Manila
Manila,….May 1886
Mr. Jose Rizal y Mercado
Paris
My distinguished Friend and Comrade,
Taking advantage of the departure for that country of our mutual friend Mr. Valentin Ventura, I inform you that towards the end of the month of July of 1884, I was called to Calamba to see a patient, and calling at your house, I spoke to your dear parents about the progress you have made in medicine and philology. Talking about whether or not you should be made to return to this country after the conclusion of your studies, I advised them not to make you do so, even if they have to make a little sacrifice, for with the encyclopedic knowledge that you have acquired in Europe, you should be looked upon here with much caution and you would be exposed to numerous displeasures. If someday you would find it necessary to return to this country, I would advise you not to do it until after you have changed your nationality, and if it were possible, you choose German, English, or North American in order to avoid the outrages to which all the “Isrealites” are exposed to here.
I do not tell you about the numerous happenings I have witnessed here since my return, because perhaps you are already informed of them through the newspapers there, and if you want more details, you can ask our Mr. Valentin Ventura.
Your very affectionate friend and comrade who loves you sincerely,
Felipe Zamora
01-156 [Family]