Chapter 12 Summary

On the fourth day after the storm, funerals are held for the thirty-one men of the Salazar fleet. Only the Sevillano has survived. Everyone remarks that the two greatest events that have ever occurred in the village - the discovery of the black pearl and the loss of the Salazar fleet - happened within weeks of each other. Ramun is among those who wonder if the two are connected.

The Sevillano scoffs at the suggestion that the pearl has brought bad luck. Once again, Luzon confronts Ramun privately and urges him to return the pearl to the lagoon. Confused, Ramun returns to the church in search of Father Gallardo. The priest is absent, so Ramun kneels in front of the Madonna and prays. His eyes fasten on the pearl, and Ramun realizes that the gem has brought nothing but disaster on La Paz...