03-028 [Reformists]
1882.06.30 Trinidad St., Sta. Cruz Manila
From: Vicente Gella
To: Jose Rizal
Rizal has separated from his family and friends to seek “the welfare that we all desire” – News of Rizal is eagerly awaited – His friends and relatives are saddened by his absence – His family approves of his going abroad – Town fiesta of Kalamba
* * *
Trinidad Street, Sta. Cruz, Manila
30 June 1882
Mr. Jose Rizal
My dear and esteemed Rizal,
If the absence of a son from the bosom of his esteemed family is sad, no less will be that of a friend who, being very dear to all of us who have had the honor of being called his friends and comrades, now is away from us seeking the welfare that we all desire. Had it not been for that, the separation would have been more painful for the distance that separates us. May God help you for the good that you do to your fellow countrymen.
With the arrival of the steamship Salvadora that took you to Singapore, we have forgathered at the house of your Uncle Antonio to find out something about your trip. When your Uncle Antonio saw me and your compadre[1] going up, he gave us at once an embrace on your behalf. Immediately followed [was] the reading of your letter addressed to the Compañerismo and [letter is abruptly cut at end of page]
[1] Compadre (masc.) and Comadre (fem.) are terms used by the godfather and godmother to address the father and mother of their godson or daughter and by which the father and mother address them.