they talk about the charges against him. She explains that Gertrudis and Cata saw them kiss in the moonlight. You know better, he says, but they don’t.

Nobody ever kissed me. I didn’t know any better. Women should be taught more useful things like losing their virtue. In spie of everything, I will alsays belong to you. No one will touch me.

Sámano tells Leandro – but, they cannot marry without your father’s permission. This doesn’t matter to Alejo, says Leandro. Sámano tells him that this goes against the king. She is part of the Carbonel group. They are in favor of France. Leandro tries to tell him that he is wrong. They are followers of Nariño who was put in prison for translating a document called the Rights of Man. My brother would prefer to die than be on the side of the enemy. Sámano: your brother is one of those men who do absurd things for women.

Leandro answers that when Alejo finds out she is on the side of the enemy, he will change his opinion of her.

TUESDAY

Pola explains to Alejo how Cata and Gertrudis came to understand that Pola had lost her honor. Then Cata, a married woman, explained to her (Pola) about how you lose your virginity. Pola was very embarrassed. Nobody believed her. But, she says, it was a good thing because she didn’t have to marry the mayor. So, let’s leave it the way its. Why do you think I broke the engagement with him. After the explanation, Alejo forgives her.

She then says, but do you think I like it that people think I am a woman living in sin, that I have lost my virtud? My family just about disowned me and made me sleep in the stable. The priest won’t even hear my confession. But, in the stable she made friends.

Who guards your virtue in the stable? I am free. I am not a woman being held in a prison to protect her virtue. Do you still have your virtue, he asks. Who do you think I am. It doesn’t matter what others think, but you, it does. You kissed me. He is sorry – no, it was the most beautiful moment if my life. You say things so pretty, says Alejo. Wasn’t it a beautiful moment for you? Yes, the most beautiful in my life. That is better, she says. Too bad you didn’t take my virtue, says Pola.

I could not give my virtue to anyone other than you. And you? Men can do what they want. The truth, he says, is no. He has not lost his virtue either. Why not? I don’t know. Men like you are always looking for adventures with mestizas like me. I have saved myself for you. Finally – they kiss. Pola tells him she has dreamed of this so many times. I will die happy.

Leandro tells Sámano that he is sorry they are in jail. Sámano tells him that they have to change plans. Do you want me to talk to my brother? Sámano tells him to try it. But, you and your brother are different.

Pola and Alejo embrace. It is important that we are together. How can we get married without your father’s permission. When I am 25. It sounds like so long and so many things can happen. And, if your father would give permission? It would take much money. Domingo would be happy to pay to get rid of me. 5,000 gold pesos says Alejo. Well, maybe Domingo could borrow it if your father would even accept it. It is impossible. Pola asks why don’t we live together without marriage. He protests – she gets mad and runs off again. Your life is always filled with limitations, she says.

Vivianito asks Bernarda why hasn’t Pola returned. Will she marry him? Pola will never give him up says Bernarda. Why are Nicolasa and Juliano sleeping separately? Aren’t they married?

Alejo tries to explain his situation to Pola. She insists it is all because she is a mestiza. In front of God we are all the same. That is what Nariño says. He is against the king, says Alejo. No, says Pola. He is against the king being our owner.

Are you interested in him? asks Alejo. He could be my father and besides, he has a wife. He is the one who began the fight. Alejo says that he who is against the king is against God. Pola replies that she is not sure the king was sent by God. The people he sends are ambitious and arrogant like the viceroys. Alejo tells her that her father is a Don – de origen noble. Does that mean that my virtue isn’t worth as much as your novia’s virtue? We can never live in peace, you and I, says Pola.

Vivianito adds that when he grows up he will never look at a woman because it is all suffering.

Baraya reads the thoughts of Nariño to the revolutionaries about the formation of a government. One says – this is impossible. Nariño is supporting us. Jorge asks: what is he talking about the peligro interior (danger from within)?

Pola tells Bernarda that she doesn’t want Alejo to look for her any more. Pola leaves – or hides behind a wall. Alejo arrives and asks Bernards if she knows Pola’s whereabouts. Dutifully, Bernarda says no, but she offers Alejo a chocolate drink.

Magda had delivers a letter to the junta. She calls them canallas. You denied my husband freedom. Jorge asks do you think it is us? They deny it. Jorge says it is up to the governor in Cartagena. No, she says, they said it was you. Torres says that they have a special job for Antonio – ambassador to the United States.

