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Creator: Gaston, Mary E.
Date: May 2, 1875
Text: The long poem ia the Miscellany is the one Miss Brlgham recited on Phllalethean night. Dont read this to Pappa, it Is so long. May 2, 1875. My dear Mother, X wonder if half of this sheet will hold all I have to say, If not my last postage stamp will go. Of course the grand and indeed the only event of the week was our holiday, on Thursday. Annie came about eleven from New York, and from that time until dinner, we raced about seeing the girls and every thing that was to be soon, dlraetly after...
Show moreThe long poem ia the Miscellany is the one Miss Brlgham recited on Phllalethean night. Dont read this to Pappa, it Is so long. May 2, 1875. My dear Mother, X wonder if half of this sheet will hold all I have to say, If not my last postage stamp will go. Of course the grand and indeed the only event of the week was our holiday, on Thursday. Annie came about eleven from New York, and from that time until dinner, we raced about seeing the girls and every thing that was to be soon, dlraetly after dinner Z had to rush and draas, lor Miss Mtersa had askad ma to be usher nt the concert, and I discovered Just before dinner that we ought to bo In the Chapel at quatar past two to receive the first comers: I had Just about twelve minutes, but with Aanla*s assistance succeedod In making myself presentable, and mshsd up stnlrs: of course not a soul came until almost three, and I might Just as well have taken my time. Annie fixed that beautiful lace yon sant, and that with iny now gloves, and black silk made me quite fine: tha concert was a grant success which was fortunate, as tharo warn n grant many strangara present^, but I should have enjoyed II a nasra. If I could have had tha privilege of^soat for after walking about all tha morning and (— — ?) several hundred people to their saata, we ware (•—?), and as Miss Tarry does'at like the ushers to sit we May l«t5 - 2 stood up until it was almost over: The first piece was oas Evia plays bat Ilika Evie's playing better, because this poor girl^waa evidently frightened aad ill at ease. Tha Ballade was beautifol, not showy «a»«|k lor a company bat I think £via would like It: the others X liked bast ware the "Jagdliad" aad "Wala" from Faust though some of tha othara ware pretty too: Miss Zoller ia a very fine performer, bat her piaca waa Interminable, as Evia probably knows, "The birds In the night" U the one I have, aad waa very sweetly snag. Miss Scott haa tha finest voice that has aver bam In was th* collage ao Miss Smythe says: she almost took tha roof off aad eMsercd tremendously. At ffoe oclock we had supper and then it was almost time io dress: Aaala were a lovely, aaw black silk which she brought la a shawl strap, aad I wore my lavender: I had ordered soma rosea far Annie aad violets for myself the roees came bat tha violets staid away ao Pally gave asa soma of her haUotrape; the first thiag was the lecture by Mr Russel, vice Pres. of Cornell, aad it waa ao long aad so poky It almoat put us to sleep: his subject was "Education" aad ha spoke of it first with regard to public schools; we certainly thought ha must be almoat through, when ha aaid "We will now consider academies" aad than ha considered colleges, until wa gat so resOesa It la a wonder he Nov. 15, 1874 - 3 didn't notice It. after that Infliction was over, aad It lasted almost two hears, we wed to Dining hall to partake of coffee, sandwiches. Icecream, jelly aad oranges: afterward we were to have gone to Gym. to dance and they had trimmed quite elaborately with evergreens, bat It sprinkled a little, aad so the dining room was cleared and we had two or three stiff square dances for Miss Terry wouldn't hear of aayllifag more lively, though we had a bead to play for us aad X know every oaa was dying to walta. The girls oa the decoratloa committee were mving, because after all their trouble to trim the Gym. no one saw it: It was tooAespeclally as It did'nt rain enough to hurt a fly, aad matting waa laid down between the two buildings, so the girls would'nt have soiled their white shoes if they happened to have them on: we went to bod at twelve first making out our washing lists as all holidays seem to come on Thursday, aad next day we went to studying again. We are having orful times in both Geometry and Zoology: X thiak Prof Ortea must be demented: hs gave us a lesson for tomorrow* that I have already speat six hours oa, aad dont feel very sure of Part of Atime X read la the Library: as we have to fill out his lectures by read- ing aad particularly by obeervatioa, as he is always tolltag us. X wonder how much time we have to hunt poly wogs, and dissect insects, when every teacher is piling oa the lessoas <^as If her life depended on it. Oct. 18, 1874 - 4 I forgot to