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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Apr. 1868:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: April 13, 1864
Text: Vassar College, April 13, 1868. My dearest Mother, I wish that I were sitting on your bed this bright morning, I have so many things to tell you, and my tongue is so much mightier than my pen. I think I hear you murmur under breath, "If wishes were horses," which I take as a hint to do the best I can with the materials in my possession. Imprimis then, what a jewel of a Father I have! It was so good of him to get me a watch, just what my soul craved. I wrote him a letter trying to...
Show moreVassar College, April 13, 1868. My dearest Mother, I wish that I were sitting on your bed this bright morning, I have so many things to tell you, and my tongue is so much mightier than my pen. I think I hear you murmur under breath, "If wishes were horses," which I take as a hint to do the best I can with the materials in my possession. Imprimis then, what a jewel of a Father I have! It was so good of him to get me a watch, just what my soul craved. I wrote him a letter trying to thank him, but failed miserably. I was sick with a cold at the time, hardly able to sit up, and altogether lacking in any such trifles as wits. Now that I have recovered my health, I seem to be no better off than before in the latter regard. Do you suppose that my watch would come safely by express? Several of the girls have received them when sent in that manner, but they didn't live so far away. However that may be. Father will attend to it, of course he knows much more of such matters than I do - My stupidity was so great that I also forgot to answer a most important inquiry, namely, how I stand for dresses in which to hear the country's pride do themselves credit on Commencement Day at Yale? I will therefore answer him through you, that I feel prepared, if reinforced by one dress and an outside thing, to make a tour of the world, and stop a while at every place of interest. That one dress, which I shall also need for class-day, I do cherish hopes will be forwarded to me by my loving friends at home, ready made, and complete - I can send wordjust how I want it, and the waist can be made Garibaldi. As for an outsider, I suppose it would be a sack, which could be fitted to you. With those additions, as I said before, I should be prepared to face a frowning world - The weather is of an economical turn of mind, and is carefully saving its spring clothing, so that imitative human beings feel constrained to do the same. When parties of nineteen go sleighriding in one long sleigh on the eleventh of April, there is no immediate danger of wearing out organdie and cambric dresses - We have given up expecting warm weather, but sit in a state of stupefaction, unsurprised by any manifestations of the elements whatever - I am rejoiced to hear that your eyes are improving without that dreadful operation - I can't help feeling badly to have you put on spectacles, it makes you seem older, but of course it's muchthe best thing for you. The pincushion fever is raging violently among the Seniors. I have had it and recovered, the only effects being a lovely pincushion for Mrs. Tenney - My convalesence dated from the hour that I began putting in the "filling" - Helen has begun one, but I doubt its being finishe- She, yesterday, devoted herself to reading Mrs. Foy's life, and the lives of Carey and two other missionaries - probably with reference to her prospects - I am delighted at the thought of her going to Beirout - I liked Dr. Post exceedingly, although he does consider women inferior to men - He is devoted to Botany, which will be a cause for friendship between him and Helen. Miss Lord seems to be a very superior woman, I think would be a very pleasant companion for such a life. She is a dear friend of George Walker's, and has a delightfully cool way of holding Prof. Robert up to ridicule after he has been making some absurd statement in Bible class - for both which things I look upon her with favor. I think that she and Helen would harmonize very well - I received Hattie's letter this morning, for which I am deeply grateful - It was mean of her to tell us of good things to eat which we can't share. I am very hungry for a meal in some private house - I could a tale unfold, about yesterday's dinner, whose lightest word would harrow up your soul. In eating her desert, consisting of dingy sugar kisses and oranges, Helen found a nest of little ants living happily in her kiss - in the generosity of her heart, she didn't disturb them. When I go home, I want to have the entree of your tea drinking and poor people. Can I? Isn't it good that the Ladues are still to be so near? Dear little Nortonmust be very cunning by this time. Isn't it sad that Michigan, like Conn, should be joined to her idols? I have plumed myself on our dear old state when I saw others failing, but that she too should be wanting seems almost incredible - Whiskey is the greatest curse that has ever fallen upon land. Slavery itself was not so bad, for this contains slavery with in itself. I wish I were a man, or a gifted woman, and I would go from one end of the land to the other, sounding the alarm. Being neither, I shall do what in me lies, wherever I may be to crush it out - College begins again day after tomorrow and I wish it didn't. I have but just gotten ready to enjoy myself, when lo! we must be at work again - Fortunately my work will not be arduous - Love to all - Tell Will that I know my sins, and am going to expiate them speedily. Love from Helen and me to all our friends, especially theBallards - I should like so much to see them, and hear them. Good bye Your loving daughter - Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Mar. 1868:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: March 12, 1868
Text: Vassar College March 12, 1868 My dear dear Mother, Why you poor unfortunate woman! I am so sorry for you that I could cry. I am thankful that Hattie is at home, and I wish I were. Don't you ever dare to write another word to either Helen or me. I feel very guilty for having said any thing to make you feel compelled to write - It was very mean of me, for although I had no suspicion about your eyes, I did know that your hands were always full, that we had all the letters we needed, and...
Show moreVassar College March 12, 1868 My dear dear Mother, Why you poor unfortunate woman! I am so sorry for you that I could cry. I am thankful that Hattie is at home, and I wish I were. Don't you ever dare to write another word to either Helen or me. I feel very guilty for having said any thing to make you feel compelled to write - It was very mean of me, for although I had no suspicion about your eyes, I did know that your hands were always full, that we had all the letters we needed, and more than we deserved, and that you always were inclined to write more than your strength permitted - Don't sew any more, Mother dear, you have done three times your share of the world's work in time past,and can afford now to rest upon your laurels. You know that I am coming home soon, and shall be all fresh for work of any kind, except study - I shall rebel if any body asks me to pay any attention to hours, or books, till the spirit moves - It seems to me that after twelve years hard work, it wouldn't hurt Hattie to rest a while, but I suppose that is none of my business - But it is my business to attend to you. You know that you are my especial care when you are sick, and I shall feel very anxious about you till I hear that you are quite well again - I am so glad about Carrie. How does she feel? and when does she expect to be sick? I have not heard from her, but have faint hopes of doing so before long - I wish I could do some thing for Carrie, but can't this spring - I hope the baby will be a girl - If they have a boy of Carrie'slively turn of mind what a contrast he will be to his father! How thankful I am that the Pomeroy infant is a boy! I suppose that the Dr. is entirely satisfied now. What are they going to call him? I hope that they have succeeded in getting a nurse with at least the recommendation of sanity - I hope that Mary won't be altogether worn out by the care of the house and Bertie too. The latter is as much as one strong woman ought to have the care of. What happened to Emma's friend that he went home on crutches. Did Hattie mean Mr. or Miss Worthington? She wrote Mr. but I thought that he left long ago - I am very sorry to hear of Mrs. Avery's poor health. It seems hardly possible for her to live very long. She is a very good woman, isn't she? It makes me feel unusually mean whenever I remember my former hatred of her.It's extremely humiliating to have so many follies, and worse than follies, to repent of - especially those comitted between my fourteenth and seventeenth years. If ever I have a daughter of that age I shall forbid her to speak under any circumstances, to others than the members of her own family. Has there been more than usual suffering among the poor? We are so entirely shut out from work of that kind that we forget that there is any to be done - The subject of the Howard Mission, has done us a great deal of good in making us think - So has Dr. Post's appeal for help. Every girl must have felt his words as especially addressed to her, in fact he did speak directly to our class, like Mr. Van Meter, he is unwilling to wait - he said that their hands were tied for want of women to do the work, which none but women could do. I wish Iwere strong- I should feel called to go. Mary Griggs is going to Burmah, and is to study medicine three years in Philadelphia first - that will make her twenty three, which Dr. Clark thinks about the right age. I suppose though, that it is no use for me to think about it; with such a head, I should be of little service in a hot climate - We are going on much as usual - Helen is studying her Physiology in a very dangerous frame of mind, for nearly every day she announces a new discovery regarding the scientific method of comitting murder. If you hear of my dying suddenly, and mysteriously, you may know where to look for an explanation - Oh I had forgotten! What culpable negligence! My letter should have been wreathed in mourning - To think of the loss that Detroit and the Warnerfamily have sustained! I doubt if Helen will be able to return so deep in her affliction. Of course you do not hesitate to apply my remarks to the departure of our beloved friend Thomas Huntingdon. My chagrin is great, inasmuch as I have previously invited sundry of my classmates to visit me, holding out the possibility of winning such a prize as the great inducment to our beautiful city. Alas! alas! "I never needed a dear gazelle" &c - You know Mother, that I never did - Has Father satisfied himself regarding his false works? or is he still sitting upon the banks of the Mississipi shouting to the "Father of Waters" "thus far shalt thou go and no farther"? I have been thinking of cheering his solitude by an epistle, but not knowing where, or rather how, to direct, I have refrained, having no force to throw away, writing letters that never getthere. If you will send me his address, however, I will see what I can do. He must have his bridge in good order a year from next summer, when Miss Mitchell and her six astronomers are going to Burlington to see the great eclipse. They are going to make us a visit on their way out - Won't it be fine? The eclipse takes place Aug 7, 1869 - Hattie ought to go on with them, and celebrate her birthday - I am thankful that I live just where I do, for thus I can see all the girls who go west, or east, or up the Lakes - Anna Baker is only nine hours ride from us, and she says that the ladies often go up to Detroit to shop. Nellie Leland is going to live in Chicago, so she will come and see us, and we shall have beautiful times. You will like the girls very much. Wasn't it nice that Sam Clary stopped in Detroit? I wish I had seen him -What is he going to do now? Not live at home I hope. Miss Lyman is in very poor health. I am afraid that she will not live very long. It will be a great blow to the College to lose her - I do love her dearly, and she is just as good to us all as she can be. Prof. Tenney leaves in about six weeks - I can do nothing but clothe myself in mental sackcloth and ashes and rail alternately at Williams and at Dr. Bishop - Do ask Mrs. Ballard what style of a man the Dr. Bishop in the Board at Williams is. Don't ask her husband, for if he cant admire Dr. Todd, I have no confidence in his judgement - Give my love to them both, please. Love to Hattie, Will, and yourself in great measure - Tell Bridget that I shall be home before long to eat up all her soda biscuit - Do take care ofyourself, dear Mother, and don't let your goodness kill you - Poor Mrs. Sumner, I am so sorry for her - Love to Carrie, Sarah, Minnie, Mrs. Raymond, and all the friends - Spring vacation is coming in a few weeks, when I think of sitting on top of one of the turrets and sunning my self - Spring is struggling for life, and winter is slowly giving way - I have seen some grass, of a pale live green color. Good bye, Love to all. Your loving daughter Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Feb. 1868:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: February 13, 1868
Text: Vassar College Feb. 13, 1868 My dear Mother, A letter which I received today from Father filled me with perturbation I didn't mean to alarm my home friends by telling them that I was resting from my labors - I am not sick, and expect to get through the year, if not with flying colors, at least comfortably. I certainly have no thought of going home. The reason that Miss Avery told me to rest a week was because it was the week in which the first semester ended, and the second began. There...
Show moreVassar College Feb. 13, 1868 My dear Mother, A letter which I received today from Father filled me with perturbation I didn't mean to alarm my home friends by telling them that I was resting from my labors - I am not sick, and expect to get through the year, if not with flying colors, at least comfortably. I certainly have no thought of going home. The reason that Miss Avery told me to rest a week was because it was the week in which the first semester ended, and the second began. There were very few recitations that week, and she thought that it would be a good opportunity for me to rest. I went to all my meals and did what I pleased, but didn't think of arousing sympathy upon false pretences - I amdoing famously. Father wants me to write more frequently. I don't quite see how I can. I think I have written home every week of late, and sometimes oftener. I never know when to write to him for he is so much away. Please don't think of me as sick - I am not at all. How much you will miss Mrs. Holmes. I fancied that they had abandoned their New York project, but Hattie's last letter speaks of them as on the eve of departure. If she is still in Detroit, please give my love and good bye to Mrs. Holmes, and tell her how very sorry I am that Detroit and especially our church are obliged to lose her - I am sorry that you didn't see George Gilbert married, because I wanted to hear all about the performance, but I should have dreaded going out there among perfect strangersespecially when I knew him so slightly. I am glad however that you had your dresses. What a beautiful brown yours is. Last night Louise, and Achsah, and Sarah Glazier, and I, took tea at Prof. Backus. We had a delightful time. I haven't enjoyed an evening so much since I left home. We went about twenty minutes before six and stayed till nine - The Prof, remarked that, lest we should feel any anxiety regarding chapel, he would tell us that he had had us excused. Wasn't it thoughtful? We didn't see the baby, but heard him. They were trying to put him to bed without the gas, to which he objected sorely - Mrs. Backus is a charming lady, and the Prof, is so bright and full of fun that he makes every one at ease. I think it was very kind of them to invite us. Monday was his birthday -he has attained the age of twenty six years. Sannie's birthday comes next Sunday, he will be four - Tell Hattie that the boy stands forth conspicuous in him, he has almost entirely ceased to be cunning. Scolland lectures here tomorrow night - The Sterlings will come up with him, and I want to see them far more than I do him - They came up with Wendell Phillips, and to the third - They are very pleasant, and were very polite to us - Please give my love and Helen's to all our friends - I am glad that Dr. Ballard liked Prof. Knapp's letter. Tell Hattie to write to Helen next - She hasn't had a letter since I can remember. Tell every body that I am enjoying most respectable health. Many thanks for the papers - Your loving daughter Mattie S. Warner
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Oct. 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: October 08, 1867
Text: Vassar College, Oct. 8, 1867. My dear Mother, Had you concluded that I meant to drop you entirely? I am ashamed of myself that I haven't written before, but it has always seemed that I must tell the girls something whenever I had time to write. I suppose that you are having a grand time in Pittsford. How I wish I could be there with you. I could see all the people with familiar names, who would come to see you, but who never heard of me. How is Auntie Colburn? I hope that your visit will...
Show moreVassar College, Oct. 8, 1867. My dear Mother, Had you concluded that I meant to drop you entirely? I am ashamed of myself that I haven't written before, but it has always seemed that I must tell the girls something whenever I had time to write. I suppose that you are having a grand time in Pittsford. How I wish I could be there with you. I could see all the people with familiar names, who would come to see you, but who never heard of me. How is Auntie Colburn? I hope that your visit will do her all the good that she anticipated. Have you been up to Uncle Jona's? How are they all there? Give my love to them please. Give a great deal of love and every thing to Miss Gilbert -Tell her that I hope to see her sometime when there is less confusion and bustle, and less headache, than there was last summer. How is her health now? We are getting along finely. Helen and Nellie Storke are as amicable as two clams. Helen is trying to raise a geranium, and has succeeded in reducing it to bare stalks. I expect the next move will be for Thomas to carry it off never more to be seen. Flowers never did flourish in this room. I have had two letters from Minnie, she seems to be very busy getting ready - It's too bad that you will not be home for the wedding, isn't it? I am so glad that she is going to be within reachable distance. Won't it be beautiful to go and see her? I am in quite a hurry to be able to tell the people here I am going to tell them the very day. Minnie said that the flannel for her skirt was bought, but she hadn't seen itand didn't know whether it was as nice as the one she bought winter before last. Don't you remember that dreadfully coarse night skirt she bought, and sent word to you to embroider for her? What pattern are you going work it? Oh! will you please tell Miss Gilbert that our mutual friend Mrs. Metcalf is about to join her fortunes with those of a Mr. Harris, a wealthy New Londonner. Impart the news gently I fear for its effects. Perhaps you may have heard me speak of her. The gentleman was divorced from his wife two years ago. When shall you come here? I suppose on your way up from Brooklyn, as it would be out of your way coming from Aunt Katie's. I hope you will make good long visits every where but I am in a hurry to see you. Isn't it delightful to be east once more? Prof. Tenney has been called home by his Father's death. He was a veryold man, over eighty. I haven't seen Mrs. Tenney since. Dr. Stebbins called here on his way home. We were very glad to see him. He was looking exceedingly well. Of course you know of Hattie Goodell's death, and that Mr. Kellogg, the wretch, wasn't at home. And of Mrs. Cressy's death and Jessie Vallee's marriage. Isn't it lovely to have Hattie at home while you are gone? Helen and I are in the best of health and spirits. The only ailment which we at present are suffering from is a great hunger, and the dinner just now ringing promises to alleviate that. We hear occasionally little items of news regarding Prof. Knapp - He is at present in Paris, teaching a class of Spaniards, and also a Sunday school class. I wish I could see you. Please give our love to all our relatives - and take quanti-ties from your loving daughter Mattie.
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, May 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: May 31, 1867
Text: Vassar College May 31 1967 My dear [?], My pencil again you see, don't be alarmed however, you know that all my ailments tend directly to make me shaky. I hope to be able to write you a natural letter before I go. Home. Oh! how glad I am that the time is so near! I don't intend to come home infirm if I can help it and I think thats Miss Avery's powders and a total absence from books for a period, will fully restore me to my pristine vigor. There isn't any thing in...
Show moreVassar College May 31 1967 My dear [?], My pencil again you see, don't be alarmed however, you know that all my ailments tend directly to make me shaky. I hope to be able to write you a natural letter before I go. Home. Oh! how glad I am that the time is so near! I don't intend to come home infirm if I can help it and I think thats Miss Avery's powders and a total absence from books for a period, will fully restore me to my pristine vigor. There isn't any thing in particular the matter with me. I eat and sleep as well as could be desired, but I seem to have "given out" physically and mentally. However I intend to give up all attempts to go to my classes for a little while and then I shall come home lookinglike and Amazon. Don't be at all wore ride about me, for if I was much sick I should immediately leave for home. Many thanks to father for that paper containing and notice of Carrie's marriage. Did you know that she is coming to see me? I am so delighted that I don't know who to display my joy. I think I verged very near a flood of tears when I read her letter. I had almost given her up and I do want so sorely to see her. I am very impatient to hear about the wedding. Did she look pretty? Don't you like Mr. Howards? Of course though you don't know him very much and he rarely talks in company, but he is more for tunate than the majority of young men in possessing a brain and a desire to fill it he has read a great deal, and converses very well. I saw him several times last summer and being partic ularly interested in him watched himclosely. Far between you and me, I have known the particulars of the case even since a year about last March. Don't say that I ever denied a knowle dge of it. I only asked you if you were quite sure. Mr. Howard is a good Christian man, and I am sure will make his wife very happy and I am very glad that she is married. They will or here two weeks from Yesterday, Thursday June 13 and will be in Detroit the fifteenth I think Did you read that article in the "Free Press" on Detroit forty years ago. It was very interestingg and sounded like C I Walker. We jab a lively representation of our beautiful city here in the person of a [?], vulgarly called [?] unproperly styled "Liza and" her is attracting much attention and calm. He waves his breathing apparatus for the benefit of admiring young ladies. with as much nonchalance as if he had done it all his life and earn ed his daily wooms in that summer. No one would imagine from his ap prance that he had [?} five hundred miles in a tin pail pack ed in grass in ice. When Minnie was at home she brought back too large creatures preserved in alcohols for the collections. Prof. Jenny was very much interested in them and was anx ious to see a living specimen. [?] Darwell (Nettie's brother) who procured the others for her, with a good deal of trouble got this one and sent it out to her. I regret to say that it has called forth a good many remakes not quite complimentary to the state of our water pipes. The girls are busy as ever. I hope that the w[?] of their hour ry will be over week after next. Our class chose rooms to day . We remain in twenty three. Love to all the friends. It hardly seems worth while to send messages when we shall see them so soonexcuses the [?] but I thought you would want to know just how I am. The seniors and Juniors are invited to the Pres to tea tonight I expect it will be delightful Good bye. I hope that you have a girl. Do take a stick anything rather than now The girls send much love one of whom is your loving daughter Martha S Warner
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, May 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: May 20, 1867
Text: Vassar College May 20, 1867- My dearest Mother, I have broken the bounds of propriety once, and found it so delightful that I fear I shall be tempted to again, and you might as well steel yourself immediately to receive all manner of scrawls from me in future. It is a lovely Sabbath day. I should like to have gone to church this morning, but Louise and I have registered solemn vows never to be caught walking down to Po'keepsie again. To say nothing of sundry vicious looking cows, rampant...
Show moreVassar College May 20, 1867- My dearest Mother, I have broken the bounds of propriety once, and found it so delightful that I fear I shall be tempted to again, and you might as well steel yourself immediately to receive all manner of scrawls from me in future. It is a lovely Sabbath day. I should like to have gone to church this morning, but Louise and I have registered solemn vows never to be caught walking down to Po'keepsie again. To say nothing of sundry vicious looking cows, rampant horses, and noisy drunken men whom we met our glorious career was suddenly cut short by the discovery that Louise had a back and I a head. For the sake of burying this discovery in the profoundest oblivion we register-ed the vow above mentioned. I have been writing to Carrie, and feel really very sad at the thought that I shall never write to her, or see her again as a girl. Oh dear! How fast the girls are getting married. I never did see any thing like it. We will be entirely behind the times soon - Please insert an advertisement in the paper, to the effect that four young damsels are ready and waiting for any body that is willing to take them. Has Aunt Katie come? Don't tell her how very anxious we feel, lest Anna may have been more fortunate and she be tempted to undue exaltation. Emerson lectured here Friday night. His subject was "The Man of the World." I believe that he gave universal satisfaction, although he several times alluded to the extreme youth of his audience, probably overlooking Miss Mitchell, Miss Lyman, Prof, and Mrs. Tenney, the Raymonds,Mr. and Mrs. Corning, and all the teachers. Once in the course of the lecture he stopped and marching over to Minnie (who sits on the stage, and introduces the lecturers) asked her, in not exactly those words, if it was the girls' bed time. I hope that I shall be on the lecture committee next year, and have the priviledge of speaking to all the great men. Mr. Corning had the impertinence to ask Emerson to preach for him today! He declined, but I wish he hadn't, I think it would have been the means of ridding Po'keepsie of its pseudo-Congregationalist minister. Think what doctrine the man must hold who invites Ralph Waldo Emerson to preach for him! So Mr. Pope is to favor Detroit with his family as well as himself. I am glad that he will have no further excuse to play old man of the sea to you. Is that Mrs. Cook Clestia's mother?If so I don't know which family I envy more. I am glad that you are getting along so nicely with your sewing. Your gingham is a beauty, and I should judge that your other dresses must be very pretty also - I have thought some of having my travelling dress made short before going home but have where decided not to worry myself with the where with all I shall be clothed, which is a very comfortable decision to come to, inasmuch as, like the old woman of Cumberland, I am full of "rags, and shags, and prickly shags" - I must say that when I commenced my letter I had no intention of trying you with quite such a looking scrawl as this, but Mother dear, just reflect that every day I am coming nearer my dotage, and be thankful that I am no more infirm than I am. Love to all - Hattie and Minnie are in a very unsettled state, but hope to feel better in the course of the next six weeks. Good bye dear. I must stop now - Your loving daughter Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, May 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: May 14, 1867
Text: Vassar College May 14, 1867 My dear Mother, Please excuse my pencil. I am not very well and it is easier to write with than a pen. Hattie is so busy that there is very little to be expected from her in the way of letters before commencement. As for Helen, it's harder for her to write than for the rest of us I think. So you will be obliged to content yourself with such letters as I can send you. Dont be alarmed and imagine that I am sick for I am not. I expect to be quite well tomorrow....
