The young men move on to other topics including Paulita, Dona Victorina’s niece and Isagani’s love interest Dona Victorina’s hiring of Isagani to look for Don Tiburcio, and the fact that Don Tiburcio is actually hiding in Isagani’s uncle’s house.
Capitan Basilio accepts their explanation and heads off. Their venue will be the house of a student named Makaraig. Capitan Basilio is doubtful of their success, but the young men calm his doubts by revealing they expect a permit soon, and that they have teachers and funds contributed by fellow students. Their conversation turns to the Spanish language academy the young men are planning to start. The younger Basilio first updates the capitan on the lack of improvement in Capitan Tiago’s health condition and supposed continued use of opium. Below deck, medical student Basilio and the young poet Isagani chat with Capitan Basilio.
