London
Rizal reading the old sources of Philippine history — He will not leave London until he has explained all the books and manuscripts relating to our country — “Let Desengaños say what he wants . . . Who among Filipinos and Spaniards wrote the first insulting books?” — Dr. Rost is an affectionate friend — Like a good father to Rizal.
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37 Chalcot Crescent, Primrose Hill, N.W.
London, 12 October 1888
Dear Friend,
Yesterday and today I received your welcome letters and I thank you for all the good things you say in them about me.
Like you, I am also very busy. I read assiduously all the old sources of the history of the Philippines. I do not think of leaving London until I shall have read all the books and manuscripts which bear on the Philippines. I wish to convert myself into a Filipino Blumentritt. I have copied all the portions of Pigafetta as well as a summary of Chirino, and others.
I would be glad if nothing untoward should befall your friend on account of my letter; I am so distrustful!
Let Desengaños say what he wants, but let us see. Who among Filipinos and Spaniards wrote the first insulting books? Who started slandering? Who was the first to compare people to animals? Who tried first to humiliate an obedient people? And that occurred when the weak could not answer nor were they allowed to do so — those very same weak people who gave their money, their blood, and their obedience to their slanderers. If he believes that my book is an emanation of racial hatred, how then should I describe the books of Cañamaque, San Agustín, and Sinibaldo de Mas, and the writings of Quioquiap, Barrantes, and the rest?
Just now I do not need your map of Mindanao; let us leave it aside for the present.
It is curious, but day before yesterday I also dreamed of my brother! It seemed to me that I had seen him much better than he is in reality. He is much finer and more serious than I am; he is bigger and more slim; he is not so dark; his nose is fine, beautiful, and sharp; but he is bow-legged.
Please thank good Mr. Eysert. Unfortunately I have no time to write him a few lines.
I do not send a letter with the cigarettes. I am sorry that such an insignificant thing like cigarettes has caused you so much bother.
Perhaps you cannot imagine what a great friend you have given me in Dr. Rost. He avails himself of all his friends in London and abroad to get me introductions. Thus he has introduced me to Count Morphy, Mrs. De Gayangos, and others. He has become my friend and father.
My dearest friend, now I am going to the Museum and I close this letter.
Affectionate greetings to all.
Yours,
Rizal
02-334 [Blumentritt V.1]