Show moreVassar College May 14, 1867 My dear Mother, Please excuse my pencil. I am not very well and it is easier to write with than a pen. Hattie is so busy that there is very little to be expected from her in the way of letters before commencement. As for Helen, it's harder for her to write than for the rest of us I think. So you will be obliged to content yourself with such letters as I can send you. Dont be alarmed and imagine that I am sick for I am not. I expect to be quite well tomorrow. Mrs. Banister is here again. I have only seen her to say "how do you do". The girls think that she looks much older than she did last year, but I did not notice it. She is feebler I think, for she has not spoken to us at all. Miss Lyman seemsto enjoy her being here exceedingly. Mrs. Comstock, a Quaker lady from Michigan, spoke to us last night. I mean Sunday night. She has been working among the prisons and lost women of New York since the war, during it in the hospitals. She is a lovely looking lady, I should say about sixty years old, but people say much younger. I suppose her cap made her seem older as well as her whole dress. Her theme was the love of Jesus, especially its consoling power in time of trouble. It was one of the best sermons I ever heard, and comes home to us now with a great deal of meaning, for last night Mary Whitney, one of our class and considered by many the best scholar in it received a telegram announcing the death of her father. She is a Unitarian and a devoted admirer of Miss Mitchell, but it does not seem possible that she should forget what Mrs. Cornstock said. There were at least a dozen Quakers up here Sunday night. I never saw so manybefore in my life. There are a great many in Po'keepsie, so many that they have two meeting houses. This lady was an Orthodox Friend, as is Mr. Mitchell, but Miss Powell, and several of the girls are Hixites. I think that this lady is an aunt of Mr. Jones. Prof. Knapp is sick with the fever and ague. I hope that he can break it up, but he works so hard, and takes such miserable care of himself, that I am afraid it will make him very sick. I never saw a man who knew so little of the laws of health, or at least regarded them so little. I have gone into his room when the heat was stifling, and upon telling him so he would immediately spring up and open the window sit down again and forget it, and appear the next day hardly able to speak. Then he works like a galley slave for the College, and the Po'keepsie people, having no minister make him do instead, andhe leads their prayer meetings, talks to their young men, goes out all hours of the night to see their sick people, and is all the time a perfect saint. I wish he could find a place where he could be fully appreciated by the powers that be. Does it seem possible that Carrie is to be married in just two weeks? I cannot realize it at all. Talk to her Mother, and make her stop and see me, she can just stop over a train or a boat or any thing that they see fit to travel in - I do want to see some home person most direfully I am glad that you are going to make her a skirt. If you can, will you get her some thing for me? If not, never mind. Is Aunt Katie at our house yet? I want to see her too. Sarah must be joyful enough to have you at home again. I hope that you aren't sick. Don't attempt too much, wait for us to come home and help you. Helen is getting along famously with her herbarium. She has about eighty specimens, more than any other memberof the class. Please give a great deal of love to Father, Auntie if there, and all the others who want any - Only think how soon you'll have us back again. Good bye dear Your loving daughter Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to Will, May 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: May 14, 1867
Text: Vassar Collage. May 14, 1867. Dear Will, Don't I beg of your, imagine for an instant that your unwonted epistolatory efforts are to have the effect of silencing mine, that would be a feat as difficult to accomplish for my pea as my tongue. What a good boy you are! Minnie feels highly flattered that her remarks should have boon such early and delightful fruit - Your letters are like cold water to a thirsty soul, if you could in any way appreciate how much we enjoy them, you certainly...
Show moreVassar Collage. May 14, 1867. Dear Will, Don't I beg of your, imagine for an instant that your unwonted epistolatory efforts are to have the effect of silencing mine, that would be a feat as difficult to accomplish for my pea as my tongue. What a good boy you are! Minnie feels highly flattered that her remarks should have boon such early and delightful fruit - Your letters are like cold water to a thirsty soul, if you could in any way appreciate how much we enjoy them, you certainly would be willing to undergo considerable personal sacrifice for the purpose of affording us so much pleasure. Only five more weeks any way! Before I say another word, let me congratulate you upon your promotion.I have but a very vague idea what a "buying clerk" may be, but still I know that it is better than staying up stairs where I was in constant fear lest you should poison yourself, by smelling some thing awful, or put out your eyes by a sudden puff of something, or come to some other equally deplorable end. So Carrie is to be married! I hope that you will go to the wedding, as of course you will if she has any friends at all. Don't I wish that I could be there to see. Hattie and Minnie have scarcely time to breathe, they ought to have a vacation as College boys do, and our class are going to insist upon it next year. They have formed a class organization, and being small in number, but great in ambition, they each took two offices. So their list of officers reads as follows Pres. M. L. Dickinson, Vice Pres. E. S. Geiger, Sec. H. D. Woodward. Treas. H. A. Warner. Poet H. D. Woodward. Sybil E. J.Geiger. Historian H. A. Warner, and I can't think what other thing Minnie is. They have no motto yet, but look longingly toward the Greek language to remedy the deficiency - Our class, numbering twenty five in all, can look down with undisguised scorn upon four Seniors and tell with many derisive smiles, what shall be done by the mighty '68ers. Have you had any spring yet? I don't know whether we have or not. From my own sensations and those of the mercury I should say decidedly not - but the presence of flowers, most of them blue and shivering however, and on occasional light dress, make me believe that the mercury and I err a little in our judgment of things - Ralph Waldo Emerson is going to lecture for us on Friday evening. I am quite curious to hear him, but rather expect him to be dry - He has not condescended to inform the committee what may be thesubject of his lecture, probably considering it sufficient that he consents to lecture to girls at all. I think that we shall have a very good course next year - Helen has, in addition to botanizing, taken kindly to surveying. They are surveying the College farm. I only trust that we shall have the pleasure of escorting her back to her paternal mansion an integer or whole number - I wish I were rather more active, and I'd write you a longer letter, but not feeling at all brilliant I think it my duty to stop before I ruin my reputation. Love to every body in the house & out of it who wants any. Good bye, continue in the well doing you have begun. Your loving sister Marthy S. WarnerMy dear Will, I thank you very much for your letter & will write as soon as I have time. I am very busy owing to the nearness of the close of the year. Love to all. Hattie
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, May 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: May 02, 1867
Text: Vassar College May 2, 1867 My dear Mother, I wish I could hug you across the five hundred miles between us, and make you understand half how glad I am to have you at home again. Will's joy and Father's, to say nothing of your own, made me feel as if I could feel myself in your room once more. Only seven weeks more Mother dear! Won't we rejoice then - I am glad to hear of Uncle Shepherd's improvement. I trust that he will not kill Aunt Phebe before he gets well. How long...
Show moreVassar College May 2, 1867 My dear Mother, I wish I could hug you across the five hundred miles between us, and make you understand half how glad I am to have you at home again. Will's joy and Father's, to say nothing of your own, made me feel as if I could feel myself in your room once more. Only seven weeks more Mother dear! Won't we rejoice then - I am glad to hear of Uncle Shepherd's improvement. I trust that he will not kill Aunt Phebe before he gets well. How long does Aunt Katie intend to remain in Rockford? I very much hope that she will be able to stop and see us, I have a great curiosity to see her althoughI dread it exceedingly. Founder's Day is over! I can't tell you how relieved I was when the people were fairly out of the dining room, and my responsibilities were over. Did I tell you that I was committee on collation? Every thing passed off beautifully, except that it rained, so that we couldn't have our out door reception. I wore my blue silk, Hattie her grenadine, Helen her light silk skirt and a white waist, Minnie her black silk. (Characteristic vanity, putting myself first, but never mind.) There were a great many persons here. I don't know just how many, the collation was provided for seven hundred and fifty persons - There were about two thousand and fifty invitations sent - of course the vast majority of them complimentary. I hope that the Ballards were not offended at my sendingthem one so late, it was not my fault but that of the publisher. The salutatory was a very pretty poem, written and delivered by a very pretty girl. The Parthenaeum was a paper, & consequently I think, stupid, it had some good things in it however. Miss Pope's editorial was very good. She is a lovely girl, and a beautiful reader - Prophecies - by Miss Clinton was smooth and flowing, rather than thoughtful. It made a favorable impression however, as such things always do. Louise's poem was lovely, and very well written some parts of it were beautiful. One verse I particularly liked. "Alma Mater! Alma Mater! Strange words for our lips to speak, No wonder 'tis with kindling eye And crimson flushing cheek. For the hand that through the ages We reached not with our ownHas led our way, two years today. In paths we had not known-" I can give you no idea how beautifully she read it, every word rang through the chapel, so clearly and sweetly - The colloquy was very good also. On the whole it was a success. You can see a very good criticism of it in the Tribune for Teusday - April 30 - Helen had a letter from Charlie on Monday, saying that he was to open an office on the first May for himself - I hope that he will be successful - He did not mention Aunt Rebecca's illness, but said that Fannie was not well, so that Auntie must be well again. Did you know that Mrs. Stoddard the ex-missionary, is about to be married to a brother of her former husband's? I believe to Mary Palmer's stepfather. Mary Palmer and Sarah Stoddard will enjoy rather an anomalous relationship to one another, will they not? I must stop. I am so glad that you are at home again - Minnie was greatly disappointed at not seeing you. You have seen Sarah's baby too! How much I would give to see it. Give a great deal of love to all - Congratulate Father for me - Hattie and Helen and Minnie send an equal share of love to be equally distributed, and a private bundle for you. Your young, but wise daughter Mattie -Tell Will that his letter was grand, and I am going to write to him very soon - I guess I'll put in one I wrote last Sunday but failed to send -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Apr. 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: April 21, 1867
Text: Vassar College April 21, 1867 My dear Mother, I am going to send this letter home hoping that you may be there, but I do not dare to congratulate you upon being at home at last, lest you should be still at Rockford. If you are safely at home you ought to be absolved from all duties of every kind, and devote your attention to sleeping, and lying upon the sofa. Although that may not be the height of human happiness with you as it is with us. I do hope if you are at home, that you will, or...
Show moreVassar College April 21, 1867 My dear Mother, I am going to send this letter home hoping that you may be there, but I do not dare to congratulate you upon being at home at last, lest you should be still at Rockford. If you are safely at home you ought to be absolved from all duties of every kind, and devote your attention to sleeping, and lying upon the sofa. Although that may not be the height of human happiness with you as it is with us. I do hope if you are at home, that you will, or rather have, seen Minnie. She wanted so much to see you, that if she doesn't she will be much disappointed, as I have no doubt you will. We are looking for her next Teusday. I as-sure that it will be a joyful day for us when she is back again. I feel as half of myself were gone. We have had a beautiful Easter Sunday today. This morning at six o'clock I went to a service which the Episcopal girls held, which I enjoyed very much. Then Louise and I went down to Mr. Cookman's church, which service we also enjoyed highly. I like Mr. Cookman better every time I hear him, one great merit which he possesses is that he is sincerely in earnest, and means to do all the good he can, which is a very great merit in the men of this time and town. Mr. Mitchell preached here this afternoon. He is a missionary to Syria lately appointed by the Board, and has married Miss Lucy Wright daughter of the late Dr. Wright of Persia - April 20. Dear Mother will you excuse me if I don't write any more now? I was prevented from writing more Sunday night& now am very busy - I wrote a little letter to Emma which I inclose to you - I will write more next time. Goodbye. Your loving daughter - Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Apr. 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: April 14, 1867
Text: Vassar College April 14, 1867 My darling Mother, How kind it was for you to write me such a beautiful long letter when you have so much to do and so much upon your mind. I wish I could be with you, and relieve you of some portion of your care - I am rejoiced and depressed and then hopeful again every time I hear from you. It is very hard for you to be obliged to stay there so long, when you don't and do want to. I am very much afraid that your strength will fail, and then you will have...
Show moreVassar College April 14, 1867 My darling Mother, How kind it was for you to write me such a beautiful long letter when you have so much to do and so much upon your mind. I wish I could be with you, and relieve you of some portion of your care - I am rejoiced and depressed and then hopeful again every time I hear from you. It is very hard for you to be obliged to stay there so long, when you don't and do want to. I am very much afraid that your strength will fail, and then you will have to go home sick and I should never forgive them for letting you hurt yourself. In that case however I could test my powers as a nurse. I am glad that you approve of my fondness for Physiology. Next to Latin and GreekI like it better than any thing I ever studied. Louise and I are very anxious to study higher Phisiology next year. I don't know as we shall have time, or whether Miss Avery would be willing to have two classes. Louise has strong inclinations toward the medical profession, and I yesterday nearly threw my two sisters into fits by proposing to study it with her and adorn my Father's front door with a tin plate bearing the inscription "Dr. M. S. Warner." I think I should enjoy theoretical medical practice very much, but in actual practice I fear I should fail signally - I am surprised at my neglect in omitting to tell you the motto of our class, especially as I take great credit to myself for having proposed it - "Spectemen agenda", Let us be judged by our doing. It seems to me very appropriate in our present circumstances, as we will be the first large class of graduates, and people can't help judging us and our Alma Mater byour conduct in life. Having delivered myself of my speech, I think I had best descend to things of more immediate interest. Louise and I went to church today, and, for the first time in the two years that we have been here, found a church, and heard a sermon that we enjoyed. The church was a Methodist one, the minister was Mr. Cookman. He is a young man and last year preached here once, and made a deep impression, but one not at all favorable to him. He conducted the morning service here on the day of prayer for Colleges, and we liked him very much Prof. Knapp likes him, and so we went this morning. His text was "In Christ's stead," and his method of treating it very fine. Sunday It was the first Sunday of the Conference year and he preached about the minister's office. He was not only sound and orthodox in his belief, but he preached from his heart as men very seldom do here. I don't know whether Po'keepsie min-isters are particularly spiritless, or whether my heart is warmer, but I very seldom hear one who seems to care whether or no he does any good. As for Dr. Raymond we gave him up long ago. Mr. Cookman's church is the largest, handsomest, and has the most intelligent looking congregation that I have seen in Po'keepsie. Corneilia Penfield is in great trouble - Her only brother died last week of inflamatory rheumatism. She had a letter Thursday saying that he was better, & Friday, one saying that he was dead - I am very sorry for her, it is so much harder to have such a trouble away from home. Her brother was only nine years old. I didn't suppose that such little people had rheumatism. Here I have taken up all my letter with accounts of myself, and not asked after your health, Uncle Shepherd's or any body else's. I am sorry, but please imagine all the proper things said, forI am too tired, and have too many letters to write to write any more. Give a great deal of love to all the people - Clara must be a splendid girl - It's a great shame to make her work so. The girls send a quantity of love also - I wish you were at home to see Sarah's baby, & to help Carrie - Good bye dear - Your loving daughter - Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Apr. 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: April 08, 1867
Text: Vassar College April 8, 1867 My dear Mother, I am so stupid that I am afraid you will wish I had kept it to myself, and not attempted to spread it out in a letter to you. In the first place Minnie has gone home sick - not dangerously you know, but just miserable enough to be unable to study or bear the noise. I hope that one or two weeks at home will revive her enough to help her through the rest of the year. There isn't much time left you know. Of course we miss her dolefully - I don...
Show moreVassar College April 8, 1867 My dear Mother, I am so stupid that I am afraid you will wish I had kept it to myself, and not attempted to spread it out in a letter to you. In the first place Minnie has gone home sick - not dangerously you know, but just miserable enough to be unable to study or bear the noise. I hope that one or two weeks at home will revive her enough to help her through the rest of the year. There isn't much time left you know. Of course we miss her dolefully - I don't know what will become of me next year when she will not be here at all. She is so good and lovely. I am very thankful that I have lived with her these two years, and appreciate her so much better than I used to in the High School days.That is one of the causes of my forlornity - Another of them is that here we are spending our vacation, and we are obliged to keep all the rules and regulations, it is too bad, but we can't help ourselves, and must make the best of it. I have eaten my dinner written a composition taken a walk and dressed myself, since I wrote the first of this epistle and I must confess I feel somewhat ashamed of my lugubrious state of mind. I don't think I'll finish the list of my grievances. It was mean of me to begin to write so to poor you, who are so tired and worried any way. How is Uncle Shepherd? Father wrote that he seemed to be no better. It seems very sad indeed that he can't recover after so many hopes of life. I had a letter from Mr. Ballard last week in which he said that T. K. Adams has bought that old wooden house on Fort St. opposite the Strongs, where the Warrens used to live. You remember the housedo you not? Their object was to find a house where Bell could live on the first floor. I wonder how much longer that poor child will live. You know of course that Mr. Knight is dead, the church (Fort St.) gave his widow a thousand dollars and her mourning, and the bar paid the funeral expenses. I had no idea that he was so poor. I supposed he had some practice and looked shabby because it was his nature to. Mr. Ballard said that G. O. Williams had been very low, when he wrote was not expected to live thro' the night. I have heard nothing more. C. L Walker has been very ill, but is recovering - Bell Hammond likewise. I think very probably you know all these things, but then you see if you don't, you will want to, so it seems best to write them. If Father and Willie are as sparing of news when writing to you as to us, you won't know any thing at all. All theletters we receive from any direction in Detroit, bear the same refrain "We need your Mother so." It must be beautiful to have every one so anxious to see you again. And you know how every one at this end of the line is watching and waiting for the summer to come. The year has gone so rapidly that I can scarcely believe that spring is really here. I have been so very busy that I haven't taken time to think since the holidays till now. I went to see Mary Gillett & Annie Hurbult last night, which is the first time I have seen them except to bow since we called after the holidays - So you see the fault is as much theirs as ours - I am going to Hackensack this afternoon, there are several of us going in our gymnastic suits for they are easier for walking - It is time for me to stop. Good bye Mother dear, don't get sick - Yours with much love Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Mar. 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: March 31, 1867
Text: Vassar College March 31, 1867 My darling Mother, Do you think that I have gone to sleep, or fainted away, or eloped, or have you not noticed how long it is since I have written to you? I am very sorry, and very much ashamed of myself, but Mother dear, I have been so busy that I couldn't in the week days, and Sundays I have been prevented - To night I am so sleepy that I can hardly keep my eyes open, and have no hope of writing an intelligent, or legible letter. Indeed you must not be at...
Show moreVassar College March 31, 1867 My darling Mother, Do you think that I have gone to sleep, or fainted away, or eloped, or have you not noticed how long it is since I have written to you? I am very sorry, and very much ashamed of myself, but Mother dear, I have been so busy that I couldn't in the week days, and Sundays I have been prevented - To night I am so sleepy that I can hardly keep my eyes open, and have no hope of writing an intelligent, or legible letter. Indeed you must not be at all surprised if you find another date before the end of the sheet. Minnie is going home, not to stay, but for a week or two, till she gets able to come home, or rather back - I can't understand what is the matter with her, she seems tohave broken down altogether. I hope that a quiet rest at home will restore her health. You don't know how much we all wish that you could be at home, but of course it is best for you to be in Rockford. I think that Mr. Curtis is contemptible, altogether beneath notice. I am glad that you and Aunt Martha didn't attempt to discuss those questions - How is Uncle Shepherd now? Does the doctor think there is really any hope for him? How good God is to make him a Christian. I don't think we ought ever to despair of any one. I walked into church today, and am more tired to night on that account. It has been a beautiful day, that first that has promised Spring. The beauty of the weather tempted a great many to walk in. Dr. and Mrs. Gleason, friends of Miss Avery's from the Elmira water cure are visiting here. Mrs. Gleason spoke to us after Chapel Friday night. I liked hervery much. She was in one Physiology class also. I suppose Hattie told you all about the crowd of Holyoke teachers we have been favored with. I just saw Mrs. Stodard in the hall, for I was at Latin when she was in our room. I can't say that I fancied her. I presume it was in part owing to my disliking her daughter so much. Miss Lucy Wright, daughter of the late Dr. Wright of Persia, is to be married Wednesday, to a Mr. Mitchell of Po'keepsie, and is to sail immediately to Syria - Mrs. Cochrane knew her, do you remember? Jessie Campbell is to be married Teusday evening to John Harvey. They are to be married in the Christian Church, in grand style - Jessie will wear white silk. Minnie had a letter from Hattie Dickinson a little while ago, describing her elegant presents of silver, and the beauty of her outfit - She has six elegant new silks, garnet, blue, green,black, black and white check, and white, the black and white is her travelling dress. They are going to keep house on Winder street. Mr. Henry McKnight is dead, as you probably know. The Jews have bought the church where Mr. Freeland's people meet, and they are obliged to build a chapel on their lot, immediately. Delia Howard is in very poor health, and is talking of going home to stay. She has not been well since the holidays. The other girls are all well I think. Clara Glover is sick a good deal. Please give a great deal of love to Auntie, Uncle, and the cousins. Tell little Emma that I will write to her soon but can't this time possibly. I am glad that my other effort proved satisfactory - Minnie, Hattie, and Helen send much love. Sarah says "I do so want your Mother to come home." She says that she is not very well yet, has notregained her appetite - Her baby drinks a tumbler full of milk at a time, she not having enough for him - I hope that she will be well soon - Carrie is busy getting ready to be married, & she too is longing for Mrs. Warner - If ever I am in half as great demand as you, I shall consider my mission in life fulfilled. Good bye dear - I have written this all this evening in spite of my fears - Yours with much love - Mattie
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Mar. 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: March 10, 1867
Text: Vassar College Mar. 10, 1867. My darling Mother, I can't tell you how rejoiced we all were to hear from you again. All account's of Uncle S. had reported him failing rapidily, and we were very much afraid that he was dead. How joyful it is to have him better! Do the Drs. really consider him out of danger? It hardly seems possible when he has been so very very sick, and with so terrible a desease. I suppose that he will never be able to regain his former health, or is that too...
