Letters Exchanged Between José Rizal and Other Reformers - 1892

z z z

293. Graciano López Jaena, Barcelona, 6 January 1892

Work of the Filipino colony of Barcelona in favor of Kalamba – Reply of the Minister of Colonies – Send letter to the unfortunate exiles – “I make much noise here. . . .” – Jaena wants to edit a newspaper affiliated with the Progressive Party – A fortnightly is useless – His financial problem – He is asking Deputies Muro and Ballesteros to interpellant the Government on the events in Kalamba.

 294. José Alejandrino, Brussels, 8 January 1892

The Rizal Party in the Philippines would like Rizal to return to Europe and be the leader of the Filipinos there – His pension will be sent regularly – offers condolence for the outrages in Kalamba – Convinced that nothing could be expected from Spain – Vicente Reyes and the sale of the Fili.

z z z

293. Graciano López Jaena, Barcelona, 6 January 1892

Work of the Filipino colony of Barcelona in favor of Kalamba – Reply of the Minister of Colonies – Send letter to the unfortunate exiles – “I make much noise here. . . .” – Jaena wants to edit a newspaper affiliated with the Progressive Party – A fortnightly is useless – His financial problem – He is asking Deputies Muro and Ballesteros to interpellant the Government on the events in Kalamba.

Barcelona, 6 January 1892

Mr. José Rizal

Hong Kong

My dear Rizal,

            I received your letter on 2 December last.

            Here is the work done until now by the Filipino Colony of this city in favor of Kalamba.  In La Publicidad is published the text of the telegram to the Minister of Colonies.  I am sending you a copy of his reply.  I have written an article on the affair for La Publicidad and when it is published I will send you a clipping of it by the next mail.

            See to it that the enclosed letter reaches the hands of the unfortunate ones who are groaning in exile.

            I make a lot of noise here and if I could go to Madrid, I would make much noise there too.  The colony here has planned to collect funds to send me to Madrid, but nothing can be done as all are out of funds.

            Because of these events, an association has been organized here whose aims I will describe to you in detail in the next mail. 

            In spite of the fact that I have received the fifty pesos that the Filipino colony in Hong Kong has kindly sent me and the forty pesos that the new committee has sent me, I am, nevertheless, in a bad financial condition, full of debt, for you know how one lives here.  And as they have already suspended my pension since two months ago, I am suffering atrocious privations.  I have therefore asked Mr. Pepe Basa for passage-money to return to that port.  Here I have nothing more to do on account of the scarcity of my resources nor can I realize my personal aspirations.

            As to the proposal that I edit a fortnightly, I cannot accept it. Considering my position in the Progressive Republican Party, to edit a fortnightly is ridiculous, in addition to the fact that such a review cannot lead to anything useful.  I like to edit a daily or bi-weekly that is eminently political, affiliated with the Progressive Party in order that we, the Filipinos, can utilize it in favor of the chiefs, deputies, and senators of the party.  This is my project, described in a plan in the possession of Luzuriaga; you may read it.  It is a shame to offer a fortnightly to a political party.

            You know well the great expense that a daily, or even a bi-weekly, entails, so that if the Filipinos like to deposit the sum stated in my prospectus, I will establish and edit the newspaper.

            Because of the unbecoming treatment that the old committee has dealt me, I have lost faith and confidence in committees.  For this reason and also because my situation is becoming worse from day to day, I want to leave this place and go to that port.

            You know me already and I believe that you will know how to appreciate my resolution.  I have endured nine years of misery.  But now, considering my rank in the Revolutionary Party, it is no longer possible for me to endure poverty.  You know what it is to live in Spain.

            Today I am writing to Deputies Muro and Ballesteros to interpellant [to politically challenge members of an administration in legislative bodies – rly] the Government on the events in Kalamba.  I will give you an account of the result in the next mail.

            I send my regards to everyone.

Yours,

Graciano 

=====

294. José Alejandrino, Brussels, 8 January 1892

The Rizal Party in the Philippines would like Rizal to return to Europe and be the leader of the Filipinos there – His pension will be sent regularly – offers condolence for the outrages in Kalamba – Convinced that nothing could be expected from Spain – Vicente Reyes and the sale of the Fili.

Brussels, 8 January 1892

Mr. José Rizal

Hong Kong

My dear Friend,

            Today I am writing you in Spanish because I am quite in a hurry and, moreover, I am afraid that I may not make myself well understood in French concerning the important things I have to tell you.

