Under the title of "My part in the Revolution," Isabelo de los Reyes
in an artful attempt to defend himself before those who considered
him a coward because of his ever shirking that part of the task
of the revolt which naturally fell to him, gives his readers the
following information:
"When it was desired to effect the manifestation of 1888, (see p. 60),
Ramos took me to the palace of Malacanan, to express to Gen. Terrero
verbally the complaints of the "country"; but I do not know why,
but on that day the manifestation did not come off...."
"From the palace of Malacanan we went to the house of Doroteo Cortes,
who instructed me in the object of the manifestation, thus:
"... We reckon with the pleasure of the Civil Governor Sr. Centeno
(see note 2) to make a manifestation against the friars, who oppress
us with their abuses, and oppose the progress of the country."
"--Very good indeed I replied full of enthusiasm.
"But my enthusiasm disappeared entirely when Cortes told me with the
greatest frankness, that they asked and were sure of attaining their
wish, that the Archbishop should be deported, merely for having failed
to assist at the religious functions dedicated to the King [94].
"I then doubted the ability [95] of the directors of the manifestation,
and believed that they would be irremissibly crushed by the friars,
who were very astute and powerful, as in fact it so happened.
"I retired leaving Ramos in that house.
"I immediately went to see his father and said to him: The
manifestation has fallen flat. I have come to tell you that in my
opinion, your son ought not to sign the instance of the manifestos. Let
all those who like do so, but it would be a pity that your son who,
in the time to come, may be able to render signal services to the
country should now fall crushed by the friars. Now that Cortes says
that he reckons with the authorities, your son's signature is not
very necessary.
"And neither Cortes nor Ramos signed it."