Show moreVassar College Mar. 10, 1867. My darling Mother, I can't tell you how rejoiced we all were to hear from you again. All account's of Uncle S. had reported him failing rapidily, and we were very much afraid that he was dead. How joyful it is to have him better! Do the Drs. really consider him out of danger? It hardly seems possible when he has been so very very sick, and with so terrible a desease. I suppose that he will never be able to regain his former health, or is that too considered possible? I am anxious for you to be at home again and fairly rested so that we can hear all about your visit at Rockford, and about the Curtises. You won't be sick will you? That would be so too bad, but after such a seige as youhave had I should be a little surprised if you were not sick. I think you will be fully appreciate at home if you ever were appreciated any where. Poor Will seems utterly disconsolate, he says that it seems five years since you left. How is Auntie? I hope she won't be sick again. What a dear little child Emma is to write me a letter, but I do hope that she has no distinct idea of what she intended to say, or that she asked any very important questions. I thought somewhat of learning the Hebrew alphabet in order to descipher it. She is just a little over three years old now. I wish I could see her. Sanie Tenney is just about her age, and a dear little child. I was examined in Botany yesterday, and feel very comfortable now that it is over, but am very tired today. We have to be examined in all the Junior studies which we have taken here. Natural Philosophy, I intend to take next year, as Ihave my hands full for this year. Prof. Knapp has a new assistant, who has our Greek class. I like him very much, he is very particular indeed. We are commencing Thucydides in Greek, and it's very hard causing very hard study upon our part. We have also commenced the Tusculan Disputations which are as easy as Thucydides is hard. I like it very much indeed. Miss Avery is delightful in Physicology. I know that we shall enjoy the class very much. I don't quite enjoy the bones yet, and can't help shuddering at the thought of taking a hand tomorrow and studying it. I never liked to handle such things, but I suppose that we will outgrow all such follies, and will fit skulls and knock on bones with as much nonchalence as Miss Avery herself, in time. I didn't suppose that Miss A. would be nearly so much at home or so pleasant in the class room as she is. I am growing to like her very much.Dr. Raymond is away, and I have no idea who will preach for us. Dr. Lord preached last Sunday, a very good sermon in some respects but extremely cynical in many respects. I don't like men who regard themselves as social Ishmaels. He has very disagreeable voice, and that makes what he says sound even harsher. I had a very nice letter from Carrie, bemoaning your absence and longing for your return. She seems in a very prosperous state. I haven't written to Sarah yet, & it is disgraceful, but I don't seem to have any time. However I intend to do it this afternoon. Will writes that Kittle Ward's cousin Miss Murray is going to be married to Mr. Williams of Farrand, & Sheley - So J. T. Tilman is dead! How many old citizens have died lately. We are all well except Minnie who has not been very well lately, having a disagreable combination of cold and headache. Hattie & Minnie send much love. Minnie says "tell her I'm glad she is going home, she will seem nearer-" I must stop and write to little Emma. Good bye, give a great deal of love to all the people, & tell them how glad we are forthem. I wish I could kiss you. Good bye again. Your very loving daughter Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Feb. 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: February 28, 1867
Text: Vassar College Feb. 28, 1867 My dear Mother, We have had a a beautiful day today - You know that it is the day of prayer for Colleges and we have kept it in a very pleasant manner. The morning we had a meeting in Chapel, conducted by Rev. Mr. Cookman. He was very happy in his remarks, although not at all so in his personal appearance. He was followed by a Mr. Winselow who related his experience. I didn't like it, for I never like to hear men tell their private history in public. Then...
Show moreVassar College Feb. 28, 1867 My dear Mother, We have had a a beautiful day today - You know that it is the day of prayer for Colleges and we have kept it in a very pleasant manner. The morning we had a meeting in Chapel, conducted by Rev. Mr. Cookman. He was very happy in his remarks, although not at all so in his personal appearance. He was followed by a Mr. Winselow who related his experience. I didn't like it, for I never like to hear men tell their private history in public. Then Prof. Knapp followed in a beautiful prayer, it was one of the best I ever heard - At two o'clock we had our Greek Testament class, not as a Greek class, but a generalBible class for any who cared to come. The lesson was in Luke the eighteenth chapter, and it was one of the most solemn lessons that I ever listen to. I never heard Prof. Knapp say so much as he did then, and his heart was so entirely in every word that it couldn't fail to do good. Oh Mother! I know that you would like him very much if you could know him; he is the most holy man that I ever knew. I didn't suppose that any one could have so high a spiritual culture, be so near to God always and yet be so little conscious of it - He is certainly a bright and shining light not only in the College, but in all Po'keepsie. Then, to return to the College, at three o'clock we had another meeting in the Chapel, conducted by Mr. Corning. He read the story of St. Paul's conversion, and made some very excellent remarks, referringto the necessity of an aim in life and urging upon all of us to have the best aim, and to start aright. Then Prof. Farrar talked and made a prayer, he did that before Mr. Corning's remarks. After he had finished Mr. Corning called on Prof. Knapp to pray, and then Prof. Tenney talked, a very, very good talk. he is another of those good men whom every one loves. He is not so spiritual as Prof. Knapp, but you can see his goodness shining out all over him. He said that he thought such days were always followed by remarkable demonstrations of God's power. Then Mr. Corning called upon Prof. Knapp who talked as well as we had expected him to. His great theme is always love of Christ, and child like perfect trust in him. Altogether the day has been an almost perfect one. I have never enjoyed anyreligious services here so much as I have today. And here I have taken up all my letter writing about ourselves, without having asked for any body or said any thing. How is Uncle Shepherd? Does he suffer very much? I am very anxious heard from there and to know just how he is. I have not heard from Carrie for a long time, and I have not written to Sarah but once since her baby was born. It is a perfect shame. I intended to write to her very often but I can't get time to write to any body. Please give a great deal of love to Auntie and the cousins from us all. We all feel the deepest sympathy for them. Is Auntie well again? and how is little Emma? The girls send a great deal of love to you, from Minnie to me. I do do want to see you Mother. It doesn't seem as though I could wait - I must say good night now. I wish I could kiss you - Your loving daughter Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Feb. 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: February 16, 1867
Text: Vassar College Feb. 16, 1867 My dear Mother, I hope you won't think that I have quite forsaken you, because it is so long since I have written to you. I don't believe that I am a good economist of time, because, although I have no more to do than I did before the holidays, yet I seem to have so much less time. Hattie received your letter yesterday, and I assure you that it was very welcome. It is a comfort to know that you are safely there and not waiting in Chicago still, but, my...
Show moreVassar College Feb. 16, 1867 My dear Mother, I hope you won't think that I have quite forsaken you, because it is so long since I have written to you. I don't believe that I am a good economist of time, because, although I have no more to do than I did before the holidays, yet I seem to have so much less time. Hattie received your letter yesterday, and I assure you that it was very welcome. It is a comfort to know that you are safely there and not waiting in Chicago still, but, my poor little Mother, what did you do with Mr. Curtis and Aunt Martha? What is the use of their staying there? They must be much in the way - I am anxious to hear a long accountof it all, when you have time to write, which of course will not be till after you reach home. Poor Uncle Shepherd he must suffer terribly, how long has he been sick in that manner long? How is Auntie? she must be completely worn out. I am so glad that you are able to be there, it will be such a comfort to Aunt Phebe. I suppose that Clara is almost a young lady by this time. Do the doctors consider Uncle as altogether hopeless? or has he the prospect of living on so for some time? We had our semi annual elections in our chapter this morning. Annie Glidden was elected president. I am so thankful to be out of it. I feel as though a weight was taken off from my shoulders. Miss Glidden will make an excellent president, having energy, common sense, public spirit, plenty of time and all the other requisites of a governor. We have had very pleasant meetings lately. Last time we had a debate upon the question "Is a woman more curious than a man?" The girls grew quite animated toward the close. I dreaded it very much as we had never had one before, and I was afraid of long pauses, and all sorts of disagreable things, but they did very well indeed, and liked it so well that we are going to have another some time. Next week we have a charade the word is "Manager." I think it will be a grand success. Our lectures come on Friday night, and then of course we have no society meetings. Last night Rev. Mr. Gallaher lectured on "Ireland and the Irish." I wish you could have heard him - He is a young man, and an Irishman, as well as a devoted lover of his country. He had true Irish wit, and kept us laughing all the evening - Once he recapitulated the Irish officers who fought in our war, in one of the finest climaxes I ever listen-ed to. The girls were so delighted that they clapped vigorously. His peroration was very fine indeed. One thing pleased me exceedingly, he said that a man loves his native country as he does his mother, but his adopted country as he does his wife. I think it is a beautiful thought. He is a Baptist minister of Brooklyn, formerly from Quincy 111. Mr. Lord lectures next upon Napoleon. I wish you could see Minnie introduce the lecturers. She does it so beautifully and gracefully, and charmingly that all the girls are proud of her, and we all love her so much. I do want to see Sarah so, just to think of her having a baby part of a month old, and my not having seen a symptom of it - Please give my love to all the cousins, particularly Lizzie and Emma because I know them, and a great deal of love and sympathy of Auntie. Love to Uncle if he is able to receive it - And oh mother dear! so very, very, much to you - I do long so to see you - When you can do write to us, but don't while you are busy and tired - I hope you won't get sick. We are all verywell and are getting alone nicely - Good bye. Your loving daughter Mattie
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Feb. 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: February 03, 1867
Text: Vassar College Feb. 3, 1867 My dearest Mother, Isn't it gorgeous that Sarah has a little boy? I am so delighted that she is fairly over it and has a dear little baby. I could tell that something grand had happened when I saw Father's direction on the envelope. Have you seen the little chap? Of course you have though, how absurd of me to ask you. Do write to me all about him, unless you go to see Uncle Shepherd. What time of day or night was he born? Who is Sarah's nurse? Mrs....
Show moreVassar College Feb. 3, 1867 My dearest Mother, Isn't it gorgeous that Sarah has a little boy? I am so delighted that she is fairly over it and has a dear little baby. I could tell that something grand had happened when I saw Father's direction on the envelope. Have you seen the little chap? Of course you have though, how absurd of me to ask you. Do write to me all about him, unless you go to see Uncle Shepherd. What time of day or night was he born? Who is Sarah's nurse? Mrs. Jones I suppose. How funny George must seem as a father. Oh dear! how much I do want to be home, and see all the wonderful sights.It seems as though Sarah's baby must belong to us in great measure. Poor Auntie! I am so sorry for her. What will she do with all her little children if Uncle Shepherd dies. I do so hope that you will go to her. She must need some one to be with her, and I am so glad that Aunt Charlotte isn't there. I know that Uncle Shepherd will want you with him when he dies for you always were his favorite sister. I am glad that Mary is willing to keep house while you are gone, but how very odd it seems. Will Father be at home? or will she keep house for Will alone? I went to Mr. Coming's church yesterday for the first time this year. I liked him better than ever before, but still he is not pleasant at all in my opinion. He preached here in the afternoon, and his sermon was excellent. I should hardly have recognized himas the same man. "Diabolus" is here. The chap who wrote that article about us in the New York Times last summer. I suppose he would be better known to you as "Lafayette Howard-" If I was Dr. Raymond I would not acknowledge him as my nephew. He was in our Geology class this morning and I suppose will write all about it in that contemptible paper. The snow is all melting away. I hope that we shall have no more. I am anxious for spring to come. Mr. Manning lectured for us last Friday, on "Samuel Adams." It was very good indeed, and gave us a great deal of information concerning that estimable man. He closed with an account of his opinion regarding Mr. Andrew Johnson. I think it did us a great deal of good although it roused the wrath of sundry young females. Dr. Lord is going to lecture for us on a histor-ical subject. Emerson will lecture sometime. I don't know when - Anna Dickinson lectured on "Something to do." In the course of her lecture she complimented Miss Mitchell very highly. I am so sorry she couldn't come out here. Gough is coming in the spring. Helen has been indulging in a semi neuralgic, toothaic, eyeaic, desease, which consists principally of groans and poultices. She has taken to her lounge this day, and I presume that in a day or two she will be well again - She has been carrying on a series of visits to a dentist's establishment and has smelled vigorously of creosote. She sends word to you that she is in a very critical condition and the doctors' have given her up. She is also dangerous, expressing fierce desires to hurt some one. I think she has really suffered a good deal, but you know that it's orthodox for our family to be groaning - I do hope that you will go to Uncle Shepherd's. I am very anxious to hear from him, and you - Helen says that it is mean of me to make fun of her, and I suppose it was -I know that you have been thinking especially of our dear little baby, now that her birthday has come again. I wish that I was at home to talk with you about her. It seems to me as if Sarah's baby must be in some way connected with ours. I am so very thankful that she is so near you and you can see so much of her. Ah Mother dear! although I know how much happier she is than she could be here yet I can hardly help wishing her back again, when I think of you all alone, and we are so far away. But I know that it is far better for us as is, otherwise she would be here - I hope that you have followed out the plan of which you wrote to Hattie, it is such a pleasant thought, that any one is looking forward to her birthday. I wish I could write longer, and how much I wish that I could see you, and have a long, long talk. It doesn't seem as if we had any visit at all last summer, we had so much to do - But next summer whenI am the only one to be started off - won't we have long, nice visits - I must stop and study. Good bye, Your ever loving Mattie -I must close - Love to all, especially to Sarah. Tell Willie that I will write to him on Wednesday. Good bye - Your loving daughter - Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Jan. 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: January 30, 1867
Text: Vassar College Jan. 30, 1867 My very dear Mother, Perhaps you didn't intend to, but then you did it all the same, perhaps however you didn't know, so that's some excuse for you. Are you aware that influenza is if possible more contagious than the small pox? I am not certain whether or no the M. D.'s are cognizant of this marvellous fact, if not it remains for me to add to the cause of science another profound discovery. My proofs are positive. Didn't you write to me...
Show moreVassar College Jan. 30, 1867 My very dear Mother, Perhaps you didn't intend to, but then you did it all the same, perhaps however you didn't know, so that's some excuse for you. Are you aware that influenza is if possible more contagious than the small pox? I am not certain whether or no the M. D.'s are cognizant of this marvellous fact, if not it remains for me to add to the cause of science another profound discovery. My proofs are positive. Didn't you write to me while suffering from a severe attack of influenza? Didn't I receive that letter? and was I not filled with the most moving sympathy for my afflicted parent? In just six days didn't Minnie andmyself fall victims to the same dire desease? Isn't my case clear? What does it matter if Minnie did take her constitutional in a damp snow, and come back sneezing? What does it concern any one if I did wake up Sunday morning a full a breeze blowing upon me, that has nothing whatever to do with the contagion of influenza. Suffice it to say that Minnie and I have entertained the company with our dulcet notes for three days, while Helen has chimed in on the chorus, but as she is almost recovered from her attack her assistance is almost valueless. Prof. Knapp this morning struck by the desolate condition of the inmates of 23, offered me the use of his room if ours was cold. Ours being warm I declined with much grace, doubtless making a deep impression upon him. We are nearly well now, but I have been instructing Minnie in the order of ex-ercises for Friday night, namely, that Minnie should arise and say. Allow me to introduce to you (sneeze) Mr. (sneeze) Manning, (cough), (violent use of handkerchief), (three or four sneezes, obliged to sit down amid the cheers of the audience). Wouldn't the effect be telling? I suppose that my course of conduct in chapter meeting will be very simillar to that. We were this morning honored by a call, which some what startled us, from Horace Burt. Minnie, whom he came to see, couldn't see him, owing to aforesaid use of handkerchiefs, and so the pleasure of entertaining him fell to Hattie. Helen saw him a few minutes, as did Clara Glover, I was likewise debarred. Fortunately he could not stay but a short time. Hattie took him over to the Observatory, but not being able to find Miss Morse couldn't show him the house.I am very sorry, as, of course, that is all any body cares for here. Do write to me just as soon as Sarah is sick. I am feeling very anxious about her. I dream about her almost every night. Saturday night the Seniors and Juniors together with the members of the Faculty and their wives, took tea in Miss Lyman's room. The tea was very nice indeed, such delicious soda biscuits, and beautiful cake. We all enjoyed it very highly indeed - Miss Lyman has curiosities enough in her rooms to occupy a person fully a week. Every body was very pleasant indeed, even Dr. Raymond was not disagreeable - Yesterday was Miss Lyman's birthday, she was either fifty two or three. She made us a long call yesterday. I am sorry to have taken up this letter with so much nonsense, but I can't write any more, because the omnibus will leave very soon - The girls send much love - Please tell Williethat I'm sorry not to have written to him oftener but hope to retreive my characters before long - Much love to every one - I do so much want to see you. Nellie has been having a nerve killed - I must stop now. Good bye dear - Your loving daughter Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Jan. 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: January 21, 1867
Text: Vassar College Jan. 21, 1867 My dearest Mother, I was this noon rejoiced by the receipt of your letter. How sorry I am for your influenzal I know well enough what they are, or rather what it is, from your past experience and I shouldn't judge that your present one was any improvement. How I wish that I could be at home to take care of you. I have my hands full at present with poor Louise Geiger, who has been ringing the changes upon neuralgia and influenza ever since last September. You...
Show moreVassar College Jan. 21, 1867 My dearest Mother, I was this noon rejoiced by the receipt of your letter. How sorry I am for your influenzal I know well enough what they are, or rather what it is, from your past experience and I shouldn't judge that your present one was any improvement. How I wish that I could be at home to take care of you. I have my hands full at present with poor Louise Geiger, who has been ringing the changes upon neuralgia and influenza ever since last September. You can imagine what a state a child of eighteen must be in, who has read Latin and Greek enough to graduate and teach here, and agreat deal more besides, who is naturally consumptive, and has always been sick, and who never has a day free from pain - I should advise her to go home, only from all I can learn of her home, she is better off here. She is very sweet and I know that you would like her. How dreadful Mrs. Adams' death was! How much trouble they do have, she makes the third in two years. I shouldn't think that Fannie would ever get over it, it must have been fearful. Will she keep house? Fannie Henyan's death too! Who could have taken care of her, who let her ride out this bitter weather when her baby is so little? Is the baby a boy or girl? Who will take it? The Dickinson's look well being worried about Minnie, when it will be five weeks Wednesday since she has heard a word from home, andand she has written every week except once. I think it's mean of them not to write to her, when there are so many who can just as well as not. I'd think that they ought to when of course she is anxious to hear. I think it would serve them right if she never wrote to them again - Did you see the cross that I cut for Sarah? I have made one for you too, If you like Sarah's better I will make you one like that. I think it is very pretty work and I like to do it. Did Carrie appear to like her yoke? I have heard from her but once since the year began. I suppose that her Auntie and her sewing machine keep her very busy - It seems hard for her to have so much care. Is Lucy any more considerate than she was? Since writing this I have had a nice letter from Carrie saying that her Auntie is much better and that it was Mrs. Averywho sent me those papers. Wasn't she kind? I am very much suprised that Sarah's baby things are not prettier. I supposed that they would be the most dainty and beautiful imaginable. I wish that I could have made her something, but how could I? The poor child to be sick so soon! Why I supposed it was coming some time in March or April. I do hope she won't be sick before Febuary, and that the baby will be a girl - I am glad that Mrs. Taylor has been and spent her day with you and that you have not that hanging over your head - I shall remember what you wrote me about Willie, you may be sure. How glad I am that Mrs. Ballard's so lovely and good - It must be a blessing to have a good minister's wife - I should never dare to marry a minister, for fear people would compare me with some saint who had been my predecessor. Carrie said that my letter came to her when she was sick too. I am very glad that we wrote just when we did - Have you heard from Uncle Shepherd lately? Poor Aunt Phebe, how thankful she must be that Aunt Charlotteis not there - I am going to write to Father on his birthday. Miss Gilbert is now just recovering from several weeks of neuralgia - It is quite as well that we didn't attempt to go to Pittsford, but staid quietly in Burlington. Saturday, if we can, Louise Blatchley and I are going into Po'keepsie to attend a union prayer meeting - Prof. Knapp is very much interested in them. I must stop and get my Greek lesson. Give a great deal of love to Willie and the girls, and ever and ever so much to yourself - TellSallie call her infant by the euphonious name of Marthy if it's a girl and Spooner if a boy - I have tried to put in my cross but can't - I'll send it when I get a larger envelope - Yours Mattie
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Jan. 1867:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: January 13, 1867
Text: Vassar College Jan. 13, 1867 My darling Mother, Such beautiful long letters as you have written to us, and such shabby letters as I have written you. I am ashamed of myself, but stand just where I did before, for I have no materials wherewith to make them better. Wasn't Mrs. Raymond's silver wedding beautiful? I am so glad you went. I suppose that Frank and Gertrude are still dear friends, from the fact that Mrs. Lawrence made Mrs. Raymond a present. Weren't your C. L Walker...
Show moreVassar College Jan. 13, 1867 My darling Mother, Such beautiful long letters as you have written to us, and such shabby letters as I have written you. I am ashamed of myself, but stand just where I did before, for I have no materials wherewith to make them better. Wasn't Mrs. Raymond's silver wedding beautiful? I am so glad you went. I suppose that Frank and Gertrude are still dear friends, from the fact that Mrs. Lawrence made Mrs. Raymond a present. Weren't your C. L Walker name and motto absurd? It must have been beautiful fun. Doubtless my Father will be deeply shocked, and exceedingly jeal-when hears of your conduct. Poor Mrs. Ballard! I am so sorry that she was unable to be there. I suppose that her husband went without her. How pretty those little books are! I was particularly delighted with "Lift a Little" - If Mrs. Ballard hadn't had children of her own, I don't believe that she could have written it. I am so glad that you like her so much. I can't tell you how thankful I am whenever I hear of your having a good time, or having nice people with you. Only a little while now, and we'll be home before you know it — and, our trunks with us. I felt exceedingly virtuous when I read your request that we should write to the Ballards to feel that I had dispatched a letter to them the day before. Its is too bad that we didn't write before, but you know when one is busy how hard it ishad never seen a pair of stairs - The reason why I didn't go out more in Burlington was owing to a perverse young chilblain, which even now is making itself felt - Besides you know that I am very domestic and prefer the house to strangers any day - I am very glad that you liked your hood. I think that they are pretty. Give a great deal of love to Willie - I suppose that bear's grease is owing to him. Love to all the girls - and a great deal of love to yourself from Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Dec. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: December 13, 1866
Text: Burlington Dec. 30./66 My dear, dear Mother, We received your delightful letter this morning at breakfast. It was very kind of you to write us such a good long letter, and tell us every thing. We are at Mr. Catlin's now, we came here yesterday (Saturday) afternoon, and certainly I never was in a more delightful house. Our vacation has been perfect so far - I suppose that by this time you have received my letter written last Sunday, telling you of our safe arrival in Burlington and how...
