The next day, Don Diego rides to the dilapidated Pulido hacienda. The Pulidos have lost most of their fortune because Don Carles has made some serious mistakes politically. Don Carlos is excited to see Don Diego, because he feels that being friendly with Don Diego cannot help but to improve Don Carlos's standing with the governor. Don Diego announces that he has come to woo Señorita Lolita since his father wishes Don Diego to begin taking on the responsibilities of a man. Unfortunately, Don Diego believes that his money should be sufficient reason for a woman to marry him and that there is no reason for him to court Lolita, as to do so would be an exhausting waste of his time. Lolita is highly displeased, tells Diego exactly what she thinks of him, and flounces out of the room.