My that Aanio went home Friday noon, leaving her black silk waist behind her: which X mast send by express: she had a nice time X think bat X was glad to hear her say that she did'nt have any desire to stay, because X was afraid that X should regret not coming neat I want to hoar all about the spelling match aad X do hope Pappa did himself credit: If the paper has aa exteasive account of It, X wish yoa would aead it to mo. X have get a splendid picture of Prof. Mitchell but I woat send it until Evle sends me hers: yoa must'at show It to Pappa, because he called her an old witch* and she Is Just lovely. X am dreadfully afraid yoa will get tired of this, but X mast tell you how my poor essay was picked to places, not by the girls bat by Miss Burling who took possession of It afterward. O the mistakes) poor punctuation, wrong use of words, (even bad grammar wore all heaped to gether, and after I thought I had been so careful too: the reading out load was nothing to that dreadful forty minutes In Miss Burli^'s room: she saw I felt badly aad tried to comfort me byaa telling me that oae particular idea was was quite bright: X did feel better, until It struck me some time afterward: that just that very idea, had beca givea me by Mary Spalding, who writes very well: there ia no aso trying I cant write, and never could: the Nov. 15, 1874 - 5 only consolation is the other girls ware almost as had, aad some worse, only this was my first experience aad It seemed dreadful: la two weeks we have to hand la another. Miss Burling wants ma to write on my native town so If you know of any little historical facts or any thing funny do tall me for I am in despair. Good bye. Your loving daughter (Mary £• Gaston, ex-*78, Sand me aaaaplaa of the thing* Evie gat in N.Y,
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E.
Date: April 09, 1875
Text: April 9, 1875 My dear Mother, I feel very much ashamed to have delayed writing until you may leave Patterson before this reaches you, but I haven't had a spare minute until now, although yesterday I did manage to write a few lines in lead/ink. My shopping was a success and very pleasant all through. I hope you will like Lizzie dress. I haven't much hope that she will for it does look gingham though very fashionable and the only thing in the market for 40 cents. My hat is very pretty...
Show moreApril 9, 1875 My dear Mother, I feel very much ashamed to have delayed writing until you may leave Patterson before this reaches you, but I haven't had a spare minute until now, although yesterday I did manage to write a few lines in lead/ink. My shopping was a success and very pleasant all through. I hope you will like Lizzie dress. I haven't much hope that she will for it does look gingham though very fashionable and the only thing in the market for 40 cents. My hat is very pretty and to please you I got some pale pink silk to mix with the black silk scarf, the crimson one was only 5-9 centshat was from Rothchilds there was not a black hat to be found. I met Lizzie Taylor, and her mother in the Dairy and as I had plenty of time went with them back to 6th Ave to get gloves which I couldn't get to suit me at home. They looked at some beautiful lace a time from ten to thirteen dollars a window but we were not going to buy yet. My trunk came yesterday, preserve and pickle juice unbroken though the latter had slipped from it's wrappings, and was at the very bottom. The cake too travelled to the opposite end of the trunk and presented rather a flattened appearance, but it tastes just as good and delightful. The girls who pitched right in. Miss Grace Luna Louie of Phila. is here to give three lecture the firstwas last night on "Frost crystals" the other two relate to zoology and Prof. Alston will call on one of us for an abstract on Monday. Her lecture last night was anything but interesting for in addition to a mean voice and a monotone tone, she had a bad cold. I wish you could stay until Friday you go away so seldom. Give love to Uncle and the girls and to Cousin [?] I don't think it would pay to go to New York though I should love to see them again and wish them "bon voyage" (is that right?) Tell Mame I expect her to be my foreign correspondent. Your loving daughter, May E. Gaston
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E.
Date: January 10, 1875
Text: Jan. 10, 1875. My dear Mother, What have I got to tell this week? so far not a single idea has occurred to me. I had a pleasant enough time of in New York, and getting outAthe cars there, met Miss Hays and her sister from Plalnfleld, who were also going shopping. I got one a pair of red and white stockings for 75 cents and^pair of white for forty I think - I tried to get some cheap lead pencils but to my disgust had to pay ten cents. All my parlor mates were backwiz by Wednesday night but...
