Manila, Luzon Island – Entry made in parlor of No. 2 Calle Santa Elena, Tondo
Cloudy but no rain. Sun out at times. Cool at times also, when gusto of wind stirred. No trouble to perspire.
Read a chapter in Leviticus & one psalm. Prayed. Cooked breakfast, washed dishes then with Rev. Owens boarded a Jolo St. car & got off in Quiapo Dist. & proceeded to the Imperial Photograph gallery. Looked at the negative of my house; seems to be quite good. Said they will be printed next Monday. The negatives from Kodak films will also be ready. Purchased 3 photographs.
Went to the post office; no mail.
On the Escolta I met Bro. A. J. Merritt, a Salvationist who was converted about 8 months ago in San Francisco No. 2. He is a recent arrival. Is in the Government service as a boss packer. Has charge of Pack Train No. 2, with 13 men & 65 mules under him. Had years of experience as a Gov’t Packer in mountain countries. Expects to leave for Lawton’s command in 2 or 3 days. I believe Merritt is a good man – anyway he looks it. Also said he read my Philippine articles in the War Crys, and that the soldiers & comrades of No. 2 and 6 send regards to me.
Dropped in the “Freedom” office & bought 3 backnumbers; also bought or rather paid in advance for 2 copies of the extra edition for circulation in the U.S.; 1 copy is to be sent to Lt.-Col. Wm Brener, 124 W. 14th St. New York & 1 to the Lt.-Col. Wm Evans, San Francisco paid 30 cts. Mex a copy, which includes postages.
Commenced an article for “All the World”. Wrote 8 pages. yesterday evening there came in on the train from the north. 2 Filipino officers, Col. Manuel Arguello [Arguelles] & Lieut.-Col. Jose Vernal [Bernal], to see Major General Otis regarding terms of peace. Rumor, newspaper & verbal says Aguinaldo wishes a cessation of hostilities until the Filipino Congress meets in May, when they will consider his proposition. Otis listened but granted not the request.