Rizal's own story of his life in Modern English

This is a modern-English version of Rizal's own story of his life, originally written by Rizal, José. It has been thoroughly updated, including changes to sentence structure, words, spelling, and grammar—to ensure clarity for contemporary readers, while preserving the original spirit and nuance. If you click on a paragraph, you will see the original text that we modified, and you can toggle between the two versions.

Scroll to the bottom of this page and you will find a free ePUB download link for this book.

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RIZAL.

Rizal.

Sketched by himself in Berlin when he was twenty-five years old. Physicians then told him that he had consumption; but with care, and fresh air, he soon became well again.

Drawn by himself in Berlin when he was twenty-five. Doctors then informed him that he had tuberculosis; but with proper care and fresh air, he quickly recovered.

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RIZAL’S “HYMN TO LABOR”

Words by José Rizal

(Arranged from Chas. Derbyshire’s translation; lines in different order.)

(Arranged from Chas. Derbyshire’s translation; lines in a different order.)

Tune of “The Wearing of the Green”

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RIZAL’S “MARIA CLARA’S LULLABY”

Words by José Rizal

(Chas. Derbyshire’s translation)

Music by Juan Hernandez

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THE AUTHOR AT 14

THE AUTHOR AT 14 YEARS OLD

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RIZAL’S OWN STORY OF HIS LIFE

“IN THE HISTORY OF MANKIND THERE ARE NAMES WHICH OF THEMSELVES SIGNIFY ACHIEVEMENTS. THEY CALL FORTH REVERENCE AND REMIND US OF GREATNESS.”

SIGNATURE ON THE MANUSCRIPT OF THE NOVEL “EL FILIBUSTERISMO”

EDITED BY AUSTIN CRAIG, RIZAL RESEARCH-PROFESSOR IN THE UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES

National Book Company
MANILA 1918

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Registered in the Philippine Islands

Registered in the Philippines

Rizal’s Painting of his Sister Saturnina

(Afterwards Mrs. Manuel Hidalgo)

Printed in the United States of America (Philippine Islands)
Press of E. C. McCullough & Co., Manila, P. I. [7]

Printed in the United States of America (Philippine Islands)
Press of E. C. McCullough & Co., Manila, P. I. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Dr. W. W. Marquardt suggested this book.

Dr. W. W. Marquardt proposed this book.

Miss Josephine Craig advised and assisted in the selections.

Miss Josephine Craig helped and guided in the selections.

Hon. C. E. Yeater read and criticised the original manuscript.

Hon. C. E. Yeater read and critiqued the original manuscript.

Miss M. W. Sproull revised the translations.

Miss M. W. Sproull updated the translations.

Dean Francisco Benitez acted as pedagogical adviser.

Dean Francisco Benitez served as the educational advisor.

Miss Gertrude McVenn simplified the language for primary school use.

Miss Gertrude McVenn made the language easier to understand for elementary school students.

Mr. John C. Howe adapted and arranged the music.

Mr. John C. Howe updated and arranged the music.

Mr. Frederic H. Stevens planned the make-up and, in spite of wartime difficulties, provided the materials needed.

Mr. Frederic H. Stevens arranged the layout and, despite the challenges of wartime, sourced the necessary materials.

Mr. Chas. A. Kvist supervised the production.

Mr. Chas. A. Kvist oversaw the production.

Mr. C. H. Noronha, who, in 1897, in his Hongkong magazine Odds and Ends, first published Rizal’s farewell poem “My Last Thought”, was the careful and obliging proofreader.

Mr. C. H. Noronha, who, in 1897, in his Hongkong magazine Odds and Ends, first published Rizal’s farewell poem “My Last Thought,” was the attentive and helpful proofreader.

Assistant Insular Architect Juan Arellano, a colleague of the editor on the Dapitan Rizal national park committee, designed the sampaguita decorations.

Mr. A. Garcia achieved creditable illustrations out of poorly preserved photographs whose historical accuracy has not been impaired by the slightest embellishment.

Mr. A. Garcia created impressive illustrations from poorly preserved photographs, and their historical accuracy hasn’t been affected by any embellishments.

And the entire establishment of Messrs. E.C. McCullough & Company—printers, pressmen and bookbinders—labored zealously and enthusiastically to do credit to the imprint: “Made in Manila—The Work of Filipinos”. [8]

And the whole operation of E.C. McCullough & Company—printers, pressmen, and bookbinders—worked hard and passionately to honor the label: “Made in Manila—The Work of Filipinos”. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

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The Memory of Rizal is kept alive in many ways:

The Memory of Rizal is kept alive in various ways:

1. A province near Manila bears his name.

1. A province close to Manila is named after him.

2. The anniversary of his death is a public holiday.

3. A memorial school has been built by the Insular Government in his native town.

3. A memorial school has been built by the Insular Government in his hometown.

4. His home in exile has been made a national park.

4. His home while in exile has become a national park.

5. The first destroyer of the future Philippine navy is named “Rizal”.

5. The first destroyer of the future Philippine navy is called "Rizal."

6. Rizal’s portrait appears on the two-peso bill.

6. Rizal's portrait is featured on the two-peso bill.

7. Rizal’s portrait appears on the two-centavo postage stamp.

7. Rizal's portrait is featured on the two-cent postage stamp.

A 2-centavo postage stamp

A 2-cent postage stamp

A two-peso bill

A two-peso note

A 2-centavo stamped envelope

A 2-cent stamped envelope

A Philippine post card

A postcard from the Philippines

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ILLUSTRATIONS

Page
Rizal’s pencil sketch of himself 1
Rizal at 14 4
Rizal’s painting of his sister Saturnina 6
Rizal’s portrait on Philippine postage and money 8
Rizal’s home, Kalamba 12
Rizal’s mother and two of his sisters 16
Clay model of dog and cayman combat 17
Where Rizal went to school in Biñan 18
Rizal monument, Biñan 24
Santa Rosa Gate, on Biñan-Kalamba road 26
Model of a Dapitan woman at work 28
Rizal’s uncle 29
Rizal’s uncle’s home in Biñan 30
Guardia Civil soldier 31
Rizal’s mother 33
Rizal’s father 34
One of Rizal’s teachers, Terracotta bust by Rizal 36
Padre Sanchez, Rizal’s favorite teacher in the Ateneo 37
Carving of the Sacred Heart, made by Rizal in the Ateneo 44
Wooden bust of Rizal’s father 45
Rizal at 18 48
Rizal’s sacrifice of his life 57
Professor Burgos 58
The lake shore at Kalamba 60
A Manila school girl, drawn by Rizal 62[__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]
Rizal in Paris 64
Rizal at 30 66
Crayon portrait of Rizal’s cousin Leonore 70
Dapitan plaza and townhall 80
Wooden medallion of Mrs. José Rizal 84
Chalk pipehead, Rizal’s last modeling 86
Rizal at 27 90
Manila skyline, sketched by Rizal 92
Rizal at 22 104
Rizal at 24 106
Rizal at 26 108
Rizal at 28, from a group picture 110
Rizal at 28, profile 114
Rizal Mausoleum, Luneta, Manila 118
Noli Me Tangere manuscript-cover design, by Rizal 120
El Filibusterismo manuscript-cover, lettered by Rizal 121
Portrait of Rizal at time of finishing El Filibusterismo 121
Los Baños house where El Filibusterismo was begun, drawn by Rizal 121
Diploma of Merit awarded Rizal for allegory “The Council of the Gods” 123
Silver pen prize won by Rizal for poem “To Philippine Youth” 125
Alcohol lamp in which Rizal hid poem “My Last Thought” 125

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Handwritten quote: It is commonly said that the life of a good writer is best read in his works.

—Autographic quotation from Rizal.

—Autographed quote from Rizal.

Page
Rizal’s Song “Hymn to Labor” 2
Rizal’s Song “Maria Clara’s Lullaby” 3
My Boyhood 13
My First Reading Lesson 49
My Childhood Impressions 59
The Spanish Schools of My Boyhood 61
The Turkey that Caused the Kalamba Land Trouble 65
From Japan to England Across America 69
My Deportation to Dapitan 73
Advice to a Nephew 81
Filipino Proverbs 83
Filipino Puzzles 84
Rizal’s “Don’ts” 85
Poem: Hymn to Labor 87
Memory Gems from Rizal’s Writings 91
Mariang Makiling 93

NOT BY RIZAL

The Memory of Rizal 8
Rizal Chronology 101
A Reading List 119
Philippine National Hymn (by José Palma) 126
Song: Hail, Philippines (by H.C. Theobald) 128

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Rizal-Mercado home, Kalamba. Here José Rizal was born. The family lost this building, along with most of their other property, in the land troubles. Governor-General Weyler sent soldiers to drive them out, though the first court had decided in their favor and an appeal to the Supreme Court had not yet been heard. Later, the upper part of the building was rebuilt.

Rizal-Mercado home, Kalamba. This is where José Rizal was born. The family lost this building, along with most of their other property, due to land disputes. Governor-General Weyler sent soldiers to force them out, even though the initial court had ruled in their favor and an appeal to the Supreme Court had not yet been heard. Later, the upper part of the building was rebuilt.

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RIZAL’S OWN STORY

MY BOYHOOD

José Rizal wrote the first three chapters in 1878. He was seventeen years old at that time.

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CHAPTER I

My Birth and Earliest Years in Kalamba

I was born on Wednesday, the nineteenth of June, 1861. It was a few days before the full of the moon. I found myself in a village. I had some slight notions of the morning sun and of my parents. That is as much as I can recall of my baby days.

I was born on Wednesday, June 19, 1861. It was just a few days before the full moon. I found myself in a village. I have some vague memories of the morning sun and my parents. That's about all I can remember from my baby days.

The training which I received from my earliest infancy is perhaps what formed my habits. I can recall clearly my first gloomy nights, passed on the azotea of our house. [14]They seem as yesterday! They were nights filled with the poetry of sadness and seem near now because at present my days are so sad. On moonlight nights, I took my supper on the azotea. My nurse, who was very fond of me, used to threaten to leave me to a terrible but imaginary being like the bogey of the Europeans if I did not eat.

The training I received from the earliest days of my life probably shaped my habits. I can clearly remember my first dark nights spent on the rooftop of our house. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]They feel like they were just yesterday! Those nights were filled with a poetic sadness and feel close now because my days are so sad at present. On moonlit nights, I had my dinner on the rooftop. My nurse, who cared for me a lot, used to threaten to leave me with a terrible but imaginary creature, like the boogeyman of Europeans, if I didn’t eat.

I had nine sisters and a brother. Our father was a model parent. He gave us the education which was suitable in a family neither rich nor poor. He was thrifty. By careful saving, he was able to build a stone house. He also bought another house; and he put up a nipa cottage on our plot of irrigated ground. The cottage was shaded by bananas and trees.

I had nine sisters and one brother. Our dad was a great parent. He provided us with the education that was just right for a family that wasn't wealthy but also wasn't struggling. He was careful with money. Through his smart savings, he managed to build a stone house. He also bought another house and put up a nipa cottage on our irrigated land. The cottage was surrounded by banana plants and trees.

At nightfall, my mother had us all say our prayers together. Then we would go to the azotea or to a window to enjoy the moonlight; [15]and my nurse would tell us stories. Sometimes sad and sometimes gay, nurse’s stories were always oriental in their imagination. In these stories, dead people, gold, and plants on which diamonds grew were all mixed together.

At nightfall, my mother had us all pray together. Then we would go to the rooftop or a window to enjoy the moonlight; [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]and my nurse would tell us stories. Sometimes they were sad, and sometimes they were cheerful, but the nurse’s stories always had an imaginative, exotic flair. In these stories, dead people, gold, and plants that grew diamonds were all mixed together.

When I was four years of age, my little sister Concha died, and for the first time I cried because of love and sorrow. Till then I had shed tears only for my own faults, which my loving, prudent mother well knew how to correct.

When I was four years old, my little sister Concha died, and for the first time, I cried from love and sadness. Until then, I had only cried over my own mistakes, which my caring, wise mother always knew how to fix.

I learned to write in my own village. My father looked after my education. He paid an old man, who had been his schoolmate, to teach me the first steps in Latin. This teacher lived in our house till he died, five months later. He had been in almost perfect health and it was at the moment of death that he received extreme unction. [16]

I learned to write in my own village. My dad took care of my education. He paid an old man, who had been his classmate, to teach me the basics of Latin. This teacher lived with us until he passed away five months later. He had been in nearly perfect health, and it was at the moment of his death that he received last rites. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

Mrs. Rizal-Mercado and her two daughters, Saturnina, the eldest, and Trinidad, then a baby

Mrs. Rizal-Mercado and her two daughters, Saturnina, the oldest, and Trinidad, who was still a baby

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In June of 1868, I went to Manila with my father. That was just after the birth of Trinidad, the third sister younger than myself. We went in a casco which turned out to be a clumsy boat. I shall not try to tell how happy I was at each new stop on the banks of the Pasig. Beside this same river, a few years later, I was to be very sad. We went to Cainta, Taytay, and Antipolo, and then to Manila. In Santa Ana I visited my eldest sister, Saturnina, who at that time was a student in La Concordia College. Then I returned to my village and remained until 1870.

In June of 1868, I traveled to Manila with my father. This was right after the birth of Trinidad, my third younger sister. We took a casco, which turned out to be a pretty awkward boat. I won't even try to describe how happy I was at each new stop along the banks of the Pasig. Just a few years later, I would feel very sad by this same river. We went to Cainta, Taytay, and Antipolo, and then to Manila. In Santa Ana, I visited my oldest sister, Saturnina, who was then a student at La Concordia College. After that, I went back to my village and stayed there until 1870.

A dog and cayman combat modeled at Dapitan in 1894. The dog was Rizal’s own, and looked like one that had been his boyhood companion at Kalamba

A dog and cayman fight staged in Dapitan in 1894. The dog was Rizal’s own and resembled one that had been his childhood friend in Kalamba.

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Where Rizal went to school in Biñan: site of Master Justiniano’s house, which burned down many years ago

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CHAPTER II

My Schooling in Biñan

Biñan is a town about one and one-half hour’s drive from my own town, Kalamba. My father was born in Biñan, and he wished me to go there to continue the study of Latin, which I had just begun. He sent me over one Sunday in the care of my brother. The parting from my family was tearful on the side of my parents and my sisters, but I was nine years old and managed to hide my own tears. We reached Biñan at nightfall. We went to an aunt’s house where I was to live. When the moon came up, a cousin took me around the town. Biñan appeared to me large and wealthy but neither attractive nor cheerful. [20]

Biñan is a town about an hour and a half drive from my hometown, Kalamba. My dad was born in Biñan, and he wanted me to go there to continue studying Latin, which I had just started. He sent me over one Sunday with my brother. Saying goodbye to my family was emotional for my parents and sisters, but I was nine years old and managed to hold back my own tears. We arrived in Biñan at dusk. We went to my aunt's house where I was going to live. When the moon came up, a cousin took me around the town. Biñan seemed big and prosperous to me, but it was neither appealing nor cheerful. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

My brother left me after he presented me to the schoolmaster, who, it seemed, had been his own teacher. The schoolmaster was a tall, thin man with a long neck and a sharp nose. His body leaned slightly forward. He wore a shirt of sinamay that had been woven by the deft fingers of Batangas women. He knew Latin and Spanish grammar by heart; but his severity, I believe now, was too great. This is all that I remember of him. His classroom was in his own house, only some thirty meters from my aunt’s home.

My brother left me after he introduced me to the schoolmaster, who, it turned out, had been his own teacher. The schoolmaster was a tall, thin man with a long neck and a sharp nose. He leaned slightly forward. He wore a shirt made of sinamay that had been woven by the skilled hands of women from Batangas. He knew Latin and Spanish grammar by heart, but I believe now that his strictness was excessive. This is all I remember about him. His classroom was in his own house, just about thirty meters from my aunt's home.

When I entered the classroom for the first time, he said to me:

When I walked into the classroom for the first time, he said to me:

“You, do you speak Spanish?”

“Hey, do you speak Spanish?”

“A little, sir,” I answered.

“A bit, sir,” I replied.

“Do you know Latin?”

"Do you speak Latin?"

“A little, sir,” I again answered.

“A little, sir,” I replied again.