Show moreJan. 10, 1875. My dear Mother, What have I got to tell this week? so far not a single idea has occurred to me. I had a pleasant enough time of in New York, and getting outAthe cars there, met Miss Hays and her sister from Plalnfleld, who were also going shopping. I got one a pair of red and white stockings for 75 cents and^pair of white for forty I think - I tried to get some cheap lead pencils but to my disgust had to pay ten cents. All my parlor mates were backwiz by Wednesday night but Thursday was a wretched day for we had'nt enough to do to keep away home sickness. I am glad regular work has begun again. Z believe I told you that on Thursday morning I went to tha hoped German table. I had to slink down to the foot of the table, but I was the only girl there, and had to sit by Miss Kspp of course. I could'nt talk any morethan I could eat and was glsd enough to hear the bell it was the longest fifteen minutes I have ever spent st dinner the table was full and 1 was somewhat encouraged to find others as bad as myself: it isnH ss hard to talk but to know what to say though aa Miss K. says we are not expected to be very profound. My trunk came Friday: I wish it could always come the second day as it used to. We have been enjoying the down, it is a perfect blessing. X wish I had thought of it before Evie's shams look very pretty, all the presents prettier t>r covering most of the bed. the girls like my Christmas very Jan., 104 1875 -2 much. Polly- Freeman? , had a set of Shakespeare just like Carrie Loomis. My cold is getting better slowly: the ride from N.Y. chilled me through and through. I forgot my rubbers. Will you send them with my dress like wise some fools cap paper if we me have any. This reminds of the William Henry letters, it is so jerky. The girls are pitching in the fruit cake while I write, it is a great success. I hope Evie will have lots of sleigh rides this week and tell me all the news. I have'nt heard from home yet. You see by this paper that I forgot to get any yesterday. My next will be written on respectable paper. Good bye, Your loving daughter, Mary. iMary E. Gaston, ex-'78, I got a very nice knife in that dirty hard ware store for 63 cents.
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E
Date: November 15, 1874
Text: I had so much to do yesterday that I have'nt half my lsssoas aad dread to morrow fearfully. Nov. IS. 1874. My dear Mother, There is no lack of aews this week, the only trouble is where to begia: I guess Z will tell you first of the uafcm Philaletheaa meeting in the aew hall last Friday night. Z had three Invitations and how I did wish to dispose of the extra two as Z wanted to we went over to the hall at half past seven: It has a?w all the appliances of a regular theater, footlights,...
Show moreI had so much to do yesterday that I have'nt half my lsssoas aad dread to morrow fearfully. Nov. IS. 1874. My dear Mother, There is no lack of aews this week, the only trouble is where to begia: I guess Z will tell you first of the uafcm Philaletheaa meeting in the aew hall last Friday night. Z had three Invitations and how I did wish to dispose of the extra two as Z wanted to we went over to the hall at half past seven: It has a?w all the appliances of a regular theater, footlights, scenery, fcc. aad is much larger, better ventilated aad lighted than the old one\ Zt wont be worth while to tell you of the entertainment because Z will send you the programme. The part of Ophelia was taken by a very smart girl aad was acted perfectly. I am ashamed to say net having read Hamlet Z did not know she was craay and ^ as soon as she came oa the stage I looked at her utterly expressioaless face, and said to my self "why she looks like a loon." which was an uninten- tional compliment.As for the rest, it was all good. Romeo fc Juliet was lovely, only when the former Jumped over the wall he leaaed on it for support at which It trembled In aa alarming manner aad threatened to tumble over all to gether, but every thing else went off swimmingly. It seems a pity that enstead of having nothing but forces la our Dramatic we can not have something occasionally of a little higher order, if not Nov. 15, 1874 - 2 Shakespeare, for what a parcel of girls can do it seems our whole Dramatic might at least attempt. On Friday night a perceptible shudder ran ever the Freshman class when it was told to remain a few moments after Chapel: It was'at we quite so bad as it might be. were to hand la a perfectly written business letter the next day at five, and la two weeks a letter of . i : I . I- . . t » • ., ■ I r I '. t ' friendship to be criticised as a literary production. I wrote to as A. G. Stewart for my first aad^fortunately I had preserved the oae which had been corrected last year I hope it was not vary bad. any way I used six sheets of paper before it suited me. of course the other will be wrestled with next Sat. and will probably take me the whole day: if you can suggest anything to me to write of do, for mercy*s sake.Now X have a new page to tell you about the Sophomore party given to as Freshmen, each Sophomore asks a freshman or at least usually and as Ella Webb asked me first X went with her. We went almost directly after Chapel for we are never allowed to stay up any later ar except on Founders ^ Phil— night, all the Sophomores were dressed in black silk and we In our best attire. X wore my lavender silk and tea rose buds and we all wore gloves Just as at a regular party: it would have taken the conceit out any young man to see how nicely we Nov. 15, 1874 - 3 without got on his sox and how much wo enjoyed ourselves, upon entering the Gym. we were each presented with an order for dancing and were than Introduced to the Pres. of the class: we walked around for a low minutes looking at the room which was hung with wreaths of evergreen from the ceiling and with baskets of flowers, then wo commenced to dance and whan about half past eight wont up stairs to a Shq long hall whore on each side there were little tables just big enough for two covered with napkins, wo had sandwiches, coffe cake and Icecream which tasted delightfully to me as I had had no supper* we wore waited upon by soma of the girls, dressedshort dresses and little muslin caps which were very bewitching as Evie says, before we got up from the tables each F. was presented with a little bouquet and then wo danced until it was time to go home, wo had just a delightful time altogether only the trouble was It was too short and X should think would hardly repay the girls for the trouble. IHfot- forgot to say that our motto In evergreens was placed at one end of tho room, the fun of It was that tho girls who have not studied which Is Greek. German couldnt tall whether it was our motto or their own The new Mlscellaney came yesterday and as soon as X can buy one X will send it. one of tho teachers told me she did not think it was as good as usual. &Oss Smyths told mo the other day that I must get a Nov. 15, 1874 -4 handglass lor slagiag which has almost broken me so I must ask to send me a little money if convenient. You need not make any change in the presents X have thought of something else lor Evie, which I know she wants. X have come to the end of my paper fc news. Your loving daughter Mary.I enjoyed your letter and Idazde's very much, and will write to Lis during the week. "They say that the "78" galop X dont know wehther it is true or not aad did not hear it as I was then at supper.
