"In regard to the unpleasantness which you have had with Father Dámaso, have no fear nor regret. I will not touch a hair of your head while I govern these Islands. And in regard to the excommunication, I will speak to the Archbishop, for it is necessary for us to adapt ourselves to circumstances. Here, we cannot laugh about these things in public as we do in Spain or in cultured Europe. Nevertheless, be more prudent in the future. You have put yourself in opposition to the religious corporations, which, on account of your position and wealth, need to be respected. But I will protect you, because I like good sons, I like to see a person respect the honor of his father. I, too, love my father, and as sure as there is a God, I know what I would have done had I been in your place...." And quickly turning the conversation, he asked: "You have told me that you come from Europe; were you in Madrid?" "Yes, señor; for some months." "You have perhaps heard of my family?" "Your Excellency had just left when I had the honor to be presented to it." "And why, then, did you come here without bringing some letter of introduction?" "Señor," replied Ibarra bowing, "because I do not come directly from Spain, and because, having heard of Your Excellency's character, I thought that a letter of introduction would not only be useless, but even offensive. All Filipinos are recommended to you." A smile appeared on the lips of the old officer and he replied slowly, as if weighing and measuring his words: