first, which
is the one referred to by Blount, continues:--

"Divine Providence places us in a position to secure our independence,
and this under the freest form to which all individuals, all people,
all countries, may aspire.

"The Americans, more for humanity than for self-interest, attentive
to the complaints of so many persecuted Filipinos, find it opportune
to extend to our Philippines their protective mantle, now that they
find themselves obliged to break their friendship with the Spanish
people, because of the tyranny they have exercised in Cuba, causing
all Americans, with whom they have great commercial relations,
enormous damages.

"At this moment an American fleet is prepared to go to the Philippines.

"We, your fellow-countrymen, fear that you will make use of your arms
to fire upon the Americans. No, brothers; do not make such a mistake;
rather (shoot) kill yourselves than treat our liberators as enemies.

"Do not pay attention to the decree of Primo de Rivera, calling on
you to enlist for the war, for that will cost you your lives: rather
die than act as ingrates toward our redeemers, the Americans.

* * * * *

"Note well that the Americans have to attack by sea, at the same
time avoiding reinforcements which may come from Spain; therefore
the insurrection must attack by land. Perhaps you will have more than
sufficient arms, as the Americans have arms, and will find the means
to aid you.

"Whenever you see the American flag, bear in mind that they are our
redeemers." [30]

On the margin is written: "Viva, for America with the Philippines!"

Apparently what Basa here means by independenee is independence from
Spain, for it is known that he was in favour of annexation to the
United States, and in the second proclamation we find the following:--

"This is the best opportunity which we have ever had for eontriving
that our country (all the Philippine Archipelago) may be counted
as another Star in the Great Republic of the United States, great
because of its wisdom, its wealth, and its constitutional laws.

"Now is the time to offer ourselves to that great nation. With America
we shall have development in the broadest sense (of advancement)
in civilization.

"With America we shall be rich, civilized and happy.

"Fellow patriots, add your signatures to those which have already
been given. Explain to all our fellow eountrymen the benefits of this
change, which wil