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E.
Date: October 18, 1866
Text: Oct. 18. 1874. My dear Mother, I suppose you are resting to day, from the affects of housec leaning, rejoicing that it Is through with for aa other six months. I wonder If you longed for me to help as much aa X did lor you aad Evie yesterday, whea fixing my much enduring black silk: X did not want to do it until Nov. but my green cashmere proved unworthy by wearing In to a respectable hole right by my shoulder an unpleasantly conspicuous place so as there was nothing to mend it with X got out...
Show moreOct. 18. 1874. My dear Mother, I suppose you are resting to day, from the affects of housec leaning, rejoicing that it Is through with for aa other six months. I wonder If you longed for me to help as much aa X did lor you aad Evie yesterday, whea fixing my much enduring black silk: X did not want to do it until Nov. but my green cashmere proved unworthy by wearing In to a respectable hole right by my shoulder an unpleasantly conspicuous place so as there was nothing to mend it with X got out that piece of cashmere from my trunk and in half a day made three folds and put them on, so to day, I appear in my new wiater dress which I am very proud of. Goveaor Dix honored the College with a visit last Tuesday: Miss (ahe did'nt any that) Terry told us to put oa oar swell clothes and be In the Chapel at five P.M. which we were. In a high state of expectation: theythat is His Excellency and staff, came la dressed la ualforms for they had been attending a dress parade in P. the Pres. then made a speech "lengthened sweetness long drawn out" as usual, and then presented the Gov. to the students at which point we all rose as are were before commanded: it reminded me so comically of one of Evle's Jokes it was all X could do to keep from laughing and indeed we all looked a little foolish which X am afraid the Gov. noticed for In his answering speech he called us "the light brigade" which taken in one sense Oct. 18, 1874 - 2 docs 'st sound very complimentary, but X made a most absurd which fortunately no one knew of but myself. I kept my eye* on a tall handsome man dressed in full uniform and wondered how he could sit so unmoved while Pres. Raymond poured forth such compliments but what was my surprise when the Gov. rose, to find it was'nt the man X had been looking at ^ all but one dressed in plain clothes. I felt foolish enough for I ought to have known they are never dressed up but X said nothing. On Thursday afternoon I went In town to get crinoline for the trim* mi«| of my dress, and as the car was so long coming I walked until it overtook me. on my way X met a ease d drove of cows, three fighting dogs, a crying boy, and a swearing man. It was quite excit- ing, really enjoyable after X got inside of s gate but X was glad when the car came. Music began last week my lessons come on Monday and Thursday the first thing, which time dont please me at all, but likely there will be changes soon, there always are. The two weeks we have lost will be made up In time. Xt is such a cold blowy day the idea of your having a grate to look at makes warn envious, registers are comfortable enough but they dont look warm. I shall think of you In N.Y. to morrow be sure to send me samples Oct. 18. 1874 - 3 of any thing you may got. I am sorry to hoar that Cousin Louise is not well will she spend Thanksgiving and Christmas with us as usual? Annie Barcalow wrote me a few llaee to return the money I lent her: ahe says she does'at want to stay home at all aad feels wretchedlyabout it. it is a great pity that she tried it\ again It made it so much harder. We have begun Latla composition or at least have our first lesson to morrow* but it is not writiag compositions la Latla which X used to think with a shudder la reading over the catalogue but simply translating English exercises into Utla. it does'at seem very hard just now bat of course we are never sure they are right uatll we read them la class. Algebra Is as usual, difficult, aad as we are not allowed to work with, or receive help from nay oae it Is tough work, especially when you are with a girl who has got aa example you have been working hours on, and know that a suggestion Is all you need, it is maddening. I felt quite proud of my rocking chair last aight, for it graced a Junior sociable aad oae of them told me It was so comfort* able. Whea you write agaia do send your love to Miss Hoyt for her mother sent her love to me to my great surprise and so you must do the same. I am couatiag the weeks as well as Pappa, only nine from next Wed. ,Mary E. Gaston, ex*'78,
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E
Date: October 14, 1874
Text: Vassar College, Oct. 10/75 Oct. 4. 1874. My dear Mother, X am so glad you are well enough to be up again. I should have been quite worried if I had known how sick you were. Your nice long letter with the sleeve button came on Friday, much to my satisfaction, and I have read it over several times to tell the truth I had forgotten the fun was going on and was much sur- prised when Annie told me that Liaaie Cooke had taken a for some thing. Annie is not a Sophomore but she sits with them in...
