London
8 November 1888
Jose Rizal
My dear Friend Antonio,
Some things having happened and finding it difficult to choose a substitute in case I shall be manager – a substitute who must possess all the necessary qualifications – I ask you to excuse me and choose another one who is actually there. I am very sorry to upset your plans, but it is better that I decline now while there is time rather than give you later a substitute who is not to your liking. I already told you the great friendship that unites me with Julio and certain things that have occurred between me and Lete prevent me from voting for the first and against the latter, lest they say I do it for vengeance. Choose then someone you like, whom I shall accept with pleasure, and express to the rest my regret not to be able to stay there among compatriots.
A banquet was given to Morayta and I was not able to send a telegram on time for I learned about it through Juan’s telegram on the very same day, the 27th, at 10:30 at night, that it was held.
You may rest assured that whomsoever you may choose as manager will fill the position as well, if not better than I. I am one of so many and all of us who love well our country are worth the same. You lose nothing; I am the loser; but what can I do? Pacienciado[1].
Goodbye, chap. Give my regards to our friends.
Yours,
Rizal
02-345 [Blumentritt V.1]
[1] Characteristic Chinese pronunciation of paciencia , patience.