himself a staunch monarchist - the landowner will fight to win
Luisa from the soldier. Javier returns, looking for Luisa. The Duchess Carolina
takes the opportunity to further her acquaintance with the handsome young
Colonel (Dúo:"Caballero del alto plumero".) Under her
seductive influence - and much to the astonishment of Aníbal, Nogales
and Vidal - Javier's political allegiance takes another about turn. As Luisa
Fernanda returns, just in time to see Javier sauntering away with the Duchess
Carolina on his arm, Vidal promptly declares himself a revolutionary and
proposes to her. Hurt and confused, Luisa faints into his arms as the act ends.

Act 2 Scene
1. The Paseo de la Florida. Mariana and Rosita have been persuaded by
Carolina to organise a charity collection outside the Oratory of San Antonio,
next to a drinks stall run by the tavernertable, soon to be joined by Vidal. She
offers him a substantial sum to join the monarchist movement, but he refuses,
quoting the fable of the village idiot who believed be was a swallow - Vidal at
least has no intention of flying above his station (Dúo: "Para
comprar a un hombre".) Luisa returns, apologising to Vidal for being late,
and when Vidal assures her that he will remain a republican for her sake Luisa,
irritated by Javier's arrogant possessiveness, tells the soldier that she
prefers the landowner after all (Terceto:"¡Cuanto tiempo sin
verte, Luisa Fernanda!".) Carolina, finding the charity table hasn't had
much luck, proposes to add to the proceeds by auctioning herself off as a dance
partner (Escena:"Señoras y caballeros".) Vidal easily
outbids the jealous Javier; but insultingly passes on his prize dance to the
soldier, who quietly