            In the first place, my father has written me saying that many of your friends there have formed a society whose object is to counteract the disastrous policy of del Pilar.  This society wishes you to accept the leadership and to come to Europe and establish a more reasonable policy.  I believe, of course, that even for nothing else but for love of our unfortunate country you should accept this proposition and it would honor you greatly not to disappoint a whole people who hope to find in you the remedy for the ills they are suffering at present.

            Besides, this time I believe the pension they will assign to you will come more regularly, taking into account what my father says in his letter.  This is without prejudice of increasing your budget (au fur et a mesure) (01) as the society increases its membership and business there improves.  In short, I will not try to convince you, for I believe that with your clear judgment you will understand the usefulness of such a proposition.

            I give you my condolence for the outrages committed by the Kastilas in your town and more especially on the persons of your relatives.  When shall we avenge them?  Shall we remain eternally with arms folded?  I am getting very nearly convinced that we could not expect anything from Spain, these continuous outrages having completely dispelled my few remaining doubts, and I believe, like you do, that we cannot depend on anyone except on our own strength, 

            Of the one hundred pesos that I owe you I have already paid eighty-five pesos to Mr. Valentine Ventura and I hope that before this countryman returns to Manila I shall have fully settled our account.  Mr. Reyes (Vicente) has not behaved very decently (passes moi la mot). Well, he asked me for 12 copies of the Fili which I sent him by return mail.  Then he wrote me that the price of 7.50 pesetas was too dear, as if doubting my honesty.  Besides, he told me that the bookseller asked 35 per cent commission.  I replied that under these conditions I could not sell the books, inasmuch as I have to send you 5 pesetas for each copy and with the expenses of mailing a money order, and other things, I realized that I could not comply with the only condition you imposed upon me when you left me the copies of your book.  He wrote me again saying that he had sold 6 copies and he would send you the money.  To this I replied that you have given orders to deliver the money to Mr. Ventura, but if he had a contrary order from you, I am agreeable.  To this, the said gentleman did not deign to reply.

            My studies are going well; I have pretty good grades, for the lowest I have obtained is a 10 in some subjects and in the rest a 17.  The inspector has written my family saying that the result of my studies during the term is satisfactory.  It seems that Abreu will begin to study also, which makes me very glad, for I am sorry to tell you that, until now, he had done nothing.  The situation of friend Evangelista has improved and he studies with much eagerness and profit.

            I am here at Brussels taking advantage of the two or three days remaining of our vacation.  Abreu may come today or tomorrow.  I have not yet called on the family of Suzanne but I am thinking of doing so tomorrow.  Mr. Almeida tells me that he will write you as soon as it is possible.

            Without anything more for today, receive our good wishes for a happier year than the past.  You know that you can command your friend.

J. Aleandrino 

=====

295. Edilberto Evangelista, Ghent, 8 January 1892

Sympathy with the people of Kalamba – they are a credit to the native land – The outrage affects the whole country – Those of the Propaganda have vindicated Rizal by entrusting to him the management of La Solidaridad and our policy in Europe – Life in Ghent is very dull – Evangelista is devoted to his studies.

Ghent, 8 January 1892

Mr. Joseph Rizal

My dear Friend,

            First, I wish you a Happy New Year with all the comrades who are around you who desire the prosperity and success of the campaign of liberal ideas which ought to bring to the Philippines the most beautiful day that I am dreaming of.  We have learned here of the incredible conduct of the Spanish Government towards the Kalamba people who are a credit to the native land for their passive but imposing attitude.

            We regret this misfortune of the Kalamba people which every Filipino ought to deplore, because it is a thing which affects the whole country.  But, we are pleased with such despotic behavior as it will undoubtedly help to hasten the march of events.

            We have learned nothing about the circulation of your Filibusterísmo over there, whether it is free or prohibited; but we have learned with pleasure that those of the Propaganda have supported you in the question of the Filipino colony in Madrid by offering you the management of Solidaridad with excellent conditions, as well as the formulation of the policy of the Philippine Islands in Europe.

            At the beginning of December I received money and I was able to matriculate at the University.  The courses are not difficult and we can follow them fairly well.  The work at times is entertaining; the internal administration is very excellent; the courses are more practical than theoretical; and the professors are amiable and clever.

            Influenza has spread these days in this city; many people are sick brought about by the humidity of the south wind, but winter is very mild this year. . . .; the rate of mortality has increased a little but not in an alarming manner because those in the official list of deaths are aged people, children, and the sickly.  At present the university classes are suspended for the death of a professor of pharmacy, but he was already sickly when he was attacked by influenza.

            I have not been able yet to remit any amount to Mr. Ventura in payment of my principal debt like my university matriculation fee, but without fail I will send him some money at the first opportunity.

            Life in Ghent is very dull and for that reason I can devote myself completely to my studies.