Because of these answers, the teacher’s son, who was the worst boy in the class, began to make fun of me. He was some years my elder [21]and was taller than I, yet we had a tussle. Somehow or other, I don’t know how, I got the better of him. I bent him down over the class benches. Then I let him loose, having hurt only his pride. After this, possibly because of my small size, my schoolmates thought me a clever wrestler. On going from the class one boy challenged me. He offered me my hold, but I lost and came near breaking my head on the sidewalk.

Because of these responses, the teacher’s son, who was the troublemaker in our class, started teasing me. He was a few years older [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]and taller than me, yet we ended up in a scuffle. Somehow, I managed to overpower him. I pushed him down over the classroom benches. Then I let him go, having only hurt his pride. After that, probably because of my small stature, my classmates thought I was a skilled wrestler. As we left the classroom, one boy challenged me. He let me take my position, but I lost and nearly hit my head on the sidewalk.

I do not want to take up time with telling about the beatings I got, nor shall I attempt to say how it hurt when I received the first ruler blow on my hand. I used to win in the competitions, for no one happened to be better than I. I made the most of these successes. But in spite of the reputation I had of being a good boy, rare were the days in which my teacher did not [22]call me up to receive five or six blows on the hand. When I went out with my companions, they jokingly called me nicknames. But individually they used to be so kind to me that I thought little of their teasings. A few of them were very good and always treated me well. Among these few was a second cousin of mine. Later, some of them were my schoolmates in Manila and then it became my turn to tease.

I don't want to waste time talking about the beatings I got, nor will I try to explain how much it hurt when I first got hit with a ruler on my hand. I used to win the competitions because no one was better than me. I really enjoyed those successes. But even though I had a reputation for being a good kid, it was rare for a day to go by without my teacher calling me up to receive five or six hits on my hand. When I hung out with my friends, they teasingly called me by nicknames. But when it came to individuals, they were really nice to me, so I didn't mind their teasing much. A few of them were genuinely good and always treated me well. One of them was my second cousin. Later on, some of them became my classmates in Manila, and then it was my turn to tease.

Near the house of my teacher, Justiniano Aquin Cruz, lived his father-in-law, generally called Juancho. Juancho was an aged artist who let me help him with his paintings. I had already such a liking for this art that our schoolmates called José Guevarra, another pupil, and myself the class painters. [23]

Near my teacher Justiniano Aquin Cruz's house, lived his father-in-law, usually called Juancho. Juancho was an old artist who allowed me to assist him with his paintings. I had grown so fond of this art that our classmates referred to José Guevarra, another student, and me as the class painters. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

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CHAPTER III

My Daily Life in Biñan

Many of us lived in the same house. There were my aunt, two cousins, and three half-cousins. My aunt was a very old lady, over seventy. She used to sit on the floor and read the Bible in Tagalog. One cousin was a maiden lady who liked very much to go to confession and to do penances. The other cousin, her brother, was a widower.

Many of us lived in the same house. There were my aunt, two cousins, and three half-cousins. My aunt was very elderly, over seventy. She would sit on the floor and read the Bible in Tagalog. One cousin was a single woman who really enjoyed going to confession and doing penances. The other cousin, her brother, was a widower.

Rizal Monument, Biñan. It stands in front of Rizal’s maternal grandfather’s house

Rizal Monument, Biñan. It is located in front of Rizal's maternal grandfather's house.

One of the half-cousins was something of a tomboy. She was quick to anger but frank and true-hearted. At times, we young folks played in the street at night. Our elders did not permit [25]us to play in the house. The tomboy was two or three years older than I and taught me games. She always treated me as if I were her brother.

One of my half-cousins was a bit of a tomboy. She got angry quickly but was honest and kind-hearted. Sometimes, we younger kids played in the street at night. Our parents didn’t let [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]us play inside the house. The tomboy was two or three years older than me and taught me games. She always treated me like I was her brother.

Santa Rosa Gate, on the road from Kalamba to Biñan.

My manner of life was simple. I heard mass at four if there were a service so early, or studied my lessons at that hour and went to mass afterwards. Then I went out in the yard and looked for mabolos. Then came breakfast, which generally consisted of a plate of rice and two dried sardines. There was class work till ten o’clock and after lunch a study period. In the afternoon, there was school from two o’clock until five. Next, there would be play with my cousins for a while. Study and perhaps painting took up the remainder of the afternoon. By and by came supper, one or two plates of rice with a fish called ayungin. In the evening we had [26]prayers and then, if it was moonlight, a cousin and I would play in the street with the others. Fortunately, I was never ill while away from home. From time to time, I went to my own village. How long the trip seemed going, and how short coming back!

My life was pretty straightforward. I went to mass at four if there was an early service, or I studied my lessons during that time and went to mass afterward. Then I went outside and looked for mabolos. After that came breakfast, which usually consisted of a plate of rice and two dried sardines. We had classwork until ten o'clock, and after lunch, there was a study period. In the afternoon, school ran from two o'clock until five. After that, I would play with my cousins for a bit. The rest of the afternoon was taken up with studying and maybe some painting. Soon after, dinner would come, which was one or two plates of rice with a fish called ayungin. In the evening, we had [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] prayers, and then, if it was a moonlit night, a cousin and I would go out and play in the street with the others. Luckily, I was never sick while away from home. Every so often, I visited my village. The journey there always felt long, while the return trip seemed so quick!

Many things happened which it would be tiresome to read. Finally, there came a letter from my sister Saturnina which announced that the steamer Talim would stop for me on a certain day. I said good-bye to my numerous friends and teacher. To my teacher, I expressed my sadness [27]in leaving and my gratitude for his instruction. Although he had punished me frequently, he did so, I now think, out of the kindness of his heart; and his heart was heavy when he did it.

A lot happened that would be boring to go over. Eventually, I got a letter from my sister Saturnina saying that the steamer Talim would pick me up on a specific day. I said goodbye to my many friends and my teacher. I told my teacher I was sad to leave and thanked him for his guidance. Even though he had punished me often, I now realize he did it out of kindness, and it weighed on him when he did. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

Statuette modeled in Dapitan from a street scene.

Statuette made in Dapitan from a street scene.

I left Biñan on Saturday afternoon, the seventeenth of December, 1870. I was then nine years old. For the first time, I saw what a steamer really was. It seemed to me most beautiful and in every way admirable. But I heard my cousin, who was with me, make remarks to the banquero that were not complimentary to her speed. I was the only passenger from Biñan. Two sailors put my baggage into a cabin. Then I went to inspect it. I thought I was going to be without a cabin-mate, but a Frenchman, Arturo Camps, who was a friend of my father, looked after me. The journey seemed very long, but finally we arrived at Kalamba. [28]

I left Biñan on Saturday afternoon, December 17, 1870. I was nine years old at the time. For the first time, I saw a steamer up close. I thought it was really beautiful and impressive in every way. However, I overheard my cousin, who was with me, make comments to the banquero that weren't flattering about its speed. I was the only passenger from Biñan. Two sailors took my luggage to a cabin. Then I went to check it out. I thought I would have the cabin to myself, but a Frenchman named Arturo Camps, who was a friend of my father's, looked after me. The journey felt really long, but we finally arrived in Kalamba. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

Oh! how glad I was to see the shore! At once I wanted to jump into the first banca. A deckhand took me in his arms and put me into the captain’s boat. Then the Frenchman came and four sailors rowed us ashore. It is impossible to describe my joy when I saw a servant waiting for us with a carriage. I jumped in and soon found myself again in our home, happy in the love of my family. Here end my recollections of that period of mingled sadness and gladness, in which, for the first time, I came to know anybody of foreign birth. [29]

Oh! how happy I was to see the shore! Right away, I wanted to jump into the first boat. A crew member picked me up and placed me in the captain’s boat. Then the Frenchman arrived, and four sailors rowed us to land. I can’t describe my joy when I saw a servant waiting for us with a carriage. I got in and soon found myself back home, surrounded by the love of my family. This concludes my memories of that time of mixed sadness and happiness, where I first got to know someone from another country. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

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CHAPTER IV

The Injustice Done My Mother

(This chapter and the next one, Rizal wrote in 1879. At that time he was eighteen years old.)

Some days after my return to Kalamba, my parents decided that I should remain, and that later, I should go to Manila. I wanted to study with a teacher of the town, even though I could learn no more than multiplication, so I entered the village school.

Some days after I got back to Kalamba, my parents decided that I should stay and later go to Manila. I wanted to study with a local teacher, even though I could only learn multiplication, so I enrolled in the village school.

Rizal’s uncle. He was educated at a Calcutta English school. He was a friend of the liberal Spanish leaders of his time.

Rizal’s uncle. He went to an English school in Calcutta. He was friends with the liberal Spanish leaders of his time.

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Rizal’s uncle inherited this home in Biñan from Rizal’s grandfather. Once the largest dwelling in Biñan, it is now a cinematograph and the home of two families. The Rizal monument stands in front of it.

Rizal’s uncle inherited this house in Biñan from Rizal’s grandfather. Once the biggest house in Biñan, it is now a movie theater and home to two families. The Rizal monument stands in front of it.

Guardia Civil soldier.

Civil Guard soldier.

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At this time, an uncle of mine, Don José Alberto, returned from Europe. He found that during his absence, his wife had left his home and abandoned her children. The poor man anxiously sought his wife and, at my mother’s earnest request, he took her back. They went to live in Biñan. Only a few days later the ungrateful woman plotted with a Guardia Civil officer who was a friend of ours. She accused her husband of poisoning her and charged that my mother was an accomplice. On this charge, the alcalde sent my mother to prison.

At this time, my uncle, Don José Alberto, returned from Europe. He discovered that while he was away, his wife had left him and abandoned their children. The poor man anxiously searched for her and, at my mother's strong urging, he took her back. They moved to Biñan. Just a few days later, the ungrateful woman teamed up with a Guardia Civil officer who was a friend of ours. She accused her husband of poisoning her and claimed that my mother was an accomplice. Based on this accusation, the alcalde sent my mother to prison.

I do not like to tell of the deep grief which we all, nine sisters and brothers, felt. Our mother’s arrest, we knew, was unjust. The [32]men who arrested her pretended to be friends and had often been our guests. Ever since then, child though I was, I have distrusted friendship. We learned later that our mother, away from us all and along in years, was ill. From the first, the alcalde believed the accusation. He was unfair in every way and treated my mother rudely, even brutally. Finally, he persuaded her to confess to what they wished by promising to set her free and to let her see her children. What mother could resist that? What mother would not sacrifice life itself for her children?

I don't like to talk about the deep sadness that all nine of us—sisters and brothers—felt. We knew our mother's arrest was unfair. The [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]men who took her away acted like friends and had often visited us. Ever since then, even as a child, I’ve mistrusted friendship. We later found out that our mother, alone and older, was sick. From the start, the alcalde believed the accusations. He was biased and treated my mother harshly, even cruelly. Eventually, he got her to confess to what they wanted by promising to let her go and allow her to see her kids. What mother could say no to that? What mother wouldn't give up everything for her children?

They terrified and deceived my mother as they would have any other mother. They threatened to condemn her if she did not say what they wished. She submitted to the will of her enemies and lost her spirit. The case [33]became involved until the same alcalde asked pardon for her. But this was only when the matter was before the Supreme Court. He asked for the pardon because he was sorry for what he had done. Such was his meanness that I felt afraid of him. Attorneys Francisco de Marcaida and Manuel Masigan, Manila’s leading lawyers, defended my mother and they finally succeeded in having her acquitted. They proved her innocence to her judges, her accusers and her hosts of enemies. But after how much delay?—After two and a half years.

They scared and tricked my mom just like they would any other mom. They threatened to punish her if she didn’t say what they wanted. She gave in to her enemies and lost her spirit. The case [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] became complicated until the same alcalde asked for her pardon. But this only happened when the issue was before the Supreme Court. He requested the pardon because he regretted what he had done. His cruelty was so great that I felt afraid of him. Lawyers Francisco de Marcaida and Manuel Masigan, two of Manila’s top attorneys, defended my mom and finally managed to have her acquitted. They proved her innocence to her judges, her accusers, and her many enemies. But after how much delay?—After two and a half years.

Rizal’s Mother.

Rizal's Mom.

Meanwhile my father decided to send me to Manila with my brother Paciano. I was [34]to take the entrance examinations for the secondary course in the Ateneo Municipal. I arrived in Manila on June 10th, 1872. I found out for the first time what examinations were like. My examinations were in Christian doctrine, arithmetic and reading, in San Juan de Letran College. They gave me a passing mark and I returned to my home. A few days later came the celebration of the town festival, after which I went to Manila. But even then, I felt that unhappiness was in store for me.

Meanwhile, my father decided to send me to Manila with my brother Paciano. I was [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] to take the entrance exams for the secondary course at the Ateneo Municipal. I arrived in Manila on June 10th, 1872. I experienced examinations for the first time. My exams were in Christian doctrine, arithmetic, and reading, at San Juan de Letran College. They gave me a passing grade, and I returned home. A few days later, the town festival was celebrated, after which I went back to Manila. But even then, I sensed that unhappiness was ahead of me.

Rizal’s Father

Rizal's Dad

Rizal’s signature, from a letter written in London when 28 years of age.

Rizal’s signature, from a letter written in London at age 28.

[35]

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CHAPTER V

A Student in Manila

As I had hoped, I was taken to the Jesuit priest at that time in charge of the Ateneo Municipal. He was Father Magin Fernando. At first he was unwilling to admit me. One reason was I had come late. Other reasons were that I did not seem strong and was very small for my age. I was then eleven. But later, Doctor Manuel Xeres Burgos, a nephew of the ill-fated Padre Burgos, spoke in my favor; and Father Fernando admitted me.

As I had hoped, I was taken to the Jesuit priest in charge of the Ateneo Municipal at that time. He was Father Magin Fernando. At first, he was reluctant to let me in. One reason was that I had arrived late. Other reasons included that I didn't seem strong and was quite small for my age. I was eleven then. But later, Doctor Manuel Xeres Burgos, a nephew of the tragic Padre Burgos, spoke on my behalf, and Father Fernando accepted me.

I dressed myself in the uniform like the other students, wearing a white coat, or americana, [36]and a necktie, and entered the chapel of the Jesuit Fathers to hear mass. What fervent prayers did I address to God!

I put on the uniform like the other students, wearing a white coat, or americana, [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] and a necktie, and walked into the chapel of the Jesuit Fathers to attend mass. What passionate prayers did I send up to God!

An Ateneo Professor modeled by Rizal in Dapitan from memory. This bust won a gold medal at the St. Louis Exposition, in 1904

An Ateneo professor modeled by Rizal in Dapitan from memory. This bust won a gold medal at the St. Louis Exposition in 1904.

After mass, I went to the classroom. There I saw a number of boys, Spanish, mestizos and natives, and a Jesuit teacher. Father José Bech, the teacher, was a tall man, thin and somewhat stooping, but quick in his movements. His face was thin and pale, yet lively. His eyes were small and sunken, his nose sharp and Grecian. His thin lips curved downwards. He was a little eccentric, sometimes being out of humor [37]and intolerant; at other times amusing himself by playing like a child.

After mass, I went to the classroom. There, I saw several boys—Spanish, mestizos, and natives—and a Jesuit teacher. Father José Bech, the teacher, was a tall, thin man who stooped a bit but moved quickly. His face was thin and pale but lively. His eyes were small and sunken, and his nose was sharp and Greek in style. His thin lips turned downward. He was a bit eccentric, sometimes moody and intolerant; other times, he entertained himself by playing like a child. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

Some of my schoolmates were interesting enough to warrant mentioning them by name. Florencio Gavino Oliva, a young man from my own province, had great talent but he did not work steadily. The same thing was true of Moisés Santiago, a mathematician and a penman. It was also true of Gonzalo Manzano, who then held the position of “Roman Emperor.”

Some of my classmates were interesting enough to mention by name. Florencio Gavino Oliva, a guy from my province, had a lot of talent but didn't apply himself consistently. The same went for Moisés Santiago, a mathematician and calligrapher. This was also true for Gonzalo Manzano, who at the time held the title of "Roman Emperor."

Rizal’s favorite teacher in the Ateneo. Father Sanchez visited Rizal in his exile in Dapitan, and helped him start a school for the Dapitan boys

Rizal’s favorite teacher at Ateneo. Father Sanchez visited Rizal during his exile in Dapitan and helped him start a school for the boys in Dapitan.

