Chapter VIII, pages 215-233 Summary

Dona Adela steps into the room. Don Jaime lights a lamp, and his hands tremble. Dona Adela says she owes an explanation, and Don Jaime asks about the identity of the dead woman. Dona Adela asks for patience.

Dona Adela takes her time and begins telling a story. The story seems vague, and she does not use names. She tells of a young woman who was once happy but experienced heartbreak so intense that she contemplated suicide. A new man came into her life and offered assistance without asking for anything in return. One day the man departed, and to show her gratitude the young woman said to call upon her if the man ever needed her. Eventually the man does contact her, and he needs help recovering an incriminating file.

Dona Adela reveals that Don Luis...