Rue de Champagne, Brussels
Gift of two sculptures (the Scientia is broken) – Blumentritt does not look well in the picture – As if devoid of a kind heart – The spectacles are to blame – Rizal cannot quite copy Blumentritt’s likeness with any medium – Sagasta’s ministry falls: What happened to Becerra’s promises? – Don’t leave for tomorrow what can be done today!
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38 Rue de Philippe de Champagne, Brussels
5 July 1890
Jose Rizal
My Brother:
You must have already received what I send you: It is a box containing two small sculptures by me. Both are original; no copies of them exist. Unfortunately the Scientia was broken when it was baked in the oven. Accept them as a little remembrance.
I have already received your letters as well as your photograph. Many thanks. With reference to your photograph, I tell you that it has pleased me greatly. However, you do not look in it as you really are. At first glance, one gets the impression that you do not possess a kind heart. I believe that the spectacles are to blame for this. Notwithstanding, after looking at it attentively, one can recognize you.
I have been working on your picture for a long time; but I must confess with shame that I have not been successful in portraying you. I have tried everything – bust, relief, fas-relief-all in vain. I believe I should give up. Later, I shall send you the rest of the photos.
I hope we shall make a trip to Germany. Then we shall see each other.
Sagasta’s ministry has fallen. What became of the good offices of Becerra? Ah! Don’t leave for tomorrow what can be done today! Beautiful words, beautiful words: but words, words, words, as Shakespeare said.
Your brother,
Rizal
03-554 [Reformists]