The Coffee Trader

At the exchange, Miguel runs into Joachim Waagenaar, a man who lost all his money by investing in sugar futures on Miguel’s advice. Joachim tells Miguel, “I want what you owe me” (80), and Miguel immediately realizes that Joachim sent the notes demanding money. Joachim insists that Miguel is responsible for the loss of his fortune, that it is Miguel’s duty to help Joachim regain it.

Miguel assures Joachim that they will discuss the matter later but is vague about the time. This angers Joachim, who demands to know when they will meet. Miguel suggests they meet at a tavern the following Monday, which satisfies Joachim. After Joachim departs, Miguel mutters in Hebrew the “prayer said upon receiving ill news” (81).

Miguel runs into Daniel and Parido, who say they have been looking for him. Daniel references Miguel’s correspondence with “that heretic, Alferonda” (83), but Parido assures Miguel that he is not here to discuss Miguel’s association with Alferonda. Miguel doubts Parido’s friendly overtures due to the longstanding tension between them.

The falling out occurred two years ago, when Miguel was engaged to Parido’s daughter Antonia. Miguel was caught in an affair with Antonia’s maid, who later claimed to be pregnant.