Show moreBurlington Dec. 30./66 My dear, dear Mother, We received your delightful letter this morning at breakfast. It was very kind of you to write us such a good long letter, and tell us every thing. We are at Mr. Catlin's now, we came here yesterday (Saturday) afternoon, and certainly I never was in a more delightful house. Our vacation has been perfect so far - I suppose that by this time you have received my letter written last Sunday, telling you of our safe arrival in Burlington and how pleasantly they are situated at Mr. Benedicts. Monday we had a very pleasant day, although a quiet one, in the evening the rest of them went to hear Colfax, but I staid at home and enjoyed myself reading and playing backgammon with little Mary, who much to my astonishment, and nota little to my chagrin, beat me badly each time. After the family came home they read aloud some long letters just received from Mr. & Mrs. Benedict - They seemed in very good spirits, but anxious to return. Mrs. Benedict is sure that they are both of them much better and almost ready for home again. Christmas day was very pleasant, at breakfast the presents were put on the plates. Katie gave each of us a book. To Helen she gave a very pretty copy of Tennyson, bound in library style, with marble paper and calf edges. To Hattie, a copy of Longfellow's new poem "Fleur de Luce", it's a beautiful book. I received a "Snow Bound", a green one. Wasn't she good? We gave her nothing, as we preferred to wait till New Years, so that if she didn't want to give us any she wouldn't feel obliged to and we could tell better what to get her. We are going to give her some thing to put on a beautiful bracket which she has, and which she is very anxious to fill. Hattiehas made her a pretty little head fixing, and I have made one like it for Sarah - Christmas morning Katie, Mr. Benedict and I went to the Episcopal church. Bishop Hopkins preached. The music, which we went to hear, was very fine. We had a very nice dinner, oysters and turkey, and while it was in progress Mr. Catlin called to see us. He seemed very glad to see us, and asked a great many questions about Detroit and Detroit people. We had a delightful evening, during which Katie played the piano, while her husband, accompanied her upon the flute, and Mr. Lincoln Benedict accompanied her with his violin, the music was beautiful, and unappreciative as we are, we enjoyed it very much. The next day Miss Abbott from next door called upon us, and Miss Buckham sister of the Prof. also Mr. and Mrs. Angel. Mr. Angel is president of the College - He said that he had often heard Father spoken of - I forgot to say that at church we met Mrs. Allen. She utterly scouted the idea of my being the full grown plant which she had known in embryo, but condescended to express great pleasure at seeing me, and gave me an urgent invitation to call and see her - Charlie Allen I saw at a distance. He is grown up of course, and has been engaged for a dozen years, more or less, to Nellie Lyman. Wednesday about six o'clock Sarah arrived, and I immediately recognized a kindred spirit - She seems more and more natural to me, the more I see her. We roomed together and had the gayest possible time. I hated to leave there so soon after she came, altho' we had been there quite as long as I should suppose would have been convenient for Katie. Thursday we visited all day, and talked of making calls, which owing to a slight inclemency in the weather were deferred until the next day - Thursday evening is their church meeting and after it Mattie Buckham came in again to see Sarah. Friday the thought of calls was dispelled by a blinding storm of snow, of which you have probably read accounts if you did not feel it yourself. The snow was very deep, and walking almost impossible - but toward evening the snow stopped falling, and we went up to Sarah Frances' to tea, that is we girls. Mr. Benedict's man drove us up, and Mr. Benedict himself drove us home - I must confess that the sleighing was poor, the snow having drifted so that bynot considering it exactly the thing for us all to leave her the first evening. I believe they had a very pleasant time - The family live in the same house. Mrs. Wheeler devoting her energies to bringing up John's children - Mary Torrey called Friday. Hattie thinks that she looks older than Miss Mitchell - Katie is going to make a little company for us tomorrow night. I'll tell you about it next time I write - Mrs. Angel called on Mrs. Catlin after we came yesterday, and invited us to receive New Years' calls with her, an honor which we respectfully declined. Mrs. Catlin doesn't receive calls, on account of the death of a niece of Mr. Catlin's who has lived with them most of the time since they came into the house, Miss Myra Catlin. Her death seems to have affected Mrs. Catlin very much, especially at this season of the year, as she had been with them for four Christmases - She was only twenty years old and had attended Mrs. Worcester's school. She died last October, andMrs. Catlin neither invites company nor makes calls. Of course both Mr. & Mrs. Catlin are anxious to hear all the Detroit news, and I told them last night every thing I could think of about every body. This morning Mr. Catlin brought down a beautiful paper weight of black slate set with most exquiste mosaics, a large one of St. Peter's Church in the center and eight smaller ones around it, which he said he brought from Rome for Father, but had never had an opportunity to send him, and so would give it to us to take to him. It is just about the size of "Snow Bound" only much thicker. The mosaics are perfect. The shading are as delicate as in a fine painting, and the designs are very beautiful and interesting, being mostly of Roman ruins - It is certainly a very beautiful and valuable present - Their house is delightful, and full of reminiscences of their travels. I do think that fewer pictures would look bet-ter in the parlor, but elsewhere there are none too many. Mrs. Catlin has grown old some what, and Mr. Catlin's beard is whiter, otherwise they seem precisely the same - I think they enjoy seeing us quite as much as we do them. As for Katie Benedict's I am in love with them altogether - Katie is charming, I do certainly believe that there never was another such child as her Mary, and words fail me when I think of her husband - He is just as good a husband as she and the rest of the family deserve and that is the most I could say for any man. As for your Christmas Mother dear, if the good wishes sent westward that, and every morning could make it so, it must have been a very merry one - Willie's letter did me a great deal of good, and certainly I shall answer it at the first opportunity. He fared beautifully did he not? His letter seemed full of gratitude to the kind hand that had filled his cup of happiness so full. Ah Mother! I wish that we could all of us give you some expression of the dear, dear love we feel for you - Willie didn't tell me who gave you the mirror, nor what one of Father's he referred to. I muststop and dress for dinner, altho' I haven't said a third of all I want to - But I shall write again very soon and say some more things then. Love to Father, tell him that his memory seems very green in Burlington yet. I must say that I suspect that any attention we have received here is much more on his account than our own. Miss Foote is to be congratulated. Thank Father for his note on the envelope did he mean Mr. Howard? Mr. Kent seemed quite exercised about June. He was also deeply impressed with the fact that Tom Pease seemed matrimonially inclined, and calledupon Sarah in Montpeiler, apparently for the purpose of impressing uponher the startling fact that she was the object of his choice Le. T.P.'s, a fact whichstartled Sarah quite as much as she imagined it would T.P. himself.I must stop. Good bye. Much love to all. Your loving child Mattie -I think that case was brought home. Happy New Year -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Dec. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: December 23, 1866
Text: Burlington Dec. 23 [1866] My dear Mother, Here we are in our native city once more, enjoying ourselves highly. Katie is just a charming as can be, likewise her husband and little girl - Mrs. Pease waited over from Wednesday till Saturday noon in order to see us. She hasn't changed a particle, and doesn't look any older to us. Jennie was with her, she is just eight years old, and the resemblance between her and Mattie is very striking, although her eyes are dark. Unfortunately we...
Show moreBurlington Dec. 23 [1866] My dear Mother, Here we are in our native city once more, enjoying ourselves highly. Katie is just a charming as can be, likewise her husband and little girl - Mrs. Pease waited over from Wednesday till Saturday noon in order to see us. She hasn't changed a particle, and doesn't look any older to us. Jennie was with her, she is just eight years old, and the resemblance between her and Mattie is very striking, although her eyes are dark. Unfortunately we missed connections at Troy and were delayed some what on the way from Troy to Rutland, so that we reached Burlington in the morning instead of evening, so that we saw less of Mrs. Pease than we otherwise should - Sarah iscoming Wednesday - Mrs. Pease seemed very glad to see us, as did Katie also. They thought they would have known Hattie and Helen, but not me - Katie doesn't look at all as I expected. She is taller, and larger, and lighter, and much more lively -She looks more like you, and appears more like you than any one I ever saw - The house is very pleasant and she seems delightfully situated - Burlington doesn't look much as I thought it did, except on the hill. Hattie and Helen have much more perfect reccollections of the place and people than I have, but remember the College and surroundings, and a few places which we passed coming up to the house. Mrs. Catlin and Rebecca Wheeler called yesterday. Mrs. Catlin insists upon our making her a visit, she says that we must come bag and baggage and stay. So we intend going there Saturda- Rebecca Wheeler is as tall as Libbie TownI should think - She spent a day at Vassar last June and didn't know that we were ther- Wasn't it a shame? She went to see Miss Fessenden, one of the teachers. She has invited us to take tea with her Wednesda- I liked her appearance very much. Lucia Wheeler is quite well now, and is president of a home for destitute boys of which she is very fond, and for which she spends all her time. Mrs. Wheeler, Lucia, Rebecca, John's children, and Mrs. Wheeler's little boy comprise the family. George is married and lives here some wher- I have not seen our old house yet. I have forgotten who lives there. No I haven't it is Prof. Buckham. Katie attends the new church. Helen and Hattie went this morning, but I did not feel like it - Katie plays the organ. The College is better off than it was. There is a freshman class of twenty. They like the President Mr. Angel very much -Mr. Kent called here yesterday morning. I can't say that I felt pleased to see him, but he behaved quite well - He went to Montpeiler with Mrs. Pease - Katie's husband has a brother here Lincoln by name - He reminds me of Tom Pease, although he has dark eyes & hair - We shall have a delightful visit - I am very thankful that I came - They have a horse & carriage and Katie is going to take us out riding - Unfortunately the little snow which there is here is being thawed by rain - Hattie & Helen have returned from church - They saw a Mr. Hickcock whom Hattie recognized and Dr. Marsh whom they both knew - They didn't speak with either of them, but Katie asked Mr. Hickcock if he knew the young ladies she had with her, and he said he ought to know one from the resemblance she bore her father and the other from that to her mother. Poor unhappy me, who look like nobody nobody knows - Hattie and Helen send a great deal of love - I shall write again very soon, and I presume Hattie will also - Write to me as soon as you can please and tell me all about Christmas. I am afraid that you will find it rather solitary - But then think of next year -They have all inquired very affectionately about you all at home — Good bye dear - Give my love and a Merry Christmas to all the people for us - I hope that you will keep well all winter, and do if you can have some one with you will Father is gone - It seemed so funny to go through Fair Haven Caselton and Pittsford - Love to every body. Your daughter Mattie S. W Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all.
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Dec. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: December 16, 1866
Text: Vassar College Dec. 16, 1866 My dearest Mother, Yesterday was Helen's birthday and she is now fairly launched into middle life. Hattie gave her a little white frame with that picture of a stagg in it. It is very pretty indeed. I gave her a little poem by Bayard Taylor, "The Picture of St. John." Yesterday afternoon Mr. Wheeler came into our room carrying in his hand a most desolate looking bandbox, with a string tied round it, thereby supporting the top and bottom which would...
Show moreVassar College Dec. 16, 1866 My dearest Mother, Yesterday was Helen's birthday and she is now fairly launched into middle life. Hattie gave her a little white frame with that picture of a stagg in it. It is very pretty indeed. I gave her a little poem by Bayard Taylor, "The Picture of St. John." Yesterday afternoon Mr. Wheeler came into our room carrying in his hand a most desolate looking bandbox, with a string tied round it, thereby supporting the top and bottom which would otherwise have fallen off. He looked at it a minute doubtfully, and said "Miss Dickinson? " Miss Dickinson took it and opened it, and found therein a lovely little black velvet bonnet. The only di-rection on it was "From A. M. Macadam Minnie L. Dickinson, Vassar College, Po'keepsie, N.Y." It didn't even say by express, or any thing to signify how it came. I suppose that her mother had them send it from there to save the trouble of sending it from home. It is a beauty, but Minnie considers it extremely foolish, for she brought beautiful velvet for a hat. I wore my hat and veil yesterday and it looked very pretty and becoming. Helen's is very becoming indeed, and she looks very well. I think that she has grown fleshy. While I was sick Miss Lyman sent me Miss Fiske's "Recollections of Mary Lyon." I think that you would enjoy reading it very much. There are a great many of her evening talks, or chapel talks, or wherever it was that you all used to assemble. I didn't read much in it, but I thought you would like it exceedingly - She also sent me an English magazinein which was an advertisement of a young ladies school which had the sentence "For gentlemen's daughters only" Aren't the English contemptible? I am thankful that I am not one. I had a letter from Sarah Thursday. She told me all about George's illness. Poor fellow! what a sad life he was. Do they wear very heavy mourning? How is Sarah now? Isn't Mrs. William's death sad? Her husband must feel very badly - He will be another widower for Mrs. Taylor to exercise her talents upon. Are they going to continue housekeeping? I should think Mrs. Avery would go and keep house for them. Only four days more before the holidays commence! Several of the Detroit girls are going home. I think they are very foolish, for, setting aside the question of expense it is a very tedious journey, and takes so long that the girls will have no more than to get well shaken out before they have to start home again - or rather back - Then they will be so forlornly home sick for several weeks. I must say that as far as we have been any service or comfort to those girls, they might have been in Egypt. I have never been in to Fannie King's room but twice or three times, since the first week. I have never been to see Delia Howard but once, and Cornelia Penfield not more than three or four times. I don't know why I'm sure - except that there is so little time for any visiting, and every time we go any where almost, it is into our dear Prof. Tenney'- It is so pleasant and homelike there, and they are always so glad to see u- How are all the people getting along at home? Next Christmas I hope youll have some daughters at home, to help make things pleasant - And the year after! Won't it be glorious when I am fairly graduated and at home! Wait till you see the dignity which I shall bear next year as a Senior! As it is this year the Juniors overshadowing the Seniors by reason of numbers are obliged to carry double dignity - We have very pleasant times indeed. I never knew before how one's feeling for one's class becomes. We wantto stop at Pittsford by all means and supposed that included in Vermont. I think it would be all together too much to ask Katie to keep us for two weeks, when Sarah and Jennie are also there. We mean to be in Pittsford at the same time that Minnie is, and I know that we shall have a very gay time indeed - Minnie is going to spend part of the time with Miss Gilbert, & part at Yonkers, with Lillie Beers, a little friend of hers, who almost worships her. I think that the vacation is very opportune, for we are all tired and need rest and change. Please give a great deal of love to all, and a great deal to yourself. Your loving daughter Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Dec. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: December 06, 1866
Text: Vassar College, Dec. 6, 1866. My dear, dear Mother, Many thanks for your letter. I think you are so good to write us such nice long letters. Thank Father too, please, and tell him that I shall answer, his pathetic lamentation as soon as my nerves are sufficiently composed, and my hand steady - And now, in order to explain the hieroglyphic state of my chirography let me inform you that gymnastics are the cause of all my troubles. I have grown so very agile by means of skipping, leaping, and...
Show moreVassar College, Dec. 6, 1866. My dear, dear Mother, Many thanks for your letter. I think you are so good to write us such nice long letters. Thank Father too, please, and tell him that I shall answer, his pathetic lamentation as soon as my nerves are sufficiently composed, and my hand steady - And now, in order to explain the hieroglyphic state of my chirography let me inform you that gymnastics are the cause of all my troubles. I have grown so very agile by means of skipping, leaping, and twisting over at the gymnasium, that I considered myself ably fitted to perform any feat of strength for which I felt an inward longing. Alas! my Mother! the heart is deceitful above all things &c -Saturday evening when returning from a rehearsal in the Chapel, feeling some what weary and not seeing the exact position of the staircase, owing the darkness, I attempted to put my gymnastics to practical use & fly, the result would have been most gratifying but for the intervention of a most stupid wall against which I most inoportunely bumped, and in consequence of which I lay on my = back all day Sunday and Monday feeling very much as I imagine a prize fighter might after losing the belt - Monday evening however I went up to the chapel, where some kind friends had arranged an easy chair for me, in the gallery, so that I heard all the exercises, and was only debarred from the pleasure of pushing them performers onto the stage. They went on however just as well without me, being impelled by the active tongue and arms of Miss Sarah Glazier - I am almost as wellas ever now with the exception of the slight shakiness which makes my hand writing so peculiar - But I feel firmly convinced that if that wall had not opposed I might have been flying gracefully onward, even to this day - I am very much obliged obliged to you for our hats, they are beautiful - I always had a weakness for willow plumes. But Mother dear, I am very sorry that you sent me your muff, it was very kind of you, but that squirrel one looks very respectable and I can't bear to think of you without it - If we don't go to Burlington I shall send it back immediately. The vails are beautiful - I have no doubt that my hat will be very becoming to me, but I have not had my hair curled since it came (Saturday evening), and therefore have not tried it on - I am so thankful that you have seen Katie Penfield once more. How I wishthat she could have stayed longer - Many thanks to Mr. Colburn for the agate - How are they all? I received a paper from Carrie a day or two ago, containing a long synopsis of Mr. Ballards Sermon. It looks good but I have had no time to write read it - We also had one from Father this morning. It seems more home like than anything else to see papers around the room - I am very glad that you saw poor little Barbara. Please give my love to her if you ever see her again. I think my Sunday School class in that Mission School gave me more pleasure than any twenty I could teach now. I have no doubt that Helen would have been delighted to accept her invitation to tea, if she could have received it a trifle sooner - Why didn't you telegraph - I do want to see you very much Mother dear, but just think! a third of the time is already gone! I must stop now, for I am some tired and I want to write to Willie - Much love to all - Your daughter Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Nov. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: November 25, 1866
Text: Vassar College. Nov. 25, 1866 My dearest Mother, Your letter filled me with delight. It always seems as though you had made such an effort to write to me that your letters are doubly precious. I am very sorry that you should have worked so hard getting Auntie and little Mary ready to leave. Are you quite rested now? Have they gone yet? I had a letter from Miss Gilbert yesterday, in which she said that Katie Penfield was in all probability at my Mother's. How glad you must have been to...
Show moreVassar College. Nov. 25, 1866 My dearest Mother, Your letter filled me with delight. It always seems as though you had made such an effort to write to me that your letters are doubly precious. I am very sorry that you should have worked so hard getting Auntie and little Mary ready to leave. Are you quite rested now? Have they gone yet? I had a letter from Miss Gilbert yesterday, in which she said that Katie Penfield was in all probability at my Mother's. How glad you must have been to see her. I hope she will make you a nice visit, and that no other person will dare to show his or her nose inside of the house while she stays. By-the-way don't youthink that Miss Penfield would feel complimented if she should see the manner in which I spoke of her a few lines higher up. Never mind, she'll never know, and I certainly meant no harm when I wrote it - How is George? I feel very anxious to hear from him. How do the family feel about him. Thanksgiving Day is almost here is it not? I hope you will each eat a double portion of dinner to make up for us - As for us, I don't know what we are to have but we have engaged Clara Glover to carve our turkey, the terrible thought has just crossed my mind that perhaps they won't give us a turkey! horrible! What I would have given if Mr. Curtis had only seen Father. Wouldn't he have been wrathy to meet him marching around his College? I wonder if Aunt Martha still considers Galesburg far superior to Vassar College. I wonder ifMr. what's-his-name, that resident clergyman, will go and tell Mr. Curtis what Father said about him - Wasn't Mrs. Ballard's letter good? likewise her husbands. I am more and more surprised and astonished at their kindness in writing to us. I shall certainly write to them as soon as I have an opportunity. I wish I could hear him preach this afternoon - We are going to have the Episcopal service here this afternoon - I know I shall enjoy it very much. Mr. Scarborough is a very earnest christian and a good speaker. I decidedly agree with you in not caring to change places with Dr. Hogarth's people. I am glad that your visit with those children was so successfully completed. Where is Bloomfield? I never heard of it before. It seems to me that my relatives have a peculiar fancy for Illinois - Horace Halleck is married, as ofcourse you know. One of the girls here is acquainted with his wife, or rather her sister is, and she wrote her a long account of the wedding - I pity the poor woman he has married. Don't you? I combed Helen's hair this morning, and you can't imagine what an improvement is is - I should like to do it every day if it didn't take too long - I must stop now, and get ready for church, or chapel rather - O Mother! how I wish you could hear Prof. Knapp in our Testament class - He is one of the best Christian men I ever saw. Prof. Tenney wants to get that Mastodon for the College, but has few hopes of success - I must stop now, for I am in a great hurry - Yours with much love Mattie S. W. I forgot to send my love to all the people but of course they will take it for granted.
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Nov. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: November 15, 1866
Text: Vassar College- Nov. 15, 1866- My dearest Mother, I was delighted to receive your letter, how good it was of you to write to me - We are so much rejoiced to hear such good news of your eyes. I hope that they will continue to increase in strength, until they are as well as they used to be before. You don't know how astonished I was to hear your news of Sarah. I was so positive that nothing of the kind was the matter with her, that I could scarcely believe my eyes. Do tell me all the...
