The practising of deceit was a carefully considered part of the insurgent policy.

In a letter from Hongkong dated July 21, 1898, Agoncillo writes as follows to Mabini: [53]-- * * * * * "the time will come when disguises must be set aside and we will see who is deceiving whom.

The statements made by some of the commanders of the fleet here to Don Emilio and myself were to the effect that the exclusive purpose of the Government at Washington with regard to the Filipinos, is to grant this country independence, without any conditions, although I said to myself that such a purpose was too philanthropical.

Don Emilio knew what I thought then, and I still think the same; that is to say that we are the ones who must secure the independence of our country by means of unheard of sacrifices and thus work out its happiness." [54] Aguinaldo himself frankly advocated the use of deceit.

He practised what he preached.