Dapitan
If his mother would visit him — His house in a beautiful place, lacking only one who knows how to cook well — Paciano’s ailment — Advice for Antonino’s house — In August Rizal performed many surgical operations with pay.
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Dapitan, 1 August 1893
MR. MANUEL T. HIDALGO
MY DEAR MANENG,
I received your letter together with the rice and three jars of biscuits for which I thank you very much.
Our mother’s idea to come here is very good: Six or seven months of vacation to see these lands; the town is picturesque. My house has good views. To one who is fond of farming the place offers many opportunities. I have enough household helpers — one old woman, two men, and three boys. There is only lacking here a person who knows how to cook well.
Continue observing Abelardo; see if he hears.
I congratulate you on Alfredo’s progress. I wish Sra. Neneng to profit from her business venture.
Read my letter to Antonino.
With many regards to all, especially to our parents.
Yours,
RIZAL
P.S.
I’m very sorry that Sr. Paciano is sick. I suggest that he always carry with him a little bottle of Fowler’s arsenical liquor taking daily two or four drops in a little cup of water. Do not use too much quinine.
When Antonino rebuilds his house, he should not use zinc for roofing. Zinc causes many ailments.
This month I performed many operations on persons who paid.
They are right in coming through Cebu.
01-793 [Family]