Show moreVassar College, Oct. 10/75 Oct. 4. 1874. My dear Mother, X am so glad you are well enough to be up again. I should have been quite worried if I had known how sick you were. Your nice long letter with the sleeve button came on Friday, much to my satisfaction, and I have read it over several times to tell the truth I had forgotten the fun was going on and was much sur- prised when Annie told me that Liaaie Cooke had taken a for some thing. Annie is not a Sophomore but she sits with them in Chapel, and is so ffcr ahead of our class thatshe does'at seem to a Freshman either, indeed it would posale me to tell you what she is, aad I don't suppose she knows herself. It must be an unpleasant position. I find my room very pleasant this year, and Juniors not quite so formid- able as I imagined. I went with one of them on Friday to get apples about half a mile from the College off the grounds of course and I am afraid we were cribbing but no one picks them so our consciences were quite easy, we are going for nuts as soon as it Is late enough. My room mate is the queerest girl Just as independent as you please I was walking with her a few days ago and was Just about to leave her aa my time was up when she horrified me by saying "I wonder If that girl meaning some one coming toward us would walkwith me if X a&ked her'*, A I really gasped, and said for mercy sake dont that is Miss White, a Junior and she would snub you to pieces* so I saved her that time but she is always doing just such queer things and I am always on pins for fear she will do something outrageous. Bayard Taylor will lecture in P. next W ed. and we will be allowed to go, but I have no wish to see him, and will save my money for some- thing more inviting in the musical line. Our class had a meeting yesterday fbr the first time, to nominate the officers, and the Sophomoraa or rather about a dozen of them, went outside and looked in the^ windows laughing and shouting and finally breaking a window in their sttempts to annoy us. they locked us in too, but by a good chance one of the Fresh- man coming late, let us out. It was a disgraceful thing to do, and if It Miss Terry hears of it she will makeAhot for them I hope. You need not look for the dictionary any more I got one second hand, which I think likely would have been necessary any way, as the other oaa was so old, and besides some of the letters were changed around which always gave me lots of trouble. I have plenty of money at present and I dont want you to send me any more until I ask for it. Fannie Swift called online last Sunday, she and all of them enjoyed their travels very much. What have you from the Library? I am reading "Venetian life" by Howells. it is a charming book, but not quite so interesting as "Chance Accquaintanse". I wrote about my pictures but have received no answer yet. I am sick of the nasty things and wish with all my heart they had Oct. 10, 1874 - 2 never been taken. Our Class was horrified on Friday night to see Prof* Backus in Chapel he never comes scarcely except to give the girls subjects for their essays so when nothing was said about them our expressions of delight were so very audible that the teachers in our seat frowned very expressively. However it is only a respite and we must expect them this week I suppose. Since I found so much to say I am sorry I did not take another sheet, but I guess you can read it, if it is badly written. Your loving daughter Mollle. ,Mary E. Gaston, ex-'78, Give lots of love to Pappa & all
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E
Date: September 27, 1874
Text: Vassar College. Sep. 27. 1874. Dear Evie, I have been sittingifive minutes with my pen suspended, trying to think how to begin, which was rather unneces- sary as I want to accomplish a good deal In tha reading, aad letter writing Una to day, so I will Just dash right in. My rocking chair came on Thursday and to my surprise, turned out to be the doubled up one, it is so pretty, the prettiest In tha room, that I cant find It In my heart to scold mamma lor her extravagance, so I thank her very...
