8 October 1890

Lipa

Thanks to Lauro’s tutor – Advises his son to be a useful man – Uneasiness about scrofula – If a change of climate is necessary, go abroad and study beside Rizal – Dimayuga esteems Rizal – Order for 500 pesos as the contribution of several Lipa friends toward the campaign – La Solidaridad advances in Batangas.

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Villa de Lipa, 8 October 1890

MR. JOSE RIZAL

Madrid

MY DEAR AND MOST DISTINGUISHED FRIEND:

With the greatest pleasure I reply to your very welcome letter of 5 August and I appreciate very sincerely the wise counsel you give Lauro and the attention you show me.

In almost all my letters, as you know, I have tried to convince Lauro of the advantages of preparing for a career, whatever it might be, so that he would become a useful man in society. He can pursue it there in Madrid or else abroad. I am glad now of your good decision which coincides with my wishes, though I am disturbed and uneasy about the disease, incipient scrofula, which you have noticed in him, even if it is not serious.

If you think that his health will improve with a change of climate, you may please tell him that he can go immediately abroad[1] and study there any course which he likes.

As I believe that your permanent residence is abroad and you stay there only for short periods of times, I should like him to study where you live so that you can advise him concerning his studies and in matters affecting his health.

Pardon this egoism which is natural in a father like me whose son is far from home and is exposed to all kinds of risks. I have to seek a support for him and no one else but you could do because of your worth, disinterestedness, and thousand qualities that you possess, as well as my very special esteems for you which I am pleased to express now and always.

I am little sickly as a result of my old ailment – rheumatism; but as soon as I get over it, I will go to Manila to arrange Lauro’s pension, depositing it in Liege or in any other city in Europe which you will choose for your residence.

Bernardo and I have received your affectionate regards and he asks me to reiterate to you his offer of his services, sending you at the same time a million thanks for having remembered him

Have you received from Aguilera in Madrid a draft for five hundred pesos on Paris in your favor, the amount representing the contribution of some citizens of this town to your noble campaign? We do not know whether or not you have already received it. I have the pleasure to enclose then the third draft, in case you have not received either the first or the second.

I cannot say anything more to you except to express my gratitude and together we send you a thousand regards from this far away land.

I have forgotten to tell you that almost all towns in this province support the patriotic campaign which La Solidaridad has been waging in the interest of this unhappy country.

Wishing you all kinds of happiness, I have pleasure to remain your attentive and affectionate servant.

CATALINO DIMAYUGA

04-579 [Misc.]