            Without anything more to tell you, my dear friend, a thousand regards to the Filipinos who are there and I am,

Sincerely yours,

Evangelista

=====

296. Ariston Bautista, Paris, 27 January 1892

A post card from Ariston Bautista – Interest in Rizal’s Borneo project – If life becomes unbearable in Manila, he may join Rizal in Borneo – A society in Paris for the welfare of the country.

10 Tour d’Auvergnie

Paris, 27 January 1892

Mr. José Rizal

Hong Kong

Dear Friend,

            Although I have not received any letter from you, I have learned all about what is happening to your relatives as well as about your plan to go to Borneo and establish there an agricultural colony.  Perhaps, if life in Manila becomes unbearable, we shall meet there in Borneo.  We in Paris have a plan of a society also for the welfare of our county.  Do not forget to inform us (J. Luna) about Borneo and other things.

            Regards from

A. Bautista (01)

I am not yet returning to our country.

_______________

            (01) Dr. Ariston Bautista Lim (1863-1928): a Manila physician and philanthropist.

=====

297. Juan Luna, Paris, 30 January 1892

At Manila things consigned to Rizal are closely watched at the customs – A popular meeting in a Paris theater in protest against the outrages in Kalamba – He is not optimistic about its effect – Spain, always “on the side of her men of the sword” – 21 drawings of Luna for the Noli – Offers to illustrate also El Filibusterismo – Booklets with drawings for popular education – Inquiries about the Borneo colonization project.

Paris, 30 January 1892

Dear Rizal,

            They have written me from Manila that they have received the box containing the Lourdes, but they say nothing about having reimbursed you for the expenses.  For this reason, I beg you to collect from my family in Manila, as we have agreed.

            They tell me that they will send you the paintings through the mediation of another person for everything consigned to you is closely watched.

            Today they will hold a meting at the Martin Theater on account of the events in Kalamba.  Responsible and very famous personages will speak, but I am afraid that after the protests of the Spaniards of the opposition, everything would remain as protests and nothing more.  The outrages committed against your family will go down in history, but no justice can be expected from the Mother Country, who nearly always places herself on the side of the men of the sword to maintain the accursed prestige rather than justice.

            I am sending you the enclosed 21 drawings for the Noli.  I am sending them to you so that you can make use of them as you wish without waiting for those of the others to whom I have already given your order.  One is of what they call aqua fortis [= Nitric Acid; literally “strong water” -- rly].  I am also sending you, if it turns out well; of making use of it for other things of Philippine interest.

            Give me some news about the new Borneo Colony, for I, as well as the majority of those residing here, desire to know if your project is already a success.  What I am sorry about is that I am not in a position, as in other times, to help you materially.

            If you like, I will also illustrate El Filibusterísmo and if you like, give me a brief subject for propaganda, so that with ten or fifteen drawings in aqua fortis, a little book can be made in the style of children’s stories that are made here, sometimes in the form of a caricature, sometimes in more serious style.  I believe that some booklets in Japanese style with Spanish or Tagalog text will serve to educate the people who do not know how to read.  My work will be gratis and the only expense is for ordinary printing.

            Nothing more; may your enterprise be a success and with regards to that valiant colony, I remain

Affectionately yours,

J. Luna

P.S.

Regards from Paz, Mrs. Juliana, and Antonio; kisses from the children.

            Will you tell me if Antonio Marcaída is a Filipino?  He talks a lot about Philippine questions and of his brother-in-law Chuidian.

=====

298. Antonio Luna, [Madrid, January 1892]

Ready to defend our right without abandoning the campaign in Madrid – Spaniards give a political character to the events in Kalamba – Spanish policy is to reign by terror – “We ought to work together for independence” – Win partisans of independence – “Borneo will be a keystone for us.” – Luna may also join Rizal in Borneo.

[Madrid, January1892]

My dear friend Rizal,

            We have learned about the Kalamba question and all the happenings that occurred there and here goes what I think of it.  It is necessary that the Filipinos organize themselves now in another form to be ready to assert their rights in case they are attacked by force without abandoning therefore the campaign in Madrid.  What happened in Kalamba is a specific case, but the Spaniards in the Peninsula and the Philippines have given it a very notable political character.  Why?  Because Spanish policy before, now, and always is to reign by terror and in order to attain it, distrust in the colony will always be the first means.  So certain in this that with that distrust they made Novales rise in rebellion and with that same method arose that of Cavite.  They say that at the third the vanquished goes and the blow has to be well thought out, studied, and prepared in time, unfolding it when the noble and glorious Spain would become a righter of wrongs, with another nation or with one of her daughters, in the arrangement of her household.

