Chapter XIII

Cunegonde acknowledges the old woman's rank and merit, accepts her proposal, and encourages other passengers to share their stories. Both Cunegonde and Candide conclude the old woman was right in her assessment.

Candide expresses regret that Pangloss was hanged and suggests he could have offered objections to Pangloss's philosophy about physical and moral evils.

The ship arrives at Buenos Aires where Candide, Cunegonde, and the old woman meet Governor Don Fernando, a man of great pride and numerous names.

The Governor finds Cunegonde the most beautiful woman he has ever seen and immediately asks if she is the captain's wife, alarming Candide.

Candide struggles between lying that Cunegonde is his wife or sister to protect her, but his pure soul prevents him from betraying the truth.

Candide claims that Cunegonde will marry him and asks the Governor to sanction their marriage.

The Governor mocks Candide, smiles contemptuously, and orders him to go review his military company, removing him from the scene.

The Governor declares his passionate love for Cunegonde and offers to marry her either in a church ceremony or however she prefers.

Cunegonde asks for a quarter hour to consult with the old woman and decide whether to accept the Governor's marriage proposal.

The old woman argues that Cunegonde should marry the Governor despite her past misfortunes, as she has no money and he is powerful, while she could benefit Candide's fortune.

A Grey Friar had stolen Cunegonde's jewels in Badajos; when the friar was caught and hanged, he confessed and described their route, leading the Alcalde to pursue them to Buenos Aires.

The old woman tells Cunegonde that she cannot be accused of murder and that the Governor will protect her from mistreatment, so she should remain.

The old woman tells Candide to flee at once or he will be burned, as he is wanted as a murderer of the Grand Inquisitor.

Candide faces an impossible choice between fleeing to save his life and remaining with the woman he loves.