In Jesuit colleges they divide the boys into two groups or “empires,”—one Roman and the other Greek. These two “empires” are always at war. [38]The boys of one “empire” always want to outdo those of the other empire in all kinds of contests. Each group has a leader who is called “Emperor.” The “Emperor” wins his place by doing the best work and standing the highest of anyone in his group. I was put at the end of the line. I could scarcely speak Spanish, but I already understood it.

In Jesuit schools, the boys are divided into two groups or “empires”—one Roman and the other Greek. These two “empires” are always competing. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]The boys in one “empire” always try to outshine those in the other empire in all sorts of contests. Each group has a leader called the “Emperor.” The “Emperor” earns his position by performing the best and ranking highest among his peers. I was at the back of the line. I could barely speak Spanish, but I already understood it.

After the religious exercises, I went out and found my brother waiting to take me to my lodgings, which were about twenty-five minutes’ walk from the college. My brother did not wish to leave me in the Walled City, which seemed very gloomy to me.

After the religious activities, I went outside and found my brother waiting to take me to my place, which was about a twenty-five minute walk from the college. My brother didn’t want to leave me in the Walled City, which felt really dreary to me.

I lodged in a small house on Calle Caraballo, near an estero. The house consisted of a dining room, a sala, a bedroom and a kitchen. An awning covered the small space between [39]the door and the steps. My landlady was a maiden lady called Titay, who owed our family three hundred pesos. Her mother, a good old woman, lived with her. There were besides a crazy woman, quite harmless, and some Spanish mestizos in the house.

I stayed in a small house on Calle Caraballo, close to a stream. The house had a dining room, a living room, a bedroom, and a kitchen. An awning covered the small area between [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] the door and the steps. My landlady was an unmarried woman named Titay, who owed our family three hundred pesos. Her mother, a kind old woman, lived with her. There was also a harmless crazy woman and some Spanish mestizos in the house.

I must not speak of my sufferings, or of my troubles and pleasures. I shall record only what happened in school during that year. By the end of the first week, I was going up in the class. Then I began to spend the siesta-time studying at Santa Isabel College. For this, I paid three pesos a month. I went there with Pastor Millena, a boy of my own age. A month later, I was “Emperor”.

I shouldn’t talk about my struggles, or my problems and joys. I’ll just write down what happened at school that year. By the end of the first week, I was moving up in class. Then I started using my siesta time to study at Santa Isabel College. I paid three pesos a month for this. I went there with Pastor Millena, a boy my age. A month later, I was the “Emperor.”

How pleased I was when I won my first prize, a religious picture! In the first quarter I gained another prize, with the grade “Excellent.” [40]After that I did not care to apply myself. I had foolishly become dissatisfied because of something my teacher said. Unfortunately, this continued until the end of the year and I gained only second place in all my subjects. This gave me the grade of “Excellent” but without any prize.

How happy I was when I won my first prize, a religious picture! In the first quarter, I earned another prize with the grade "Excellent." [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]After that, I lost interest in putting in the effort. I had foolishly become discontent because of something my teacher said. Unfortunately, this continued until the end of the year, and I only managed to get second place in all my subjects. This gave me the grade of "Excellent" but without any prize.

I spent the vacation at home and went with my eldest sister, Nening, to Tanawan, for the town festival. This was in 1873. But our pleasure was marred by the fact that our mother was not with us. I had gone alone to see my mother without first sending word either to her or to my father. This was at the close of the term in which I held second place. I thought with what joy I would surprise her. Instead, we wept in each other’s arms. We had not seen each other for more than a year. [41]

I spent the vacation at home and went with my older sister, Nening, to Tanawan for the town festival. This was in 1873. But our enjoyment was overshadowed by the fact that our mom wasn’t with us. I had gone alone to see my mom without letting either her or my dad know beforehand. This was at the end of the term when I finished in second place. I had envisioned how happy I would make her with a surprise. Instead, we ended up crying in each other’s arms. We hadn’t seen each other in over a year. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

After vacation was over, I returned to Manila and enrolled in the second year. Then I hunted lodgings in the Walled City. It was too tiring to live so far away. I found a place at 6 Calle Magallanes in the house of an elderly widow, Doña Pepay. Her daughter, also a widow, lived with her. The name of the daughter was Doña Encarnación, and her four sons were José, Rafael, Ignacio, and Ramón.

After vacation was over, I went back to Manila and signed up for my second year. Then I started looking for a place to stay in the Walled City. It was too exhausting to live so far away. I found a spot at 6 Calle Magallanes in the home of an elderly widow, Doña Pepay. Her daughter, who was also a widow, lived with her. The daughter’s name was Doña Encarnación, and she had four sons: José, Rafael, Ignacio, and Ramón.

Nothing worth telling happened that year. My professor was the same as in the previous year; but I had different schoolmates. Among them I found three who had been with me in Biñan. At the end of this year, I won a medal and returned to my town.

Nothing notable happened that year. My professor was the same as the year before, but I had different classmates. Among them, I found three who had been with me in Biñan. By the end of the year, I won a medal and went back to my town.

I again went alone to visit my mother in prison. Like another Joseph, I prophesied to her from a dream that her release would take [42]place within three months. This prediction happened to come true.

I went alone to visit my mom in prison again. Like another Joseph, I told her from a dream that she would be released in three months. This prediction ended up being accurate.

At this time, I began to devote my leisure to reading novels. Years before, I had read one, but it was not with any great interest. Imagine how a romantic youngster of twelve would delight in the Count of Monte Cristo! Under the pretext that I should have to study general history, I persuaded my father to buy me a set of Cesar Cantu y Diós’ histories.

At this point, I started to spend my free time reading novels. Years earlier, I had read one, but I wasn’t very interested. Just picture how a romantic twelve-year-old would enjoy the Count of Monte Cristo! Under the excuse that I needed to study general history, I convinced my dad to buy me a set of César Cantu and God histories.

I gained much by reading them. In spite of my only half applying myself and of my indifferent Spanish, I was able to win prizes in the quarterly examinations. I should have gained the medal if I had not made some slips in Spanish, which I spoke very poorly. This gave the place to a Spanish lad who spoke his mother tongue better than I could. Thus, then, I finished my third year. [43]

I gained a lot by reading them. Even though I only applied myself halfway and my Spanish was pretty bad, I still managed to win prizes in the quarterly exams. I could have earned the medal if I hadn’t made a few mistakes in Spanish, which I spoke very poorly. This allowed a Spanish boy, who spoke his native language better than I did, to take my place. So, that's how I finished my third year. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

When I next returned to Manila, I found my former landlady’s house full. I had to take a room in the house with my brother, Paciano Mercado, in company with a boy from my town named Quintero. My life was not so free as formerly, for I was under close supervision. The regular hours, however, were better for me. I prayed and played with my landlord’s children.

When I returned to Manila, I found my old landlady’s house was full. I had to share a room with my brother, Paciano Mercado, and a boy from my town named Quintero. My life wasn’t as free as it used to be since I was being closely supervised. However, the regular hours were better for me. I prayed and played with my landlord’s kids.

A portrait of General Paciano Rizal-Mercado should appear here, but he has never had his picture taken. In September, 1896, he was cruelly tortured in an unsuccessful endeavor to get him to sign a statement that his brother was the leader of the rebellion. Rizal’s last letter, from the Fort Santiago death-cell, tells how much the younger brother owed to the elder:

A portrait of General Paciano Rizal-Mercado should be here, but he has never had his picture taken. In September 1896, he was brutally tortured in a failed attempt to get him to sign a statement claiming that his brother was the leader of the rebellion. Rizal’s last letter, from the death cell in Fort Santiago, reveals how much the younger brother owed to the elder:

“My dear brother: Now that I am about to die, it is to you that I write my last letter. I am thinking of how you worked to give me my career....

"My dear brother: Now that I am about to die, I am writing my final letter to you. I’m reflecting on how hard you worked to support my career....

... I believe that I have tried not to lose my time ... I know how much you have suffered for my sake. ... I assure you, brother, that I die innocent of this crime of rebellion.”

... I believe I've done my best not to waste my time ... I understand how much you've suffered because of me. ... I promise you, brother, that I die innocent of this crime of rebellion.”

[44]

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Carving of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, made by Rizal while in the Ateneo. Even then he was the hero of his schoolmates and the little image was long kept, as here shown, on the door of the students’ dormitory. In 1896 his former teachers removed it and took it to him in the death cell at Fort Santiago

Carving of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, made by Rizal while at the Ateneo. Even then, he was the hero among his classmates, and the small image was kept for a long time, as shown here, on the door of the students’ dormitory. In 1896, his former teachers took it down and brought it to him in the death cell at Fort Santiago.

A little later my mother was proved innocent and she was set free. She came to embrace me as soon as she was free. After the vacation, in that memorable year of my mother’s release, I again had my lodgings in the Walled City. The house was in Calle Solana and belonged to a priest. My mother had not wanted me to return to Manila, saying that I already had sufficient education. Did she have a presentiment of what was going to happen to me? Can [45]it be that a mother’s heart gives her double vision?

A little later, my mother was proven innocent and set free. She hugged me as soon as she was released. After vacation, during that unforgettable year of my mother’s freedom, I went back to my place in the Walled City. The house was on Calle Solana and belonged to a priest. My mother didn't want me to return to Manila, saying I already had enough education. Did she have a feeling of what was about to happen to me? Could it be that a mother’s heart gives her a sixth sense?

Bust of his father, made by Rizal when 14

Bust of his father, made by Rizal at age 14

My future profession was still unsettled. My father wanted me to study metaphysics, so I enrolled in that course. But my interest was so slight that I did not even buy a copy of the textbook. A former schoolmate, who had finished his course three months before, was my only intimate friend. He lived in the same street as I did. My companions in the house were from Batangas and had only recently arrived in Manila.

My future career was still up in the air. My dad wanted me to study metaphysics, so I signed up for that course. But I was so disinterested that I didn’t even buy the textbook. My only close friend was a former classmate who had completed his course three months earlier. He lived on the same street as I did. The people I lived with were from Batangas and had just recently moved to Manila.

On Sundays and other holidays, this friend used to call for me and we would spend the day at my great-aunt’s house in Trozo. My aunt knew his father. When my youngest sister entered La Concordia College, I used to visit [46]her, too, on the holidays. Another friend had a sister in the same school, so we could go together. I made a pencil sketch of his sister from a photograph which she lent me. On December 8th, the festival of La Concordia, some other students and I went to the college. It was a fine day and the building was gay with decorations of banners, lanterns and flowers.

On Sundays and other holidays, this friend would come to get me, and we’d spend the day at my great-aunt’s place in Trozo. My aunt knew his dad. When my youngest sister started attending La Concordia College, I would go visit [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] her too on holidays. Another friend had a sister at the same school, so we could go together. I did a pencil sketch of his sister from a photo she lent me. On December 8th, during the La Concordia festival, some other students and I went to the college. It was a beautiful day, and the building was lively with banners, lanterns, and flowers.

Rizal as a painter. This portrait is from a group picture of students who lived in the house of Rizal’s cousin, Antonio Rivera. Rizal was then eighteen years old.

Shortly after that, I went home for the Christmas holidays. On the same steamer, was a Kalamba girl who had been a pupil in Santa Catalina College for nearly five years. Her father was with her. We were well acquainted but her schooling had made her bashful. She kept her back to me while we talked. To help her pass the time, I asked about her school and studies but I got hardly more than “yes” and “no” in answer. She seemed to have almost, [47]if not entirely, forgotten her Tagalog. When I walked into our house in Kalamba, my mother at first did not recognize me. The sad cause was that she had almost lost her sight. My sisters greeted me joyfully and I could read their welcome in their smiling faces. But my father, who seemed to be the most pleased of all, said least.

Shortly after that, I went home for the Christmas holidays. On the same steamer was a Kalamba girl who had been a student at Santa Catalina College for nearly five years. Her father was with her. We knew each other well, but her schooling had made her shy. She turned her back to me while we talked. To help her pass the time, I asked about her school and studies, but I got hardly more than “yes” and “no” in response. She seemed to have almost, if not entirely, forgotten her Tagalog. When I walked into our house in Kalamba, my mother didn’t recognize me at first. The sad reason was that she had nearly lost her sight. My sisters greeted me joyfully, and I could see their warm welcome in their smiling faces. But my father, who seemed to be the happiest of all, said the least.

The next day we were expecting friends from Manila to arrive, on their way to Lipa. But the steamer landed its passengers at Biñan because of a storm. So I saddled a pony and rode over there to meet them. My horse proved to be a good traveler and when I got back to Kalamba I rode on, by the Los Baños road, to our sugar mill. There I tied the horse by the roadside and for a time watched the water flowing through the irrigation ditch. Its swiftness [48]reminded me of how rapidly my days were going by. I am now twenty years old and have the satisfaction of remembering that in the crises of my life I have not followed my own pleasure. I have always tried to live by my principles and to do the heavy duties which I have undertaken. [49]

The next day, we were expecting friends from Manila to arrive on their way to Lipa. But the steamer dropped off its passengers at Biñan because of a storm. So, I saddled a pony and rode over there to meet them. My horse turned out to be a great traveler, and when I got back to Kalamba, I continued on the Los Baños road to our sugar mill. There, I tied the horse by the roadside and spent some time watching the water flow through the irrigation ditch. Its speed reminded me of how quickly my days were passing by. I’m now twenty years old and take comfort in knowing that during the tough times in my life, I haven’t just followed my own desires. I have always tried to live by my principles and fulfill the responsibilities I’ve taken on. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__][__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

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MY FIRST READING LESSON

This tells how he himself became an intelligent student. It was probably written while he was studying the schools of Saxony. These were the models for America so that the present educational system here is along the lines he advocated. As a child he had written a poem, “By Education the Fatherland Gains in Splendor”.

This explains how he became a smart student. It was likely written while he was studying in the schools of Saxony. These were the models for America, so the current educational system here is shaped by his ideas. As a child, he wrote a poem titled “By Education the Fatherland Gains in Splendor.”

I remember the time when I had not seen any other river than the one near my town. It was as clear as crystal, and joyous, too, as it ran on its course. But it was shaded by bamboos whose boughs bent to every breeze as if always complaining. That was my only world. It was bounded at the back by the blue mountains of my province. It was bounded in front by the white surface of the lake. The lake was as smooth as a mirror. Graceful sails were to be seen everywhere on it. [50]

I remember a time when I hadn’t seen any other river besides the one near my town. It was crystal clear and joyful as it flowed along. But it was shaded by bamboos whose branches swayed with every breeze, almost as if they were always complaining. That was my entire world. It was bordered in the back by the blue mountains of my province and in the front by the white surface of the lake. The lake was as smooth as a mirror, with graceful sails dotting its waters. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

At that age, stories pleased me greatly and, with all my soul, I believed whatever was in the books. There were good reasons why I should. My parents told me to be very careful of my books. They urged me to read and understand them. But they punished me for the least lie.

At that age, I really enjoyed stories and I completely believed everything in the books. There were good reasons for that. My parents told me to take great care of my books. They encouraged me to read and understand them. However, they punished me for even the smallest lie.

My first recollection of reciting my letters reaches back to my babyhood. I must have been very little then, for when they rubbed the floor of our house with banana leaves I almost fell down. I slipped on the polished surface as beginners in skating do on ice. It took great effort for me to climb into a chair. I went downstairs step by step. I clung to each round of the baluster.

My first memory of learning my letters goes back to when I was a toddler. I must have been really small, because when they polished our floors with banana leaves, I nearly fell over. I slipped on the shiny surface just like beginners do when they're skating on ice. It took a lot of effort for me to get into a chair. I went down the stairs one step at a time. I held onto each section of the banister for support.

In our house, as in all others in the town, kerosene oil was unknown. I had never seen a lamp in our town, nor a carriage on our streets. [51]Yet I thought Kalamba was a very gay and lively town. One night, all the family, except my mother and myself, went to bed early. Why, I do not know, but we two remained sitting alone. The candles had already been put out. They had been blown out in their globes by means of a curved tube of tin. That tube seemed to me the finest and most wonderful plaything in the world. The room was dimly lighted by a single light of coconut oil. In all Filipino homes such a light burns through the night. It goes out just at day-break to awaken people by its spluttering.