Show moreVassar College. Sep. 27. 1874. Dear Evie, I have been sittingifive minutes with my pen suspended, trying to think how to begin, which was rather unneces- sary as I want to accomplish a good deal In tha reading, aad letter writing Una to day, so I will Just dash right in. My rocking chair came on Thursday and to my surprise, turned out to be the doubled up one, it is so pretty, the prettiest In tha room, that I cant find It In my heart to scold mamma lor her extravagance, so I thank her very much enstead. * I was invited to the meeting of Chapter Beta on Friday by Miss Fay, that gushing girl whom I think you have heard ma apeak of, there was an original story by a Senior which kept us In roars ol laughter most of the time, how she ever wrote it, I cant imagine, then scenes from College life, a poor Prep, crying as If her heart would break, who every little while would give her handkerchief a little squeese and so 1st fall a copious shower of tears, then the Freshman ghastly white each (with cornstarch) a book iaJtsa-hand one on her head aad piled three deep around her feet; next the Sophomore, "Eager for knowledge, wisdom wit" as the Pres. of the society said, with specs oa her nose aad a moat absorbed expression writing furiously, tha Junior was merely a paper tombstone with "Deported this life, a Junior'1 on it, aad Sept. 27, 1874 - 2 the Senior was a view of their privileges being a table piled with eatibles and other things "too numerous too mention, I thought of you a good many times playing at the swarry and wished I were home to hear you. I hope you got along all right aad were not aa nervous as you expected. The President that Greek has been neglected here, and advised the regular students very strongly to begin it this year in place of or Latin M French which could be taken up later in the course, a great many of the girls have done so, but I did not wish to give up any of my if present studies for it evenAI had been very anxious to study it which I was not, though it would be nice to say you had studied such a difficult language.1 thought that Miss Fay wouldn't be quite so sweet after we had'at seen each other tor so long but she is worse than ever, over powering* ahe tries to hug me on all occasions which I resist by all aorta of shivers, way andaquixms as my^is you know only I confess, they are some what exaggerated for her benefit: I knew last night she would want to kiss me good night, so as there was a strong odor of pole cat In the air, I kept my handkerchief to my mouth to prevent her aad am happy to aay succeeded: she is Just another Sallie Berger and I would never go near her if she had'nt so few friends. Sept. 27» 1874 - 3 —-—I had to stop writing and dress lor Chapel although it was three quaters oI an hour beiore It began but X invented a new way ol lining my hair with pulls, which takes so much time I have to begin early: we are to have the Episcopal service this morning, preached by some minister Irom Po'keepsie High school. I am ever so glad, lor the other is so monotonous. Our parlor is beginning to look more like a parlor and less like a pig pea, though boxes ol books and pictures still adorn the floor, we made an attempt to lix it up on Sat. and succeeded to the extent ol putting up one picture; I hope next week \or rather this week we caa finish it: our carpet is much prettier than the one we had last year, brown and yellow stripe with little white leaves all over it. I went up in 52 last night and io, they have another red It green carpet, a new one, and more fiery than ever, it must be a seviceable color or they wouldnt use it so much. Do you remember that girl whom I said lived In Saugertles ? she rooms in this parlor and Xwhen I brought out Pappa's picture she looked at it in perfect amasemant, and said she knew a gentleman who looked exactly like that, and sure enough she meant Uncle John, whose church she went to, isn't It strange she should be la the same parlor with me? Did I tell you that Miss Hoyt was a first Prep? X am so glad X am not one for X dld'nt realise what a "deggeradation" it was until now I am Sept* 27, 1874 - 4 something more. Annie Barcalow was not permitted to be a special as she wished, one reason was that she was not old enough, she calls herself nineteen ^ t^V^ and you have to bo twenty beforeyou can bo special, it will bo a pity if sho has to go back to our class but she can easily make up if they will allow her. I suppose my pictures have not come. I have written to Agnes and as soon as I get an answer will write to the Photographers and see what is the matter. I bought a Miscellany yesterday which I will send to Mamma, it is the one for July, I believe. Tell the children to write to me, I hope to hear that Mamma is well In your next letter. Tell me every thing about the Dramatic. Toll Momma there Is a beautiful edition of of Warner's works in the Library hero, bound in brown V gold and Illustrated too. it is published by Osgood, and I think would do very well for Mrs Loomis. I know you dnnl like to read crossed pages and I dont like to waste paper so I wont write any more. Give lots of love to Pappa & Mamma. Tour loving Sister Mamie. tMary E. Gaston, ex-'78, * Note by E. K. Van der Veer j'06, donor of letters f This rocker went three times to Vassar - in 1874 with Mary Gaston, in 1906 with Elisabeth Van dor Veers in 1922 with Mary M. P. Gaston. It was left at college * fata unknown.
