03-047 [Reformists]
1882.10 Barcelona
From: Tomas Cabangis
To: Jose Rizal
Cabangis, Filipino medical student from Tondo, Manila, inquires about the Circulo Hispano-Filipino of Madrid – Advises the use of the “Cabangis remedy” for the health concerns of a friend named Perio.
* * *
Barcelona, October 1882
Mr. José Rizal y Mercado
My Dear Compatriot and good Friend,
I received your letter of the 8 instant in which you relate to me your painful trip, which I regret very much. I’m glad however that no personal mishap befell you.
I appreciate the news you give me of the fellows there as well as the cost of living there. If, as you say, one can live there well and decently with little money, it is easy for me to hasten my trip to that city, for the only thing that deters me is, as you know, my small allowance.
I’m afraid that the bed-bugs and fleas may prevent Perio from fulfilling his duty as a friend; or chilblains, which, I have no doubt will soon appear on his body as a result of the cold, for he is very susceptible to this Spanish plague. Poor lad! Recommend to him the Cabangis remedy, especially if the cold prevents him from writing, for it is an infallible remedy for the ailment, and as a sedative, it is well-known throughout the Spanish territory.
One night Lorenzo took me to the house of some of his friends (J.D.?) where there was dancing and concert and we spent the evening very enjoyably, without failing to remember you…
One day when I go to Julia’s house, I am going to convey your regards, but with a certain jingly especially to Rosalia, so that when she goes to Madrid, she will look for you and not you for her. Hey! Beware of the Madrid girls.
One day, when you are not busy, I should like some details about the Circulo Hispano-Filipino and also news about our countrymen. Let me see if they have the custom of meeting on holidays as here.
Farewell, my friend, until the next, and command in everything he can be useful to you your friend who loves you truly,
Tomas Cabangis
P.S.
My regards to Perio and I tell you that until now I have not received letters from the Philippines.