            The assimilation propaganda is necessary and the separatist one should even be more active, because, if we do not attain the first and if we do not attain it (which will be almost impossible), we shall be worse off; the practical way will be to look for followers in order to shake off the yoke.  I am expounding then what I think, that is to say, that is to say, that we ought to work together for independence, converting ourselves into apostles, to win followers and to get funds.  For all this much study, great tact, prudence will be needed and no boasting of our being strong.  We shall achieve more by making them believe that we are inactive and that we have forgotten our duties than by showing a strength that we do not possess.  With constancy and silence we shall be some Jesuits in order to erect a house where we can drive a nail.  I offer, then, in this sense, my cooperation, but with the sole condition that I shall disentangle myself from the active campaign should I found out that it will only be a mutiny.  It is not that I am dreaming of success, but I am dreaming of demonstrating a resistance about which it can be said, “You are a virile nation.”  I believe that you understand me perfectly; if we are vanquished, it would be at the cost of much blood.  I will then go Manila and in all my actions I will always bear in mind my duty as a separatist.  Let there be no distrust.  If circumstances should place me on the side of the Spaniards in Manila, I might be forced to write for them.  However, I will earn my living but, at the same time, I will dig the ground at their expense until the fruit ripens.  So you will have here a satellite (if these ideas are also yours) who will work with steadfastness.

            With regard to your coming over to manage a newspaper: 1^st, if it is like La Solidaridad, it is not necessary; 2^nd, if it is a revolutionary paper, let it ask for independence.  This is for the good and it can be published anywhere, including Hon Kong.  For a newspaper such as this, count on me as one of its editors.  If it takes the position of pro-assimilation, I would accept (if they would ask me for assistance) writing for it in order not to displease my fellow countrymen, but, at the same time it will have a revolutionary sense as I will not hesitate to call the Spaniards canaille [a rabble mob like a pack of wild dogs -- rly], traitors, and all that they deserve.  In this case I will be an unconditional editor who will even attack La Solidaridad.

            Write me; well in my turn I will write you on all important questions.

            Borneo will be a keystone for us, and very probably I may also be one of its inhabitants, if circumstances compel me.

            We have toasted your father, brother, and family who have escaped, Borneo, etc. etc., where we shall have a new asylum.

            I have nothing more to share for today

Your good friend,

Antonio

P.S.

            I send my greetings to all our fellow countrymen and friends.

=====

299. Pedro Serrano Laktaw, Manila, 9 February 1892

A Masonic document making Rizal Honorary Venerable of Logia Nilad for outstanding services to his native country – Masonic reorganization – Signed by Panday Pira, Masonic name of Pedro Serrano Laktaw.

Al  G  D  G  A  D  U

Universal Masonry X Filipino Family

Liberty, Equality, Fraternity

            The Grand Lodge Central Nilad of A L and A Masons in federation of Gr Or Esp.: (office in Madrid) sends SFU to dear brother Dimasalang; and informs him that a meeting held on 31 January last it was resolved to appoint Honorary Venerable of this Respectable Grand Lodge the said brother to whom the undersigned Secretary G S addresses himself, as a prize for his outstanding services to his native country.

            Likewise he notifies him that at an appropriate time he will be informed of the plan of Masonic reorganization that the undersigned presented to the Gr. Order Esp. for which full powers had been requested to constitute ourselves into a separate family, and in fact we raise columns on 6 January last.

            I transcribe this for your information.

            Receive, dear brother, the kiss of peace that the workers of this workshop are sending you.

            Vall. De Manila, 9 February 1892 (e.v.)

Panday Pira

=====

300. Pedro de Govantes, Madrid, 17 February 1892

Regretting the moral and material disaster which has befallen the Rizal family – Confidence in Linares’ efforts.

Madrid, 17 February 1892

Mr. José Rizal

My esteemed Friend,

            You understand how much I regret the hardships that your family is suffering.  I did not have to do anything, for through Castro, I learned what Mr. Linares had obtained, which I would not have surely succeeded to get.  Thus, confining myself to applauding the good attitude of Mr. Linares and to deploring the deep sorrow you must have felt upon seeing your aged father banished I remain,

            You affectionate friend who kisses your hand,

Pedro de Govantes

=====

301. Graciano López Jaena, Barcelona, 18 February 1892

López Jaena in difficulties – Full of dread, without hope of help – The new committee does not even exist, the old one is agonizing – They asked him to return to his post and now they abandon him – Coincidence in the name of La Liga – Copies of El Filibusterismo for his brother at Iloilo.