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E
Date: September 20, 1874
Text: Sep. 20. 1874. My deer Mother I suppose It Is hardly necessary to tell you X am safe since I seat a postal from the depot but you mast all about my shopping: It was pouring when I got out at N.Y. aa X tacked up my dress as high as decency would permit and sallied forth: the dollar store was Just filled with beautiful things, It was hard to come away without some of them but one dollar was all they got out of me: then I tried to Had the pattern place but with out success though I wandered up...
Show moreSep. 20. 1874. My deer Mother I suppose It Is hardly necessary to tell you X am safe since I seat a postal from the depot but you mast all about my shopping: It was pouring when I got out at N.Y. aa X tacked up my dress as high as decency would permit and sallied forth: the dollar store was Just filled with beautiful things, It was hard to come away without some of them but one dollar was all they got out of me: then I tried to Had the pattern place but with out success though I wandered up and dewa for same time: next into a hair stare near Stewart's where thay made me three putts in an hour for 75 cents which was cheap enough I thought: about twelve I went for lunch to the Anthony House where X got oysters and coffee for thirty cents. It mnstlMMt.be a new place X think for every thing seemed so cheap: after lunch I found Lockwood's and changed my book for a Uvy the differeace In price (twenty five cents) I invested in pens and lead pencils, the oaly set of Charlotte Bronte's books which X saw did net please me very much it was they were hardly handsome enough although six dollars for the set of four volumes. Tell Evie I could not find stamped yokes of any kind, every one did them to order ftaf. but that did not do any good so I had to give It up. I took the 4&.ave. cars which took me to the door of the dtpet: the hair man advised me to take them as "it oaly cost seven cents while the Sept. 20, 1874 - 2 stage cast tea" I suppose I-to* must have looked poverty stricken: A lew minutes before the train started Annie Barcalow surprised me by walking ia with Genie Doughty, ahe said she had expected to go to Jersey city on Friday bat the rain prevented her, then she expected to go to the Dramatic and had her dress laid out and waa very much disappointed that It waa postponed, she's a queer mixture. There were a number very few Vaaaar girls oa the train and quiteAwill not come until Monday, but all my own friends are here I walked In to 32 my new room and there found a new girl for my room mate Lillle Rea will not return; her name la Julia Holt and ahe comes from Maine aa I found by looking In one of her books, she la nice enough bat 1 doat know her very well yet and she Is one of those prodigies, a girl who entered Freshman* the other girls are not here yet except Miss Pidgeon who has a single room* It Is raining so hard I have not had time to see the outside alterations, but inside the Reading room Is now In the old Library and the Library old la In the art gallery which la over In the music hall. Miss Hoyt came ap aad spoke to me and 1 am glad ahe did for I never should have known her. I have seea the Swifts to speak to but not at a distance, of course X dont mean that but never mind. My trunks have not come aad I feel forlorn. My dreas waa dreadfully draggled In spite of holding It up. Dont forgot to send the keys. Your loving daughter Mary. (Mary E. Gaatoa, ex-178, I hope to hoar from you to-morrow.
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E.
Date: September 1874 - October 1874
Text: fS^pt. or Oct. 1174, Wednesday Dear Mother I hare Just got Evie's letter aad aa I hare (strange to say) a little time before my German, I will try to find something to tell you which you dont know already* though what It will be I cant say now. You would laugh U yon could see me sow I have on my Gymnasium suit for the second time for we commenced our lessons yesterday: They come several laches above the boot top and have big baggy waists and leg of mutton sleeves. I thought at first I...