In Cartagena Antonio asks the official: what will I do in the U.S.? You will study their form of government. I know they are trying to send me as far as possible. The day you open the door, I will go to Santa Fé.

Torres tells Magda that it will be of valuable interest to us. Magda tells them that they just want to get him out of town. You are on your knees in front of the government of Spain. Why haven’t you elected a president? You are waiting for the viceroys to return. You fooled the people.

Carbonel, they tell her, is in jail because he threatened the viceroys. It is unbelievable, she says, my husband is ready to help you and you treat him like a criminal. Jorge tells her that he himself will send a letter to the junta in Cartagena to free Antonio. But, tell him that he will have to obey the junta of Santa Fé of be punished severely.

Alejo tells Bernarda that it was impossible for him to return before now. Pola says you are serious, but that the situation is difficult. Because of her temperament it is difficult to find a solution. But, please tell her that I will return as soon as possible to formalize the engagement. Maybe that will stop the talking that you robbed her honor and never answered for it. But, Pola always stands up for you. Alejo realizes that Pola is listening behind the wall and says: Didn't you learn that it is bad manners to listen to other people’s conversations? Yes, she says, but it was a long time ago.

The revolutionaries try to determine how they will treat Nariño. The moment he arrives, he will turn the people against us. Jorge reminds them that they need a head. The mayor says well, I’m the vice-president. We have to name a new president. Then the king and everyone will be against us. They discuss the federal government system. We have time. Nariño needs money to come here.

So, what will we do with Baraya? Send him to the south. Send him to confront the governor in Popayan.

Alejo tells Pola: you heard I was going to return soon to formalize the engagement. I love you. Nothing will separate me from you, not even death. How important is it to you what I think? Do you know how many things I am putting at risk for this, asks Alejo. Just to come here and make this proposal. You think I am weak and lacking in character. It is difficult for me to give up everything I have been taught about family and religion. It is your smell, your smile. Since I first met you I could not get you out of my mind. We will find a way to be together.

Arcos comes for him and tells him they cannot wait any longer. Sámano is losing patience.

Alejo says swear to me that you will wait for me. But when you go, you don’t return, she says. I cannot swear to this. He walks away. When he is gone, she says to herself: and you will thank me.

Domingo meets with the mayor. I don’t know if the soldier is going to answer about Pola. Are you jealous? Is this why you are here, asks the mayor. No, Pola just reminds me of a fight I cannot fight. Now I have a personal problem.

Sámano states that he is thirsty just as they pass the chicharía. He wants more than water for the trip. Alejo gets off his horse and goes inside. He asks Candelaria to fill the gourds up with guarapa. Did you find Pola? Was she good? What the people say is wrong. I am going to return and marry her. Candelaria’s daughter says don’t talk bad about Pola. I might be related to her one day. I might marry her brother. What? Says Candelaria. Right, the younger one who is not yet a priest.

Pola tells Cata that this is the fourth time that Alejo has proposed marriage. Aren’t you happy? It is an impossible proposal, says Pola. The whole world interferes. He talked about the king like he was his father. I have to stop being a mestiza or the father will not give permission. Alejo still sees me as a mestiza, not as myself.

Cata says that when there is a difference of races – you don’t even think about it. Pola: and when a child is coming along. She asks Cata point blank again about Juliano, but Cata won’t answer.

On the road Sámano asks if Leandro has tried to convince his brother. I have not had the opportunity, but I will do so, says Leandro. It is a lie that you are brothers – you know your responsibility. He is a man who lives by sentiment. It is a defect in a military man. He is so crazy for this girl that he would deliver the Spanish empire to get under her skirt.

Arcos asks Alejo why doesn’t Pola believe in him? I am not giving up yet, says Alejo. I am going to be at her side until the day I die.

Pola to Cata: How could you do it? Why? I don’t know, I don’t know what came over me. Gertrudis gave me the drinks and that gave me nightmares. But, couldn’t you feel this for Domingo? No. He makes me sick. I saw Nicolasa and Juliana and when he caressed her. It looked so beautiful. I was possessed by the Devil. I could not tell it at confession. Did Juliano do the same to you as he did to Nicolasa? I don’t know if it was the same. She describes it in detail. Did it hurt? asks Pola. No.

Pola says that maybe one day God will let me feel that. With Domingo it is torture. I don’t want him to touch me since I know the other. He forces me. I have lost all feelings for him. I don’t deserve it. I am possessed by the Devil. Pola says no. This is not of the Devil. I, too, have had these feelings for someone and my body needs it to be complete, but that is something else.