In our house, like in all the others in town, kerosene oil was unheard of. I had never seen a lamp in our town, nor a carriage on our streets. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] Yet, I thought Kalamba was a very cheerful and lively place. One night, everyone in the family, except for my mother and me, went to bed early. I don't know why, but the two of us stayed up alone. The candles had already been extinguished. They were snuffed out in their holders using a curved tin tube. I thought that tube was the most amazing toy in the world. The room was softly lit by a single coconut oil lamp. In all Filipino homes, such a light burns through the night. It goes out right at dawn to wake people with its sputtering.

My mother was teaching me to read in a Spanish reader called “The Children’s Friend.” This was quite a rare book and an old copy. It had lost its cover and my sister had cleverly made a new one. She had fastened a sheet of [52]thick blue paper over the back and then covered it with a piece of cloth.

My mom was teaching me to read from a Spanish book called “The Children’s Friend.” It was a pretty rare and old edition. The cover was gone, and my sister had smartly created a new one. She attached a sheet of [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]thick blue paper to the back and then covered it with some fabric.

This night my mother became impatient with hearing me read so poorly. I did not understand Spanish and so I could not read with expression. She took the book from me. First she scolded me for drawing funny pictures on its pages. Then she told me to listen and she began to read. When her sight was good, she read very well. She could recite well, and she understood verse-making, too. Many times during Christmas vacations, my mother corrected my poetical compositions, and she always made valuable criticisms.

This night, my mom got frustrated with how poorly I was reading. I didn’t understand Spanish, so I couldn’t read with any expression. She took the book from me. First, she scolded me for drawing silly pictures on its pages. Then she told me to listen, and she started to read. When her vision was good, she read really well. She could recite well, and she understood poetry, too. Many times during Christmas break, my mom corrected my poetry, and she always gave helpful feedback.

I listened to her, full of childish enthusiasm. I marveled at the nice-sounding phrases which she read from those same pages. The phrases she read so easily stopped me at every breath. [53]Perhaps I grew tired of listening to sounds that had no meaning for me. Perhaps I lacked self-control. Anyway, I paid little attention to the reading. I was watching the cheerful flame. About it, some little moths were circling in playful flights. By chance, too, I yawned. My mother soon noticed that I was not interested. She stopped reading. Then she said to me: “I am going to read you a very pretty story. Now pay attention.”

I listened to her with childish excitement. I was amazed by the lovely words she spoke from those same pages. The way she read those phrases so effortlessly took my breath away. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]Maybe I got tired of listening to sounds that didn’t mean anything to me. Maybe I just couldn’t focus. Anyway, I didn’t really pay attention to the reading. I was watching the cheerful flame. Little moths danced around it in playful loops. I happened to yawn. My mom quickly noticed that I wasn’t interested. She stopped reading and said to me, “I’m going to read you a really nice story. Now pay attention.”

On hearing the word “story” I at once opened my eyes wide. The word “story” promised something new and wonderful. I watched my mother while she turned the leaves of the book, as if she were looking for something. Then I settled down to listen. I was full of curiosity and wonder. I had never even dreamed that there were stories in the old book which I read without understanding. [54]My mother began to read me the fable of the young moth and the old one. She translated it into Tagalog a little at a time.

As soon as I heard the word “story,” I opened my eyes wide. The word “story” promised something new and amazing. I watched my mom as she flipped through the pages of the book, like she was searching for something. Then I got ready to listen. I was filled with curiosity and wonder. I had never even imagined that there were stories in that old book that I had read without understanding. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]My mom started reading me the fable of the young moth and the old one. She translated it into Tagalog bit by bit.

My attention increased from the first sentence. I looked toward the light and fixed my gaze on the moths which were circling around it. The story could not have been better timed. My mother repeated the warning of the old moth. She dwelt upon it and directed it to me. I heard her, but it is a curious thing that the light seemed to me each time more beautiful, the flame more attractive. I really envied the fortune of the insects. They frolicked so joyously in its enchanting splendor that the ones which had fallen and been drowned in the oil did not cause me any dread.

My attention perked up from the first sentence. I looked toward the light and focused on the moths circling around it. The story couldn’t have come at a better time. My mother repeated the warning of the old moth. She lingered on it and directed it at me. I heard her, but it’s funny how the light seemed more beautiful to me each time, the flame more inviting. I genuinely envied the luck of the insects. They danced so happily in its captivating glow that the ones that had fallen and drowned in the oil didn’t frighten me at all.

My mother kept on reading and I listened breathlessly. The fate of the two insects interested [55]me greatly. The flame rolled its golden tongue to one side and a moth which this movement had singed fell into the oil, fluttered for a time and then became quiet. That became for me a great event. A curious change came over me which I have always noticed in myself whenever anything has stirred my feelings. The flame and the moth seemed to go farther away and my mother’s voice sounded strange and uncanny. I did not notice when she ended the fable. All my attention was fixed on the fate of the insect. I watched it with my whole soul. I gave to it my every thought. It had died a martyr to its illusions.

My mom kept reading and I listened intently. I was really interested in the fate of the two insects. The flame flicked its golden tongue to one side, and a moth that got singed by the movement fell into the oil, flapped for a bit, and then went still. That felt like a huge deal to me. I noticed a strange change in myself that always happens when something moves me deeply. The flame and the moth seemed to drift away, and my mom's voice sounded weird and eerie. I lost track of when she finished the fable. My entire focus was on the insect's fate. I was fully invested in it, giving it all my thoughts. It had died a martyr to its dreams.

As she put me to bed, my mother said: “See that you do not behave like the young moth. Don’t become disobedient, or you may get burnt as it did.” I do not know whether [56]I answered or not. I don’t know whether I promised anything or whether I cried. But I do remember that it was a long time before I fell asleep. The story revealed to me things until then unknown. Moths no longer were, for me, insignificant insects. Moths talked; they knew how to warn. They advised, just like my mother. The light seemed to me more beautiful. It had grown more dazzling and more attractive. I knew why the moths circled the flame.

As my mom tucked me in, she said, “Make sure you don’t act like the young moth. Don’t be disobedient, or you might get hurt like it did.” I can’t remember if I replied or not. I don’t know if I made any promises or if I cried. But I do remember taking a long time to fall asleep. The story revealed things to me that I had never known before. Moths were no longer just insignificant bugs to me. Moths spoke; they knew how to warn. They gave advice, just like my mom. The light seemed more beautiful to me. It was brighter and more enticing. I understood why the moths flew around the flame.

The advice and warnings sounded feebly in my ears. What I thought of most was the death of the heedless moth. But in the depth of my heart I did not blame it. My mother’s care had not had quite the result she intended.

The advice and warnings barely registered with me. What I thought about most was the death of the careless moth. But deep down, I didn't blame it. My mother’s efforts didn’t have the effect she hoped for.

Years have passed since then. The child has become a man. He has crossed the most famous rivers of other countries. He has [57]studied beside their broad streams. He has crossed seas and oceans. He has climbed mountains much higher than the Makiling of his native province, up to perpetual snow. He has received from experience bitter lessons, much more bitter than that sweet teaching which his mother gave him. Yet, in spite of all, the man still keeps the heart of a child. He still thinks that light is the most beautiful thing in creation, and that to sacrifice one’s life for it is worth while.

Years have gone by since then. The child has grown into a man. He has traveled across the most famous rivers of other countries. He has studied by their wide banks. He has crossed seas and oceans. He has climbed mountains much taller than the Makiling of his home province, reaching eternal snow. He has learned hard lessons from experience, much harsher than the sweet lessons his mother taught him. Yet, despite everything, the man still holds onto the heart of a child. He still believes that light is the most beautiful thing in existence, and that sacrificing one’s life for it is worthwhile.

Rizal’s sacrifice of his life, on the Luneta, Manila, December 30th, 1896. He is now buried, in the imposing Rizal Mausoleum, near the scene of his execution.

Rizal’s sacrifice of his life at Luneta, Manila, on December 30, 1896. He is now buried in the impressive Rizal Mausoleum, close to where he was executed.

[58]

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Professor José Burgos. He was unjustly executed in 1872. Of him, Rizal wrote:

Professor José Burgos. He was unfairly executed in 1872. Rizal wrote about him:

“He awakened my intellect and made me understand goodness and justice. His farewell words I shall always remember: ‘I have tried to pass on to you what I received from my teachers. Do you now do the same for those who come after you?’”

“He awakened my mind and helped me understand goodness and justice. I will always remember his farewell words: ‘I have tried to pass on to you what I learned from my teachers. Now you do the same for those who come after you?’”

[59]

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MY CHILDHOOD IMPRESSIONS

One of numerous rough drafts evidently written for practice. Published as “Mi Primer Recuerdo,” in El Renacimiento, Manila, February 2, 1908.

One of many rough drafts clearly written for practice. Published as “Mi Primer Recuerdo,” in El Renacimiento, Manila, February 2, 1908.

I spent many, many hours of my childhood down on the shore of the lake, Laguna de Bay. I was thinking of what was beyond. I was dreaming of what might be over on the other side of the waves. Almost every day, in our town, we saw the Guardia Civil lieutenant caning and injuring some unarmed and inoffensive villager. The villager’s only fault was that while at a distance he had not taken off his hat and made his bow. The alcalde treated the poor villagers in the same way whenever he visited us.

I spent countless hours during my childhood by the shore of Laguna de Bay, lost in thoughts about what lay beyond. I dreamed of what might be on the other side of the waves. Almost every day in our town, we witnessed the Guardia Civil lieutenant beating and hurting some defenseless villager. The villager’s only crime was not removing his hat and bowing from a distance. The alcalde treated the poor villagers just as harshly whenever he came to visit us.

We saw no restraint put upon brutality. Acts of violence and other excesses were committed [60]daily. The officers whose duty it was to protect the people and keep the public peace were the real outlaws. Against such lawbreakers, our authorities were powerless. I asked myself if, in the lands which lay across the lake, the people lived in this same way. I wondered if there they tortured any countryman with hard and cruel whips merely on suspicion. Did they there respect the home? Or over yonder also, in order to live in peace, would one have to bribe tyrants?

We witnessed no limits on brutality. Acts of violence and other extremes happened [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]every day. The officers responsible for protecting the people and maintaining public order were the real criminals. Our authorities were powerless against such lawbreakers. I wondered if, in the lands across the lake, people lived this way too. Did they there torture any fellow citizen with harsh and cruel whips merely out of suspicion? Did they value the home? Or there as well, to live in peace, would one have to bribe the tyrants?

The Lake, Laguna de Bay, from the Kalamba shore. Rizal’s brother, General Paciano Rizal-Mercado, cleared this region of Spanish soldiers after Dewey’s victory and then told the people to go to work. He set the example by again becoming a farmer.

The Lake, Laguna de Bay, from the Kalamba shore. Rizal’s brother, General Paciano Rizal-Mercado, cleared this region of Spanish soldiers after Dewey’s victory and then told the people to get to work. He set the example by becoming a farmer again.

[61]

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THE SPANISH SCHOOLS OF MY BOYHOOD

From the introduction which Doctor Rizal put to his Spanish version of an article on “The Transliteration of Tagalog”. His advocacy of the English style used in other Malay countries as more akin to the genius of Filipino dialects was considered extremely unpatriotic by most Spaniards.

From the introduction that Doctor Rizal added to his Spanish version of an article on “The Transliteration of Tagalog.” His support for the English style used in other Malay countries, claiming it was more suited to the nature of Filipino dialects, was seen as very unpatriotic by most Spaniards.

[62]

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Pencil Sketch of a Manila School Girl.

You perhaps attended a village Spanish school to learn your letters. Possibly, you have had to teach the letters in Spanish to others smaller than yourself. In either case, you must have noticed what I have, that children find great difficulty in mastering certain syllables. These are ca, ce, ci, co, ga, ge, gua, gui, etc. It is because Filipino children do not understand the reasons for such irregularities. Nor do they know the cause for the changes in value of the sounds of certain consonants.

You might have gone to a local Spanish school to learn the alphabet. Maybe you've had to teach the letters in Spanish to younger kids. In either situation, you've probably noticed what I've seen: children struggle to get the hang of certain syllables. These include ca, ce, ci, co, ga, ge, gua, gui, and so on. This happens because Filipino kids don’t understand the reasons behind these irregularities. They also don’t know why the sounds of certain consonants change.

Rizal when he was with Dr. Pardo de Tavera, in Paris, in 1889.

Rizal was with Dr. Pardo de Tavera in Paris in 1889..

[63]

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In the old times, blows fell like rain. Many pupils were whipped every day. Sometimes the schoolmaster broke the ferule and sometimes he broke the children’s hands. The first pages of their primers fell to pieces from long and hard use. The children cried. Even the monitors had to suffer at times. Yet those syllables which cost the children so many tears are of no use to them.

In the old days, strikes came down like rain. Many students were hit every day. Sometimes the teacher broke the ruler, and other times he broke the children’s hands. The first pages of their reading books fell apart from heavy and repeated use. The kids cried. Even the helpers had to endure it at times. Yet those syllables that caused the children so many tears are of no use to them.

Those syllables are necessary only in the learning of Spanish, which language in my time only three boys in a thousand ever really learned. These three learned it in Manila, by hearing Spanish spoken, and by committing to memory book after book. I often wondered what was the use of learning it at all when in the end one spoke only Tagalog. But I kept my wonder to myself. I felt that to try to make reforms in the Philippines at that time would be to embark on a stormy voyage. [64]

Those syllables are only necessary for learning Spanish, a language that, in my time, only three out of a thousand boys actually mastered. These three picked it up in Manila by listening to Spanish being spoken and memorizing book after book. I often wondered what the point was in learning it at all when in the end, people only spoke Tagalog. But I kept my thoughts to myself. I felt that trying to make changes in the Philippines at that time would be like setting out on a stormy journey. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

After I grew up, I had to write letters in Tagalog. I was shocked at my ignorance of its spelling. I was surprised, too, to find the same word spelled differently in the different works which I consulted. This proved to me how foolish it was to try to write Tagalog in the Spanish way. The spelling in use today by all Filipino scholars is a great improvement over the old style. I want to place the credit for this change where it belongs. These improvements are due to the studies in Tagalog of Dr. T. H. Pardo de Tavera alone. I have only been one of the most zealous champions of the change from the Spanish style. [65]

After I grew up, I had to write letters in Tagalog. I was shocked by how little I knew about its spelling. I was also surprised to see the same word spelled differently in the various sources I checked. This showed me how pointless it was to try to write Tagalog the Spanish way. The spelling used today by all Filipino scholars is a huge improvement over the old method. I want to give credit for this change where it’s due. These improvements are the result of Dr. T. H. Pardo de Tavera's studies in Tagalog alone. I've just been one of the most enthusiastic supporters of moving away from the Spanish style. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

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THE TURKEY THAT CAUSED THE KALAMBA LAND TROUBLE

This account was given Captain Carnicero, the Spanish commander of the Dapitan district where Rizal was in exile, in 1892.

This account was given to Captain Carnicero, the Spanish commander of the Dapitan district where Rizal was exiled, in 1892.

My father was a friend of the owners of the Kalamba estate. He was intimate, too, with the manager in charge of the plantation. Frequently, important visitors came to the plantation house. Then the manager asked my father for whatever he needed. He very often asked for a turkey, and my father gladly gave [67]it to him. The poultry yard at our house was always full of turkeys because my father was a fancier of these fowls.

My dad was friends with the owners of the Kalamba estate. He was also close with the manager running the plantation. Important guests often visited the plantation house, and the manager would ask my dad for anything he needed. He frequently requested a turkey, and my dad was happy to give it to him. Our yard was always filled with turkeys because my dad was really into raising them.

Rizal at 30

Rizal at 30 years old

Doctor Blumentritt considered this the best likeness among all the portraits of Rizal

Doctor Blumentritt thought this was the best representation among all the portraits of Rizal

But one season there came some epidemic and almost all the turkeys died. Only a few pairs, which were being kept for breeding, were left. Just at this time the manager one day sent for the customary turkey. Naturally my father had to tell the messenger that he had no turkeys to spare, because the greater part of them had died. This reply made the manager furiously angry. He wound up his abuse by saying, “You will pay for this in the end!” A few days later my father received a note from the manager, saying that he was going to raise the rent on the land which my father occupied. He said the rent would be one-third more than father was then paying. [68]

But one season, an epidemic hit, and almost all the turkeys died. Only a few pairs that were kept for breeding survived. Around that time, the manager sent for the usual turkey. Naturally, my father had to inform the messenger that he didn't have any turkeys to spare, as most of them had died. This response made the manager extremely angry. He ended his tirade by saying, “You’ll pay for this in the end!” A few days later, my father received a note from the manager stating that he was going to increase the rent on the land my father was using. He mentioned that the rent would be one-third more than what my father was currently paying. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

The reason for this decision was clear. It was because my father had refused to give the manager the turkey. The proof of this was that no other tenant received any such notice.

