XIII: Love Comes Swiftly explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Love and Romance

  Lolita and Zorro declare their love for each other despite the obstacles of his outlaw identity and her family's precarious position.

• Cowardice vs. Courage

  Captain Ramón bullies a defenseless woman and a servant, but cowers when confronted by Zorro, who displays true courage.

• Honor and Social Class

  Lolita insists on proper conduct; Captain Ramón disregards honor; Zorro defends her honor despite being an outlaw.

Characters to notice

• Captain Ramón

  Forces his way into Don Diego's home to press his suit on Lolita, insults her, and attempts to kiss her by force.

• Señorita Lolita Pulido

  Alone when Captain Ramón intrudes; she resists his advances and later confesses her love for Zorro.

• Señor Zorro

  Intervenes to rescue Lolita from Captain Ramón, forces Ramón to apologize, and shares a romantic moment with Lolita.

• Don Diego Vega

  Mentioned as being away at his hacienda; his house is the setting for the chapter's events.

• Don Carlos Pulido

  Mentioned as being out on a visit with his wife; Lolita's father.

• Doña Catalina Pulido

  Mentioned as being out on a visit with her husband; Lolita's mother.

Key passages

• “I regret that Don Diego is not at home, señor,” he said. “He has gone to his hacienda.” “I know as much. Don Carlos and wife and daughter are here, are they not?” “Don Carlos and his wife are out on a visit this evening, señor.” “The señorita⁠—” “Is here, of course.” “In that case, I shall pay my respects to the señorita,” Captain Ramón said.”

  The steward informed Captain Ramón that Don Diego was away and that Don Carlos and his wife were also out, but Lolita was home alone. Ramón insisted on seeing her anyway.

  Captain Ramón deliberately exploits Lolita's lack of chaperones.

• ““Señor,” she breathed, “you saved me from insult. You saved me from the pollution of that man’s lips. Señor, though you deem me unmaidenly, I offer you freely the kiss he would have taken!” She put up her face, and closed her eyes. “And I shall not look when you raise your mask,” she said.”

  Lolita, grateful to Zorro for rescuing her, offers him a kiss and promises not to peek at his face.

  Lolita's boldness reflects her deep gratitude and growing love.

• ““I may be ugly,” he said. “But I love you.” “Disfigured, señorita⁠—” “Still, I love you!””

  Zorro warns that he might be unattractive, but Lolita insists her love is unconditional.

  Their love transcends physical appearance and social standing.