A people that hates its government ought to ask for nothing but that it abdicate its power." The old lawyer grimaced and shook his head from side to side, in sign of discontent, while he rubbed his hand over his bald pate and said in a tone of condescending pity: "Ahem! those are bad doctrines, bad theories, ahem! How plain it is that you are young and inexperienced in life.

Look what is happening with the inexperienced young men who in Madrid are asking for so many reforms.

They are accused of filibusterism, many of them don't dare return here, and yet, what are they asking for?
Things holy, ancient, and recognized as quite harmless.

But there are matters that can't be explained, they're so delicate.

Let's see--I confess to you that there are other reasons besides those expressed that might lead a sensible government to deny systematically the wishes of the people--no--but it may happen that we find ourselves under rulers so fatuous and ridiculous--but there are always other reasons, even though what is asked be quite just--different governments encounter different conditions--" The old man hesitated, stared fixedly at Isagani, and then with a sudden resolution made a sign with his hand as though he would dispel some idea.
"I can guess what you mean," said Isagani, smiling sadly.