Act I. In a cigar factory. Among the visitors _Conchita_, one of the

cigar girls, recognizes _Mateo_, a wealthy Spaniard, who rescued her from the forced attentions of a policeman. She invites _Mateo_ to her home. The girl's mother, delighted that her daughter has attracted a wealthy man, goes out to make some purchases. Love scene for _Mateo_ and _Conchita_. The mother returns, and, unseen by _Conchita_, _Mateo_ gives her money. When _Mateo_ leaves, and _Conchita_ discovers he has given her mother money, she is furious and vows never to see _Mateo_ again, because she thinks he has endeavoured to purchase her love. In her anger she leaves her home.