Leandro tells Alejo that he heard he lost her. That girl doesn’t know what she lost. Alejo: can’t you get over your superiority. We are all equal. What are you saying? She is the most beautiful, intelligent woman for me. Even if she is against the king and in favor of the French? asks Leandro. Alejo tells him that the king was wrong to send bad governors here. He is about to recognize his error.

Leandro: are you talking about our father? Alejo says that our own father is not a good example. You know, says Leandro, that our father will not make anything easy. I wrote to our mother about the situation in Santa Fé. I told her I had delivered the letter to you. The situation with Pola was not then firm.

Francisco reads the letter. Now that they have taken the piano out what are we going to do, asks María Teresa. The person I trusted most has betrayed me. María Teresa: this letter is for me. I have the right to open it, says Francisco. Now Alejo is going to return to the mestiza. Maybe it is better that he get over her and gets it out of his system. Then María Teresa lets him know that at that time Leandro was in prison. Francisco decides he will go to Santa Fé to free him.

Leandro tells Alejo that he is happy to be free of their father. When he reads the letter he will try to separate you again. I am afraid, says Alejo, afraid of retuning and not finding her.

Leandro is about to asks Alejo the big question about releasing Sámano when the guard arrives. It is Delgado. He has just delivered the viceroys. Alejo asks him to do him a favor for which he will be in his debt for the rest of his life.

THURSDAY

I cannot be in love with a slave Cata tells Pola. Pola says this can only end in disgrace. You know that. I don’t know how Juliano could have betrayed his wife, says Pola. Don’t you think I deserve the love of a miserable slave, asks Cata. You have to earn the love of anyone. Do you know what you have gotten yourself into? What if Domingo finds out? You cannot go near Juliano. I pray to God for the strength, says Cata.

If you only knew how much I wanted to give myself to Aljeo. Haven’t you been together, asks Cata. It is all gossip. If only one day I could belong to him, muses Pola. You are different, says Cata. You are a free woman, not a prisoner like me.

Leave here before there is a tragedy, suggests Pola. Only you know what you feel and only you can leave it. Let me know, says Pola, and we will go together. You cannot be with a person you do not love. Gertrudis is taking all this in. They deny that anything is going on.

The mayor asks Domingo: so, you think your wife doesn’t feel anything for you? She will do nothing for me. But, the mayor says, you have one of the most beautiful women in Guaduas. What good does a beautiful wife do? She doesn’t have a good word or a good look for me. Could it be possible that she is frigid, asks the mayor? No, she is ardiente (burning hot). You should see her move. Is she unfaithful? But, says Domingo, there are no men at the hacienda. He disses the idea of any of he slaves being involved. She is an ambitious woman. I can’t think of anyone.

I have been thinking of killing her and killing myself. Don Andrés suggests divorce because the church accepts divorce in a marriage without children. Without her I would die, says Domingo. I need to find out who is robbing me of my wife.

Arcos reminds Alejo that Capt. Baraya gave him orders to escort Sámano to Cartagena, but Arcos can’t convince Alejo, so he wishes Alejo good luck.

Alejo tells Sámano that he is going to Spain, their country. You are a disgrace, says Sámano. Then, Alejo asks Leandro to let him know when he gets to Spain. Alejo thanks Delgado. I am sure you will be punished, says Delgado. What is it that you must attend to in Guaduas. Alejo leaves them. Delgado then asks Arcos: is it a woman. I can’t gossip, says Arcos.

Sámano to Leandro: they didn’t tell me we have to go to Spain. Leandros says he is sorry, but there is no hope with the new guard.

Nariño’s younger son says that he doesn’t know how his mother dared go out in her state of health. Magda returns. Antonio will be free. He will return in a few months. Her son asks her about his marriage to Eugenia Salazar y Morena. Will you write father for his permission? He wants the wedding to go on regardless.

I thought you were a faithful man, Pola says to Juliano. What are you talking about? You know what I am talking about. Your sister was looking for a macho. She looked for me. But, you have a wife, says Pola. Doesn’t this hurt you? Why did you do it? She came to me, says Juliano. She is a very beautiful woman. If Domingo finds out, he will kill you. I know, says Juliano. It should never happen again. She bought me a hat. I left it in the stable. I am not very strong, but your sister is bad and beautiful. I will take her to Santa Fé, says Pola. Promise me that you will not go near Cata again.

Cata sees the hat. Bernarda doesn’t know whose hat it is. Cata takes the hat.

