Manila
13 December 1887
Mr. Jose Rizal
Calamba
My dear Sir and Friend,
With regret I inform you that until now the box is still in the warehouses of the customs and I believe will remain there for some more days until the censor deigns to issue his already known “Clearance.” Withal, they are not stupid in lavishing us with promises that are prolonged. Every day they repeat to us the very pleasant song: “They will be released, except the novel.” At least, they console us thus, or they believe they console us.
I hope this will be settled finally because we are patient in dealing with them.
Good luck and receive from the bearer the legislation in force on primary instruction whose details I hope to be able to give you personally.
Your servant who kisses your hand,
Pedro Serrano Laktaw.