18 December 1895

Dapitan

Dapitan, 18 December 1895

MRS. MARÍA RIZAL

MY DEAR SISTER:

I received your letter and we thank you for your regards. Miss Josephine is sending regards and Christmas greetings to you and Moris. If I do not leave this place, send Moris over here. It is useless for you to come here for there is no business.

Enclosed are some lines for Moris.

Columba has died, according to news; Lohia got married; so did Pastora.[1] The husband of Lohia is from Capiz who is somewhat elderly, 45 years. The husband of Pastora is still young, a clerk.

This is all and command your brother,

JOSÉ RIZAL

For Moris

in Manila:

Study hard because he who does not know will get blows on the head. [In Spanish]

I wish you Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. [In Spanish]

Felices Pascuas in English: Merry Christmass (sic).

Feliz Año Nuevo: Happy New Year.

Moris, you must be a good boy.

Your uncle,

J. RIZAL

01-882 [Family]