Barcelona, 18 February 1892

My dear Rizal,

            I am a soul in purgatory here, full of dread, of restlessness and anguish, without knowing what to do, for Páez tells me in his letter that the new committee does not exist and the former one is agonizing.  As you see, I do not know where I will end in the midst of this painful situation.  I do not understand certainly how I, without meddling in the internal struggles f the committees, nevertheless have always to pay for the broken dishes.  I would not have returned her if that same committee had not begged me to do so.

            It seems incredible that without a previous agreement we have coincided in the name La Liga which should be given to the association that you are founding there and to the one here which also has begun functioning since the beginning of January, and it is eminently political.  When its bylaw is printed, I will send you a copy.

            Do me the favor of sending three copies of El Filibusterismo to my brother.  Wrap them up and label them in this manner.

Iloilo

Mr. Domingo López Jaena

7 Fajardo Street

Jaro

Through the kindness of Mr. Timoteo Páez

            Send this package through a messenger to Páez and he will forward it to my brother.  Páez will remit to you the expenses.  Thanks in advance.

            Regards to your father, mother, brother, and the whole Filipino colony in Hong Kong.

Yours,

Graciano

=====

302. Rizal, Hong Kong, 17 March 1892 || To La Solidaridad and Associación Hispano-Filipina

Grateful to La Solidaridad for its support of the Kalambeños – Rizal wrote on the happenings for English papers – Not an echo in the Spanish press – Linares Rivas promises redress for the grievances – Some pardoned – Difficulty of sending La Solidaridad to Manila – If comrades for the struggle are lacking, there are avengers – Would like “to go to Manila to see the bull at close hand. . . .”

2 Rednale Terrace Hong Kong

17 March 1872

To the Director and Editorial Staff of La Solidaridad and to the Asociación Hispano-Filipina

My dear Friends,

            I have read in the newspaper about the campaign you have waged on account of the events in Kalamba and I feel profoundly grateful, as all Kalambeños must be, for so patriotic a conduct.  Though I do not believe that you had any other purpose but to show that there is solidarity, if not active, at least latent, throughout the Philippines when one part of her is in danger, nevertheless I wish to express to you on my own and on behalf of my family our gratitude, for, as I have sometimes written for its columns and worked with you, I consider that I have a right to deserve your help when I try to defend something.

            Here I have also written in English for some newspaper, but it is rather for record purposes and information and nothing more.  Without desiring to counsel either the newspaper or the Asociación, I believe that at present little can be expected from public opinion in Spain; there the water is up to the neck and it cannot pay much attention to the Philippines.  In a letter of 17 January that Linares Rivas (01) has written me he admits the outrage and promises repeatedly timely redress.  Already they have pardoned some.  As a conservative, Linares Rivas works to look after the prestige of the government and wants to fix things little by little.

            Here we encounter very great difficulty in sending La Solidaridad to Manila.  Through the mail none can be sent except one or two at the most.  I should like to systematize the remittance, but those in Manila refuse to give money and those who formerly took charge of it do not want to do it gratis.  I believe that you over there ought to think of introducing it in another way.  The Manila committee no longer writes me.  The campaign turns out to be useless.

            We send our sincere gratitude to the Director, Morayta, Lete, Cajigas (Tomás) and all those who have given attention to the Kalamba question.  The Filipinos will see that if they lack comrades for the struggle, at least there are avengers.  This is already something.

            Several times I have wanted to go to Manila to see the bull at close hand, but in view of repeated and panicky opposition, if it can be called so, I have had to desist at present.  The committee has a truly panicky terror each time I say that I am going.  I have always thought that only with great fear one goes to the corners.

            I should be grateful to Mr. Tomás Cajigas if he would send me the Mas, should he not need it anymore.

            With regard to Jugo and Lete, prize-winners, I will write to Manila.  I reiterate my compliments to the first and my very courteous congratulations to the second, because I believe he justly deserves them.  I will do everything I can so that the prizes would be awarded to them; the bad thing is that I no longer have my former prestige.  Whatever depends upon me will be done.

            Here you have me at your command.

José Rizal

_______________

            (01) Linares Rivas was a Spanish lawyer and politician who sympathized with the Philippine cause.

=====

303. Sixto López, Manila, 18 March 1892

130 pesos from S. López to settle accounts in Hong Kong; the balance to pay for copies of Filibusterismo – All refuse to accept the 25% commission offered by Rizal – Rizal’s circular will be taken to Balayan – Mrs. Trinidad Zobel advises Rizal not to return to the Philippines for he would be killed – Many Batangueñas are awaiting Rizal’s report on Borneo.

