Teodoro and Nela walk together quietly before speaking. He asks her why she hid herself in the abyss when he came looking for her. Nela says that she desires to be with her mother. Teodoro interprets this as a desire to commit suicide, as Nela’s mother had done. He urges her to share the truth of her vexation. After much prodding, Teodoro realizes that Nela is in love with Pablo and jealous of Florentina for marrying him. Nela confesses that she is fearful of Pablo’s rejection. She dreads living a life beside Pablo and Florentina, unable to fully manifest her love for the former. Teodoro attempts to comfort her by telling her that she has no way of knowing how Pablo will respond until she sees him. He urges her to do as he says, which is to go to Aldeacorba and accept the charity that Florentina offers. He firmly believes that the civilizing powers of education will train her to have a better sense of worth. With education, she will have a better and more tranquil perspective regarding her circumstances. Taken aback by the force of Teodoro’s words, Nela allows him to carry her back to Aldeacorba.