Show moreVassar College- Nov. 15, 1866- My dearest Mother, I was delighted to receive your letter, how good it was of you to write to me - We are so much rejoiced to hear such good news of your eyes. I hope that they will continue to increase in strength, until they are as well as they used to be before. You don't know how astonished I was to hear your news of Sarah. I was so positive that nothing of the kind was the matter with her, that I could scarcely believe my eyes. Do tell me all the particulars as soon as possible. Nov. 21. I wrote thus far last Wednesday but was prevented from finishing it, and have not been able yet to finish it, but I am going to now any way - We are having a beautiful time prepar-ing for our public meeting which is to take place next Monday week. If Father thinks best I shall enjoy staying here very much although of course I am very anxious to see Burlington and its inhabitants once more. I don't know whether we shall have to pay board or not, but I think it altogether more probable that we will. When you send the box will you please send that large shell comb of Aunt Rebecca's? I want it very much, and will take excellent care of it. What is the matter with George Pomeroy? Your letter to Helen said that he was very low if alive. Is it not very sudden? I had not heard of him being ill - I don't know whether any one could mourn for him or not. If his mind had been unimpaired I think that he would have made a fine man - He was a very smart boy. As it is, I could hardly be sorry for him, or for the girls, his life, if helives, must be a terrible burden to himself, if not an utter blank, and a constant cause of anxiety to his friends - If he dies please tell me all about his sickness and the family, please do any way. Has Mrs. Pomeroy quite recovered? How is Sarah's health? We received Mr. Ballard's letter today. How very kind of him to write, and of you to ask him - I think the motto a beautiful one. You heard it did you not? "Per aspera, ad astra," "Through trials to glory." The girls like it very much, but we are going to get several together before we decide upon any. Did you read his letter? It was a very kind one, but I must say I dont fancy the idea of a dock in church. The church was what he meant by the "audience room" was it not? Did you hear that Italian lecture? I hope that he presentiment is a true one, and that the Pope will leaveRome before the close of the year, but I must say that I have little faith in such predictions - He seems to me very much like a fixture - Get me a felt hat please. Mother, a real pretty shape, turban if they are prettiest, and please send me my felt turban that I foolishly left behind me. Auntie and little Mary have left I suppose. I am very glad that they made you such a good long visit, & I wish that some one else would come and make you another while Father is gone. Otherwise how forlorn you will be. How did you ever come to take tea at the Colburn's? Has the old lady grown gracious? or what? Do tell us what you are going to do for Thanksgiving? Who are you going to have to dinner? What are you going to have to eat? &c &c. I am hungry and want to hear of some good things to eat. I suppose that we are to have some kind of a dinner, and a Shakspeare reading in the evening. Coming as it does just before our public meetingit was not considered necessary to have any thing much - Give a great deal of love to all the people who want it. Father, Willie, Sarah, &c - I hope that your eye is quite well now. I am very sorry that I let so long a time elapse between my last letter and this, and never mean to do so any more. With a great deal of love, and a great many kisses, I am Your humble servant, M.S.W.
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to Will, Nov. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: November 14, 1866
Text: Vassar Collage Nov. 14, 1866 Dear Will, Such a season of watching as we are having! I might better say they, for I have gone to bed in the most solemn manner every night at ten, and only wished that I was on the observatory roof, counting meteors. As we have not seen any shower it is only reasonable to conclude that you have shared the same sad fate - I have no faith in its appearing tonight, but from the wonderful beauty and frequency of those seen during the two proceeding nights, I have...
Show moreVassar Collage Nov. 14, 1866 Dear Will, Such a season of watching as we are having! I might better say they, for I have gone to bed in the most solemn manner every night at ten, and only wished that I was on the observatory roof, counting meteors. As we have not seen any shower it is only reasonable to conclude that you have shared the same sad fate - I have no faith in its appearing tonight, but from the wonderful beauty and frequency of those seen during the two proceeding nights, I have freely uttered my belief that Monday night we entered it, Teusday we wore in it, and last night was the closing up. But as I am not an astronomer my opinion is not considered oracular in the least. I shall not attempt to describe what they saw, since Hattie will consider that herpeculiar priviledge, and justly too, she having having been an eye witness of the wonders. Miss Lyman made arrangements to have the bells rung and the whole College aroused if the shower appeared, and when the rising bell rang yesterday morning there was a general stampede to the windows of sleepy girls, who fully believed that 'twas the middle of the night, and the shower had surely come. The Po'keepsee people have at last awakened to sense of their duties, and were so much in earnest about the shower that they were to have the bells rung. Did the Detroit people take any interest in it? Hattee had a letter from Father this morning. In which he said that when you wrote you would have a great many funny stories about the elections. Did you work much at them? Only think how soon you will be able to vote! I wish I could - The only election item that I have heard was that a man in Po'keepsie, the post master, felldead on the court house steps on election night. He had the heart desease, and the great joy he felt on hearing of the Republican victories proved to be his death. I am surprised that the Republicans make so few demonstrations over their triumph, although I suppose I am hardly in a position to judge of any one's rejoicings. The girls are quite enthusiastic just now over archery - It seems to me rather late in the year to think about such things, but if they enjoy it I have no objection - I think It will prove rather an expensive experiment, as most of the bows, for which they pay from three to four dollars, break at the slightest strain. I presume a third of the girls have broken theirs already - We are going to begin to practice gymnastics in a little while. I must say that I don't feel very anxious for the time to come - I shall practice between nine and ten every evening, for forty minutes. Our gymnasium is a beautiful room with a deafened floor.There is also a little gallery over the platform for spectators. The room is intended for light gymnastics only - they have made no arrangements for anything else. We are not prospering very finely with our lectures - Gough can't come, nor Holland, nor Cartiss - Manning is the only one who has returned a favorable answer. What is the most aggravating part of it, is, that the girls don't even get autograph letters from the big ones - Holland's reply was printed, saying that he gives no lectures this winter - Gough's was written by a secretary, saying that he is engaged every evening till the last of May - Isn't it provoking? I think it must be profitable business to lecture. When you are a man you had better try it - I believe that you would like chemistry Will - I should love to be a practical chemist, and try all manner of beautiful experiments - So Father is going to be gone this winter - Poor Mother! Ah Will! How good you must be! You may never have such another opportunity to show forth the good there is in you. Be sure and improve it. Write soon do. I delight in your letters as do we all. Love to every one. Your loving sister Mattie.When I said "the girls were enthusiastic in archery" I meant the girls in general not any of our room.
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Nov. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: November 04, 1866
Text: Vassar College, Nov. 4, 1866- My dearest Mother, I am all alone in my room. Helen has gone to church, Mattie and Minnie are in chapel, and I have seized the opportunity to write to you. How glad I am that you could hear Mr. Ballard today, and didn't have to sit an hour and listen to Dr. Raymond - Why doesn't some institution make Mr. Ballard a D.D. I am sure he deserves it as much as any one - I wish Father would please tell Ann Arbor to show her appreciation for true talent, and...
Show moreVassar College, Nov. 4, 1866- My dearest Mother, I am all alone in my room. Helen has gone to church, Mattie and Minnie are in chapel, and I have seized the opportunity to write to you. How glad I am that you could hear Mr. Ballard today, and didn't have to sit an hour and listen to Dr. Raymond - Why doesn't some institution make Mr. Ballard a D.D. I am sure he deserves it as much as any one - I wish Father would please tell Ann Arbor to show her appreciation for true talent, and give him all the title our poor ministers can ever aspire to. We told you didn't we that we were put into Prof. Knapp's Bible class? He, poor man, is so crowded with business that he finds it impossible to comeup here Saturdays, even for the exquisite pleasure of having a class of sixty one girls, of all ages and beliefs, at a time when but for love of the man, they would rebel, so he has dropped us, and Miss Lyman told us to pick ourselves up, and put ourselves where we pleased, for which last unexpected concession, I assure you we blessed her - So we are in our dear Prof. Tenney's. He is treating the first chapter of Genesis taken Geologically - He was very interesting indeed this morning, and as I hear Prof. Knapp twice a week in Greek Testament I am well satisfied with the change. We have a new music teacher who has just come over from Germany, her name is Sue - She is very odd looking but may be very nice indeed. I believe that she speaks very little English. How hard it must be for Carrie to have Mrs. Avery sick. Seems to me Mrs. Avery is sick a great deal lately - I do think thatCarrie is as lovely a girl as I know. Isn't it gorgeous that Maggie can use her eyes again? I think no doctor but an oculist ought ever to experiment on people's eyes. I do hope that your eyes are growing strong again. I want so much to see you Mother - it doesn't seem as if I could wait till next summer, but the time is going very fast - There is an utterly disagreeable young woman here named Frothingham, who attended Dr. Pease's church in Rochester. She sits at the head of the table this week, and as I sit close by her of course I have to be as agreeable to her as possible. She expatiated for some time on the love they all bore him, also the influence he had over the young gentlemen - Mother I don't want any bonnet, and for a hat get me any thing you want to. I don't know anything about it, not having seen a single hat of any kind. I think a felt hat would be very pretty indeed. Nellie wore her velvet hattoday, and it looked very pretty — Is it not becoming? I hope that you wont be worn out with company, but yet I am glad every time I hear of any one's being at our house. I suppose that Sarah is having a splendid time keeping house. Won't it be forlorn if George has to go away - What a goose Julia LeMaire is! I am out of all manner of patience with the people. Won't you have some body at home Thanksgiving? It will be so desolate with out any one - Tell Father that he Is a jewel to want to share the good things with us, and I wish he could. I am going to write to him very soon, just as soon as I have any ideas. I am perfectly destitute of any thing of the kind. Hattie wants you to please send her, her pink Bible Dictionary - She say that she an accumulation of duties just now, but just as soon as she can, about by Teusday she will write. How did you manage with Rose and her baby both sick? Hattie likewise wants a belt. She can't find onein Poughkeepsie. She will send you a sample - All send s greet deal of love - Please remember us to all the nice people whom we like - Love to Auntie & Mary in large quantities - Willie and Father also - Good bye - with much love from your loving daughter Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to brother, Oct. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: October 29, 1866
Text: Vassar Collage Oct. 29. 1866. My dear Brother, Don't think it was forgetfulness that caused me to pass over last Wednesday without writing to you. The truth is that my eyes were sore and I couldn't. I think I took a little cold in them or something, but I let them rest a day or two, and they quietly subsided, and are now restored to their former place in my esteem. I am full of news for you, and don't know where to begin, unless with myself, of course the most important thing....
Show moreVassar Collage Oct. 29. 1866. My dear Brother, Don't think it was forgetfulness that caused me to pass over last Wednesday without writing to you. The truth is that my eyes were sore and I couldn't. I think I took a little cold in them or something, but I let them rest a day or two, and they quietly subsided, and are now restored to their former place in my esteem. I am full of news for you, and don't know where to begin, unless with myself, of course the most important thing. We are organized William! That is to say the Junior class are. For some days we have been reviling the importance of our following that most delightful of all College classes, a class organization.So Louise Blatchley and I deputed by the class, took our lives in our hands and went to see the President last Saturday night. He was as gracious and mild as a lamb, and said yes immediately, after which he made us a little speech and we departed. That same evening we called the class together and elected the following officers. Glover C. E. Pres. M. P. Rhoades Vice Pres. A. M. Ely Sec. C.P. Leland Treas. S. Starr Historian, S. L. Blatchley Poet, M. W. Whitney Prophetess, A. L. Baker, I Carter, M. S. Warner Executive Committee. I think it will make our class pleasanter than ever. We have already determined to be distinguished women. Not "women's rights" you know, but famous in some way. We have obtained our object and are to have a course of lectures, the best that can be obtained. I think we shall have about six - Minnie has written to Mr. Pierson. I hope he will come. I wish we could getDr. McLeod to lecture on Highland poetry - Tom McGraw's eldest brother was married on last Teusday, and Saturday we received a box from Tom, containing a large amount of wedding cake. I never saw so much together before. We didn't treat it slightingly in the least I assure you. Yesterday I devoted myself principally to hickory nuts and wedding cake. He sent it in a beautiful box which Minnie says I am to have. How I wish some one would be married every week, and treat us as well, although perhaps continued treatment of that kind might not be beneficial. Of course I didn't mean that it was more than I had seen at weddings, but only sent away. Mr. & Mrs. McGraw are coming here before long. We finish our Williams today, for which I am devoutly thankful. Williams is our book of French phrases translated into English and has no comparison for stupidity. He bid us an affecting adieu, and saysthat we shall see each other no more - I suppose that he does not make any calculation for reviews. Did I ever tell you that our riding teacher is a Baron. He was compelled to leave Poland several years ago on account of political sentiments, and like most of the foreign exiles, supports himself by teaching his accomplishments. His wife, who is a Philadelphian lady assists him. She always calls him "Baron" which would seem to me a miserable affectation if it were not than he owns a jawbreaking name, which no civilized American would ever dream of pronouncing - Our hickory nuts are last disappearing under the hammer - I am afraid that they will never see the Holidays. Mr. Ballard's sermon must have been very good - How much I would give to see and hear him. Dr. Raymond is by no means interesting as a preacher. Give a great deal of love to all the girls you see. Has Mr. Pease been at our house since we left? How does he progress at the Hawleys? I would be delighted if he would carry off Lucy. Have you seen Mr. & Mrs. James? I think you had better be married. I see no objection on the score of age -I am going to write to Mother too, so I'll bid you farewell - I'll try not to skip another Wednesday - Good bye dear. Your loving sister Mattie S. Warner
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Oct. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: October 29, 1866
Text: Vassar College. Oct. 29, 1866. My dearest Mother, Wasn't I glad though when Minnie handed your letter, exclaiming, "From your Mother, only think!" I am very sorry that your eyes do not gain faster - but I think they must before long. Don't let Auntie go till they do. How magnificent it was of Father to repaper our room, and get us some curtains. I should like to go straight home and take a look at them - What style of paper was it? I don't think it at all strange that...
Show moreVassar College. Oct. 29, 1866. My dearest Mother, Wasn't I glad though when Minnie handed your letter, exclaiming, "From your Mother, only think!" I am very sorry that your eyes do not gain faster - but I think they must before long. Don't let Auntie go till they do. How magnificent it was of Father to repaper our room, and get us some curtains. I should like to go straight home and take a look at them - What style of paper was it? I don't think it at all strange that no one was sent to you, when everyone knew that your eyes were sore, and that we were not at home to help you. I should have thought it very inconsiderate if the committee had asked you. But I am very glad that you had friendssince you wanted them. How pleasant it was for Mr. Ballard to be installed on his birthday. Please tell him that he shall have all those congratulations and a great many more from us. We were reading an epistle that morning, in which Horace said that he was just forty four. I nearly made Sarah Starr choke by remarking that he and my minister were the same age. Last Friday was Minnie's birthday, she was twenty three. Hattie gave her a pincushion of crimson merino, braided with gold braid, and a border of chenille and gold braid. It was a beauty, and greatly delighted the recipient. I gave her that Winnifred Bertram which she declared was the very one she would have chosen. In the evening we went into Mrs. Tenney's carrying with us a dish of hickory nuts - Mrs. Tenney took us right down stairs, where we had coffee, raisins and crackers. Every think was so neat and beautifulit did us more good than any one could imagine who hadn't been eating in such a dining room as ours - Yet we are usually pretty neat. Miss Usher had given us leave to sit up a while after the bell rang, so that we had a delightful evening. Minnie said that she hadn't intended to celebrate any more birthdays, she was so old, but now she thought she would begin again. Wednesday afternoon Mrs. Tenney invited me to go out riding with her. I went, and enjoyed it exceedingly. We went to Mr. Buckingham's where the Prof. & his wife made a call. Then he came out and took the children and me out to go over the grounds. They were very beautiful indeed. The view of the Hudson was grand. Then they made two more calls, one of them at a most beautiful residence, whith very large, elegantly laid out grounds. I think the carriage road from the gate to the house must be at least half a milelong, I returned with a much more elevated opinion of the beauties of Poughkeepsie than I had hitherto entertained. I am glad that people are good and go to see us often. I hope they will not grow at all dilatory in that respect. The reason that I am making such chicken tracks instead of writing, is that I am anxious to finish this before mail time - Young Mat. Vassar has just been making a western tour, and is loud in his praises of the Central Depot roof. Maggie B. has the use of her eyes again. She has deserted Dr. Stewart, and is employing Dr. Noyes - I hope he will cure her. Love to all. Did you consider Mr. C.'s servant girl an addition to your pew. I wonder how Libbie felt - I must stop now. Good bye Be sure & tell us that we are to go to Burlington - Mattie S. W.
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Oct. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: October 21, 1866
Text: Vassar College, Oct. 14, 1866. My dear, dear Mother, I have directed my envelope, so as to be sure and finish my letter before dinner, it will probably seem absurd to you, but I always feel as if my letter was half done when the envelope is directed and lying ready to start. It is a beautiful day today, the air seems ladened with the audible quiet, if I may use the expression, peculiar to a Sunday morning, the house is much stiller than usual this morning also. I think the new scholars are...
Show moreVassar College, Oct. 14, 1866. My dear, dear Mother, I have directed my envelope, so as to be sure and finish my letter before dinner, it will probably seem absurd to you, but I always feel as if my letter was half done when the envelope is directed and lying ready to start. It is a beautiful day today, the air seems ladened with the audible quiet, if I may use the expression, peculiar to a Sunday morning, the house is much stiller than usual this morning also. I think the new scholars are quieting down generally, but at first they certainly seemed to us much more noisy than we were last year. Miss Lyman says they are not, and perhaps it's our vanity. Minnie went on a Geological excursion over the Hudson yesterday. Prof. Tenney took partof his class, but I didn't feel like going, and Hattie, with her usual self denial, stayed at home to go with me. They had a delightful tramp. The girls, all but four, wore their gymnastic suits. You don't know how nice they are for climbing rocks, and Jumping brooks, last time they tore their dresses and caught their hoops, and came to grief generally. If ever I go, I'll send you a full account of the place, and what we saw. We had such a nice time Friday night in our Chapter. I believe that I told Willie that we were to have a magic circle, and what the different articles were to be. Every thing went off beautifully - Helen was fixed up as the most remarkable old maid imaginable. She had her front hair curled, and a black lace head-dress over the back, an under handkerchief, and broad collar, a pair of black mitts, a reticule, an enormous handkerchief, and no hoops completed her attire - You have no idea how comical she looked. Minnie had the desk draped in black and the scrap-box on it. She spoke beautifully. Her oration was unanimously voted the best feature of the evening. I think our Society will be even pleasanter than last year. We are to have a lecture on the subject of Literary Societies from a Mr. Pierson of Waterford N. Y. At least we are going to try to get him. We are also talking of a course of lectures this winter, which I think would be very pleasant indeed, as very few of the girls are able to go to Poughkeepsie to hear lectures there, and even there we seldom hear of them until after they are over. I think that it will be a source ofgreat improvement to all of us. Gough was in Poughkeepsie last week and talked of calling at the College, but I don't think that he did it. Minnie makes a capital President for our Society. We accomplish five times as much business in one hour as we used to with Dr. Raymond in three meetings. Then she presides with so much dignity that it makes us all proud of her - I don't know whatVassar College will do next year with her present Seniors gone. Even the immense dignity and learning of her now Juniors advanced to Seniors will not be sufficient to counterbalance their loss. We do have such good cozy times in our class that it is delightful. We are all nearly of an age, and all like each other, which I think makes a great difference, then we are just a table full, and so get acquainted much faster and better. I do believe people form firmer friendships when they sit at the table together than almost any other way - Then too we always avoid disagreeable subjects at the table which I think is another good thing and a very important one. We are going to have a class organization and a motto. I have no idea what but I presume a Greek one, the girls all prefer Greek to any other language. We have just read Horace's Epistle to Lollius, and I was astonished to find almost every sentence has become a proverb, such as "Anger is a short madness." "Dare to be wise" "A deed well begunis half done" - and so forth. I enjoy Horace better every day, better even than I did Homer. I don't know about that though I do believe that if Prof. Knapp had heard our Homer class, I should have enjoyed it better than Horace. Miss Geiger is our teacher in Herodotus. I like her very much indeed, she is a continual mystery to me - I like her better & better all the time. She seems very sociable, and glad to see us when we go to see her. How good it was for Aunt Mary to write us such a good long letter, and to tell us so much news. How funny it is for Frank Rice to marry Miss Leonard. I always supposed he was rather a frisky young man, but Hattie says he is sober and quiet. I hope he and his bride will live happy - Mary wrote me a full account of their presents, they were very nice weren't they - I suppose that by this time Mr. & Mrs. Griffith are absent on their wedding tour. Beloved ones! How I envy them -Aleck McGraw, Tom's brother, is to be married Tuesday to a Miss Beecher of Battle Creek, they are going to call on Minnie while on their tour. Won't it be pleasant? Have you heard or seen anything of Mrs. Dr. McGraw? Wasn't it a shame that we didn't call on her, and yet how could we. Minnie didn't call on her either. How are your eyes now? Don't think because I have said so little about them that I have thought little. I assure you Mother dear, that I have thought of them almost every hour since I first heard that you must have the operation performed - and I can't tell you how anxious I felt till I heard that it was over. I do hope you will be careful and not overdo yourself in any way. What would become of you without Aunt Mary? Does Eliza prove as efficient as you expected? Love to everyone. Please don't imagine that I've been taking writing lessons of the chickens. I don't know what makes me write so, but I sup-pose its partly owing to the fact that I've been talking most of the time faster than I've been writing - The elections are almost here are they not? Has Father gone to Maine? Has Mr. Ballard been installed? Who preached the sermon? I knew that Mrs. Ballard was an authoress to some extent, but not how far. Mrs. Pratt looks just like it - I presume she has has had her picture taken for some book and has worn her hair so ever since.Tell Father to write me again soon - Good bye Mother dear, nearly six weeks of the forty are gone - Your loving Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Oct. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: October 14, 1866
Text: Vassar College, Oct. 14, 1866. My dear, dear Mother, I am so thankful that you are all through that dreadful operation. You can't tell how delighted I was to see your hand writing yesterday. It was like cold water to a thirsty soul. We are progressing finely - Prof. Knapp has our Bible Class, Saturday morning, we met yesterday, we are to study Acts, and I know we shall enjoy it very much. We are doing Matthew in the Greek Testament. I do love him better every day. Dr. Raymond preached on...
