Manila, [Philippines]
Manila, 2 July 1876
My dear Sisters and Brother [Mis queridas hermanas y hermano],
I received the birthday gift of beaded slippers [chinelas de abalorio]. I’m very happy because they were made by you and because my name and surname are embroidered on them.
I am now studying Philosophy, Physics and Chemistry, Natural History, Drawing and Gymnastics.[1] I thought I had to do water-color painting [a la aguada], that is, with colors, but I was mistaken. Nevertheless, I’m drawing a beautiful picture, “Bugler on Horseback,” and I intend to paint in oil when I study at Santo Tomás.
I’m well, but Pantaleón,[2] for the information of his family has been sick for eighteen days now.
You’ll receive my grades in my next letter. Tell our father and our mother that I ask for their blessing and my little sisters[3] to study diligently.
Regards to all the family, to my other two sisters,[4] to my dear brother-in-law Ranito,[5] and to the little Emilio.[6]
I hope my brother will give me news about the fiesta.
Your little brother, [Vuestra hermanito]
JOSÉ RIZAL
[1] Rizal was then a boarding student at Ateneo Municipal d e Manila in the fifth year of the secondary course .
[2] Pantaleón Quintero , later married Soledad Rizal .
[3] His little sisters then : Josefa, Trinidad, Soledad.
[4] His married sisters Narcisa (Mrs. Antonino López) and Lucía (Mrs. Mariano Herbosa).
[5] Diminutive for Mariano Herbosa husband of Lucia Rizal.
[6] Emilio, the eldest son of Antonino L ópez and Narcisa Rizal.