Sun. Sep. 30 '88. 

My dear Mamie; - 

Kate [Pine?] says for me to tell you that you're a "fraud" -- for not writing to her and now for not writing to me. People keep asking how you are, and think you are very naughty when I say you haven't written to me - So you see I am getting the sympathy you wanted. You see too, that I am not going to get anybody to pity you until you have shown a little interest in me. You can thank me for Ethel's letter, though. 

I have only a little time before tea and I want to write to Helen, so I can't write much of a letter. I meant to write this afternoon, but instead I took a nap. I wish you could look in on me now—my room is very cosy and pretty. I feel when I come in as tho' I ought to go in next door and find you.

A very uninteresting Episcopal minister from Rondout preached this morning -- the father of Miss Washburn, do you remember her? a '90 girl. Dr. Taylor was very good in prayermeeting this evening.

Last evening I called on Miss Reynolds. She is going to have the Freshman Bible-class and I am feeling very happy about it.

Did I write Mamma that Nem(?) began last week by being sick? I believe I did. She is all right now. Jeannette is still in the regular course & I doubt if she drops out of the class, altho'I think she ought to. I am enjoying my studies very much—especially History. Isn't Prof. Salmon grand?

I met Gilbert Van Ingen in the depot the night I came and again in town yesterday Friday- I am curious to know why he is not back at Cornell —I asked him but he seemed to avoid answering. He is coming to call some Friday - what ever shall I do with him?

How ^are you? Are you painting any? Are you down in the dumps? I must stop now - altho' I feel ashamed to send such a jerky letter. Give my love to May. I have not heard from Richie again as I hoped to. Be sure and let me know all you know about his plans. I have written to him again.

With ever so much love to Mamma and yourself.

In haste
Edith.

[Edith C. Banfield, '92,
To Mary Banfield, spec.'84-87, painting '87-88 (dip.'88); prep '82-84.]