The reason for this decision was obvious. It was because my dad had refused to give the manager the turkey. The evidence of this was that no other tenant received any such notice.

Father paid this increase on the day set, without a single word of protest, being among the first to pay. But after a few months, there came another note. In it the manager gave notice that the rent would be doubled. This, he said, was because my father was growing rich from the rented land where he had installed machinery for making sugar.

Father paid this increase on the due date, without saying a word of protest, and was among the first to do so. But after a few months, another notice arrived. In it, the manager announced that the rent would be doubled. He claimed this was because my father was getting wealthy from the rented land where he had set up machinery for making sugar.

My father could not pay this price. Then he was summoned to appear in court; and finally the alcalde ordered him to leave the land. So he lost his houses and machinery, all because of a turkey. [69]

My father couldn’t afford that price. Then he was called to court, and eventually the alcalde ordered him to leave the land. So he lost his homes and equipment, all because of a turkey. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

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FROM JAPAN TO ENGLAND ACROSS AMERICA

From letters written en route to his friend Mariano Ponce and first published in Manuel Artigas’ Biblioteca Nacional Filipina, Manila, June, 1910.

From letters written on the way to his friend Mariano Ponce and first published in Manuel Artigas’ Biblioteca Nacional Filipina, Manila, June, 1910.

Crayon portrait of Rizal’s cousin, Leonore Rivera, to whom he was engaged. The drawing was made in 1882, just before he sailed for Spain. During his absence, his letters were kept from her and she was told that Rizal had forgotten her in the gay life of Europe. This was done because her mother’s advisers thought Rizal’s political ideas made him unsuitable for a husband. Leonore finally consented to the marriage urged upon her instead, and when too late, through Rizal’s return in 1887, learned how she had been deceived. She died not long afterwards, of a broken heart, it was said.

Crayon portrait of Rizal’s cousin, Leonore Rivera, to whom he was engaged. The drawing was made in 1882, just before he left for Spain. While he was away, his letters were kept from her, and she was told that Rizal had forgotten her in the exciting life of Europe. This happened because her mother’s advisors thought Rizal’s political views made him an unsuitable husband. Leonore eventually agreed to the marriage that was pushed on her instead, and too late, when Rizal returned in 1887, she learned how she had been misled. She died not long after, reportedly from a broken heart.

On February 28th, 1888, I arrived in Yokohama. A few moments after reaching the hotel, I received the card of the official in charge at the Spanish legation. I had not even had a chance to brush up when he called. He was very pleasant and offered to assist me in my work. He even invited me to live at the legation, and I accepted. If, at the bottom, there was a desire to watch me, I was not afraid to let them know all about myself. I lived at the legation a little over a month, and traveled in some of the nearby provinces of Japan. At times, I was alone; at others, with the Spanish official himself, or with the interpreter. [71]While there, I learned to speak Japanese, and made a slight study of the Japanese theatre. After many offers of employment, which I refused, I sailed at last for America, about April 13th.

On February 28th, 1888, I arrived in Yokohama. Shortly after I got to the hotel, I received a card from the official in charge at the Spanish legation. I hadn't even had a chance to freshen up when he came by. He was very friendly and offered to help me with my work. He even invited me to stay at the legation, and I agreed. If there was any intention to keep an eye on me, I wasn’t worried about sharing my background. I stayed at the legation for a little over a month and traveled to some nearby provinces of Japan. Sometimes I was on my own; other times, I was with the Spanish official or the interpreter. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]While I was there, I learned to speak Japanese and explored the Japanese theatre a bit. After receiving many job offers, which I turned down, I finally set sail for America around April 13th.

On the steamer, I met a half-Filipino family, the wife being a mestiza, the daughter of an Englishman named Jackson. They had with them a servant from Pangasinan. The son asked me if I knew “Richal,” the author of Noli Me Tangere. Smiling, I answered that I did; and, as he began to speak well of me, I had to make myself known and say that I was the author. The mother paid me compliments, too. I made the acquaintance of a Japanese who was going to Europe. He had been a prisoner for being a radical and editor of an independent newspaper. As the Japanese spoke only Japanese, I acted as interpreter for him until we arrived in London.

On the steamer, I met a half-Filipino family. The wife was a mestiza, the daughter of an Englishman named Jackson. They had a servant from Pangasinan with them. The son asked me if I knew "Richal," the author of Noli Me Tangere. Smiling, I said I did; and as he started to speak highly of me, I had to introduce myself and mention that I was the author. The mother gave me compliments as well. I also met a Japanese man who was going to Europe. He had been a prisoner for being a radical and the editor of an independent newspaper. Since the Japanese man spoke only Japanese, I acted as his interpreter until we arrived in London.

During this voyage I was not seasick. [72]

During this trip, I didn't get seasick. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

I visited the larger cities of America, where I saw splendid buildings. The Americans have magnificent ideals. America is a homeland for the poor who are willing to work.

I visited the bigger cities in America, where I saw impressive buildings. Americans have amazing ideals. America is a land for the poor who are ready to work.

I traveled across America, and saw the majestic cascade of Niagara. I was in New York, the great city, but there everything is new. I went to see some relics of Washington, that great man whom I fear has not his equal in this century.

I traveled across America and saw the breathtaking cascade of Niagara. I was in New York, the great city, but everything there is new. I went to see some relics of Washington, that remarkable man who I believe has no equal in this century.

I embarked for Europe on the “City of Rome”, said to be the second largest steamer in the world. On board, a newspaper was published up to the end of the voyage.

I set off for Europe on the "City of Rome," which was said to be the second-largest steamer in the world. Onboard, a newspaper was published until the end of the trip.

I made the acquaintance of many people. They wondered at my taking about with me a foreigner who could not make himself understood. The Europeans and Americans were astonished to see how I got along with him. I could speak to every one in his own language and understand what he said. [73]

I met a lot of people. They were surprised that I was hanging out with a foreigner who couldn't communicate well. The Europeans and Americans were amazed at how we interacted. I could talk to everyone in their own language and understand them perfectly. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

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MY DEPORTATION TO DAPITAN

First published in the Biblioteca National Filipina, Manila. The account was secretly sent by Rizal to his friends very shortly after his arrival at his place of exile. The reference to the school is from a letter to Doctor Blumentritt.

First published in the Biblioteca National Filipina, Manila. Rizal secretly sent this account to his friends shortly after arriving at his place of exile. The mention of the school comes from a letter to Doctor Blumentritt.

I arrived in Manila the 26th of June, 1892. It was on a Sunday, at 12 o’clock, noon. A number of carbineers, including a major, met me. A captain and a sergeant of the Guardia Veterana were there in civilian clothes. I disembarked with my luggage, and they inspected it at the custom house.

I arrived in Manila on June 26, 1892. It was a Sunday at noon. A group of carbineers, including a major, met me. A captain and a sergeant from the Guardia Veterana were there in civilian clothes. I got off the boat with my luggage, and they inspected it at customs.

From there, I went to the Oriente Hotel. I occupied Room No. 22, which overlooks the Binondo Church.

From there, I went to the Oriente Hotel. I stayed in Room No. 22, which has a view of the Binondo Church.

That afternoon, at four, I presented myself to His Excellency, Governor-General Despujol. He told me to return at seven in the evening [74]and I did so. He granted my petition for the liberty of my father, but not for the liberty of my brother and sisters. He told me to return on Wednesday evening at half past seven.

That afternoon, at four o'clock, I met with His Excellency, Governor-General Despujol. He asked me to come back at seven in the evening [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__], and I did. He approved my request for my father's freedom, but not for my brother and sisters. He instructed me to return on Wednesday evening at seven-thirty.

From there, I went to see my sisters. First I saw my sister Narcisa, afterwards Neneng (Saturnina). On the following day, Monday, at six o’clock in the morning, I was at the railway station, bound for Bulacan and Pampanga. I visited Malolos, San Fernando, and Tarlac. On the return I stopped at Bacolor, reaching Manila on Tuesday at five o’clock in the afternoon.

From there, I went to see my sisters. First, I visited my sister Narcisa, then Neneng (Saturnina). The next day, Monday, at six in the morning, I was at the train station, headed for Bulacan and Pampanga. I stopped in Malolos, San Fernando, and Tarlac. On the way back, I stayed in Bacolor, arriving in Manila on Tuesday at five in the afternoon.

Seven-thirty on Wednesday saw me with His Excellency. But not even then did I get him to revoke the deportation decrees. Still he gave me hope for my sisters. As it was the festival of Saints Peter and Paul, our interview ended at 9:15. I was to present myself on the following day, at the same hour. [75]

Seven-thirty on Wednesday found me with His Excellency. But even then, I couldn't get him to reverse the deportation orders. Still, he gave me hope for my sisters. Since it was the festival of Saints Peter and Paul, our meeting wrapped up at 9:15. I was to come back the next day at the same time. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

That day, Thursday, we spoke on unimportant matters. I thanked him for having revoked the order to banish my sisters and told him that my father and brother would come by the first mail-steamer. He asked me if I wished to return to Hongkong and I answered, “Yes”. He told me to come again on Wednesday.

That day, Thursday, we talked about trivial things. I thanked him for canceling the order to banish my sisters and told him that my father and brother would arrive on the next mail steamer. He asked if I wanted to go back to Hong Kong, and I replied, “Yes.” He told me to come again on Wednesday.

Wednesday he asked me if I persisted in my intention of returning to Hongkong. I told him that I did. After some conversation he said that I had brought political circulars in my baggage. I replied that I had not. He asked me who was the owner of the roll of pillows and petates with my baggage. I said that they belonged to my sister. He told me that because of them he was going to send me to Fort Santiago.

Wednesday, he asked me if I was still planning to go back to Hong Kong. I said I was. After some discussion, he mentioned that I had political pamphlets in my luggage. I told him I didn’t. He then asked me who owned the roll of pillows and blankets with my things. I said they belonged to my sister. He told me that because of that, he was going to send me to Fort Santiago.

Don Ramón Despujol, his nephew and aide, took me in one of the palace carriages. At [76]Fort Santiago Don Enrique Villamor, the commander, received me. He assigned me to an ordinary room containing a bed, a dozen chairs, a table, a washstand, and a mirror. The room had three windows. One, without bars, looked out on a court; another had bars, and overlooked the wall and the beach; the third served also as a door and had a padlock. Two artillerymen were on guard as sentinels. They had orders to fire on anyone who tried to make signs from the beach. I could not talk with anyone except the officer of the guard, and I was not allowed to write.

Don Ramón Despujol, along with his nephew and assistant, took me in one of the palace carriages. At [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]Fort Santiago, Don Enrique Villamor, the commander, welcomed me. He put me in a standard room that had a bed, a dozen chairs, a table, a washstand, and a mirror. The room had three windows. One, without bars, faced a courtyard; another was barred and overlooked the wall and the beach; the third also functioned as a door and had a padlock. Two artillerymen stood guard as sentinels. They were instructed to shoot anyone who tried to signal from the beach. I couldn’t speak with anyone except the officer on duty, and I wasn’t allowed to write.

Don Enrique Villamor, the commander of the fort, gave me books from the library.

Don Enrique Villamor, the fort's commander, gave me books from the library.

Each day the corporal of the guard proved to be a sergeant. They cleaned the room every morning. For breakfast, I had coffee with [77]milk, a roll, and coffee-cake. Lunch was at 12:30, and consisted of four courses. Dinner was at 8:30, and was similar to the lunch. Commander Villamor’s orderly waited on me.

Each day, the guard's corporal acted like a sergeant. They cleaned the room every morning. For breakfast, I had coffee with [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]milk, a roll, and cake. Lunch was at 12:30 and included four courses. Dinner was at 8:30 and was similar to lunch. Commander Villamor’s assistant served me.

On Thursday, the 14th, about 5:30 or 6 p. m., the nephew notified me that at ten o’clock that night I should sail for Dapitan. I prepared my baggage, and at 10 was ready, but as no one came to get me, I went to sleep. At 12:15, the aide arrived with the same carriage which had brought me there. By way of the Santa Lucia gate, they took me to the Malecon, where were General Ahumada and some other people. Another aide and two of the Guardia Veterana were waiting for me in a boat.

On Thursday the 14th, around 5:30 or 6 p.m., my nephew informed me that I was scheduled to leave for Dapitan at 10 o’clock that night. I got my bags ready and was set by 10, but since no one came to get me, I went to bed. At 12:15, the aide showed up with the same carriage that had brought me there. They took me through the Santa Lucia gate to the Malecon, where General Ahumada and a few others were waiting. Another aide and two members of the Guardia Veterana were waiting for me in a boat.

The “Cebu” sailed in the morning at nine. They gave me a good stateroom on the upper [78]deck. Above the doors could be read “Chief”. Next to my cabin was that of Capt. Delgras, who had charge of the party.

The “Cebu” set sail at nine in the morning. They assigned me a nice stateroom on the upper [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] deck. Above the doors, it read "Chief." Next to my cabin was Capt. Delgras's, who was in charge of the group.

Ten from each branch of the military service were in the party. There were artillery, infantry of the 70th, 71st, 72nd, 73rd, and 74th regiments, carbineers, cavalry and engineers, and Guardia Civil. Of artillerymen there were at least twelve.

Ten from each branch of the military were in the group. There were artillery units, infantry from the 70th, 71st, 72nd, 73rd, and 74th regiments, carbineers, cavalry, engineers, and Guardia Civil. There were at least twelve artillerymen.

We were carrying prisoners loaded with chains, among whom were a sergeant and a corporal, both Europeans. The sergeant was to be shot because he had ordered his superior officer, who had misbehaved while in Mindanao, to be tied up. The soldiers who obeyed orders and tied the officer up were given twenty years’ imprisonment; and the officer himself was dismissed from the service because he had let them tie him up. [79]

We were transporting prisoners in chains, including a sergeant and a corporal, both of whom were Europeans. The sergeant was set to be executed because he had ordered his superior officer, who had acted improperly in Mindanao, to be restrained. The soldiers who followed orders and tied up the officer received twenty years in prison, while the officer himself was discharged from the service for allowing himself to be tied up. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

I ate in my stateroom, the food being the same as the officers had. I always had a sentinel and a corporal on guard. Every night, Captain Delgras took me for a promenade on deck till 9 o’clock.

I ate in my room, and the food was the same as what the officers had. I always had a guard and a corporal watching over me. Every night, Captain Delgras took me for a walk on deck until 9 o’clock.

We passed along the east coast of Mindoro and the west coast of Panay. We came to Dapitan on Sunday, at seven in the evening. Captain Delgras and three artillerymen accompanied me in a boat rowed by eight sailors. There was a heavy sea.

We traveled along the east coast of Mindoro and the west coast of Panay. We arrived in Dapitan on Sunday at seven in the evening. Captain Delgras and three artillerymen joined me in a boat that was rowed by eight sailors. The sea was rough.

The beach seemed very gloomy. We were in the dark, except for our lantern, which showed a roadway grown up with weeds.

The beach looked really dreary. We were in the dark, except for our lantern, which illuminated a path overgrown with weeds.

In the town we met the governor, or commandant, Captain Ricardo Carnicero. There was also a Spanish ex-exile, and the practicante, Don Cosme. We went to the town hall, which was a large building.

In the town, we met the governor, or commandant, Captain Ricardo Carnicero. There was also a Spanish former exile and the practicante, Don Cosme. We went to the town hall, which was a large building.

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My life now is quiet, peaceful, retired and without glory, but I think it is useful too. I teach reading, Spanish, English, mathematics and geometry to the poor but intelligent boys here. Moreover I teach them to behave like men. I have taught the men how to get a better way of earning their living and they think I am right. We have begun and success is crowning our trials.

My life now is quiet, peaceful, retired, and without fame, but I believe it has value too. I teach reading, Spanish, English, math, and geometry to the poor but bright boys here. Plus, I teach them how to act like men. I’ve shown the men how to earn a better living, and they agree with me. We’ve started this journey, and success is rewarding our efforts.

