Calamba
Calamba, Laguna, 27 March 1887
MR. JOSÉ RIZAL
Don’t resent that our letters are far apart. Now you are going to get such happy news that I hardly have enough words to say it.
On the 23rd of this month Lucía gave birth to a very handsome boy, robust and healthy, like his mother. To everyone who asks when he will be baptized, I reply that it will be on your return, or upon the receipt of your acceptance to be the godfather. For this reason, we beg you to answer immediately this letter because I have already talked to the parish priest who told me that your permission is necessary in order that your name may be put in the record as the sponsor. It seems that he is willing to wait for your reply.
Tell us also what will be a good name for him and how to take good care of him so that he will not die soon. You know we love you.
MARIANO HERBOSA
01-212 [Family]