El Filibusterismo

( Chapter 20)
Arbiter
Larabelle Adrianne M. Luntayao
Don Custodio ponders over his stand on the proposal
made by the students in the university. He mulls over it,
weighing both sides. He is torn over this decision because
on one hand, he wants to please the friars but on the
other, he also wants to help the students are on opposite
ends of the line and their opinions cannot be reconciled.
In his desperation, Don Custodio consults a number of
trusted people including Senor Pasta and Pepay the
dance. They, however, are unable to give him any help.
After a considerably long period of contemplation, Don
Custodio finally arrives at a decision.
Points of Note:
Don Custodio, a thinker and a man of intelligence, consult Senor Pasta and
Pepay. The former gives him worthless advice, while the latter does
nothing but dance and ask money from him.

The first paragraph of this chapter, which stated that the problem
regarding the school is about to come to an end because it is being
addressed by Don Custodio is a direct opposite of the truth about what is
really going on.

Don Custodio, considering all his responsibilities stacking over one

another, is proof that during those days, the Spaniards were lacking in
trusted officials.