The Plaza of Dapitan, Island of Mindanao. The townhall appears in the lower righthand corner. Rizal made a raised map of Mindanao Island on the plaza, to teach their home geography to the Dapitan people. The map has been restored by the Insular Government and a bronze tablet tells its history

The Plaza of Dapitan, Island of Mindanao. The town hall is in the lower right-hand corner. Rizal created a raised map of Mindanao Island in the plaza to teach the locals about their geography. The map has been restored by the Insular Government, and a bronze tablet explains its history.

[81]

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ADVICE TO A NEPHEW

Written from Dapitan. Rizal took great interest in the education of his sisters’ children and in Germany had made for them a translation into Tagalog of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales. This he embellished with many appropriate drawings and wrote out very plainly, making a book of eighty pages.

Written from Dapitan. Rizal was very invested in the education of his sisters' children and, while in Germany, translated Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tales into Tagalog for them. He enhanced it with many fitting illustrations and wrote it out clearly, creating a book of eighty pages.

I think that I ought to mention to you a slight error which I have noticed in your letter. It is a little error which many in society make.

I think I should point out a small mistake I noticed in your letter. It's a minor error that many people in society make.

One should not say, “I and my sisters greet you,” but “My sisters and I greet you.” Always you have to put yourself last. You should say: “Emilio and I,” “You and I,” “My friend and I,” and so on. For the rest, your letter is well written. In it you express your thoughts clearly. You use only the necessary words, and your spelling is good.

One shouldn't say, “I and my sisters greet you,” but rather “My sisters and I greet you.” You always have to put yourself last. You should say: “Emilio and I,” “You and I,” “My friend and I,” and so on. Other than that, your letter is well written. You express your thoughts clearly, use only the necessary words, and your spelling is good.

Keep on advancing. Learn, learn and think much about what you learn. Life is a very [82]serious matter. It goes well only for those who have intelligence and heart. To live is to be among men, and to be among men is to strive.

Keep moving forward. Keep learning, and really think about what you learn. Life is a very [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]serious business. It works out well only for those who have both intelligence and compassion. To live is to be with others, and to be with others is to make an effort.

But this strife is not a brute-like, selfish struggle,—nor with men alone. It is a strife with men, and at the same time with one’s own passions. It is a struggle with the proprieties, with errors, with prejudices. It is a never-ending striving, with a smile on the lips and the tears in the heart.

But this conflict isn't a savage, selfish battle,—nor just against people. It's a struggle against others, while also battling one's own desires. It's a fight against social norms, mistakes, and biases. It's an ongoing effort, with a smile on your face and tears in your heart.

On this battlefield, man has no better weapon than his intelligence. He possesses no more force than he has spirit. Bring out your intelligence, then, and improve it. Strengthen and educate yourself that you may be prepared for the struggle. [83]

On this battlefield, a person has no better weapon than their intelligence. They have no greater power than their spirit. So, tap into your intelligence and enhance it. Strengthen and educate yourself so you can be ready for the fight. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

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FILIPINO PROVERBS

The Proverbs and the Puzzles were published, with comments here omitted, in Truebner’s Oriental Magazine, London, June and July issues of 1889.

Rizal’s own English.

Rizal’s personal English.

1. Low words are stronger than loud words.

1. Soft words are more powerful than loud words.

2. A petted child is generally naked (i. e. poor).

2. A spoiled child is usually without basic needs (i.e. poor).

3. Parents’ punishment makes one fat.

3. Parents' punishment makes you gain weight.

4. New king, new fashion.

New king, new style.

5. Man promises while in need.

5. People make promises when they're in need.

6. He who believes in tales has no mind of his own.

6. A person who believes in stories has no thoughts of their own.

7. The most difficult to rouse from sleep is the man who pretends to be asleep.

7. The hardest person to wake up is the one who is pretending to be asleep.

8. Too many words, too little work.

8. Too many words, not enough action.

9. The sleeping shrimp is carried away by the current.

9. The sleeping shrimp gets carried away by the current.

10. The fish is caught through the mouth. [84]

10. The fish is caught by its mouth. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

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FILIPINO PUZZLES

He carries me, I carry him.—The shoes.

He carries me, I carry him. — The shoes.

A deep well filled with steel blades.—The mouth.

Mrs. José Rizal. Wood medallion by Rizal of his wife, made at Dapitan. Her maiden name was Josephine Bracken. She was Irish, but had been adopted by an American. Her foster father became blind and, in hope of recovering his sight, went to Dapitan. There Rizal became engaged to Josephine but could not marry her because a political retraction was required of him before the ceremony would be performed. They were finally married in Fort Santiago, half an hour before his execution. Mrs. Rizal gave Speaker Osmeña his first lessons in English. She died five years after her husband

Mrs. José Rizal. Wood medallion by Rizal of his wife, made at Dapitan. Her maiden name was Josephine Bracken. She was Irish but had been adopted by an American. Her foster father went blind, and in hopes of recovering his sight, he went to Dapitan. There, Rizal got engaged to Josephine but couldn’t marry her because he needed to retract his political statements before the ceremony could take place. They eventually got married in Fort Santiago, just thirty minutes before his execution. Mrs. Rizal taught Speaker Osmeña his first lessons in English. She died five years after her husband.

[85]

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RIZAL’S DON’TS

Condensed from the regulations of the Philippine League (Liga Filipino), a co-operative economic society which Rizal organized in Manila just before his deportation, in 1892.

Condensed from the regulations of the Philippine League (Liga Filipino), a cooperative economic society that Rizal set up in Manila right before his deportation in 1892.

DON’T gamble.

Don't bet.

DON’T be a drunkard.

Don’t be an alcoholic.

DON’T break the laws.

Don’t break the law.

DON’T be cruel in any way.

DON'T be cruel in any way.

DON’T be a rabid partisan.

Don't be an extreme partisan.

DON’T be merely a faultfinding critic.

DON’T just be a nitpicking critic.

DON’T put yourself in the way of humiliation.

DON’T put yourself in a position to be humiliated.

DON’T treat anyone with haughtiness or contempt.

DON’T treat anyone with arrogance or disdain.

DON’T condemn anyone without first hearing his side.

DON'T judge anyone without first hearing their side.

DON’T abandon the poor man who has right on his side. [86]

DON’T abandon the poor man who has the right on his side. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

DON’T forget those who, worthily, have come to want.

DON’T forget those who, rightfully, have come to need.

DON’T fail those without means who show application and ability.

DON’T let down those without resources who demonstrate effort and skill.

DON’T associate with immoral persons or with persons of bad habits.

DON’T associate with immoral people or with those who have bad habits.

DON’T overlook the value to our country of new machinery and industries.

DON’T underestimate the importance of new machinery and industries to our country.

DON’T ever cease working for the prosperity and welfare of our native land.

DON’T ever stop working for the prosperity and well-being of our homeland.

A pipe which Rizal made, of chalk, in Fort Santiago for his last Christmas gift to his father

A chalk pipe that Rizal made in Fort Santiago as his last Christmas gift for his father.

[87]

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HYMN TO LABOR

(Written expressly for the exercises celebrating the erection of the pueblo of Lipa, Batangas, into a villa, but received too late to be used on that occasion.)—Translation by Charles Derbyshire.

(Written specifically for the celebrations marking the elevation of the town of Lipa, Batangas, to a villa, but received too late to be used for that event.)—Translation by Charles Derbyshire.

Men:

Guys:

Now the east with light is reddening,

Now the east is turning red with light,

And to our fields and tasks we fare;

And we head out to our fields and work;

By the toil of man sustaining

By the hard work of people supporting

Life and home and country there.

Life, home, and country are all there.

Though the earth be hard and stubborn,

Though the earth is tough and unyielding,

And the sun unpitying glow,

And the sun's harsh glow,

For our country and our homes

Love an easy way will show.

Love will show itself in an easy way.

Chorus:

For his country in peace,

For his country in war,

For his country in battle,

Let the Filipino work,

Let the Filipinos work,

Let him live, let him die.

[88]

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Matrons:

Managers:

Go then joyous to your labor,

Go on then, happily get to work,

While the wife awaits you here;

While your wife waits for you here;

With the children learning from her

With the kids learning from her

To hold truth and country dear.

To value truth and country.

When night brings you weary homeward

When night brings you tired back home

May peace and joy await you there;

May peace and happiness be waiting for you there;

But if fate unkindly frown,

But if fate cruelly frowns,

She your stubborn task will share.

She will share your stubborn task.

Chorus:

Chorus:

For his country in peace,

For his country in war,

For his country in battle,

Let the Filipino work,

Let the Filipino work.

Let him live, let him die.

Maidens:

Young women:

Hail to labor! Blessed be it,

Hail to work! Blessed be it,

For it brings our country wealth;

For it brings our country prosperity;

May we ever hold it sacred,—

May we always hold it sacred,—

’Tis our country’s life and health!

It’s the life and health of our country!

[89]

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If the youth would win our favor

If the youth want to win our favor

By his work his faith be shown;

By his work, his faith is shown;

Only he who toils and struggles

Only those who work hard and fight

Will support and keep his own.

Will support and take care of his own.

Chorus:

Chorus:

For his country in peace,

For his country in war,

For his country in conflict,

Let the Filipino work,

Let the Filipino do their job.

Let him live, let him die.

Boys:

Guys:

Show us then the way to labor,—

Show us the way to work,—

The road you ope to guide our feet;

The road you open to guide our way;

So that when our country calls us,

We your task may then complete,

We can then complete your task,

And the old men then will bless us,

And the old men will then bless us,

Saying: “They are worthy of their sires;

Saying: “They are worthy of their fathers;

For the dead are honored most

For the dead are honored the most

By sons whom true worth inspires.”

By sons who are motivated by true worth.

[90]

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Chorus:

For his country in peace,

For his country in war,

For his country at war,

Let the Filipino work,

Let the Filipino earn.

Let him live, let him die.

Rizal at 27. From a Hongkong photo. Taken just after Governor-General Terrero, who admired the author of Noli Me Tangere, had advised Rizal to leave the Islands to escape enemies so powerful that even his protection might not insure safety. Rizal had dared to help the Kalamba tenants to answer fully and truthfully inquiries which the Government had made regarding their landlords

Rizal at 27. From a photo taken in Hong Kong. This was captured just after Governor-General Terrero, who admired the author of Noli Me Tangere, suggested that Rizal leave the Islands to avoid enemies so powerful that even his protection might not guarantee safety. Rizal had bravely assisted the Kalamba tenants in responding completely and honestly to the inquiries the Government made about their landlords.

[91]

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MEMORY GEMS FROM RIZAL’S WRITINGS

Without liberty there is no light.

Without freedom, there is no light.

One evil does not correct another.

One wrong doesn't fix another.

My dearest wish is the happiness of my country.

My biggest wish is for my country to be happy.

It is a useless life which is not consecrated to a great idea.

A life without a great purpose is a wasted life.

A man keeps his independence while he holds to his own way of thinking.

A man maintains his independence by sticking to his own beliefs.

If our country is ever to be free it will not be through vice and crime.

If our country is ever going to be free, it won't be through wrongdoing and crime.

Knowledge is the heritage of mankind, but only the courageous inherit it.

Knowledge is humanity's inheritance, but only the brave can claim it.

It is better to honor a good man in life than to worship him after he is dead.

It’s better to appreciate a good person while they’re alive than to idolize them after they’ve passed away.

Resignation is not always a virtue; it is a crime when it encourages tyrants.

Resignation isn't always a good thing; it's a crime when it supports tyrants.

In the flames of war those who suffer most are the defenceless and the innocent. [92]

In the chaos of war, the ones who suffer the most are the vulnerable and the innocent. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

I have worked for the good of my native land, I have consecrated my life to the welfare of others.

I have dedicated my efforts to the well-being of my homeland; I have committed my life to helping others.

We need criticism to keep us awake. It makes us see our weaknesses so that we may correct them.

We need criticism to stay alert. It helps us recognize our weaknesses so we can fix them.

There are three ways in which one may accompany the course of progress: in front of, beside, or behind it.

There are three ways to keep up with progress: ahead of it, alongside it, or behind it.

Where are the young men who will consecrate their best years, their ambitions and their enthusiasms to the welfare of their native land?

Where are the young men who will dedicate their best years, their ambitions, and their passions to the well-being of their homeland?

Manila skyline. Rizal’s last view of the city as the steamer, in 1882, was taking him to Spain. Drawn on shipboard

[93]

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MARIANG MAKILING

(This story is a favorite in my town.)

Mariang Makiling was a young woman. She lived somewhere on the beautiful mountain Makiling, between Laguna province and Tayabas province. No one knew just where or how she lived. Some said she lived in a beautiful palace surrounded by gardens. Others said she lived in a poor hut made of nipa and bamboo.

Mariang Makiling was a young woman. She lived somewhere on the beautiful Mount Makiling, between Laguna and Tayabas provinces. No one really knew exactly where or how she lived. Some said she resided in a stunning palace surrounded by gardens. Others claimed she lived in a simple hut made of nipa and bamboo.

Maria was tall and graceful. Her color was a clear, pure brown, kayumanging kaligatan, as the Tagalogs say. Her eyes were big and black. Her hair was long and thick. Her hands and feet were small and delicate. She was a fairy-like creature born under the moon-beams of the Philippines. She flitted in and [94]out among the woods of Makiling. She was the ruling spirit of the mountain; but she seldom came within sight of man.

Maria was tall and graceful. Her skin was a clear, pure brown, kayumanging kaligatan, as the Tagalogs would say. Her eyes were large and black. Her hair was long and thick. Her hands and feet were small and delicate. She was like a fairy, born under the moonlight of the Philippines. She flitted in and [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] out among the woods of Makiling. She was the spirit of the mountain, but she rarely appeared in front of people.

Hunters sometimes saw Maria on the night of Good Friday when they went out to trap deer. She would be standing motionless on the edge of some great cliff. Her long hair floated in the wind. She sometimes approached them. She would salute them gravely, then pass on and disappear among the shadows of the trees. They never dared to question her, to follow her, or to watch her.

Hunters occasionally spotted Maria on Good Friday night when they went out to hunt deer. She would be standing still on the edge of a high cliff. Her long hair blew in the wind. Sometimes she would walk toward them, greet them seriously, and then move on, vanishing into the shadows of the trees. They never dared to ask her questions, to follow her, or to watch her.

She liked best to appear after a storm. Then she would scurry over the fields bringing back life to the fallen plants, and setting everything to rights. The trees straightened up their wind-blown trunks. The streams went back into their beds. All signs of the storm disappeared as she passed. [95]

She loved to show up after a storm. Then she would race across the fields, reviving the fallen plants and putting everything back in order. The trees would straighten their wind-bent trunks. The streams would return to their banks. All traces of the storm faded away as she moved through. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

Mariang Makiling had a very good heart. She used to lend the poor country folk clothing or jewels for weddings, baptisms and feast days. All she asked in return was a pullet as white as milk. It had to be a dumalaga; that is, one that had never laid an egg.

Mariang Makiling had a really kind heart. She used to lend clothes or jewels to the poor farmers for weddings, baptisms, and festive days. All she asked for in return was a pullet as white as milk. It had to be a dumalaga; that is, one that had never laid an egg.

Sometimes she appeared as a simple country girl and helped the poor old women to pick up firewood. Then she would slip gold nuggets, coins and jewels into their bundles of wood.

Sometimes she looked like a simple country girl and helped the poor old women gather firewood. Then she would sneak gold nuggets, coins, and jewels into their bundles of wood.

A hunter was one day chasing a wild boar through the tall grass and thorny bushes. Suddenly he came to a hut in which the animal hid. A beautiful young woman came out and said:

A hunter was out one day chasing a wild boar through the tall grass and thorny bushes. Suddenly, he came across a hut where the animal was hiding. A beautiful young woman emerged and said:

“The wild boar belongs to me. You have done wrong to chase it, but I see that you are very tired. Your arms and legs are covered with blood. Come in and eat. Then you may go on your way.” [96]

“The wild boar is mine. You shouldn't have chased it, but I can see that you’re exhausted. Your arms and legs are all bloody. Come in and eat. After that, you can continue on your way.” [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

The man was charmed by the beauty of the young woman. He went in and ate everything she offered him. But he was not able to speak a single word. Before the hunter left, the young woman gave him some pieces of ginger. She told him to give them to his wife for her cooking. The hunter thanked her and put the roots inside the crown of his broad hat. On the way home his hat felt heavy. So he took out a number of the pieces and threw them away. He was surprised and sorry the next day when his wife discovered that what they had taken to be ginger was solid gold. The supposed roots were bright as rays of sunshine.

