COPY OF PRIVATE LETTER ADDRESSED TO SENOR EMILIO AGUINALDO HEADQUARTERS

April 19th, 1901

MY RESPECTED CHIEF AND SIR: In case that the news announcing your misfortune of having fallen in the power of the enemy should prove true, I write this letter to inform you that so great is the affection, respect and sympathy felt by our brothers towards your important personality, that all which is said, discussed and announced relating to your capture is treated with incredulity; they state that in case the news is verified, not even then will they cease to continue insisting on our old ideals, in order to offer you after a time the same supremacy for which you are fitted by indisputable qualities; and that they consider you indispensable before and after the success of this difficult undertaking.

I took the liberty to assume the command which he forsook, not because I thought myself worthy of it ... but by regular order of seniority, and to prevent the complete demoralization of this part of our army

Miguel Malvar

From the time that Senor Trias changed attitude, I took the liberty to assume the command which he forsook, not because I thought myself worthy of it, nor on account of my past services, which up to the present time have been no better than those of a poor soldier, but by regular order of seniority, and to prevent the complete demoralization of this part of our army.

For the present I shall await the orders of my Chief with respect to the conduct of our politico-military organization, but I should regret to refuse for the first time, and you would have to pardon the first proof of insubordination or lack of discipline, should you by chance order me to surrender my arms.

I assure you that before filling Señor Trias’ position, I published a manifesto to the people announcing that in view of the state of affairs of the revolution it was more and more necessary for them to take a deeper interest therein, in order that the sacrifices of so many heroes should not result fruitless, and that the name of the great leader, Senor Emilio Aguinaldo, after the time our ideals are attained, will always be the strength and bond of union between all the liberators of the Philippines, in the same way that his fame has sealed his prestige in a decisive manner within all the confines of this country; and that the latter on account of its eternal gratitude, is obliged to pay him always the homage of recognition which should not be withdrawn even when misfortune has overtaken him. With nothing further, etc.

NOTE: --This letter was sent to Manila by private messenger who was to inquire if the news in regard to the capture of Don Emilio as announced by the Americans, newspapers and Federalists was true and not announced for political expediency.

(There is a rubber impression stamp which reads as follows:) Miguel Malvar y Carpio.