Show moreVassar College, Oct. 14, 1866. My dear, dear Mother, I am so thankful that you are all through that dreadful operation. You can't tell how delighted I was to see your hand writing yesterday. It was like cold water to a thirsty soul. We are progressing finely - Prof. Knapp has our Bible Class, Saturday morning, we met yesterday, we are to study Acts, and I know we shall enjoy it very much. We are doing Matthew in the Greek Testament. I do love him better every day. Dr. Raymond preached on dress today. It was a good sermon, but rather amusing, owing to various circumstances. We are learning to move with military exactness at dinner we file out of the dining room by table, thereby giving us an orderly ap-pearance very beautiful to behold. In chapel we do like wise, leaving by seats - I must say that I feel rather green, marching solemnly out, past long rows of people impatiently waiting for their turn. If the "Country Parson" could see that remark he would undoubtedly say that I had yet one of the "Things slowly learnt," to master. We have several Mt. Holyoke girls here, two of whom are graduates, and I believe, are in the Senior class here. They are Miss Stoddard, and Miss King. Sarah Stoddard, as you know, I admire very much. Miss King I don't know at all - The more I see of some new girls the better I like them, on the whole I think that they are good, much better than we at first supposed. When I wrote to Willie I was in a great hurry, and didn't say any about all the news he told me; so I'll have to tell you what I think. In the first place, Mrs. Taylor may have flattered herself that she was making out a grand story, but Ireceive it with great doubt, if not utter incredulity. In the first place, if he fell in love with Bell that summer he did it before that picnic, which happened the last week of his stay in Detroit, and he had seen her nearly every day for some weeks before. Then I happen to know that he did not correspond with her when he first left, at least, for he did with Lizzie Strong, and in his letters to her, he said some hard things of Bell, because she wouldn't write to him, but she didn't want to - They may be engaged now for aught I know, of course - but I think it was strange if Bell engaged herself to any one, in her state of health. I don't know how ever as it is any of my business, if she did. I hope you went to Nettie Vernon's wedding - I wish I could have seen her. I think Detroit must be very gay after so much marrying and giving in mar-riage - How absurd it seems - Helen had a letter from Aunt Catie the other day, directed to "Vassar Institute"- I think she had better learn where she is writing to. Anna is teaching this year - I had a nice letter from Sara the other day, it did me a great deal of good, one from Carrie also - Delia Howard said the other day that you and Auntie were to take tea at her house that day - Did you have a pleasant visit. Please remember us to Mr. & Mrs. Ballard. I wish that I could hear him preach again - I am very thankful that Auntie was with you while you were sick. I hope she'll stay all winter - How glorious the election news is! Father must be elected - I must stop now with this little unsatisfactory letter. I am very sorry for I think you deserve a long one, but I can't write any more now. The girls send much love to every body - What will Mary Colbum's baby do without her? Good bye yours lovingly Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Oct. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: October 07, 1866
Text: Vassar College Oct. 7, 1866. My dearest Mother, How do you do this beautiful Sunday morning? Father told us nothing about it when you were to have your eye doctored, so that I cant tell whether it is getting well, or you have it yet in anticipation. In either case I am very thankful that you have Aunt Mary with you, and I trust that she will stay with you all winter, especially if Father is to be gone this year. And, next you'll have Hattie there all the time. Isn't it gorgeous to...
Show moreVassar College Oct. 7, 1866. My dearest Mother, How do you do this beautiful Sunday morning? Father told us nothing about it when you were to have your eye doctored, so that I cant tell whether it is getting well, or you have it yet in anticipation. In either case I am very thankful that you have Aunt Mary with you, and I trust that she will stay with you all winter, especially if Father is to be gone this year. And, next you'll have Hattie there all the time. Isn't it gorgeous to contemplate. How much I would give to sit on your bed this morning and tell you every thing I have to say, instead of using this stupid pen. I have so many important items to communicate that I can hardly tell where to commence -For some reason best known to their High Mightinesses the Steward and Lady Principal, we, the members of the Junior Class have been honored with a private apartment in which to take our meals - A table has been laid in the cloak room of the dining hall, and there we sit like little lions at a menagerie, on exhibition for the benefit of all passers by. The reasons are conjectured at by all of us. Some, inclined to vanity, consider it an arrangement to show us off with greater ease when distinguished guests are present, others, accustomed to calculations of ways and means, suppose that is in order to determine with accuracy the exact amount eaten by the class in order to ascertain how much the College may be considered in pocket, after we are graduated and gone; others still, of a prosaic tendency, insist that the sole reason is because more room was needed in the dining hall, and the departure of fourteen persons would be a great assistance. However thatmay be, we are well served, and enjoy it highly. When you come to see us, we will invite you in there to dine. We have this morning been divided into Bible Classes. We girls are in Prof. Knapp's, but as he will have to hear his on a week day, or else come out here to live, which latter alternative would be the death of him in a week, I intend to join Prof. Tenney's for Sunday - I don't know yet what they will study. Prof. Knapp has a class in the Greek Testament, which recites twice a week, Mondays and Thursdays, I know that we shall enjoy it exceedingly. He is the pleasantest man to study any thing of that kind with of whom I know. We have for our first lesson, twelve verses of the second chapter of Matthew. Prof. Tenney's department is now in operation. He lectures principally - and is a very interesting, as well agreeable speaker. I presume we will horrify our friends and acquaintances after we return home, byseizing all the millers, grasshoppers, bugs, toads, turtles fee. that we can find, for a collection. Yesterday we went nutting, and Hattie brought home a box turtle for the Professor, while Lillie Beers, had a little garter snake to preserve in alcohol. I believe Helen is writing Willie a detailed account of our adventures. I have not enjoyed an afternoon so much since I came back. Hattie and Minnie have gone to church. I didn't go, as there was no communion in the Presbyterian church, and my morals won't permit my attending the Congregational church here. By-the-way, what is the difference between the old and new school Congregational churches? I never heard of any division until yesterday one of the girls, Louise Blatchley, said that she belonged to the old school Congregational church, and she said that in New Haven the two churches would have no communication with each other, as one considered the other heterodox. Hattie thinks that the division must exist in New Haven alone. How do the electionsseizing all the millers, grasshoppers, bugs, toads, turtles fee. that we can find, for a collection. Yesterday we went nutting, and Hattie brought home a box turtle for the Professor, while Lillie Beers, had a little garter snake to preserve in alcohol. I believe Helen is writing Willie a detailed account of our adventures. I have not enjoyed an afternoon so much since I came back. Hattie and Minnie have gone to church. I didn't go, as there was no communion in the Presbyterian church, and my morals won't permit my attending the Congregational church here. By-the-way, what is the difference between the old and new school Congregational churches? I never heard of any division until yesterday one of the girls, Louise Blatchley, said that she belonged to the old school Congregational church, and she said that in New Haven the two churches would have no communication with each other, as one considered the other heterodox. Hattie thinks that the division must exist in New Haven alone. How do the electionsmuch I want to hug you. Good bye, with a great many kisses, your loving daughter Mattie -Please send us with the other things one of the Physical Geographies. They are, or were, I think on the upper shelf in our cupboard. Helen wants her felt hat.
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Sep. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: September 30, 1866
Text: Vassar College Sept. 30, 1866. My dearest Mother, How busy you must Be with your house so full, how I wish I could be in two places at once. I am very anxious to see Uncle and Aunt, having heard you speak of them so often - I hope that they will make you a long visit, and that Aunt Mary will stay with you indefinitely - Dr. Wilks of Montreal is here, and will preach for us - I liked him very much better than I expected, this morning in chapel, not being prejudiced in his favor. Has he had...
Show moreVassar College Sept. 30, 1866. My dearest Mother, How busy you must Be with your house so full, how I wish I could be in two places at once. I am very anxious to see Uncle and Aunt, having heard you speak of them so often - I hope that they will make you a long visit, and that Aunt Mary will stay with you indefinitely - Dr. Wilks of Montreal is here, and will preach for us - I liked him very much better than I expected, this morning in chapel, not being prejudiced in his favor. Has he had four or five wives? He is a perfect specimen of Johnny Bull. He was Miss Lyman's pastor for twenty seven years, so that of course she is delighted to see him -I think it would be advisable for me to tell him after chapel, that I dont at all approve of his beloved daughter-in-law. We have been seated in Chapel - the Seniors and Juniors by themselves, the common herd alphabetically - You don't know how ridiculously we all feel poking up to the very front seats, where we sit directly under the President's eye, where he can watch us contentedly. We proposed to the class the expediency of putting on our best dresses, and a quantity of artificial flowers in our hair, and marching in five minutes late this afternoon, In alphabetical order, thereby producing an impression. Strange to say however our proposition was not looked upon with decided favor. Did I tell you that I am a Junior now? We have a new French teacher who is very disagreeable - He speaks very little English, although he understands it; he is very cross, and impatient, if anyone doesn't understand what he says the first time, he grows wrathy, immediately, which isn't fair, as he speaks very indistinctly. Perhaps we will like him better in time. The girls like the two Madames very much. Helen is in our Horace class as well as Hattie, I guess she'll get along well - It is so odd to have three sisters in the same class, sitting in a row. I sat by Miss Stoddard as long as I could, but Friday we were seated. I like her very much, she is very quiet and sweet- Prof. Tenney has returned. His Father was somewhat better when he left, but still very dangerous. He was very much afraid some little thing would make him worse, In which case there would be no hope. He said that the New Hampshire forests were a perfect blase of beauty - that they never looked so bright to him before. The trees here are just beginning to turn, but some of them are very beautiful. Helenattempted to paint one of the leaves the other day, but failed signally. We have taken some beautiful walks lately. Monday we went to Cedar Ridge, a beautiful spot. Friday to Sunrise Hill, where we had a grand view of all the country round. Mr. Mitchell had lent us his opera glass, which added much to our enjoyment. We went in our gymnastic suits, which, are just the dresses for long walks. It was so good to see Mr. King! I wanted to hug him - The day he was here we had a most unhappy season at dinner - At our table we had to wait, after we sat down till our meat (mutton chops) could be cooked, then it came so raw no one could eat it, and not enough to go around the table, two more chops were brought after cooking, but even then all were not served, and we could have no more "as the fire had gone out, and two tables had had nothing" - We were as badly off for potatoes, but fortunately had plenty of bread andtomatoes, which some tables were entirely without. At a quarter of two. Miss Lyman learned the state of affairs, and then her wrath burned high. I never saw her look so angry as when she sailed out of the dining room after the steward, who had not appeared during the meal. I think the unhappy man received a blessing on that occasion, as we have had better food, since then both in quality, and quantity - He is a very disagreeable man, and cordially detested by all who know him. I had a letter from Charlie yesterday, he seemed in high spirits, had just returned to New York after his summer vacation. I don't think he said any thing worth repeating. Miss Gilbert wanted we should tell Father that Asa Nurse represents Pittsford in the Legislature this winter. I suppose Father is deep In the coming election, and that both he and Willie spend their time at politicalmeetings of all kinds. I know nothing about the torn affairs are taking, seeing as I do few papers, and paying but slight attention to the politics of those - The marrying and giving in marriage seems to have begun with vigor in Detroit. How I wish that I was there to see. We are all progressing finely - Helen has joined the Literary Society, as she ought to in all respectability - I have made that white cambric skirt and worn it three times, the weather has been very warm - My sewing is all done except the velvet on my wrapper. I have worn my bonnet twice, once to call on Mrs. Knapp, and once to church. I should like to keep on writing all night, but I can't, and must stop. Give quantities of love to every one. Tell Willie to continue in the good way of letter writing he has begun. His letters are a perfect comfort. How much I would give to kiss and hug you - Your loving daughter Mattie
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Sep. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: September 23, 1866
Text: Vassar College Sept. 23 1866- My darling Mother, How good it was of you to write us such a good long letter. It is so good to hear from home. I hope you admire the word "good", it appears to be a favorite one of mine - It is a beautiful day, the sun is very bright and warm although it is chilly in the house - Hattie and Miss Stoddard are going to church together, and Minnie is to escort two young girls. I went to church last Sunday, walked both ways, and felt better for it....
Show moreVassar College Sept. 23 1866- My darling Mother, How good it was of you to write us such a good long letter. It is so good to hear from home. I hope you admire the word "good", it appears to be a favorite one of mine - It is a beautiful day, the sun is very bright and warm although it is chilly in the house - Hattie and Miss Stoddard are going to church together, and Minnie is to escort two young girls. I went to church last Sunday, walked both ways, and felt better for it. Yesterday we all three went in, and called on Mrs. Knapp, she seemed very glad to see us - I like her better every time I see her - They are boarding now in a private house, and enjoying life highly. Congratulate the Pomeroy's for us. Howstrange it must seem to them to have a baby at their house. What a pity that it is not a boy, they all wanted one so much. I hope that Mrs. Pomeroy will continue to do well. What will they call her? Is she old enough to show whether she is dark or fair? Was Mrs. Pomeroy ready for her? Do tell me all the particulars The Detroit girls are progressing finely. I don't think they have been at all homesick, either individually or collectively. That Miss Bartlett I have seen two or three times. She seems in a flourishing condition. Emma Cartledge's niece I am ashamed to say, we have not been to see. It's real mean of us for she looks like a child who would be desperately homesick, but we have been so busy and have made so many visits to forlorn new scholars that we haven't come round to her. I mean to go and see her this very day, for today of all days in the week she will need attention. Dr. Raymond is not able to preach today, and they do say that our lovely friend Rev. J. L. Corning will perform that duty for him. Interesting prospect! I wish we could fill our pew at home this evening. Hattie has begun to take observations on the spots on the sun. She takes them every day at twelve, so that at that time you can imagine Hattie on top of the observatory peering at his roasting majesty through a telescope. The sun has been spotless so far, but in at least a month she hopes to see some little black spots the size of a pin's head upon his disk. Clara Glover is to observe the moon and sweep for comets. I don't think it pays. My inaugural came off in a proper manner and I have taken my seat as Pres. of our Chapter, two presidents from our room is doing well, isn't it? Prof. Van Lugen and his bride have arrived. They were thirty two days on the ocean, owing to breakages in the machinery. The vessel was a Dutch one, makingits first voyage. Their friends on this side of the water were seriously disturbed about them before they arrived. Madame Van Ingen Is very tall, and dark, looking far more like a French woman than a Hollander. She wears no hoops, which adds to her apparent height - Her English is almost a minus quantity, and they say, that the poor thing tucked away in the fourth story of one of the Prof's houses unable to converse with any one in the absence of her husband, is some what homesick. I pity her from the bottom of my heart. Hattie wants you should send her that blue paper Minnie gave her & was left in one of the secretary drawers and I want my black kid gloves - I am afraid however with all our wants that you'll have a larger bundle than you can send conveniently. If so leave out anything you think unnecessary - There are about eight new teachers none of whom I like at all - but I shall have nothing to do with them - The Faculty have been working night and day to perfect their arrangements, and have succeeded so well, that on Monday we commence recitations. Dr. Raymond and Profs. Knapp and Farrar look worn out. It's too bad especially has Prof. Knapp had no rest this summer owing to the dangerous illness of his wife. I am thankful that you are having so pleasant a visit with Auntie and Cousin Mary, they must have been delighted to see the last of us - Has Auntie seen Mrs. Howard yet? Miss Gilbert said, in a letter received from her Friday, that Uncle and Aunt Safford, were to visit you soon, so dont despair - She also said that Clara joined the church last communion Sabbath Horace is at home but much worse, they will be obliged to take him back. He is very affectionate and kind whenever he knows them, which he seldom does. She hoped that we would write to them, poor Aunt Sarah is almost, heart broken. I mean to writevery soon. She says that Horace still preserves a gentlemanly appearance, but that he is a very mournful sight - Please remember us to Mr. & Mrs. Ballard, Mrs. Raymond, Mrs. Hibbard, Sara, Carrie, &c. I can't realise now that I've been at home at all, everything looks precisely like last year, except the new faces, some of whom I like, many of whom I don't like - Miss Lyman is so gracious that the old scholars are somewhat bewildered. Helen says she is going to write, but as she is comfortably basking in the sunshine reading, I hardly think she will, therefore I will say for her that she is in ecstasies with every thing and person so far, except Prof. Knapp, to whom her objections seem to be, that he is very handsome, and has a black mustache. Give a great deal of love to all at home. I am thankful that you have a good girl at last. I've been up by a quarter past six every morning till this one - Good bye - Your loving daughter Mattie-Mother if I have not said so before I want to say now, if Auntie would like it please give her for Mary my plaid brown dress. It will be of no particular service to me & she seemed to take a fancy to it & there is enough good to make Mary a very pretty dress - With love - Hattie
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to brother, Sep. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: September 19, 1866
Text: Vassar College Sept. 19 1866. My dearly beloved little brother, I can't tell you hall how glad your letter made us. I had almost decided that the Warner family of Detroit had entirely cast aside the Warner family of Vassar College. Your letter however set us right upon that point. What a delightful season you must have had with Mrs. Osborne! I am thankful that I never but once caused a young gentleman, or old either, a rainy walk, except George Crafts, one fourth of July, with whom I...
Show moreVassar College Sept. 19 1866. My dearly beloved little brother, I can't tell you hall how glad your letter made us. I had almost decided that the Warner family of Detroit had entirely cast aside the Warner family of Vassar College. Your letter however set us right upon that point. What a delightful season you must have had with Mrs. Osborne! I am thankful that I never but once caused a young gentleman, or old either, a rainy walk, except George Crafts, one fourth of July, with whom I consider myself fully quits. I trust in regard to the other subjects of complaint, that, not being a minister, you did not consider you self at liberty to swear. I am thankful that the choir of the First Cong. Church of Detroit city havecome to a realizing sense of the value of their services. What a blessing it must be to have quiet reign, or at least less noise. Is that Miss Granger, Mary? If so how did they manage to secure her? Do write me a detailed account of that business meeting. Did Bro. Richardson come up? I trust that they settled him. Did you read that account of Ives and Alexander's assault and battery case? Poor Delia! I hope she will be married soon. Cornelia Penfield thinks that happy event will take place next month. We all felt with Carrie, "wonder how Delia got home." That Capt. Ives deserves to be sent up - Such a season as we had coming here! At London there was a car attached to our train, in which Freddie Butler soon discovered that only two persons were contained. They proved to be a bride and groom upon their wedding tour, the bride a London belle, the groom a fierce officer in the British army. The three small boys en route forSing Sing together with a small boy named Stewart, took the greatest delight in rushing on to the platform of their car, peeking throe' the door, making faces at them, and tormenting the poor soul generally. Their courage was noble illustrated by a general scattering when the noble groom, having reached a period where patience was no longer a virtue, sprang to his feet, and made his way to the door. The feet that his car door was tightly and securely fastened, while tho small boys were free to come and go, soon caused them to rally their forces, and enrage the unhappy man, till he was nearly frantic. I don't know what he would have done, if night and darkness had not fallen upon us. All our accidents and misfortunes which befell us, were attributed to the effect of British pride, arrogance, seclusion and so forth. Mr. Stewart and Mr. King discussed quite freely the propriety of unshackling the car and leaving them romanticly in the starlight - but Mr. King gave it up as impracticable, owing to the probability of his carrying fire arms. Mr. King is the very pleasantest travelling companion I ever knew. I hope he'll come for Fannie next summer, and escort us all home. I have written my composition, and handed it in. My inaugural is yet to come. Our sewing is coming on by degrees. I am so very glad that you wrote us so soon. It does my heart good to get your letters. Minnie sends her love to you, and says that as soon as she has time she'll forward you small package by mail - Helen says that she will send you a note in my letter. Hattie has gone to Po'keepsie with two wretched girls. We have not begun work yet, but hope to do so tomorrow. I dont know what I shall study. Our French chap can't speak any English. How much I should like to see you all. The new Mr. Smith isn't half so good as the old one. He is trying to economize in food I guessbut we will eat him out of house and home - Give our love every body, all the girls, and Mr. & Mrs. Ballard, also the little Deacon and his wife - Good bye dear Your loving sister Mattie S. W. P.S. What a gony I am to forget our dear Auntie and cousin Mary. Give them a great deal of love & kisses - What about the Saffords? Haven't they appeared yet? Many thanks for my net I have been longing for it -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Sep. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: September 15, 1866
Text: Vassar College Sept. 15, 1866- Dear Mother, How I hope you went straight to bed after we left and stayed there until you were entirely rested. My conscience smites me every time I recall your poor tired face. I hope next year will be easier. I have been industrious in the extreme, having finished my blue silk, and brown alpaca, and partly sewed the velvet on to my black alpaca. Helen has, I believe, finished all her sewing; she has also passed her preliminary examinations, but has not yet...
Show moreVassar College Sept. 15, 1866- Dear Mother, How I hope you went straight to bed after we left and stayed there until you were entirely rested. My conscience smites me every time I recall your poor tired face. I hope next year will be easier. I have been industrious in the extreme, having finished my blue silk, and brown alpaca, and partly sewed the velvet on to my black alpaca. Helen has, I believe, finished all her sewing; she has also passed her preliminary examinations, but has not yet been examined for classification. Every one seems to think that we must have spent all our vacation in electioneering for Vassar College. I'm sorry for I dont want people to imagine that theyare the class of students our efforts produce. Some of them however are very desirable girls - Fannie King, Delia Howard and Mary Gillett are, I fancy, good scholars, the High School girls I know are, and some of the others I know are not. I hope they will all do well. The College seemed desolate enough this year before the old scholars returned the first day we were here I don't believe there were a twenty old students. Thursday I was in the parlor all day, and I assure you that any familiar face was very welcome. I think that now there are nearly one half old students, but its forlorn. There is a Miss Stoddard here, a daughter of the missionary, who is a very pleasant girl. I am sure we will like her very much; she graduated at South Hadley this summer. Emma Cartlidge's niece is also here, I guess she'll be nice, but she's very young - Miss Pope is a fine look--ing girl, that is she appears like a young lady of strong character. I like Miss Bartlet's looks very well. There are quite a number of new teachers but I know none of them, nor do I particularly fancy their appearance. I am very thankful that Aunt Mary is with you. I hope she'll stay a long time, certainly until Aunt Charlotte has gone. What would we have done without Auntie those last days? Please tell little Mary that we are under great obligations to her for her lamp lighters. We were very glad to hear from Uncle Cephus - it seems that he escaped from Canada in safety, congratulate him. I am glad that Uncle Cephas sent Helen's character. I was afraid she would be called upon for it, and be found wanting. You don't know how glad our Profs- were to see us, it did me good to hear Prof. Knapp exclaim "Oh, Miss Warner."Poor Mrs. Knapp was very dangerously ill during vacation, the Prof- doesn't seem at all rested - Prof. Tenney & his wife are very well - Sannie is as cross as a bear. Hattie is anxious that you should get that velvet, and send her a little piece in a letter, as she wants a braid to match the velvet - Miss Lyman has been as sweet as honey in concentrated essence - I don't know how long it will last - It's forlorn to have Hattie poke off every night. I mean to have a bed made on top of the wardrobe and put Hattie in it - Minnie says Hattie shall share her wardrobe and bureau, if she will only come back. I am going to write you very soon a good long respectable letter, but tonight we have company, and I can do nothing at all - Give a great deal of love to every body - Tell Willie I'll write soon, meanwhile he must do mecredit - Tell Carrie I'll write soon, but she musn't wait - Sara also. Tell her that there is a young lady here named Sarah Pomeroy - Impertinent - isn't it! The Beta Chap - elected me Pres. last Friday night - Imagine me presiding over the meetings. I went to church today, with Miss Blatchley - we went to the Presbyterian church, Rev. Mr. Wheeler Pastor - Kiss every body. I do want to see you very much. Good night - Mattie Please send Helen's silver cup in that bundle-
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to Will, Jun. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: June 24, 1866
Text: Vassar College. June 24, 1866. Dear Will, I thought I might as well write once more before leaving here, especially as I desire to congratulate you upon your advanced age. Really mon frere, you are growing old with such rapidity that I expect to regard you with some what of awe and reverence, and to consider "my brother's judgment" as very weighty. Not an insinuation that it was of no weight heretofore, but as "a hoary head is a crown of glory", so every advancing...