Manila, 18 March 1892

Mr. J. Rizal

Hong Kong

My dear Friend,

            You will receive the enclosed draft for the value of 130 pesos in the name of Basa with the request that you please settle my account with Mr. Robinson and the balance is in payment for the copies of the Fili in my possession.  No one of the many who helped me in selling it would accept the 25% commission you offer, so that if you will give it to me, I would be embarrassed and would get some money without having taken any trouble at all to earn it.  In the next trip I will send you the list of persons who helped me for your sake.

            I have your circular and I will take it to the province tomorrow afternoon.  I hope to be able to dispose of it in one day or else I will go there to visit you in the second trip instead of spending the Holy Week here.

            I have taken the fan to Doña Trinidad.  When she saw me downstairs, she shouted, asking me what it was, for whom it was, and from where it was.  I answered all her questions and afterwards she asked why you are there.  I replied that you are coming here.  She demonstrated upon hearing this and she told me to charge you not to come because they will kill you here.

            My sisters Clmencia and Juliana wish to be remembered to Trining, if she has not forgotten them yet.  Solís is also sending you regards and says he is going to write you when he gets back to Lipa.  I send my regards to your family and command your friend who kisses your hand.

S. López

P.S.

            Send me 12 copies of the Fili through the majordomo, and a dozen and a half through Ciriaco and the boatswain, because I need them.

            Buy me also a drill, any kind that you think is good.  Someone has asked me to order it.

            I consider it advisable for you to go to Borneo inasmuch as you wish to see it.  Here in Batangas many are awaiting your report on it.

            The draft for thirty-five pesos is for Basa, the value of the chest of drawers.  I will write him when another boat sails.

            Tell Robinson that I am always sick, so that I have not been able to write him.  This is true.  I am often sick when I am in Balayan and so I have done nothing or little for the country as I have promised you.

=====

304. Aristón Bautista, Paris, 24 March 1892

A post card from Bautista inquires about General Despujol’s treatment of Rizal – Del Pilar suggests congratulations to Despujol – Fee, for the issue of Rizal’s diploma by the Ministry of Fomento Development.  Presents Rizal with a book on diagnostic pathology by H. Virchon.

10 Tour d’Auvergne, Paris

24 March 1892

Mr. J. Ma Basa

For Dr. J. Rizal

Hong Kong

Dear Pepe,

            I am not in favor of congratulating you at once on account of the good news that we have received concerning General Despujol’s behavior towards you.  It is said that you had some correspondence with him and that it has give a good result.  We have received here Marcelo del Pilar’s telegram in which he suggests that we felicitate Despujol on the 11^th instant in accordance with an order-telegram from Hong Kong.  At first we hesitated whether to do it or not, for fear of making a mistake, but as the order came from there and you are there, all of us here decided to send it along.  We are impatient to know something about this matter.

            I have written M. Pilar telling him to advance the amount of 35 pesetas which the Ministry of Fomento Development is asking for the issuance of your diploma, and I believe it will be sent by this mail.

            As I have learned with great pleasure that you have established yourself there for the practice of your profession, I believe it is timely to send you as my contribution a work on diagnostic pathology which will be useful to you, and, above all, because it is very good.  It is by H. Virchow.  It is probable that I will go home by June.  J. Luna’s daughter has died.  I will be glad if you get along well there with your dear family whom I ask you to please greet in my name.

I embrace you,

Aristón Bautista

=====

305. Edilberto Evangelista, Ghent, 31 March 1892

Disappointed at the conservative ideas of our old folks – Dismal legacy of slavery – Family interests and patriotic ideas and liberty – To die for the country is a duty – Against the stupid expression: “What a waste of blood!” – May those conservative ideas not infect our youth – Voice of encouragement – Friends keep aloof because of his poverty.

Ghent, 31 March 1892

Mr. Joseph Rizal

Hong Kong

My dear friend Rizal,

            How distressed I am to learn from your letter that over there you are surrounded by opposition which prevents you from carrying out your ideas, instead of finding around you the solid support of those who seem to love their native land.  But in this regard you ought not to be discouraged; on the contrary, your zeal and your efforts should multiply.  In short, this effect generation that precedes us and which ought to pass away soon, still wants to leave us this dismal legacy of slavery.  It is because their ideas of patriotism and liberty are not clear, being influenced by the abominable consideration of interest and family.  In Europe n approaching war is incomparably frightful; everybody fears a massacre unprecedented in history, but at the word “Native Country,” no one would ever dare to retreat, for everyone realizes that it is his duty to die for his country.  You see, that to a patriotic man there is no sense in this stupid expression, “what a waste of blood.”  In short, I repeat your timely phrase: “. . . to the animals in their torpor.”  Now, it only remains for us to prevent that such conservative ideas which are never patriotic, spread among the youth and the next generation, for otherwise the salvation of our native land would become an insoluble problem.