In the stable Juliano is washing himself. Nicolasa comes in, looks at him and leaves. Cata comes in. Juliano asks her what she is doing there. This hat is very fine, she says. This is a gift. Why do you keep looking for me, asks Juliano. Leave me in peace. Anyway, Juliano gives up on the conversation and walks out. Nicolasa, however, heard everything.

Pola goes to confession. I have come for absolution. There is no absolution without repentance, says the priest. I do not want to be an enemy of God, says Pola. I don’t feel it was a sin. Now you are interpreting the law of God. The same thing happened, she says. Are you going to give me absolution. You know the answer, says the priest.

Nariño tells the officer that he is not part of the Santa Fé junta. He wants to unite the country, and now they are wasting time. But, in jail it is a little difficult. With that the guard opens the door. You are free by the order of the Santa Fé junta.

Domingo, Cata, Gertrudis with their workers and slaves behind them walk down the street to go to church. Where is Pola, asks the mayor? She is in church, says Cata. She went to confession.

Meanwhile, Nicolasa is in labor in the barn. There is no time to get the midwife and Juliano she tells Bernarda.

When Cata and Domingo leave, the mayor tells Gertrudis that they make a good pair. There are problems with no children. It is more than that, says the mayor. Gertrudis won’t talk because she just went to confession. But, she does tell him that Cata has admired him since she was a child.

Alejo arrives in a near empty Guaduas. He finds out everyone has gone to church, so he heads there.

In church the mayor sneeks a peek at Cata. Cata looks at Juliano who is in the back of the church. Pola looks at Cata. Juliano prays for help.

Nicolasa tells Bernarda to go get a knife. She can’t last long like this.

Alejo arrives at the church. He sees Pola in back of the church praying. He remembers what Pola said to him about being a woman in sin. He goes up to her and says: Pola, let us take communion (comulgar). He will not go until she agrees. Either you say yes, or I will not move. She smiles.

In the stable the baby is born (by ceasarian?) dead.

Pola and Alejo go up to the priest who stops and will not give her communion. Alejo asks why not? I don’t owe you any explanations, says the priest. I am the person against whom the accusation was made. It is not true. We just want communion. The priest calls the mayor and guards. She is not in sin, says Alejo. It is a misunderstanding. You have my word. She has not lost her virtue. Will you be my wife, he asks Pola. She is a woman with dignity, and this is an injustice.

Cata pipes in with: he came here before God. You cannot deny her communion. I have confessed. I lack absolution, says Pola. The priest absolves her and gives her communion. Pola walks down the aisle of the church with her head bowed, but with a smile on her face.

In Popayan María Teresa to Francisco: May I speak with you a moment? Why did Leandro write this in the letter. It appears that the situation between you and Leandro is very serious. What was in that letter? The same pack of lies, says Francisco. Where are the candelabra, she asks. I needed money to go to Santa Fé. Alejo is in Santa Fé. I don’t trust him. And what should I do if Gaspar and Eusebia return in your absence? Her problem.

Francisco will take only two slaves and she will have the rest. I can’t take this much longer, says María Teresa.

Bernarda holds the dead baby. Nicolasa asks for it. I will not forgive you, says Bernarda. Nicolasa says you don’t know what you are saying. My son spent all his money to buy your freedom. You deny God. This baby is dead because of you. Nicolasa tells her about Cata. Ask her. God is going to punish you says Bernarda.

Pola asks why Nicolasa didn’t come to mass. Vivianito tells Pola that he loves you. Gertrudis tells her that she is very happy for her. Virtue, she says, once it is lost, you cannot get it back. Go home now and protect yourself. I am not going to lose my liberty, says Pola, I prefer not to have this blessed virtud.

Bernarda carries the dead baby, and Juliano who has just returned, runs to her. Nicolasa gave birth. She shows him the baby. What happened, he asks. Find Nicolasa. She is bleeding badly from the belly.

FRIDAY

Then it is true? asks Mayor Andrés of Pola. You have not lost your virtue. I am sorry this has become a public story, says Pola. There has never been another case like this in Nueva Granada. The mayor tells Pola he is now interested in someone else, but he won’t say who. Please let Alejo go, she asks. He deserves as least one night in jail for causing such a commotion in the church and disturbing the mass, says the mayor.

Anyway, Pola wins and Alejo is let out of jail. Before you go, says the mayor, let me warn you that if you disturb the peace in Guaduas again, I will give you six months.

Alejo thanks Pola for getting him out. I asked you to marry me. Didn’t you hear. Will you listen to my proposal. It is not lies. I swore before God.