Show moreVassar College. June 24, 1866. Dear Will, I thought I might as well write once more before leaving here, especially as I desire to congratulate you upon your advanced age. Really mon frere, you are growing old with such rapidity that I expect to regard you with some what of awe and reverence, and to consider "my brother's judgment" as very weighty. Not an insinuation that it was of no weight heretofore, but as "a hoary head is a crown of glory", so every advancing year adds one point to form the crown. How glad I shall be to distinguish your face among those waiting for friends at the depot, next Thursday. We are calculating upon your galantry you see. Be sure that we havenot counted upon you in vain. We now expect to reach home Thursday night, or rather afternoon, at about half past five. Possibly we may be delayed until Friday, at the same hour, therefore don't break your hearts if we are not there the first day, but I shall mine. Our room is in the most gorgeous confusion imaginable. Yesterday I undertook to pack, and brought out all my dresses, folded them, rolled them, laid them on the floor, sat down on Minnie's trunk and looked at them. After a while, in sheer desperation, I tucked every thing back again to wait till Monday. I am going to do it however, because if I never begin, I shall never know how. Prof. Tenney gave us a delightful lecture in Bible class this A.M., showing our duty to God as revealed in Nature. I wish you knew him. Will, I knowyou would like him exceedingly. He and Prof. Knapp are our men. Poor Prof. Knapp is killing himself just as fast as he can. He is worn out and sick, under the doctor's care, yet he persists at coming out here every day. Thursday he gave our Latin class a lecture on "Comparative Philology," when he had to carry his chair to and fro, to sit down, when he wanted to write on the board. Two or three times he stood up leaning on a pointer, when it seemed as if he would surely fall. I hope he won't come back next fall till he is quite rested and well. Prof. Tenney is well and strong, his work takes him out of doors so much. He is a noble man. I wish you could see little Sannie, only two and a half, and yet he knows more about birds and ether animals than I do. For instance the other day I was in there and a bird began to sing near the window and Sannie shouted "Bot-o-Link!" I hadno idea what it was, but Prof, said that he was right. He cried so for turtles that they stopped bringing them late the house. Won't you be glad to see us again? If not you are a gony, and I don't want to see you a bit. Its hot as peper sauce today, and Minnie after walking to Po'keepsie yesterday, is determined to walk to Sunset Hill. I only hope she won't find any companion, for it will surely make her sick. I guess she won't go - Its a perfect shame that we have not seen any more of the beautiful places around here, but we have never been outside grounds, except to go to that horrible Poughkeepsie. Next year I'm going over the river, a sort of Utopia for botanists. By the way I've seen the laurel! The last excursionists brought home great loads of it - I think it is the most beautiful flower taken in all its bearings that I ever saw. I must stop now. Can't possibly write a word more. Good bye, dear Your loving sister Mattie
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to father, Jun. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: June 10, 1866
Text: Vassar College. June 10, 1866. My dearest Mother, I am exceedingly mortified to see by my letter book, what a length of time has elapsed since I wrote to you last. It's too bad. I had no intention of letting time fly quite so rapidly as it has. But Mother dear, you may rest assured that to which ever member of the family we write you are all the time as much in our hearts as if we were writing to you. We are just now in quite a state of excitement over our Literary entertainment. We...
Show moreVassar College. June 10, 1866. My dearest Mother, I am exceedingly mortified to see by my letter book, what a length of time has elapsed since I wrote to you last. It's too bad. I had no intention of letting time fly quite so rapidly as it has. But Mother dear, you may rest assured that to which ever member of the family we write you are all the time as much in our hearts as if we were writing to you. We are just now in quite a state of excitement over our Literary entertainment. We wanted it distinct and not mixed up in the least with the performances of the Executive Committee. We failed signally, but fought sublimely. In fact I think the President has much more respect for the girls than he had yesterday morning - We stuffed it out till half past ten, from between seven and half past. I am glad that we didn't gain any more than we did or any less. Our public meeting is progressing finely, only two weeks more though! I'm almost crazy - Never mind when we come home you'll straighten me out will you not? Minnie had a letter from home saying that Mr. Jones thinks of calling on us Wednesday. Minnie is going to write for him to come Teusday evening for the performance. How I do wish you would come. How delightful it would be! I am tired & its bed time and I must send this in this fashion, although I am heartily ashamed to do so, & half inclined not to, but it will be better than nothing so I'll do it. Will Mrs. & Mr. Freeland be at home this summer? I do want to see them.I must stop with this little bit Love to all I'll write soon - Good bye Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to sister, Jun. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: June 04, 1866
Text: Vassar College. 6 mo. 4, 1866. Dear Nellie, Many thanks for your good long letter. What an astonishing man to travel Father is growing to be. Do you suppose he really will come for us? I hope he won't want us to go any sooner or wait any? because I do believe either deed would utterly destroy the remenant of brains which I own. It will be very pleasant to have him, especially as there are several little girls going on with us to Chicago. Helen I don't believe that I shall write to...
Show moreVassar College. 6 mo. 4, 1866. Dear Nellie, Many thanks for your good long letter. What an astonishing man to travel Father is growing to be. Do you suppose he really will come for us? I hope he won't want us to go any sooner or wait any? because I do believe either deed would utterly destroy the remenant of brains which I own. It will be very pleasant to have him, especially as there are several little girls going on with us to Chicago. Helen I don't believe that I shall write to you more than three times more, before I reach home! What is the matter with Congress? I saw in the paper that they had repealed the tax on pig iron, which I supposed would greatly rejoice him. I hope he'll gain his point, whatever it is. Hattie Pearl's marriage as well as Mattie Messenger's had reached me by way of Lucy Hawley to Hattie. I am very glad that Hattie Pearl has married Mr. Pond, and not Mr. Kent. That gentleman does not appear to increase in aimability as his years. Mother must have enjoyed the visit from Mr. & Mrs. Weed very much. I am so glad she has seen them again. Was all that nonsense about T. Huntingdon & his washing true, that Father said? If so I think him an impertinent puppy, & I can't imagine why Mother agreed to do it - Miss LeMaire is to be congratulated - Did she marry a Detroit sprig? If so what is the occupation and calling of the same? It must be a relief to the Silsbee's that Mrs. Silsbee is finally at rest. How are the financial interests of the family? Last I heard they were nearly penniless.I am glad that you have a bonnet likewise a basquine. It will be the duty of the family to provide those articles for Hattie after her arrival in D - What style is Empress? I am a perfect barbarian in regard to fashions you see. What a looking letter! In regard to the exact hour of our return. I am unable to state positively - We had laid all our plans to reach home about five o'clock Friday evening - but of course if Father comes for us, it will be just as he says - I hope he won't see fit to alter any thing, for I don't want to leave here a minute before school is out, and I dont want to be a minute later at home. Won't it be joyful! I can't tell you how I long for a place at the foot of Mother's bed. and a good long talk with all of you - Miss Gilbert is able to be around, but is prevented from hearing her classes, by a large stye on her eye. I think it wouldbe the best thing she could do to go home and stay there, and suffer another one to reign in her stead. We have finished the first book of the Mem. or will have done when this reaches you - We have our last lesson Wednesday - Then we reveiw preparatory to an examination by Prof. Knapp. I am utterly witless this afternoon, and shall wait until evening - [In pencil in a different hand] (Well how do you do? Home in three weeks more!!! Father to go home with!!! Aren't going to have an address before our Society!!! Ought to be writing an article for our Society paper. Don't know what to write about. The last scene in the drama has closed with, Exeunt all my ideas-) Did you ever hear of such impertinence! See what I'll do to her next letter! It's wet and rainy, and damp, and sleepy - Love to all, tell Sallie to write just once more. Tell Mother to preserve her strength to hug us. I don't know anything, or care for anything. Minnie & Hattie send love - Good bye, your most stupid sister Mattie S. W.
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to father, Jun. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: June 03, 1866
Text: Vassar College. June 3rd, 1866. My dear Father, I was much delighted by your graphic accounts of the suffering, lately endured by Mother and Helen lest their housekeeping skill, should be amenable to the assaults of the evil minded. Also by the galantry of your conduct, in bravely rushing to the rescue, and lifting the weight from their minds. Perhaps if you had suggested misquitos, it might have been as effective as spiders, and approached quite as closely, the real state of the case. They...
Show moreVassar College. June 3rd, 1866. My dear Father, I was much delighted by your graphic accounts of the suffering, lately endured by Mother and Helen lest their housekeeping skill, should be amenable to the assaults of the evil minded. Also by the galantry of your conduct, in bravely rushing to the rescue, and lifting the weight from their minds. Perhaps if you had suggested misquitos, it might have been as effective as spiders, and approached quite as closely, the real state of the case. They certainly have not hesitated to appear within these sacred precints, although I had always understood that misquitos were not common at the east, but rather preferred the active, stirring life of the west. I can't blame them,every day that I spend here makes me love the west better. People say that Eastern New York, is not the place from which to judge of Eastern people, and I earnestly hope that such is the case. I am referring now to Poughkeepsie, and not College. I never knew such cold weather for this season of the years here it is June, and the thermometer at 50° most of the time - In one county, which I can pronounce but not spell, they have had a severe snow storm. I don't think we have had any frosts of any importance, but I have been watching strawberry blossoms for three weeks and can't see any prospect of fruit. It is very provoking to be here till the raspberries, and huckleberries, and blackberries give full promise of abundant harvests, and come back just after the last gleaning of those harvests is over. We have one consolation however, almost every large tree on the place is either chesnut, or hickory, so that we can lay in storesof those, sufficient to last all winter. It is very pleasant to us to think of only three more Sabbaths, before we shall be at home. The time fairly flies. We are no more than ready to begin the work of the week before it is over. I am very glad that the year is so nearly ended, on account of those who are almost ended too. There has been a great deal of hard work done here, more than I ever saw before. For instance a Miss Geiger, who commenced French and German last fall, is now in the most advanced class in both. She is reading Plato with Hattie and Minnie, has read Latin beyond the acquirements of any class here, has studied mathematics beyond calculus, and to crown all enjoyed her eighteenth birthday this spring. I forgot to say that she had also taught school. I don't know how much. Of course Nature has her revenge in giving her a tired troubled look, that makes her appear twenty five sometimes, and by bestowing onher such headaches, as it makes me shudder to think of. I thought Friday as she was hearing one Greek class (Miss Gilbert is sick again), that in the long run temperance in study pays as well as temperance in strong drink. I know you will be glad to hear that I am coming home feeling much less tired than when I came. In fact we are all well, and comparatively fresh. I hope that you will exercise great long suffering and kindness toward this letter. Girls whose routine of life never varies from one day to any other; whose greatest excitement is to wait at the head of the stairs, for the mail; whose chief subject of conjecture is, whether they'll have any thing good for dinner; almost necessarily grow egotistical, and fill their letters, with "Great L" I am ashamed of it, but don't seem to improve at all. The best reform will be to stop writing - Love to all - Please tell Nellie that she owes me a letter. Good bye for the present. Your loving daughter Mattie S. Warner.
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, May 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: May 25, 1866
Text: Vassar College May 25, 1866. My darling Mother, Fourtune favors the brave most truly! Here we have been sighing and sorrowing on our way, because we had no letters, but yesterday we publicly avowed our intention of making way with every relative or connection by marriage, whom we possessed. Today our room has beea favored by seven! More than we have had in the same length of time since we've been here. Minnie had long letter from her sister Lizzie, who has been very sick with...
Show moreVassar College May 25, 1866. My darling Mother, Fourtune favors the brave most truly! Here we have been sighing and sorrowing on our way, because we had no letters, but yesterday we publicly avowed our intention of making way with every relative or connection by marriage, whom we possessed. Today our room has beea favored by seven! More than we have had in the same length of time since we've been here. Minnie had long letter from her sister Lizzie, who has been very sick with intermittent fever. Hattie had three from Maggie Buchanan, who can hardly contain her hoy at Mrs. Town's presence; she also received Father's letter. I had yours and Helen's. Such a feast as it has been!Helen's letter came this morning and we puzzled over Mrs. Whitaker considerably, when your noon letter solved the mystery. I am glad she came and that you enjoyed it so much. Have you been up to Elmwood lately? I am very anxious that both graves should be planted with flowers. Isn't it good that I am so strong, and have learned to take such long walks? Tell Father that he needn't worry any about evening dews and damps, for we are not allowed to put the tip end of our noses out doors after sunset; and as for drafts its so cold we have the steam on. It seems to me that if the cholera was going to be at all prevalent this summer it would have appeared before this - Just think its almost June. Don't let Helen and Father frighten themselves into fits, on the subject. Who do you think is going to preach for us next Sunday? None less than Dr. Goodell of Constantinople. Isn't itworth while to go to Vassar College, and see all the dignitaries? He has returned to this country to pass the remainder of his life. I am very thankful to have an opportunity to see him - By the way a returned missionary read for us last Monday evening, and such a looking woman, and such a dressed woman, and a reading woman I never saw before and trust I may never see again. Dr. Raymond is better I believe, but he still suffers very much, especially from his head. We miss him very much. Prof. Farrar is going to take his classes that have just finished Algebra to Rhinebeck, to visit the country seat of Hon. Wm. Kelly, President of the Board of Trustees. He is very fond of having parties come out there, and has often invited Prof. Farrar to take some of the young ladies. They'll have a delightful time. We think of joining the Algebra class next year -Do please tell me, or tell Helen to tell me in your very next letter, whether or no Sara is living in the Walker house. Every letter I have says something about seeing her so seldom which alarms me lest Mrs. Ladue was successful in her search for another house. Another thing that frightens me is that I have asked the question so frequently and it has not been answered. In pursauce of Father's advice we are going to make some calls before tea. I don't think that we go into any of the girls rooms to make a call, on an average once a month. I have never sat down next door but three times, and they are very nice girls, and not coming back next year. We visit Prof. Tenney about twice a week. We are going to Mrs. Farrar's after Literary. I am glad you like the catalogues and that they make a favorable impression. I want every one to like Vassar College. Five weeks from tonight I hope to take tea in our dear old home. It makes me almost wild to think of it - The time glides by like a dream. I can't realize it all. Poor Mr. & Mrs. Freeland! I hope they won't be gone all the time we are at home. You have called on Mrs. Town have you not? How does she seem? Love to all. I'm so glad you have your flower beds made - also congratulate you uponSat. A.M. Dr. Goodell is at the breakfast table, and such a looking man! He must be over eighty years old, and has the appearance of second childhood. He wears a velvet skull cap, braided with gilt, and a long tassel. As I passed the table he had a napkin tied around his neck, as if he was about four years old. He looks just like the kind of a man that would go to sleep and continue preaching an indefinite amount of time - The girls are all prophesying a three hours sermon for tomorrow. Only four Sundays after tomorrow and then we'll go to church. Next Sunday (i.e. the first Sunday in June), Louise Blatchley and I are going into Poughkeepsie to hear Mr. Lawson, the Baptist minister, preach. He is a young man, an old student of Prof. Knapp's. Miss Gilbert has given up her corridor, rather she is going to. Her health is miserable. She is one of the oddest persons I ever knew. Sometimes I like her verymuch, and sometimes I don't at all. When she was home last, the Warner girls sent me a hugh bouquet of trailing arbutus which she left in a fine state of preservation on her dining room table. Wasn't it provoking? We called on Mrs. Farrar last night, but she had gone to Elmira, so we had to visit with Miss Stone and Prof. Farrar. We didn't stay but a few moments, but went to Prof. Buckham's where they paid no manner of attention to our vigorous and repeated raps. Then we made a call of Mary Granger and her room mates which we have owed every since we've been here almost - after which we landed at Prof. Tenney's. We almost invariably go there Friday night after Literary, and they always expect us. I want this letter to go off in the morning's mail so I must stop - Tell Nellie that I'll answer her good long letter soon - but too many a once would be a pity - We are talking of a row upon our "beautifully secluded pond" this morning - Good bye, Mother dear. Your loving daughter Mattie -Mrs. Sumner's removal - It will be a great comfort to you to have her so near. I think Emma Cartlidge might write to us. I am out of patience with her - not one syllable have we heard since she was married - See if I write to her when I am Mrs - I am very sorry for the Smiths. It seems as if a very large number of young people had died since we left home. Poor Mrs. Adams - Carrie speaks in every letter of Bell's increasing loveliness of Christian character. How is Mrs. Stebbins - Love to all the usual people - I want very much to see Mrs. Raymond - Good bye your loving daughter Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, May 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: May 20, 1866
Text: Vassar College. May 20th, 1866 My dear Mother, I can't let Father's letter go without one to you also. Wasn't it good of him to write to me? I was very much pleased. We have been doctoring our ink with water, which makes it write easier, but hasn't improved the color materially, if you can't read this, "just lay it aside till I come home." I had a nice letter from Carrie yesterday. I like her letters very much, they are so very easy and spicy, her hand...
Show moreVassar College. May 20th, 1866 My dear Mother, I can't let Father's letter go without one to you also. Wasn't it good of him to write to me? I was very much pleased. We have been doctoring our ink with water, which makes it write easier, but hasn't improved the color materially, if you can't read this, "just lay it aside till I come home." I had a nice letter from Carrie yesterday. I like her letters very much, they are so very easy and spicy, her hand writing is beautiful. She says that Bell Adams is very sick, and seems to think it doubtful if she lives long. Mrs. Adams will miss her dreadfully will she not. You aren't all tired out are you? I am almost afraid to hear from homelest both you and Helen should be completely worn out and weary. Just consider, Hattie and I will be ready to lend a helping hand, in five weeks. I have just been marking the catalogue for your benefit. Those who are only friendly acquaintances I marked 1, those I like and know well I marked + and my most particular friends *. So you see the latter circle is not extensive, comprising only two besides our Greek class. Helen Dana, and Minnie - Of the girls so marked Louise Blatchley, I like best. I'll tell you all about her when I go home. Please give my love to all the girls and Willie. I intend to patronize the latter extensively when appear in your august city - I forgot to tell Father how deeply indebted I feel for that new sidewalk. I wish I could write more but have no time. Tell Nellie that I am compelled just now to keep a strict account with her. Good bye my dear, dear, mother. Your loving daughter Mattie
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, May 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: May 13, 1866
Text: Vassar College. May 13th, 1866 My dearest Mother, How much would you give to have us at home this beautiful May morning, going to church as Christian people should do, instead of lounging around aimlessly until time to dress for dinner, or after dinner for chapel. This morning however, we contemplate an excursion to sun rise hill, famous for its beautiful scenery - but, owing to its situation, just outside bounds, we have never been there. Dr. Raymond has however proclaimed liberty to all...
Show moreVassar College. May 13th, 1866 My dearest Mother, How much would you give to have us at home this beautiful May morning, going to church as Christian people should do, instead of lounging around aimlessly until time to dress for dinner, or after dinner for chapel. This morning however, we contemplate an excursion to sun rise hill, famous for its beautiful scenery - but, owing to its situation, just outside bounds, we have never been there. Dr. Raymond has however proclaimed liberty to all seniors, juniors, and all over twenty, which last was an important addition as no mortal persons know whether they are in the Freshman or Senior year - Minnie is going try for a standing permis-sion for me to go with her and Hattie. I don't much believe she will succeed. We were delighted with Helen's letter - I am glad that you liked Emma so well, Mr. Cartledge also - I shall always be thankful that she came here, and we became so well acquainted with her. I am also glad that she read that account of Founder's Day, she could make you understand much better. Helen said that you would be house-cleaning this week, I hope you have not worked too hard, or got too tired, you must take good care of yourself. Only five more Sundays Mother! I can't realize it at all. I am very sorry, much as I want to be at home again, to have the time fly so. We have a great many good friends here, who do not intend to return next year and whom I shall be very sorry to lose sight of. Minnie says decidedly that she shall not return. The girls here are grand. It does not seem possible that wecan have so many smart girls here another year, although of course there are a great many in the country. Miss Mitchel firmly believes, and loudly affirms, that no future class will ever be equal to her present astronomy class. I don't believe that she will ever feel the same pride in and affection for, another, that she does for these her first pupils. I suppose that Sara Ladue (do look at it) is very busy moving. I have been looking eagerly for a letter from her, but of course her time is very much occupied in receiving calls, and getting settled in her new home. Of course Mrs. Ladue did not succeed in finding another house, or you would have told me. Won't it be joyful to see her again. Do her new dignities as a married woman alter her any? I hope she will live happily with the old lady and Lottie. I do wish the latter would be married - What has become of Carrie?I have heard nothing of or from her lately. Did Mr. Lever come, and how did you like him? I hope they'll settle Mr. Ballard if you like him - I feel very indifferent indeed about it - In fact I can hardly realize that we have no minister, or that it will ever make any difference to me who preaches there - I am very glad that that Concert did so finely to such large houses. Tom wrote that it was very remarkably fine. Congratulate Willie that he is through. How old he is getting! I declare I shall hardly know him, almost seventeen - I am very impatient to see him, he must be sure and be at the depot - I have so much to say to you Mother dear, that I have resolved not tell you anything till I go home, which must account for the meagre character of my documents. Of course you know that Katie Penfield's father is dead, and that the Manlys have moved into her house. I'm going to write to Sara tonight. I feel justlike it, and have nothing else to do. Please give my love to the usual persons. We didn't go to Sunrise Hill it was so windy - Minnie has the headache, but I hope she'll sleep it off - I am surprised she hasn't had one before. Hattie and I still preserve our accustomed health, altho' a sermon an hour long of the stupidiest material he ever displayed to us, nearly broke down my constitution this afternoon. Prof. & Mrs. Tenney and the young Tenney are all well - Prof. T. is our Father Confessor I dont know what would become of us without him - Mrs. T. is as lovely as ever -Mrs. Knapp made us a call nearly an hour long Saturday. She is a charming little lady. Miss Usher is very miserable. I am afraid she won't try it here another year - Miss Gilbert has been sick for a day or two, but is well now. She is growing old and rheumatic - Our fascinating Baptist minister has the impudence to be a married man - Tell Nellie that she is greedy to want another letter before she has answered mine - Love to all - Good bye your loving daughter Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to Helen, Apr. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: April 23, 1866
Text: Vassar College. April 23rd, 1866. My dear Helen, I obtained your letter today, and hasten immediately to answer it. Of course Mother has before this recieved my letter saying that Clara did not write to Miss Gilbert, but I misunderstood her, upon that topic, but she said distinctly when she contradicted the report of Clara's writing that "the person who did write heard the report through the Warner's." & Minnie heard her say it. I told Miss Gilbert what Clara said, ...
