# XXXIV: The Blood of the Pulidos explained — The Mark of Zorro

> Chapter companion for The Mark of Zorro by Johnston McCulley.

## What happens

Sergeant Gonzales and his troopers search Fray Felipe's house for Lolita Pulido. When they discover her hiding behind bales of hides, she threatens to stab herself with a knife rather than return to prison. Gonzales hesitates, and Lolita forces them to let her leave, then escapes on Gonzales's horse after Fray Felipe trips the soldiers to buy her time.

## Themes in this chapter

### Cowardice vs. Courage

Lolita's defiant stand with a knife against armed soldiers contrasts with Gonzales's cautious hesitation, highlighting courage in the face of oppression.

### Persecution and Oppression

The Pulidos are unjustly persecuted by the governor's forces, as shown by the relentless pursuit of Lolita and her willingness to die rather than submit.

### Honor and Social Class

Lolita's pride in her 'Pulido blood' and her refusal to be taken alive underscore the importance of honor and social standing in her actions.

## Character check-ins

### Señorita Lolita Pulido

Hides behind bales of hides, threatens suicide with a knife to avoid recapture, and escapes on Gonzales's horse.

### Sergeant Pedro Gonzales

Leads the search, discovers Lolita, but is outmaneuvered by her threat and later tripped by Fray Felipe.

### Fray Felipe

Attempts to protect Lolita, hesitates to swear falsely, and trips Gonzales to aid her escape.

### The Pulidos

Referenced through Lolita's pride in her 'Pulido blood' and her determination to die rather than return to prison.

## Key lines

> Señorita Lolita Pulido does not return to the foul carcel now or at any time, señores! Rather would she plunge this knife into her heart, and so die as a woman of good blood should!

Lolita declares she will never go back to prison and would rather kill herself than be taken.

_Shows her defiance and commitment to honor over captivity._

> I shall be the one to leave. Walk backward, and stand against the wall, señores! Do it immediately, or I plunge this knife into my bosom!

Lolita commands the soldiers to back away and stand against the wall, threatening suicide if they refuse.

_Demonstrates her tactical cleverness and resolve._

> He threw out one leg, and tripped Sergeant Gonzales. The two troopers crashed into him, and all went to the floor in a tangle. Fray Felipe had gained some time for her, and it had been enough.

Fray Felipe trips Gonzales and the soldiers, buying Lolita precious moments to escape.

_Highlights Fray Felipe's brave intervention despite the risk._

## Links

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