Rizal was a native of high scientific acquirements, and had considerable fame as a physician. He was also the president of the Manila University, and was deemed a leader in social and educational circles. But above all he was a patriot, and desired beyond all else the freedom of his country. He soon became the most ardent, as well as the most prominent, among the revolutionists, who looked upon him with awe. However, he was suspected, and he was exiled to Perin, on the island of Dapitan. There he performed a most difficult and successful operation on a patient,--an Irishman,--whose daughter fell violently in love with him. Rizal was similarly affected, and the lovers were soon engaged. Not long after, Rizal was taken back to Manila for trial. He was condemned to death. On the morning of his execution, December 6th, 1896, his fiancée came to visit him. It was an affecting meeting--that last hour they were together. A sadder trysting-place surely could not be imagined than that damp cell, over which the glimmering light of dawn cast a sepulchral gloom. And there, in that dreadful hour, on the brink of the grave, the unhappy pair were united. They remained together, kneeling, till the executioners came to lead the bridegroom away. Rizal's speech, at the place of execution, was powerful, dignified, eloquent. He spoke without a tremor, and said that he forgave his enemies, even as he himself hoped for forgiveness. He then predicted that the Spanish power would fall within the next ten years. He also asserted pride in his martyrdom, and said he was only sorry he did not have another life to offer for his country. Execution of Rizal. The Philippine Joan of Arc. At a signal from their commanding officer, the soldiers, that were drawn up back of the hero, fired a volley. Rizal fell forward on his face, pierced by seven Spanish bullets. The hero-martyr of the Philippines was dead. His widow instantly set out for the rebel camp at Imus, where she was hailed as a modern Joan of Arc. She was made commander of a body of insurgents, armed with rifles, and she showed her ability by winning victory after victory over the Spanish troops. Her camp was at Naic--near Cavité. Since then, Mrs. Rizal has paid a visit to the United States, where she has been endeavoring to work up an agitation in behalf of her country. Rizal's Farewell Poem. A few hours before his death, Dr. Rizal wrote a farewell poem, entitled "Mi Ultimo Pensamiento," the following translation of which was first given in the New York Herald: Translation. MY LAST THOUGHT. Farewell, adored fatherland! Our Eden lost, farewell! Farewell, O sun's lov'd region, pearl of the Eastern sea! Gladly I die for thy dear sake: Yea, thou knowest well Were my sad life more radiant far than mortal tongue could tell Yet would I give it gladly, joyously for thee.