Juliano looks for Nicolasa. He finds a trail of blood. He calls out – Nicolasa, wait! She is on the edge of a precipice. You didn’t do anything bad. Wait! But, she goes over the edge of the cliff.

You don’t look happy to marry me says Alejo. We think in very different ways. I am mestiza, you are white. I have no dowry. I will work hard and you will just bring our children up as good Christians. I am not sure I want to stay at home and raise children. Are you serious, he says. You don’t want to marry me? You don’t love me.

By God, I am never going to love anyone like I love you. Then why did you make this decision. For a simple reason, says Alejo. He gives her the medal again. Even though we are different and we don’t have anything in common, and the whole world conspires to separate us, you inspire in me a feeling most pure, noble, marvelous that I have ever felt, and I want to honor this feeling by giving you my life if necessary.

I didn’t understand, says Pola. Now my answer is “yes.” They kiss in the middle of the street. Now I have the medal of the Virgin who will protect me. And when people see it they will know you belong to me, says Alejo. He still has the piece of cloth she used on him many years ago. I have a gold medal and you have a piece of cloth. They have very different values.

Nicolasa is still alive when Juliano reaches her at the bottom of the cliff. She begs him to leave her. You will get well he says. Forgive me for not loving you the way I should have, says Juliano. Our child was going to be free. Don’t say that. She asks him how he could get involved with Cata. She tells him she heard them. Forgive me, he pleads. It was my own fault, says Nicolas. This woman is not good. Swear to me that you will flee. You have to do it. Succeed in being free, but don’t forget where you came from. She dies.

The revolutionaries discuss the matter of a stable government. Only four provinces are sending representatives to Santa Fé. But none of the important cities are joining. Don Camilo Torres says that those smaller cities think that they have the same rights as the larger ones. This idea is absurd. They fear they are going to end up with fifty independent states with different constitutions. Baraya says that Nariño believes the head of the government should be in Santa Fé, and he has the manner of convincing the other provinces.

Nariño believes that the enemy is outside, not inside, he tells the official in Cartagena. The United States had to unite. You speak as if you want independence from Spain. Spain will interpret this as treason and will return to punish us. You (Cartagena) will be the first.

Don Jorge doesn’t see the utility of Nariño. Led by Don Camilo, the revolutionary group traps Baraya into leading an army to Popayan. They are going to promote him to colonel. They also want him to go to Cali and to Santa Marta. He will be the liberator of Nueva Granada. Baraya wants Nariño’s opinion. He is not a soldier, says Jorge. Tacón is on the point of war. Should we give this job to someone else?

Magda tries to borrow money. They know we can’t pay back, says her son. Yes, we can pay. Once we make a demand for them to return to us what has been confiscated. What good is your father’s freedom if he doesn’t have money to come home. Her nose bleeds. If you father doesn’t return soon, I don’t know what state he will find me in.

In Guaduas the slaves are looking over the dead baby. When Juliano arrives, he carries Nicolasa’s body. He tells them she jumped off a cliff. He is ready to do the same.

Pola asks Alejo if they are engaged now. Do we have to wait until you are twenty five before we can marry? That is our last card (to play), says Alejo, but, we have another. I must tell you, he says that in spite of our differences, I still owe my father loyalty. I already received a dowry from the engagement with María Ignacia. I am going to ask my father to explain. My father never gave me the money. He said he sent it to you. That was a lie. I know, says Alejo. Leandro told me. I am going to ask him for it, and I will forgive the debt if he allows me to marry you. Now she understands. He is going to sobornar his father (persuade him). She wants to get married soon.

Juliano tells the other slaves that Nicolasa is free at last. I am going to give her the despida (good bye) she deserves. She is a princess. If someone will not permit it, they will have to kill me.

Governor Tacón visits Francisco and notes the absence of the piano. Francisco says now we have more room. What are these trunks for, asks the governor. Francisco ells the governor he is going to Santa Fé. What could be more important than being here? The governor is looking for people loyal to him and the king. I need you here. You owe me, says the governor. OK, says Francisco, I will delay the trip.

Alejo asks Pola if it is a problem for him to stay in Domingo’s posada. But, you are paying, she says. Are you staying with your sister? No, she says, I am staying with the slaves and servants of Domingo as usual. You are joking, he says. You have your good name back. It is not for that. I am among friends.

Alejo tells her that if she is going to be his wife, please consider my opinions. Pola tells him that he has to consider her opinions, too. I am sleeping there. They are my family and I want you to accept it as that. He bows his head.