Show moreVassar College. April 23rd, 1866. My dear Helen, I obtained your letter today, and hasten immediately to answer it. Of course Mother has before this recieved my letter saying that Clara did not write to Miss Gilbert, but I misunderstood her, upon that topic, but she said distinctly when she contradicted the report of Clara's writing that "the person who did write heard the report through the Warner's." & Minnie heard her say it. I told Miss Gilbert what Clara said, & she seemed considerably annoyed and said that there must be some mistake. I am very sorry for all the trouble and annoyance it has occasioned you, but I should think that the best you could do would be to let the matter rest.Another time, I will sift a report thoroughly before I trouble any one at home. Many thanks for your pleasant description of Sara's wedding, but why didn't you tell me something about the child herself? Neither you nor Mother mentioned her any further than to inform me that she was there. Thank Mother most heartily for that wedding cake. I am very glad of it. Tell Emma that this is exactly the right time for her to answer my letter, & tell me every thing, she can beg borrow or steal about the wedding. By the way, where do the Pomeroy's propose to establish themselves? or has Mr. Chapaton abandoned his plan of pulling down and building? I hope it won't be far off that they go. I wonder whether you have heard about Aunt Maria? Charlie wrote Hattie some time ago, that she had had a paralytic stroke. For the first few days she was not expected to live, but at last reports was better. Hattie was dailyexpected. I do hope she will recover. Minnie is still sitting most of her time upon that Committee. I am glad I am not on it - She enjoys it however. We have started off full tilt with breakfast at half past six. The result is that I have spent meet of my day gaping furiously. I fear I shall be utterly annihilated before the end of the week. Please to present the new minister with my hearty congratulations upon his respectability and efforts at sociability, as well as my condolence upon his lack of beauty. Tell Father that I am glad he is at home, & if I only was too my happiness would know no bounds. When I arrive at that blissful abode, I am never going to bed at night, nor to get up in the morning, nor to go out walking, nor to sit an hour at dinner, nor do anythlag that I don't want to do & have to do here. Your light silk must be beautiful - I don't see just how you managed it-I am very glad that you had it done - I do think that you ought to be thankful to me for two such extraordinary letters so near together. I shall expect you to answer with marvellous rapidity. Do please excuse me from going out in the wind and rain, or rather mud, if it only would rain I shouldn't be obliged to go. Please give my love to Mr. Freeland the very first instant you see him - I want to go home. What's more I am going in nine weeks. I have a bundle of things saved up to tell you & Mother as long as the moral law. Good bye - Mattie. Mrs. Reynolds Emma appears to be the "other persons". I think she was a good deal excited & said more than she intended.
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Apr. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: April 19, 1866
Text: Vassar College. April 19th 1866. My darling Mother, I see with much regret that it is again nearly two weeks since I have written to you. I never mean to fail in writing my weekly letter, but sometimes circumstances over power me. I received Nell's good long letter, today. I dont at all wonder at her indignation. Fannie must be a very simple minded young lady, if she imagines all the visitors to a convent Roman Catholics. I wonder if she considered herself converted, nolens, volens. I...
Show moreVassar College. April 19th 1866. My darling Mother, I see with much regret that it is again nearly two weeks since I have written to you. I never mean to fail in writing my weekly letter, but sometimes circumstances over power me. I received Nell's good long letter, today. I dont at all wonder at her indignation. Fannie must be a very simple minded young lady, if she imagines all the visitors to a convent Roman Catholics. I wonder if she considered herself converted, nolens, volens. I haven't seen Miss Gilbert since Helen's letter came. Helen says that the new minister (you all appear to have an antipathy to his name), is to board at our house in our room. I hope you don't intend to quarter us in the barn, when we return,and yet I should not think it would be any advantage to him to engage a boarding place, for so short a time - I should imagine that he was some such style of man as Prof. Buckham, who is not a favorite among the "Daughters of Vassar". So Sara is fairly married! Just think of her as Mrs. George Ladue! Her friends have been very generous, have they not? Miss Gilbert has just been in here and I hasten to correct my mistake. Clara did not write to her, as I understood her, but the body who did obtained her report thro' them, and it appears now, but that she didn't say before, that Clara did not believe it. Miss Gilbert was considerably excited at the time, and when she is so, she never gets any thing quite straight - I presume it will all be righted soon. I am waiting eagerly for letters concerning Sara's wedding. Did Father return in time - Don't you think we girls had better turn our attention topractical affairs, instead of going to school, prehaps, if we should try hard, we might succeed in marrying a fellow, thereby obtaining any quantity of presents, silver etc. I feel as stupid as I possibly can, which you have undoubtedly discovered, but you must excuse me this time, as I am laboring under the complicated difficulties of a severe headache, a wretched pen, and the worst ink I ever saw. I am going to have my hat pressed into a some thing or other, and trimmed with a simple band of narrow ribbon. That is the most fashionable style. Hattie will have to get a new one. My clothes have lasted very well, only my blue plaid dress is some what dilapidated. I have not had on my cloak since I left Brooklyn, but twice, and my bonnet only once. Outer garments are thrown away here, upon those who neither go to church nor shopping - I haven't been into a store of any kind since we left home.I am very glad to hear of Mrs. Russel's approaching nuptials - Minnie expresses great satisfaction. They think a great deal of Mr. Holbrook at her house. Emma says they may reach Detroit a few days later than she at first expected. Only two weeks left for her. Dear me, how all the people are getting married! I am very sorry indeed for poor Bell and David. What a hard hearted old wretch the old gentleman must be. I wish people that make such bad use of money could never get it. Oh Mother! if I could only see you, and all the home people, it seems as though, that would be all I could want. I fairly ache when I feel forlorn as I do today, to lie down on your bed, and be quiet - You know of course where there are so many people that there must be a continual sound, or rather feel of persons all around you. I think I am growing rather blue and had better stop immediately - Minnie and Hattie send love. Good bye Mother dearest - Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Apr. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: April 17, 1866
Text: Vassar College. April 17th, 1866 Dear Helen, I think you are a smart youth! when I write to you the 24 of March, and receive an answer from you the 2nd April, which I answer the 4th, it doesn't sound well for you to complain of not receiving letters from me. We, that is Hattie, had a magnificent letter from Mother this morning, as "chockfull" of news as ever Sol Gills was of science. Of course it is a great disappointment to give up the thought of seeing Sara; but to tell the...
Show moreVassar College. April 17th, 1866 Dear Helen, I think you are a smart youth! when I write to you the 24 of March, and receive an answer from you the 2nd April, which I answer the 4th, it doesn't sound well for you to complain of not receiving letters from me. We, that is Hattie, had a magnificent letter from Mother this morning, as "chockfull" of news as ever Sol Gills was of science. Of course it is a great disappointment to give up the thought of seeing Sara; but to tell the truth I had almost made up my mind that if she went through here, it would necessarily be so late, that we could not go down, which would be a far greater trial than her going west, instead of east. It is bad enough to have her five hun-dred miles away, but to have her so near and be unable to see her, would have been dreadful. I do hope that tomorrow will be pleasant. I actually feel nervous about it, which, after so glorious a sunset is the height of absurdity. What a blessed fellow George Ladue is! I have dreaded very much to hear where they would live, lest it should be up on High Street, or some where around there. Won't it be delightful? Nearer if possible than before. I hope that Father will be home in time for the wedding. I should feel very sorry if he shouldn't see Sara married. How beautiful her presents are! Did she seem to like ours? Oh, how I should like to be at home for a week just now. Wouldn't all our tongues fly - I dreamed last night of being at home and seeing Sara married, and was just running over to Wing's for some eggs, when I found myself placidly staring at the beaureau. I can't tell you howmuch disappointed I was. This day has been signalized by a marvellous event. I received a letter, directed to Miss Martha S. Warner, Poughkeepsie N.Y. As it said nothing of Vassar College, they took the liberty to advertise it, so that I didn't obtain it till today. It was a delicate note from Henry Chaney, on a sheet of foolscap paper, telling me about that picture of Eddie Brush. What style of full length portrait can they get for 100 dollars? I believe that if I were a young gentleman, writing even a business note to young lady I should have sent a neater specimen than that. I never saw anything equal the amount of calls that you and mother have made lately. I suppose you'll quite despise my company when I go home, Hattie had a letter from Father yesterday. He didn't seem very kindly disposed toward our presemt congress.I am very sorry that he has not succeeded any better in his design. What fools it makes men to have power in their hands. If you and I were at the head of this nation, what lots of things we'd do, wouldn't we? I wish we could have seen Father, but consider his reasons for going the other way unanswerable. I wonder if he wants to see us, or misses us much. I would give a great deal to sit down in his lap and put my arms around his neck. Only ten weeks more! It hardily seems any time at all. I most sincerely hope that Aunt Catie's desire may not be gratified. Some of the girls talk of visiting a few weeks, before they go home. But we mean to take the first train that leaves for the east, and not stop till we get into the back parlor, or Mother's room. Is Willie intending to figure as a Home-guard, or Hungarian? I read it the latter, Hattie the former - I am glad Mother likes the idea of the Founders Festival. I thinkIt will be very pleasant. Mr. Vassar is very feeble, and we shall have to take care not to tire him unduly. He has had a paralytic stroke since Christmas, that impaired his health very much. I have no doubt that this will be his last birthday. I mean to take a photograph of him home. He doesn't look a bit like a hero. His beloved nephew Young Mat reminds me more of a little, swelling, bantam roster than any thing else - Tell Mother, that we are much obliged for her kind offer. I don't think that I want anything but a light calico, and some kind of a summer dress. My underclothing is in a fine state of preservation, stockings excepted, as usual. How pleasant it was for you to go over that printing office. I looked upon the newspaper, with a slight feeling of awe, after I received your letter. I intend to preserve it, as a memento of your visit. Charlie Clark always looked to melike a very pleasant, and obliging gentleman. Miss Beaument appears to be a young lady after your own heart. I am very glad that you like her so well, it must be very pleasant for you, to have a friend so near. Oh Nell! I have just seen the most beautiful sight! The Aurora Borealis has been perfectly exquisite. I never saw any thing like it before it. The light rose in massive columns reaching almost to the zenith. It was fairly wonderful. Hattie as an astronomer, has standing permission to venture forth after dark, therefore she and Miss Helmer, prepared to go out, but they suddenly faded (i.e. A.B.'s) so they (i.e. H. and Miss H.) remained safe in the fold. Ten o'clock is close at hand, and I am extremely sleepy, therefore I must bid you a fond farewell. Love to all - Mattie. Tell Mother that I have not forgotten her, and am going to write soon. It's no use boarding the minister if hehas reached the mature age of forty years without choosing unto himself a helpmeet, he would not be a desirable one to be chosen by. I am very glad the new church is so flourishing. I hope you will continue to flourish. Lucy is progressing. I wonder if it was her Uncle who gave her that card case. I never saw any thing like her. I wish Carrie's letter would be forthcoming. Has Willie ever launched his boat? The girls are running crazy on the subject of boating on this little pond no bigger than a man's hand. Good night again Mattie Minnie and Hattie are loving
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to sister, Apr. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: April 11, 1866
Text: Vassar College, April 11th, 1866 My dear Sister, I must beg of you, when you have in your company, simple minded people, who regliously believe what ever is said in their hearing, not to confuse and befuddle their brains in such style, that they return to your native state, and industriously spread the report, that you have abjured the faith of your Fathers, and joined yourself to that of the scarlet woman and Pope of Rome. Just this thing Miss Fannie Hammond has done, creating thereby...
Show moreVassar College, April 11th, 1866 My dear Sister, I must beg of you, when you have in your company, simple minded people, who regliously believe what ever is said in their hearing, not to confuse and befuddle their brains in such style, that they return to your native state, and industriously spread the report, that you have abjured the faith of your Fathers, and joined yourself to that of the scarlet woman and Pope of Rome. Just this thing Miss Fannie Hammond has done, creating thereby considerable commotion in the fair town of Pittsford. Clara Warner, in much perplexity has written to Miss Gilbert, she has also recieved other letters on the subject. Miss Gilbert thinks that the best thing you could do would be to write to that hopeful place yourself, stoutly denying the same. She says that to any denial from us, they would say They left before she turned, and the family don't let them know, hasn't Fannie come from there, and doesn't she report the evidence of her own eyes and ears? You will have to walk circumspectly in future my dear, if this is to be the result of any flights of fancy you may indulge. Did I ever tell you that a report was circulated thro' the College, at Thanksgiving time that we were Southern sympathisers, owing to a remark I made, to the effect, that Thanksgiving Day belonged in November, and I didn't believe that the Pres. knew much about Northern customs? We are very much engaged at present in preparations for the Founders Festival. Every thing is going to be done in fine style. I'll send you a full account when it happens. Minnie is one of the committee of arrangements. Hattie has managed to keep clear of nearly every thing.Minnie had a letter from home yesterday. It lacked two days of being four weeks since she had heard, they were very busy with spring work, as I conclude that every one must be, insomuch as this morning there were only three letters to divide among the forty girls on the corridor. Sara, I suppose, is almost if not quite ready - Dear me! how near it is! I do hope that she has these few days for "otium cum dignitate." I am already to rush down to tho depot, either next week Friday or any nearer time required - If you can conveniently please get me a sample of her dresses. I don't expect a letter from her until she has returned from her wedding tour, and is fairly settled as Mrs. George N. Ladue. Where are they going to live? I wish you to understand that you must defer your confirmation until such time as your two youthful sisters "can be there to see". I would advise you to enter the convent as soon you have given up allhopes in the matrimonial line. But so long as one last glimmering hope remains cling fast to that - I must go to French - Good bye Mattie. [Martha S. Warner, '68]
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Apr. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: April 07, 1866
Text: Vassar College April 7th, 1866. My darling Mother, Right glad were we to receive your dear good letter. How many things you and Nellie do find to write about. I desire first of all, to express my approval, of that card case. She never had anything of the kind, and has a very pretty napkin ring. Besides when she is out calling in full bridal array, it will make a very pretty addition to her dress. Its a good thing that Doctor Pomeroy got married, isn't it? Minnie says that Mr. Corning is...
Show moreVassar College April 7th, 1866. My darling Mother, Right glad were we to receive your dear good letter. How many things you and Nellie do find to write about. I desire first of all, to express my approval, of that card case. She never had anything of the kind, and has a very pretty napkin ring. Besides when she is out calling in full bridal array, it will make a very pretty addition to her dress. Its a good thing that Doctor Pomeroy got married, isn't it? Minnie says that Mr. Corning is one of the wealthiest men in the country. Do you know what the Ladue's are going to give her? I hope that Sara will cultivate an affection for shawls. How near it is! only a little more than a week! the nearer the time grows, the more unreal it all seems. The thought of seeingher nearly destroys my self possession. I am glad that you are so anxious to see us, it is very pleasant to feel that one is missed, but yet I do think that poor Thomas Huntingdon will have to make up his mind to the dreadful sacrifice. Undoubtedly it is a trial. Such delightful weather as we have had! Thursday the thermometer stood 18° where the sun has never shone since the house was built. Spring dresses blosomed out in great profusion, and one damsel had the good taste to appear in a white waist - but yesterday and today it has been cold and rainy, so that spring dresses are back in their trunks. I am glad not to have much prematurely warm weather this spring. Last night we had an election of officers in our chapter, in which we dethroned Hattie, and exalted Miss Bush in her stead. Nellie Seland is Vice Pres. Nellie Baker Secretary, Miss Glidden Treasurer. I hope next week to be relieved from my duties a Scrap-box committee. We find our Society very interesting indeed, and very improving likewise - Mr. Vassar de-sires that his birthday, April 29th, should be celebrated in the College, as a regular holiday - I believe the exercises this year are to be a mixture of literary and musical exercises - what, I don't know. Minnie is on a committee appointed by our chapter, to confer with the faculty committee, of which Prof. Knapp is chairman. They are at present holding a prolonged session. I am quite eager to learn the result. What misfortunes Carrie meets with, when attempting to call, in her blue silk. She wrote to me some time ago, about being spotted from head to foot, by a small boy dashing thro' a mud puddle. Is she as pretty as ever? Does Lucy have much to say about Ned Butler now? or is she devoted to some one else? Carrie never insinuates that a gentleman ever looks at the house. You know how very reserved about their affaires they always were - in a certain way, I mean. I wish you'd remind her that she owes me a letter. I am very sorry for your disappointment in losing Mr. Freeland's last sermon. I thinkmyself, that Bridget claims more than her share of churchgoing - but as you say it seems hard to part with one so nearly associated with our little darling. What a pity that you missed that last prayer meeting - I am very glad that Mr. and Mrs. Freeland are going to remain in the city. If Mrs. Bronson can have them room in her house, why can't she board them too? I should think it would be very difficult for them to manage in that way. What an aggravating specimen Mrs. Taylor can be. I am very glad you did them yourself. Sara has spoken several times, about how beautiful the skirt was. I think she will like it all the better for being all your own handiwork. I should like to keep on writing to you indefinitely, but duty in the shape of Latin, Greek and mending, beckons me away. Such an unhappy dress as that dark calico of mine is - Every Saturday for the last three weeks I have exhausted body and mind in mending that dress. On can hardly look at it, without hearing the accustomed sound tear-tear- But that's no matter for I'm going home pretty soon. Prof. Knapp came up this morning with Fannie MacGuire's little sister, it made me almost envious, I think I had bet-ter go home very speedily - for I shall be cultivating all manner of wicked thoughts and feelings. I can hardly bear to see the girls Fathers come to take them home Friday night. I am not going to ask again "When is Father coming home." but hope you will give us prompt information, when the event does take place - Love to all. Tell Willie the mail bag has looked fearfully thin lately. I presume he'll write after Sara is married. Good bye Mother darling take good care of yourself till we come home. Your loving daughter Mattie -
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Title: Warner, Martha S. -- to mother, Apr. 1866:
Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Description: VC 1868
Date: April 01, 1866
Text: Vassar April 1st, 1866 My dear dear Mother, Such a beautiful Easter! I hope that it is equally pleasant at home. Mr. Smith gave us all the eggs we could possibly want. I limited myself to two but feel very much as if it had been half a dozen. Last Friday school duties were suspended until Monday. A great many girls have gone home. I should think a hundred and fifty. Most of them are expected to return Monday in any case the classes proceed as if the full number were here. During these three...
Show moreVassar April 1st, 1866 My dear dear Mother, Such a beautiful Easter! I hope that it is equally pleasant at home. Mr. Smith gave us all the eggs we could possibly want. I limited myself to two but feel very much as if it had been half a dozen. Last Friday school duties were suspended until Monday. A great many girls have gone home. I should think a hundred and fifty. Most of them are expected to return Monday in any case the classes proceed as if the full number were here. During these three days Friday, Saturday, Sunday, we have been greatly indulged, not having breakfast until half past seven, not being obliged to walk, being suffered to sit up all night if we pleased on Friday night to watch the eclipse of the moon, altho'the Pres. preferred that all save the astronomy class should retire at eleven. That happy group departed to the observatory at the dark and dreadful hour of eleven, and gazed through the telescope until twelve, when they returned, fully persuaded that such dashing dissipated young ladies never before existed. Of course we sat up till Hattie came safely back. Did you see the eclipse? The night could not have been better not a cloud to be seen, we watched the whole thing from our window - Miss Lyman has gone away! actually left Thursday noon, not to return till Monday - With all due reverence, I do state and declare that that fact alone, was cause enough for a holiday. Minnie and Hattie are going to church this morning, it is our communion Sunday but I am not going for several reasons, principal among them is the fact that I am not willing to go to Mr. Corning church, and I don't want to poke off to another till I knowwhere to go. So Miss Blatchley, Miss Treadwell and I are going to be our own minister, audience and choir. (Three months from today I hope to go to church with you Mother darling! It fairly bewilders me to think of it. Who is preaching for you now? Was Mr. Kent successful in his search and if so what kind of a man is our new pastor? what does he look like? and how do you like him? Have they obtained a minister yet for Mr. Eldrige's church? I do hope that our next pastor will be pleasing to everyone, now that so many malcontents have left. There is a great deal of interest in the Po'keepsie churches. Union prayer meeting are held twice every day. Our girls have been down every day a good deal. I have not as it comes at an inconvenient time - and I have a great dread of Po'keepsie. In all the time that I have been here, I have never been in but once on a week day i.e. that day we met father at the depot and only three times have I been to church.It makes me almost sick to jolt so long in that wretched omnibus. Hattie and Minnie walked in yesterday, did some shopping and went to church, the service was at five o'clock, and they had the fun of waiting for the omnibus till ten minutes of seven - It was so rainy and muddy that with four horses, it took an hour to come out, two miles, and a the load was very heavy, nineteen in all. I waited my tea till they came, and there such a merry time as we had. Mr Smith felt very fine, and gave us some delicious lemon pie. We decided that it was quite worthwhile to be late. Did you know that Senator Foote is dead? Miss Foote was sent for day before yesterday - Does it not seem strange that two such prominent senators of one state should have died, so nearly together. I hope that Father has returned. Has he succeeded? We feel very anxious to hear. I hope his anxiety won't make him sick. How do you do Mother dear? You never say anything about your health, but I infer that it it must be very good, comparatively, or you could not do so much as you have - I recieved Sara's wedding cards a day or two ago, they are a new style are they not? You must tellme all about the wedding I cant realize at all that it is coming so soon - Love to all, tell Nellie that letters are at a premium in No. 20. It is two weeks since either Minnie have heard from home, and one since Hattie has - Congratulate us! We have at last written to Miss Coe. I feel as if a load was lifted from my shoulders. Is every body well? Love to Willie. Minnie recieved a catalogue of the University from Henry C. yesterday - The Memorabilia is very hard. Tell Bridget that they boiled five hundred eggs at once, for breakfast this morning - Good bye. We are all well - Your loving daughter Mattie -
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