Summary:
Macaraeg tells his friends at the dormitory that the decision to issue the building permit for the Spanish academy has been given to a commission of which Don Custodio is the leader. The students then come up with plans and schemes to get the Don on their side and influence him to decide on their favor. They also plan to seek the help of Señor Pasta, a lawyer, and Isagani volunteers to take charge of this task.
Points of Note:
The goal of the Spanish academy, which the students are planning to build, is to make sure that its students learn correct Spanish as early as the first year, so that it will be easier to understand subsequent lessons.
Isagani is an honorable and idealistic youth; Juanito Pelaez is an opportunistic lad who believes in the saying, "the end justifies the means."
Macaraeg is different from the rest in that he puts the welfare of others before himself. Those who live in his house do so without payment.
Pecson is an intellectual, but a pessimistic one. He always anticipates failure, and this time, his predictions prove correct.
Sandoval is the image of a Spaniard who has not yet turned evil upon his residence in the Philippines, partly because of his youth and partly because he surrounds himself with good Filipino friends who have great love for their country.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Question: Is there a marked difference between the youth back in those days and the youth of today with regards to their attitude and character as students?
Answer: None. Trouble is inherent in students. There are those who are studious, and there are also those who are fond of truancies.
Question: What does it mean when a man hurls his gloves to another?
Answer: It means to call someone to a challenge.