Chapter 4 Summary

Arriving at the hacienda, Cole is able to reclaim his belongings and arrange a meeting with Alejandra's aunt. Alejandra is not at the hacienda. Her aunt is even less enthusiastic at this second meeting with young Cole. The Duena Alfonsa discloses the terms of an agreement that Alejandra made with her. The two young men would be released from the prison. The young woman's aunt would pay the Americans' ransom on the condition that Alejandra would agree not to see Cole again. She explains the situation her family had found itself in when she was a young girl and the one that Alejandra finds herself in now. The aunt explains again the traditions and societal expectations of Mexico. The Duena Alfonsa admits her knowledge of the affair between Cole and Alejandra. It is her claim that Alejandra will honor her pact with her...