She takes Alejo to where they hear music. It is not a celebration. It is a funeral. Juliano thanks her for the freedom of his child. Is it born? Asks Pola. My child is dead and Nicolasa went with the child. She hugs Juliano, and Alejo is visibly uncomfortable. How could this happen. He tells her about the poison. She didn’t want the child to be a slave.

Cata and Domingo wake and hear the music. Who gave them permission to have a party, asks Domingo. Stay here, he tells Cata. I will not take long.

Pola tells Alejo that Nicolasa was Juliano’s woman and that Juliano is Bernarda’s son. They are like my family. I don’t understand why this slave said you got their child’s freedom. She taught them to read and write. And, they understood? asks Alejo. I discovered that the law wasn’t being followed and I helped Juliano make a demand against Domingo. Domingo agreed that the first child born would be born free. Alejo then tells her that this is the first time he has realized how painful the life of a slave is.

Domingo: What happened here? Pola tells him it is not a party. Domingo makes the sign of the cross when he sees Nicolasa and the baby laid out. It happened when you were at mass, he is told. Tomorrow we will bring her to church for a Christian burial. Nicolas was not a Christian, says Juliano. But, you married. You made us, says Juliano. This is witchcraft. Are you going to disobey me.

Ciro offers a whipping, but Domingo declines. Let them have their funeral. Alejo tells that this slave dared to confront his master. This could be bad for him. Pola just says that he is learning to defend himself.

Cata asks Gertrudis if she thinks they are really going to get married. I think so, says Gertrudis, after the spectacle in the church.

Domingo returns. It is not a party. Nicolasa died. What? She died in childbirth. She was my slave, says Cata. You had Bernarda serve you. Cata wants to go help since she is the owner. Domingo realizes that he can’t stop her. Gertrudis says that isn’t it good that she shows good sentiment to the slaves. The only thing she wants, says Domingo, is to hurt them.

Cata goes out to the stable. I pot is hanging over an open fire. She looks at Nicolasa and the baby. Juliano: what are you doing here? I found out about Nicolasa and came to offer my sympathy. You said it. Now go. Why are you crying. It hurts me, she says. Are you guilty for what you did. It wasn’t my fault. Nicolasa heard us. That is why she killed herself. It isn’t true, says Cata. I don’t want this to separate us. I cannot see you ever, never, says Juliano. The pot breaks and falls into the fire. Bernarda tells her that Nicolasa wouldn’t want her there. Go.

Pola tells her it is better to go. I only came to say I was sorry. I don’t have any guilt. I am not an assassin. Go, go, says Pola.

Pola tells Juliano that she is going to the posada with Alejo. OK. You have done enough. Go rest. Did Cata have anything to do with Nicolasa’s death? You are the only person I trust, he says. Nicolasa didn’t die from childbirth. She heard me and your sister. She jumped. She thought there was something between me and your sister. She was right. I will never go near your sister. I want to thank you. It sounds like you are saying goodbye, says Pola. Promise me you will not run away. I will do what I promised, says Juliano.

How did it go, asks Domingo. Good. Then why do you look like that. I wanted to show that the owners care about the slaves. You are not capable of going with another man, are you? Cata says you know that is a no. But, she still goes to sleep on the floor.

Pola leads Alejo to the room in the posada. He says he doesn’t need anything more. I am going to have butterflies in my stomache knowing you are sleeping so close to me, says Pola. Soon we will sleep together, he says. I must say that the way the slaves and you act together makes me uncomfortable. But, I understand, and it is a feeling inspires me.

Now, will you do me a favor? I will not take advantage of the situation. He asks permission to kiss her. I would die if you didn’t do that. If conditions are favorable, every time you see me do it without permission. What is the difference, she says. We are going to be man and wife.

Gov. Tacón is having a meeting with certain nobles and Francisco. The best thing we can do is to permit these Americans to form this junta government that they want. Francisco says this is brilliant. He did it without spilling a drop of blood. Then, says the governor, we will apply the punishment they deserve. Will it be worse than the punishment given to the Quiteños? That is not up to me. That is up to them. Aren’t you afraid they will send their army, asks Francisco. I am prepared, says the governor.

Aren’t you going to come with me, Pola asks Cata. I just said I would think about it. I am not going with you. Domingo is not going to change, says Pola. It will get worse. If I go to Santa Fé, people will think I am a bad wife. No one will help me. Pola: You aren’t going to go to Juliano?

Labels: LaPola