            I thank you, dear friend, for your compliments on my progress in the study of French and, though I find that you flatter me a little, I appreciate your good intention to awaken in me the desire to learn more.  My scholastic record is not brilliant as you suppose but I study regularly, like Alejandrino and Abreu, and I am satisfied and proud of it.

The map of the Island of Luzon is yours from the moment I had the honor of offering it to you.  And I will try to send you the cartouches [a scroll-like ornament or tablet, esp. as an architectural feature -- rly] that you are asking for, but at the moment I am in a great financial difficulty due to the inexplicable neglect of my brother to send me money.  The allowance he sends me is never enough to pay my debts to Egermont and the cost of my studies.  Since two months ago, Abreu and Alejandrino have moved to another boarding house.  They want to be as far away as possible from my poverty, afraid, perhaps, to lose their prestige as rich men among the women of Ghent; but it does not matter.

I have written my brother to try to send you at Hong Kong the $15 [Probably in the British Hong Kong's monetary unit, the Hong Kong dollar - rly] that I owe you.

My dear friend, yours truly,

Edilberto

=====

306. José Alejandrino, Ghent, 13 April 1982

Favorable conditions for patriotic campaign – Confidence in Rizal’s ability to work for our liberty – He will know how to overcome obstacles to such a noble cause. – We cannot expect anything from Spain – Less from Spanish charlatans – Rizal purchasing some revolvers – He will send the Flobert cartridges ordered by Rizal.

9 Rue du Hainaut

Ghent, 13 April 1892

Mr. José Rizal

Hong Kong

My very dear Friend,

            I informed Manila immediately about the reasonable conditions that you demand in order to come here, and I believe that our friends there will do what is possible considering the confidence they have in your ability to undertake the difficult task of working for our liberty.  Would you refuse to return to Europe in case the result of the negotiations is favorable?  I do not believe so, for your deep love our country would not allow you to refuse her so great a service that she expects from you.  Why don’t you rise above certain trifles when it concerns a cause as great and noble as liberty?  My friend, I believe it is perfectly useless to insist now on it.  I ask you humbly to follow your aspiration and patriotic sentiments.  As to the rest, they will tell you what you ought to do.

            As for me, I have lost long ago my confidence in those who are at present directing our political affairs (you also, I am sure) and for that reason, we ought to work so that things will march differently.  As to the rest, I feel like you do, that we have nothing more to expect from Spain and less from some Spanish charlatans, and that the destiny of a country should not be the object of stupid words, and everything should be done with good intentions . . . . . . . . . . the Fannotte firm of Liege as well as the American firm, Smith, that I am sending you, so that you may be able to choose the weapons that suit you.  The wholesale prices are marked and they are the last prices. As to the manner of payment, they want payment at Brussels before the remittance of goods.  Consequently, if you wish to buy the revolvers, all you have to do is to send me the money at your convenience and I will take care of the purchase.

The Flobert No. 1 pistol cartridge was first developed in 1858.

            I would have like to send you the Flobert cartridges that you have ordered through Mr. Aristón Bautista, who is returning home at the end of this month, but he sent me word through Mr. Abreu that, as he was not planning to pass by Hong Kong, it would be impossible for him to please us.  The same thing happened to me in the case of Mr. Ventura.  While waiting for the departure of another compatriot, I will inquire at the Mesageries Maritimes about the best way of sending you what you are ordering.

            As to your books, I must tell you that after the sale of twelve copies to Vicente Reyes, I have not been able to sell even one copy.  As you know, this gentleman told me that he would pay you directly and so I cannot settle my account with you until you have received the money from this irregular sale.

            We are now on vacation for 15 days until Christmas.  I take advantage of these days . . . . . . . . . .  My studies are going well and my grades last month are satisfactory. 

            The Horti and Waem families wish me to give you their compliments.

            Your devoted friend who embraces you.

José Alejandrino 

=====

307. Graciano López Jaena, Barcelona, 15 April 1892

Struggling with poverty and the gloomy future – His letter to Basa will tell him about his life – “What should I do?” – Recommend the Association in Hong Kong from which something good for the country will emerge.

Barcelona, 15 April 1892

Mr. José Rizal

Hong Kong

My dear Rizal,

            I have not received a letter from you for sometime.  I know nothing of your life or about your work.  I’m here struggling with poverty and a gloomy future.

            Read my letter to Mr. Basa and you will find out what is happening to me.  I ask you to advise me what I should do in my dubious and nebulous situation.

            I recommend to you the Association, develop it, and I believe that it will be the center from which something good for our dear Philippines will emerge.

