Bento recalls the challenging initial days of separation from his family upon entering the seminary. José Dias visits and brings news from the family. Bento wishes to leave the seminary promptly and José Dias discusses how their trip to Europe can expedite his departure. While Bento sees leaving the seminary as a more immediate concern than the journey, he negotiates with José Dias about the duration of his stay. Initially, José Dias insists on a full year of study, emphasizing its educational benefits. Bento imposes a two-month deadline. After some hesitation, José Dias eventually agrees to Bento’s terms and suggests feigning a cough to accelerate their plans. Bento outlines his conditions for the trip, emphasizing a delay until May. He asks José Dias about Capitú’s well-being.

Bento fears that asking about Capitú might have suggested his main reason for leaving the seminary. José Dias discusses Capitú’s happiness and suggests her potential interest in marrying soon. Bento is overwhelmed with jealousy and contemplates rushing to her house, but conflicting emotions paralyze him. Yearning to go home, he is thrilled to learn that a visit is set for Saturday.