Paris
Quioquiap ought not to be mentioned in the “Prologue” to the Annotations to Morga by Rizal — His comparison with the czar flatters the Kastilas — “We do not ask for fraternal love as charity.” — Blumentritt wishes that the Spaniards embrace like brothers — We aspire to educate our nation.
* * *
45 Rue de Maubeuge, Paris
22 November 1889
Dear Friend and Brother,
Through today’s mail I am sending you the proofs of my corrections of your Prologue and its original. As you have authorize me to strike out the portions that I do not like, I have made use of your permission. See only if what I have corrected is agreeable to you; if it is not, let us leave it then as you have written it.
At any rate, I would not like to see the name of Quioquiap in my book. He is so insignificant that, with the exceptions of the Kastilas, nobody minds him. If we cite his name in all our serious works, we would make him famous and it would be an encouragement to others who have no fame whatsoever. I am afraid that I have given him too much importance.
I say the same thing about the comparison with the czars of Russia. It is flattering to the Kastilas, who consider themselves demi-gods, to be compared with the Russian czars. It is too great a reward for your work. I have also taken the liberty of striking out some portions referring to fraternity. You harbor the best intentions; you want the Spaniards to embrace us as brothers; but we should not ask for that imploring and repeating it all this time, because it is somewhat humiliating for us. If the Spaniards do not want us as brothers neither are we anxious for their affections. We do not ask for fraternal love as charity. I am convinced that you like us much and that you also wish the good of Spain, but we do not solicit Spain’s compassion. We do not want compassion but justice. All our efforts tend to educate our people — education, education, education of our people — education and enlightenment. Fraternity as the alms of Spanish pride — that we do not ask. I reiterate that you alone have the best intentions; you wish to see men embracing one another for love and reason, but I doubt if the Spaniards like that.
Underline with black ink what you withdraw and return to me the proofs. As to your criticism I find it very benevolent. I am not concerned with my fame as writer or historian. If you find inaccuracies, say so publicly. It is enough.
Your faithful brother,
J. Rizal
03-464 [Reformists]