            With regards to your family.  Laurel, and Mr. Sixto López, your friend who embraces you,

Graciano

=====

308. Aristón Bautista, Paris, 16 April 1892

Returns to Manila summoned by his mother – Presentiment of a great disaster – Awaiting Rizal’s instructions for the triumph of good aspirations – Unity of the divided party at home – Let us maintain our ideal – Trained in French boxing and wielding a sword, he will not allow the Kastilas to mock him.

Paris 16 April 1892

Mr. José M. Basa

For Dr. José M. Basa

For Dr. José Rizal

Hong Kong

Dear Friend,

The Caledonien, circa 1885

            I received your letter dated 7^th March.  I am going home to our dear country.  I will embark on the Caledonien on 1^st May at Marseille.  My mother as summoned me by telegram.  I have a presentment of a great disaster.  I request you to give me instructions on what I should do, so that our good aspirations may triumph.  We hope and we will endeavor to unite the parties at home that are said to be divided.  This division will endanger our aspirations.  We must maintain the ideal that can never be erased from our hearts.

            If you are going to write me with an enclosure, address it to Messrs. Baer, Senior, Manila.  I offer my services to you at Botica de Sta. Cruz, 10 Manila.

            For three months I studied and practiced French boxing, swift blows, and also the handling of the sword at the Ecole Pratique de Baudoy, 108 Richelieu.  It seems that I will not permit the Kastila to mock this face of mine.

            In the last mail I sent you a copy of Traité Diagnostique Metznikoff.  Have you received it?

            Give my greetings to your family.

            Command your sincere friend,

A. Bautista

=====

309. Edilberto Evangelista, Ghent, 29 April 1892

In the clutches of poverty – Encouraging words for Rizal – Organize a Revolutionary club in Hong Kong as do the Separatistas of Cuba, the Progresistas of Spain – Nostalgia.

Ghent, 29 April 1892

Mr. Joseph Rizal

Hong Kong

Dear Friend,

            Without any news from my family, my situation today is unbelievable.  My embarrassment increases in proportion to my need of the very necessities of life.  So pardon me for not being able to comply with your little request; I will do it at the first opportunity.

            I have heard nothing for a long time about the happenings in the Philippine Islands, especially what concerns you.  Believe me; I have a great desire to know something.  What has become of the cause of our adored motherland, overwhelmed with so much ill-luck!  Are the incredible vexations which she has suffered these last days not enough to awaken her heart, asleep and brutalized during three centuries, that today they should try to amuse her like a child with vain promises and sweet words?  When shall I have the happiness of admiring with eyes bathed in tears our valiant youth like true sons of the motherland, with their bosoms gasping at the gust of a sacred love, gathered together around their flag and sincerely ready to shed their blood for her, since this is the price we ought to pay for our liberty!  Oh, dear friend, pardon this unbosoming of my heart!

            Why don’t you make an effort to find out how many share your ideas and are moved by the same impulse?  I mean to say that we must give form to your thought, organizing, in defiance of the Government, a Revolutionary Club whose headquarters you can establish in Hong Kong or any other place.  Don’t the Separatistas (01) in Cuba have it?  Don’t the Progresistas in Spain have it?  In short, you are better informed than I, but I am sure that the principal and only obstacle that you would have to overcome in such an undertaking would be the opposition of our elders and of our rich men who tremble at the thought of seeing their interests threatened by government reprisals.  The rich and the powerful in our country will always be the principal tool in sowing fear and distrust in the most courageous hearts.  Think of the manner of winning them.  You would give a terrible blow to our enemies, which, if it would not have an immediate success, would at least alter the present situation.  I should not be the one to give you this advice as you might have already thought of it.  Remember what you said to us at our gatherings in your rooms at Hainaut Street: “The best and most modern policy is that which is evolved in the full light of the sun” and “Power is not in the government but in the people.”

            Little can be said about Ghent.  It is always a dead city, just as when you left it after your sojourn, so pleasant for me.  Winter is over, and spring is beginning to unfold its splendid panorama, letting us admire the charms of nature outside of the city, in the open fields.  Believe me, dear friend; never have I been so impressed by nature as now, after having been accustomed to look at her sad aspect during winter.  I admire it with the heart and my imagination is filled with faraway remembrances of the tropics and something resembling nostalgia transports my soul into reveries of the infinite amid the verdure of the leaves, of t fragrance and delightful colors of the flowers.  Oh, what memories make my eyes sometimes moisten when I plough in a canoe the tranquil waters of the Lys [a river in West Belgium -- rly], enchanting river that bathes the land of Ghent, similar to our