25 January 1890

Zaragoza

Rizal is surrounded by enthusiastic reformists: Luna and Ventura – Acevedo’s brother finished with studies – His father chief of street cars – Acevedo is infantry lieutenant – In good standing in Zaragoza’s high society – There are no Filipinos in Zaragoza – He is a Filipino who now defends a Spaniard before the Council of War.

* * *

Zaragoza, 25 January 1890

DEAR FRIEND PEPE,

I received your affectionate letter as well as your card, which I appreciate infinitely.

I have been sick of influenza or dengue and thank God I am now well.

I am glad you are surrounded by our good, enthusiastic and dear friends and countrymen, Luna[1] and Velentin.[2] I beg you to give them a fraternal embrace on my behalf.

I do not know of the existence of the periodical that you mention to me. I will do what you tell me and advise me. Therefore, tell me to whom I should send my subscription.

In this capital city not a countryman of ours lives, so that I find myself isolated like an oasis in the desert.

I appreciate your offer concerning your books for sale and I have no inconvenience in accepting gladly your proposition.

As you suggested to me that I send you either a book already published or may be published in Spain, through this mail I send you one from my library which may serve your purpose. If you wish, I will send you whatever books are printed in my press and to begin with I send you the latest that was published this month.

About my family I can only tell you that my brother Pedro has already finished pharmacy and he writes me that he has enrolled in first year medicine. My father is the chief of street cars in Manila, a work which keeps him very busy.

I am lieutenant of infantry; do not make a mistake by addressing me as captain. I am very well treated by the high society of this capital city with which I mix with honor, and owing to my good deportment I have influence in it.

Now I am very much harassed because I have been appointed defender of an accused army colonel. It is the first time in my military life that I am honored with such a difficult as well as delicate task, but I trust in my preparations in order to shine and establish my Filipino name. The defense is very difficult but there is place for an eloquent and lucid one, because my role is singular, being a Filipino son of the Mother Country, completely foreign to the legal profession, coming out to defend a Peninsular Spaniard. The Council is composed of generals, so that the members shall be brigadier generals presided over by the captain general. Imagine, dear Pepe, if I would arrive at the court very much excited.

Goodbye, Pepe. May you continue writing; don’t forget me; and may you be happy. Receive an embrace as the kiss of peace of your good friend and countryman who loves you sincerely,

FERNANDO

[Acevedo]

03-493 [Reformists]