1862

Hellen M. Tidd

Morrisville Ceb 26th

Solicits a gratuitous place in College by paying in teaching scholars

Morrisville Dec. 26, 1862

Mr. Matthew Vassar-

Having noticed in the “Advocate and Guardian” an account of the “New Female College,” I take the liberty of addressing you upon the subject. I am very desirous of obtaining a good education and to fit myself for teacher, but my circumstances are such that I must seek for a school where I could be allowed to pay all expenses by teaching after having finished my studies. I have not yet been able to learn of one where Pupils are received in that way. I am now and have been for the past year engaged in teaching a common district school, but as teachers are numerous and wages

low and I am dependent upon my own exertions for support, I find that I cannot procure the means of educating myself at present, I know I might learn a trade or enter a factory and receive constant employment and perhaps better wages, but I cannot bear to think my school days are all ended or to see fade away the one bright dream of childhood and youth, the hope of one day making the world wiser and better for my having lived in it. But I am trespassing upon your time, and omitting what I should write. Can you receive me in the way proposed, if so what are the conditions requirements &c. Good references given if required

Very Respectfully Yours

Hellen M. Tidd

Morrisville

Madison Co

N.Y