The man was captivated by the beauty of the young woman. He went in and ate everything she offered him. But he couldn't say a single word. Before the hunter left, the young woman gave him some pieces of ginger. She told him to give them to his wife for her cooking. The hunter thanked her and tucked the roots inside the crown of his wide hat. On the way home, his hat felt heavy. So he pulled out a few pieces and threw them away. He was shocked and regretful the next day when his wife found out that what they thought was ginger was actually solid gold. The supposed roots shone as brightly as sunshine.

But Mariang Makiling was not always kind and generous to the hunters. Sometimes she punished them. [97]

But Mariang Makiling wasn't always nice and generous to the hunters. Sometimes she punished them. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

One afternoon two hunters were coming down the mountain, carrying some wild boars and deer which they had killed during the day.

One afternoon, two hunters were heading down the mountain, carrying some wild boars and deer they had killed that day.

They met an old woman who begged them to give her a quarter. They thought that was too much to give, so they refused. The old woman said that she would go and tell the mistress of those animals, and she left them. This threat made the hunters laugh heartily. When night had fallen and the two were near the plain, they heard a distant shout—very distant, as though it came from the top of the mountain:

They ran into an old woman who asked them for a quarter. They thought that was too much to give, so they said no. The old woman claimed she would go and tell the owner of those animals, and then she left. This threat made the hunters laugh out loud. When night fell and the two were near the plain, they heard a distant shout—very far away, as if it came from the top of the mountain:

“There they go-o-o—o!”

"There they go!"

Then another even more distant cry replied:

Then another, even more distant, cry answered:

“There they go-o-o—o!”

“There they go!”

That cry surprised both the hunters, who could not account for it. On hearing it, the dogs stuck up their ears. They uttered low growls [98]and drew nearer to their masters. In a few minutes the same cry was heard again, this time from the mountain-side. On hearing it, the dogs thrust their tails between their legs and came close to their masters. The men stared at each other without saying a word. They were astonished that the one who uttered the cry could travel so far in such a short time. When they reached the plain, the fearful cry was heard again. This time, it was so clear and distinct that both looked back. In the moonlight, they could see two strange, gigantic shapes coming down the mountain at full speed. Both hunters ran as fast as they could with such heavy loads. Still the strange creatures came nearer.

That scream shocked both the hunters, who couldn't make sense of it. When they heard it, the dogs perked up their ears. They let out low growls [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]and moved closer to their owners. After a few minutes, the same scream echoed again, this time from the mountainside. Hearing it, the dogs tucked their tails between their legs and huddled up to their owners. The men stared at each other in silence, amazed that whoever made the cry could travel so far in such a short time. When they got to the plain, the chilling scream rang out again. This time, it was so clear and distinct that both turned to look back. In the moonlight, they could see two strange, massive figures rushing down the mountain at full speed. Both hunters ran as fast as they could with their heavy loads, but the strange creatures kept getting closer.

The men, coming to a spring called bukal, threw down their burdens, and climbed a tree; [99]and the dogs fled toward the town. The monsters came up, and in a few seconds devoured the wild boars and deer and went back toward the mountain. Only then, did the hunters recover. The more courageous took aim but his gun missed fire and the monsters escaped.

The men, arriving at a spring called bukal, dropped their loads and climbed a tree; [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]and the dogs ran toward the town. The creatures approached and within moments devoured the wild boars and deer before heading back to the mountain. Only then did the hunters regain their composure. The braver ones aimed their guns, but one misfired, allowing the creatures to escape.

No one ever knew whether Mariang Makiling had parents, brothers and sisters, or other kin. Such persons spring up naturally, like the stones the Tagalogs call mutya. No one ever knew her real name. She was simply called Maria. No one ever saw her enter the town or take part in any religious ceremony. She remained ever the same. The five or six generations that knew her always saw her young, fresh, sprightly, and pure.

No one ever knew if Mariang Makiling had parents, siblings, or any relatives. She just appeared out of nowhere, like the stones the Tagalogs call mutya. No one ever learned her real name; she was just called Maria. No one ever saw her come into town or participate in any religious events. She always remained the same. The five or six generations that knew her saw her as young, vibrant, lively, and innocent.

For many years now no one has seen her on Makiling. Her vapor figure no longer wanders [100]through the deep valleys. It no longer hovers over the waterfall on the serene moonlight nights. The melancholy tone of her mysterious harp is no longer heard. Now lovers are married without getting from her either jewels or presents. Mariang Makiling has disappeared.

For many years now, no one has seen her on Makiling. Her misty figure no longer moves through the deep valleys. It no longer floats above the waterfall on peaceful moonlit nights. The sad sound of her mysterious harp is gone. Now lovers get married without receiving either jewels or gifts from her. Mariang Makiling has vanished.

Some blame the people of a certain town who not only refused to give her the customary white pullet but even failed to return the jewels and clothing borrowed. Others say that Mariang Makiling is offended because some landlords are trying to take half of the mountain.

Some people blame the residents of a certain town for not only refusing to give her the traditional white chicken but also for not returning the borrowed jewels and clothes. Others believe that Mariang Makiling is upset because some landlords are trying to claim half of the mountain.

Inkstand and pen-tray made, and used, by Rizal in Dapitan. He used it, too, in writing his last poem “My Last Thought” in Fort Santiago.

Inkstand and pen tray made and used by Rizal in Dapitan. He also used it to write his last poem “My Last Thought” in Fort Santiago.

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A CHRONOLOGY OF THE LIFE OF JOSÉ RIZAL

1848, June 28.—Rizal’s parents married in Kalamba, La Laguna: Francisco Rizal-Mercado y Alejandra (born in Biñan, April 18,1818) and Teodora Morales Alonso-Realonda y Quintos (born in Sta. Cruz, Manila, Nov. 14, 1827).

1848, June 28.—Rizal’s parents got married in Kalamba, La Laguna: Francisco Rizal-Mercado y Alejandra (born in Biñan, April 18, 1818) and Teodora Morales Alonso-Realonda y Quintos (born in Sta. Cruz, Manila, Nov. 14, 1827).

1861, June 19.—Rizal born, their seventh child.

June 19, 1861.—Rizal was born, the seventh child.

June 22.—Christened as José Protasio Rizal-Mercado y Alonso-Realonda.

June 22.—Named José Protasio Rizal-Mercado y Alonso-Realonda.

1870, Age 9.—In school at Biñan under Master Justiniano Aquin Cruz.

1870, Age 9.—In school in Biñan with Teacher Justiniano Aquin Cruz.

1871, Age 10.—In Kalamba public school under Master Lucas Padua. [102]

1871, Age 10.—At Kalamba public school with Master Lucas Padua. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

1872, June 10. Age 11.—Examined in San Juan de Letran college, Manila, which, during the Spanish time, as part of Sto. Tomás University, controlled entrance to all higher institutions.

June 10, 1872. Age 11.—Tested at San Juan de Letran College in Manila, which, during the Spanish era, as part of Sto. Tomás University, regulated admission to all higher education institutions.

June 26.—Entered the Ateneo Municipal de Manila, then a public school, as a day scholar.

June 26.—I enrolled in the Ateneo Municipal de Manila, which was a public school at the time, as a day student.

1875, June 14. Age 14.—Became a boarder in the Ateneo.

1875, June 14. Age 14.—Started living at the Ateneo.

1876, March 23. Age 15.—Received the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree, with highest honors, from Ateneo de Manila.

June.—Entered Sto. Tomás University in Philosophy course.

June.—Started at Sto. Tomás University in a Philosophy course.

1877, June. Age 16.—Matriculated in medical course. Won Liceo Artístico-Literario prize, in poetical competition for “Indians and Mestizos”, with poem “To Philippine Youth.” [103]

1877, June. Age 16.—Enrolled in a medical program. Won the Liceo Artístico-Literario prize in a poetry competition for “Indians and Mestizos” with the poem “To Philippine Youth.” [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

Nov. 29.—Awarded diploma of honorable mention and merit by Royal Economic Society of Friends of the Country, Amigos del País, for prize poem.

Nov. 29.—Awarded a diploma of honorable mention and merit by the Royal Economic Society of Friends of the Country, Amigos del País, for the prize poem.

1880, April 23. Age 19.—Received Liceo Artístico-Literario diploma of honorable mention for allegory “The Council of the Gods,” in competition open to “Spaniards, mestizos and Indians.” Unjustly deprived of first prize.

1880, April 23. Age 19.—Received Liceo Artístico-Literario diploma of honorable mention for the allegory “The Council of the Gods,” in a competition open to “Spaniards, mestizos, and Indians.” Unfairly denied the first prize.

Dec. 8.—Operetta “On the Banks of the Pasig” produced.

Dec. 8.—The operetta “On the Banks of the Pasig” was produced.

1881. Age 20.—Submitted winning wax model design for commemorative medal for Royal Economic Society of Friends of the Country centennial.

1881. Age 20.—Submitted a winning wax model design for a commemorative medal for the Royal Economic Society of Friends of the Country's centennial.

Wounded in the back for not saluting a Guardia Civil lieutenant whom he had not seen. His complaint was ignored by the authorities. [104]

Wounded in the back for not saluting a Guardia Civil lieutenant he hadn’t seen. His complaint was overlooked by the authorities. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

Rizal at 22. From the first photo taken after his arrival in Spain.

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1882, May 3. Age 21.—Secretly left Manila, with passport of a cousin, taking at Singapore a French mail steamer for Marseilles and entering Spain at Port Bou by railroad. Money furnished. by his brother, Paciano Mercado.

1882, May 3. Age 21.—Secretly left Manila, using a cousin's passport, took a French mail steamer from Singapore to Marseilles, and entered Spain at Port Bou by train. Money was provided by his brother, Paciano Mercado.

June.—Absence noted at Sto. Tomás University, which owned Kalamba estate. Rizal’s father was compelled to prove that he had had no knowledge of his son’s plan in order to hold the land on which he was the University’s tenant.

June.—Absence noted at Sto. Tomás University, which owned the Kalamba estate. Rizal’s father was forced to prove that he was unaware of his son’s plan to keep the land where he was a tenant of the University.

July–Nov.—A student in Barcelona.

Nov. 3.—Began studies in Madrid.

Nov. 3.—Started studying in Madrid.

1885, June 19. Age 24—Received degree of Licentiate in Medicine with honors from Central University of Madrid. [106]

June 19, 1885. Age 24—Graduated with honors and earned a degree in Medicine from Central University of Madrid. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

Rizal at 24. The original photograph was taken in Madrid.

Rizal at 24. The original photo was taken in Madrid.

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1886, June. Age 25—Received degree of Licentiate in Philosophy, with honors and special mention in Latin, Greek, and Hebrew, from Central University of Madrid.

June 1886, Age 25—Graduated with a Licentiate in Philosophy, with honors and special recognition in Latin, Greek, and Hebrew, from Central University of Madrid.

Clinical assistant to Dr. L. de Weckert, a Paris oculist.

Clinical assistant to Dr. L. de Weckert, an eye doctor in Paris.

Visited Universities of Heidelberg, Leipzig, and Berlin.

Visited the universities of Heidelberg, Leipzig, and Berlin.

1887, Feb. 21. Age 26—Finished novel Noli Me Tangere in Berlin.

1887, Feb. 21. Age 26—Completed the novel Noli Me Tangere in Berlin.

Travelled in Austria, Switzerland and Italy.

Travelled in Austria, Switzerland, and Italy.

July 3.—Sailed from Marseilles.

July 3.—Departed from Marseilles.

Aug. 5.—Arrived in Manila. Travelled in nearby provinces with a Spanish lieutenant, detailed by the Governor-General, as escort.

Aug. 5.—Arrived in Manila. Traveled to nearby provinces with a Spanish lieutenant assigned by the Governor-General as my escort.

1888, Feb.—Sailed for Japan via Hongkong.

February 1888—Left for Japan through Hong Kong.

Feb. 28.–Apr. 13. Age 27—A guest at Spanish Legation, Tokyo, and travelling in Japan. [108]

Feb. 28.–Apr. 13. Age 27—A guest at the Spanish Legation in Tokyo, traveling around Japan. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

Rizal at 26. From a photo taken in Switzerland.

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April–May.—Travelling in the United States.

April–May.—Traveling in the U.S.

May 24.—In London, studying in the British Museum to edit Morga’s 1609 Philippine History.

May 24.—In London, working at the British Museum to edit Morga’s 1609 Philippine History.

1889, March. Age 28.—In Paris, publishing Morga’s History. Published “The Philippines A Century Hence” in La Solidaridad, a Filipino fortnightly review, first of Barcelona and later of Madrid.

1889, March. Age 28.—In Paris, publishing Morga's History. Published "The Philippines A Century Hence" in La Solidaridad, a Filipino biweekly magazine, first in Barcelona and later in Madrid.

1890, Feb.–July. Age 29.—In Belgium and Holland, finishing El Filibusterismo (The Reign of Greed), which is the sequel to Noli Me Tangere.

Published “The Indolence of the Filipino” in La Solidaridad.

Aug. 4.—Returned to Madrid to confer with countrymen on the Philippine situation, then constantly growing worse. [110]

Aug. 4.—Came back to Madrid to discuss the situation in the Philippines with fellow countrymen, which was steadily getting worse. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

Rizal at 28. From a group picture, taken in Paris, with the Artist Luna’s family.

Rizal at 28. From a group photo taken in Paris with the artist Luna’s family.

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1891, Jan. 27.—Left Madrid for France.

Jan. 27, 1891.—Departed from Madrid to France.

Nov. Age 30.—Arranging for a Filipino agricultural colony in British North Borneo.

Nov. Age 30.—Planning for a Filipino agricultural community in British North Borneo.

Practiced medicine in Hongkong.

Practiced medicine in Hong Kong.

1892, June 26. Age 31—Returned to Manila under Governor-General Despujol’s safe conduct.

June 26, 1892. Age 31—Returned to Manila with the protection of Governor-General Despujol.

Organized mutual aid economic society Liga Filipina.

July 6.—Ordered deported to Dapitan, but the decree and charges were kept secret from him.

July 6.—Ordered to be deported to Dapitan, but the decree and charges were kept hidden from him.

Taught school and conducted a hospital during exile, patients coming from China coast ports for treatment. Fees thus earned were used to beautify the town. Arranged a water system and had the plaza lighted. [112]

Taught school and ran a hospital during exile, with patients coming from Chinese coastal ports for treatment. The fees earned were used to improve the town. Set up a water system and had the plaza illuminated. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

1896, Aug. 1. Age 35—Left Dapitan en route to Spain as a volunteer surgeon for the Cuban yellow fever hospitals. Carried letters of recommendation from Governor-General Blanco.

1896, Aug. 1. Age 35—Left Dapitan heading to Spain as a volunteer surgeon for the Cuban yellow fever hospitals. Carried letters of recommendation from Governor-General Blanco.

Aug. 7.–Sept. 3.—On Spanish cruiser Castilla in Manila Bay.

Aug. 7.–Sept. 3.—On the Spanish cruiser Castilla in Manila Bay.

Sailed for Spain on Spanish mail steamer and just after leaving Port Said was confined to cabin as a prisoner on cabled order from Manila. (Governor-General Blanco’s promotion had been purchased by Rizal’s enemies to secure appointment of a governor-general subservient to them, the servile Polavieja.)

Sailed for Spain on a Spanish mail steamer and right after leaving Port Said was confined to my cabin as a prisoner on a cabled order from Manila. (Governor-General Blanco’s promotion had been bought by Rizal’s enemies to get a governor-general who would bend to their will, the submissive Polavieja.)

Oct. 5.—Placed in Montjuich Castle dungeon on arrival in Barcelona [113]and the same day re-embarked for Manila. Friends and countrymen in London by cable made an unsuccessful effort for a Habeas Corpus writ at Singapore. On arrival in Manila was placed in Fort Santiago dungeon.

