01-041 [Family]
1882.09.26 Calamba, Laguna
From: Manuel T. Hidalgo
To: José Rizal
Believes Rizal was right not to see the family before departing — Will keep Rizal informed of notable happenings at home.
* * *
[Calamba, Laguna, 26 September 1882]
MY DEAR BROTHER-IN-LAW AND DISTINGUISHED FRIEND,
To save you pain I will not describe to you what we, our parents, your brothers, and brothers-in-law felt on account of your sudden departure. I’ll only tell you that, in view of certain counsels, they became resigned. You had a magnificent idea in not bidding us farewell for thus you saved us from the immense anguish of leave-taking, which must be very painful.
In belief that Uncle Antonio and Paciano have already given you an account of the happenings here in these towns and because you know that news are scarce here, I give you none. In the future I’ll keep you informed of every notable happening. Think of coming home after some time, which I hope will be soon.
Millions of affectionate regards.
MANUEL T. HIDALGO