Oct. 5.—Put in the dungeon of Montjuich Castle upon arriving in Barcelona [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] and the same day boarded a ship back to Manila. Friends and fellow countrymen in London tried to get a Habeas Corpus writ via cable in Singapore but were unsuccessful. Upon arriving in Manila, I was put in the dungeon of Fort Santiago.

Dec. 3.—Charged with treason, sedition and forming illegal societies, the prosecution arguing that he was responsible for the deeds of those who read his writings.

Dec. 3.—Accused of treason, sedition, and creating illegal societies, the prosecution claimed that he was responsible for the actions of those who read his writings.

Dec. 12.—Wrote poem “My Last Farewell” and concealed it in an alcohol cooking lamp, after appearing in a courtroom where the judges made no effort to check those who cried out for his death. [114]

Dec. 12.—Wrote the poem “My Last Farewell” and hid it in an alcohol lamp after appearing in a courtroom where the judges did nothing to stop the people calling for his death. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

A Paris portrait of Rizal which appears on the 2-centavo stamped envelope. It is the only profile among his known portraits.

A portrait of Rizal taken in Paris that appears on the 2-centavo stamped envelope. It’s the only profile among his known portraits.

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Dec. 15.—Wrote an address to insurgent Filipinos to lay down their arms because their insurrection was at that time hopeless. Address not made public but added to the charges against him.

Dec. 15.—Wrote a message to rebel Filipinos to put down their weapons because their uprising was, at that moment, pointless. The message was not made public but was added to the charges against him.

Dec. 26.—Formally condemned to death by Spanish court martial.

Dec. 26.—Officially sentenced to death by Spanish court martial.

Pi y Margall, who had been president of the Spanish Republic, pleaded with the Prime Minister for Rizal’s life, but the Queen Regent could not forgive his having referred in one of his writings to the murder by, and suicide of, her relative, Crown Prince Rudolph of Austria. [116]

Pi y Margall, who had been the president of the Spanish Republic, asked the Prime Minister to save Rizal’s life, but the Queen Regent couldn’t overlook his mention in one of his writings of the murder and suicide of her relative, Crown Prince Rudolph of Austria. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

Dec. 30.—Married in Fort Santiago death cell to Josephine Bracken, Irish, the adopted daughter of a blind American who came to Dapitan for treatment.

Dec. 30.—Married in Fort Santiago death cell to Josephine Bracken, an Irish woman, the adopted daughter of a blind American who came to Dapitan for treatment.

Age 35 years, 6 months, 11 days. Shot on the Luneta, Manila, at 7:30 a. m., and buried in a secret grave in Paco Cemetery. (Entry of death made on back flyleaf of Paco Church Register, among suicides.)

Age 35 years, 6 months, 11 days. Shot at Luneta, Manila, at 7:30 a.m., and buried in a hidden grave in Paco Cemetery. (Death entry recorded on the back flyleaf of the Paco Church Register, among suicides.)

1897, Jan.—Commemorated by Spanish Freemasons who dedicated a tablet to his memory, in their Grand Lodge hall in Madrid, as a martyr to Liberty.

Jan 1897—Honored by Spanish Freemasons who dedicated a plaque in his memory in their Grand Lodge hall in Madrid, as a martyr for Liberty.

1898, Aug.—Grave sought, immediately after the American capture [117]of Manila, by Filipinos who placed over it, in Paco cemetery, a cross inscribed simply “December 30, 1896.” Since his death his name had never been spoken by his countrymen, but all references had been to “The Dead” (El Difunto).

August 1898—Grave sought, right after the American capture [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__] of Manila, by Filipinos who put a cross on it in Paco cemetery, with the inscription “December 30, 1896.” Since his death, his name had never been mentioned by his fellow countrymen; everyone referred to him as “The Dead” (El Difunto).

Dec. 30.—Memorial services held by Filipinos, and American soldiers on duty carried their arms reversed.

Dec. 30.—Memorial services were held by Filipinos, and American soldiers on duty carried their weapons turned upside down.

1911, June 19.—Birth semi-centennial observed in all public schools by act of Philippine Legislature.

June 19, 1911.—The 50th anniversary of the birth was celebrated in all public schools by an act of the Philippine Legislature.

1912, Dec. 30.—Ashes transferred to the Rizal Mausoleum on the Luneta with impressive public ceremonies. [118]

Dec. 30, 1912.—Ashes moved to the Rizal Mausoleum on Luneta with significant public ceremonies. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

Rizal Mausoleum, Luneta, Manila. Here lies the body of José Rizal on the place of his execution, under a monument designed by the designer of the Swiss National Tell monument.

Rizal Mausoleum, Luneta, Manila. Here rests the body of José Rizal at the site of his execution, beneath a monument crafted by the designer of the Swiss National Tell monument.

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REFERENCES

A READING LIST

RIZAL, JOSÉ.—The Monkey and the Tortoise. A Tagalog tale told in English and illustrated by Rizal. Manila, 1912.

RIZAL, JOSÉ.—The Monkey and the Tortoise. A Tagalog story told in English and illustrated by Rizal. Manila, 1912.

—Elias and Salome. An unpublished chapter from the original Noli Me Tangere manuscript.

—The Whole Truth. (La Verdad para Todos.) A defense of the Filipinos.

—The Whole Truth. (The Truth for Everyone.) A defense of the Filipino people.

—By Telephone (Por Teléfono). A satire.

—By Phone (Por Teléfono). A satire.

— (Filipinas Dentro de Cien Años). A forecast of the future.

— (Filipinas In A Hundred Years). A prediction about the future.

— (La Indolencia de los Filipinos). An answer to criticism.

— (The Laziness of Filipinos). A response to criticism.

—My Last Thought and other Poems. Translations by Charles Derbyshire and A. P. Fergusson.

—Mariang Makiling. A folk tale.

—Mariang Makiling. A legend.

(These titles are in the Noli Me Tangere Quarter-Centennial Series, edited by Austin Craig. Translations are by Charles Derbyshire.) Manila, 1912.

— Adapted from Noli Me Tangere, with a short sketch of Rizal’s life. Anonymous translator. New York, 1900. [120]

— Adapted from Noli Me Tangere, with a brief overview of Rizal’s life. Anonymous translator. New York, 1900. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

Manuscript of Rizal’s Great Novel, now in the Philippine Library.

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El Filibusterismo is the second part, or sequel, of the novel Noli me tangere. Rizal’s first novel told the Filipinos of their faults; this book warned Spain of the danger of losing her colony unless the colonial government became better. “Filibusterer” was the name given to Filipinos who wanted reforms in the government.

El Filibusterismo is the second part, or sequel, of the novel Noli me tangere. Rizal’s first novel pointed out the flaws of Filipinos; this book warned Spain about the risk of losing its colony unless the colonial government improved. “Filibusterer” was the term used for Filipinos who wanted reforms in the government.

House where El Filibusterismo was begun. This sketch, made in pencil was enclosed in a letter from Los Baños to Prof. Blumentritt.

House where El Filibusterismo was started. This sketch, made in pencil, was included in a letter from Los Baños to Prof. Blumentritt.

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— An abridged translation of Noli Me Tangere by F.E. Gannett. New York, 1900.

An abbreviated translation of Noli Me Tangere by F.E. Gannett. New York, 1900.

— Charles Derbyshire’s translation of Noli Me Tangere. Manila and New York, 1912.

— Charles Derbyshire’s translation of El Filibusterismo. Manila and New York, 1912.

BLUMENTRITT, F.—Life of José Rizal. Translated from the German by H.W. Bray. Singapore, 1898.

—Views of Doctor Rizal, the Filipino Scholar, upon Race Differences. Translated from the German by R.L. Packard. Popular Science Monthly, Vol. 61 (July, 1902), pages 222–229.

HALSTEAD, MURAT.— Pages 190–201 give a translation of Rizal’s “The Vision of Friar Rodriguez” (La Visión de Fray Rodriguez) by F.M. de Rivas. Chicago, 1898.

HALSTEAD, MURAT.— Pages 190–201 provide a translation of Rizal’s “The Vision of Friar Rodriguez” (Fray Rodriguez's Vision) by F.M. de Rivas. Chicago, 1898.

CLIFFORD, Sir HUGH.—The Story of José Rizal, the Filipino. In Blackwood’s Edinburgh Magazine, Vol. 172 (Nov., 1902), pages 620–638.

CLIFFORD, Mister HUGH.—The Story of José Rizal, the Filipino. In Blackwood’s Edinburgh Magazine, Vol. 172 (Nov., 1902), pages 620–638.

CRAIG, AUSTIN.—Readings from Rizal. A series of selections from Rizal’s novels, in volume 1 of “The Philippine Teacher.” Manila, 1905. [124]

CRAIG, AUSTIN.—Readings from Rizal. A collection of excerpts from Rizal’s novels, found in volume 1 of “The Philippine Teacher.” Manila, 1905. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

—The Rizal Story in Pictures. A series of twenty-one post cards with authentic illustrations and explanations. Manila, 1908.

—The Rizal Story in Pictures. A series of twenty-one postcards featuring real illustrations and explanations. Manila, 1908.

—The Story of José Rizal, the Greatest Man of the Brown Race. Manila, 1909.

— Manila and Yonkers-on-Hudson, 1912.

— Manila and Yonkers, 1912.

—Particulars of the Philippines’ Pre-Spanish Past. Dr. Rizal’s “Ibn Batutu’s Tawalisi the Northern Part of the Philippines” appears on pages 20–22. Manila, 1916.

—Details about the Philippines’ Pre-Spanish History. Dr. Rizal’s “Ibn Batutu’s Tawalisi the Northern Part of the Philippines” appears on pages 20–22. Manila, 1916.

CRAIG-FEE.—Rizal, the Martyr-Hero of the Philippines. An imaginative account, expanding the known facts, for youthful readers. In “Philippine Education.” Manila, 1913.

CRAIG-FEE.—Rizal, the Martyr-Hero of the Philippines. A creative narrative that broadens the known facts, aimed at young readers. In “Philippine Education.” Manila, 1913.

BLAIR-ROBERTSON.—The Philippine Islands 1493–1898. Rizal’s annotations to Morga’s 1609 History of the Philippines appear among the notes in Vols. XV and XVI. Cleveland, Ohio, 1904.

BLAIR-ROBERTSON.—The Philippine Islands 1493–1898. Rizal’s notes on Morga’s 1609 History of the Philippines can be found in Vols. XV and XVI. Cleveland, Ohio, 1904.

Brief sketches of Rizal’s life and work may be found in every encyclopedia published since 1898, the modern histories of the Philippines have extended references to him and the numerous recent works on the Philippines all attempt estimates of his influence upon his countrymen. [123]

Brief summaries of Rizal’s life and work can be found in every encyclopedia published since 1898. Modern histories of the Philippines include extensive references to him, and many recent works about the Philippines try to assess his impact on his fellow countrymen. [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

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Diploma of Merit won by José Rizal

In a literary competition in honor of Spain’s greatest writer, Cervantes, held in Manila in 1880, the Liceo Artistico-Literario offered a gold ring as first prize and the Economic Society of the Friends of the Country gave the winner a diploma of merit. Rizal’s allegory, “The Council of the Gods” was preferred by the judges, all Spaniards. But when the envelopes containing the contestants’ names were opened, there was objection to giving first prize to a Filipino when prominent Spaniards had taken part in the contest. Rizal says that he was hissed off the stage when he appeared in answer to the reading of his name. Manila newspapers of that period dared not speak of the incident openly but there were several veiled allusions to it. One writer sarcastically said that medical students should be forbidden to write poetry.

In a literary competition held in Manila in 1880 to honor Spain’s greatest writer, Cervantes, the Art and Literature High School offered a gold ring as the first prize, while the Economic Society of the Friends of the Country awarded the winner a diploma of merit. The judges, all Spaniards, favored Rizal’s allegory, “The Council of the Gods.” However, when the envelopes with the contestants’ names were opened, there were objections to awarding the top prize to a Filipino, especially with notable Spaniards participating in the contest. Rizal recounted that he was hissed off the stage when he came out after his name was announced. The newspapers in Manila at that time wouldn’t openly discuss the incident, but there were several indirect references to it. One writer sarcastically suggested that medical students should be banned from writing poetry.

THE COUNCIL OF THE GODS

THE COUNCIL OF THE DEITIES

“We gods and goddesses, met on Mount Olympus, find that the greatest three authors in the world’s history are of equal merit. So in justice equal respect must be paid them. To Homer we award fame’s trumpet, to Vergil the lyre of glory, and to Cervantes the laurel wreath of immortal honor.” [125]

“We gods and goddesses, gathered on Mount Olympus, believe that the three greatest authors in history are equally deserving. Therefore, we must show them equal respect. To Homer, we give the trumpet of fame, to Vergil the lyre of glory, and to Cervantes the laurel wreath of everlasting honor.” [__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__]

To the Philippine Youth

To Filipino Youth

“Hold high the brow serene,

“Hold your head up high,

O youth, where now you stand;

O youth, where are you now;

Let the bright sheen,

Let the bright shine,

Of your grace be seen,

Be seen with your grace,

Fair hope of my Fatherland!”

"Hope for my Fatherland!"

Prize, and the first verse of the winning poem, won by Rizal at the age of 17 in a public competition open to “Indians and Mestizos”. By these two names, the Spaniard called, and divided, the Filipinos.

Prize, and the first line of the winning poem, won by Rizal at 17 in a public competition that was open to "Indians and Mestizos." The Spaniard divided Filipinos by these two terms.

My Last Thought

My Final Thought

“Farewell, beloved Fatherland, thou sunny clime of ours,

“Goodbye, dear Fatherland, our sunny land

Pearl of the Orient Ocean, our lost Paradise!

Pearl of the Orient Sea, our lost paradise!

For thee my life I give, nor mourn its saddened hours;

For you, I give my life, and I don't grieve for its unhappy moments;

And were’t more bright, strewn less with thorns and more with flowers,

And if it were brighter, scattered less with thorns and more with flowers,

For thee I still would give it, a welcome sacrifice.”

For you, I would still gladly offer it as a warm sacrifice.

The alcohol lamp in which Rizal hid the poem, called “My Last Thought,” which he wrote in the night after he learned that he was to die. The original poem, whose ink shows the effects of the alcohol, is now in the Philippine Library.

The alcohol lamp where Rizal hid the poem, titled "My Last Thought," was used the night he found out he was going to be executed. The original poem, with ink that has been affected by the alcohol, is now in the Philippine Library.

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PHILIPPINE NATIONAL HYMN

Written in Spanish by José Palma

Music by I. Felipe

(The versifier of the English translation prefers not to have his name appear.)

(The person who translated this into English prefers to remain anonymous.)

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HAIL, PHILIPPINES!

Words by L. H. Theobald

Music arranged from the Toreador’s song in the opera “CARMEN”

Colophon

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2015-03-03 Started.

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Page	Source	Correction
1, 12, 25, 27, 29, 30, 30, 33, 46, 57, 60, 62, 62, 69, 100, 104, 106, 108, 110, 114, 118, 120, 121, 121, 123, 125, 125	[Not in source]	.
11, 101	Jose	José

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RIZAL’S “HYMN TO LABOR”

RIZAL’S “MARIA CLARA’S LULLABY”

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

ILLUSTRATIONS

CONTENTS

RIZAL’S OWN STORY

MY BOYHOOD

CHAPTER I

My Birth and Earliest Years in Kalamba

CHAPTER II

My Schooling in Biñan

CHAPTER III

My Daily Life in Biñan

CHAPTER IV

The Injustice Done My Mother

CHAPTER V

A Student in Manila

MY FIRST READING LESSON

MY CHILDHOOD IMPRESSIONS

THE SPANISH SCHOOLS OF MY BOYHOOD

THE TURKEY THAT CAUSED THE KALAMBA LAND TROUBLE

FROM JAPAN TO ENGLAND ACROSS AMERICA

MY DEPORTATION TO DAPITAN

ADVICE TO A NEPHEW

FILIPINO PROVERBS

FILIPINO PUZZLES

RIZAL’S DON’TS

HYMN TO LABOR

MEMORY GEMS FROM RIZAL’S WRITINGS

MARIANG MAKILING

A CHRONOLOGY OF THE LIFE OF JOSÉ RIZAL

REFERENCES

A READING LIST

Diploma of Merit won by José Rizal

PHILIPPINE NATIONAL HYMN

HAIL, PHILIPPINES!

Colophon

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