Show morefS^pt. or Oct. 1174, Wednesday Dear Mother I hare Just got Evie's letter aad aa I hare (strange to say) a little time before my German, I will try to find something to tell you which you dont know already* though what It will be I cant say now. You would laugh U yon could see me sow I have on my Gymnasium suit for the second time for we commenced our lessons yesterday: They come several laches above the boot top and have big baggy waists and leg of mutton sleeves. I thought at first I really could,ent wear it but am more reconciled now since hour evey day It Is ever so much fun a good deal like dancing, since we exercise with the piano, but a fearful nuisance to dress so often. I wrote a letter to Grandma and directed It to Potts town, I am so glad you are going there, for a visit. The classes for linear drawing were read la Chapel last aight, my day Is Wedaesday at half past tea the worst day of the week aad the worst hour of the day for me, as Wed- German nesday Is one of the three days of the week la which we have^Grammar eastead of Reader and from half past ten to quarter past eleven Is the to study only time I have IjfeV my History la the morning. I am utterly disgusted, especially as the girls say that it is very uninteresting and teaches yon nothing but to measure. The Classes la Choral singing are not yet ,Scpt. or Oct. 1874, - 2 organized but I suppose Miss S my the (my singing teacher) will want me to take that too* Algebra is flourishing. Miss Dean said she would soon have a model class. As Sadie Dickie and myself have studied it before she always racks her brains to give us the hardest things she can think of, but we generally come off triumphant. Our History is nothing but taking notes and would be interesting if we did'nt quake so, there are about sixty in the class and consequently each oneis called on about once a week and then she gets half a dozen questions at once* X have only been called oa once and then I missed one which didn't happen to be in the book: he does not go half the time by the book for he says there are so many mistakes in it and what we learn one day he contradicts the next. We have very long lessons in German but a splendid teacher and I enjoy that lesson more than any of them. I forgot to tell you that I received both the Bible and the money and am much obliged to you. We all belong to different Bible classes and have lessons to learn on Sunday as well as on other days. I do not think it is right to expect it. I cant think of anything X have left untold excepting that as I have not been to town yet I have not got my rocking chair, but there are two in the parlor already and I am not sure that I will get one. You seem to have all the fun in Somerville since X have been away, such a lot of fun and companies I £apt. or Oct. 1874, - 3 never saw. Can you send me the ^newspapers? , occasionally that I mayread the news. I got a nice letter from Cousin Louise yester- day, why dld'ent she go to our Fair? I hope I will be good enough when I get home. Prayer meeting every night aad Chapel ditto - Silent time twice a day when you are supposed to be reading your bible, Corridor Prayer meeting and regular Church sevice, Bible class and Religious Society every Sunday. You hav'ent written to me since you were in New York. I think you awfully mean 1 do all the writing. Has Hugh forgotten how. How does Fannie like dancing I am anxious to hear her account of it. Write to me soon, from your loving Daughter, Mary. ,Msry E. Gaston, ex-'78, I will be with you nine weeks from tomorrow. Give my love to Pappa. X will answer Evie's letter on Sunday.
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E.
Date: September 1874
Text: (September 1874, Sunday My Dear Mother, I should not have waited so long to answer your letter but I wished to write satisfactorily, and Sunday is the only day in which it is possible to do so* this, My lessons are all arranged at last, and I am beginning to feel settled, and llke^ an old student. My studies are Algebra, Sophomore German and Ancient History, the first and last Prep of course. 2f they would give me Latin I would be a^ F. by Christmas but only three studies are allowed with...
Show more(September 1874, Sunday My Dear Mother, I should not have waited so long to answer your letter but I wished to write satisfactorily, and Sunday is the only day in which it is possible to do so* this, My lessons are all arranged at last, and I am beginning to feel settled, and llke^ an old student. My studies are Algebra, Sophomore German and Ancient History, the first and last Prep of course. 2f they would give me Latin I would be a^ F. by Christmas but only three studies are allowed with music and it-1 suppose I cannot be I passed to Freshman Latin all but one Semester. U 1 had only studied Cicero, I would have allright* I should have entered the Junior class in German if I had studied the right Grammar but it is better as it is, as there is more time for other lessons. Ofcmr Algebra lessons are long and difficult and the book more advanced than any X have ever seen, but we have a very thorough teacher, and every step is explained and understood before we are allowed to leave it* We begin the History of course and although the lessons are about two pages usually we are required to know the origin of words, and something of the life of every persons mentioned. Profes- sor Hinkle our Teacher gives us lectures at every recitation and on Monday we must give the ^ abstract of everything he has said in the last week: he has such a fearful temper I quake when he opens his mouth. Sept. 1874 -3 and in the midst of his talk he jumps at us and screams - 'is zat so' fdo you zee9, of course we always see and then he begins again* My Music Teacher has not been assigned me yet - probably will be this week. We are required to rise at 6.30 and must not before that time, a rule ve^ little regarded In this College If X judge the rest by our Parlor. Breakfast at 7.15, dinner at 12.15. Lessons come betweea and until 5 oclock: everything goes by Periods here, and if you want a girl to walk with you at 4.15 you must say abstract of everything he has said in the last week: he has such a fearful temper I quake when he opens his mouth. Sept. 1874 -3 and in the midst of his talk he jumps at us and screams - 'is zat so' fdo you zee9, of course we always see and then he begins again* My Music Teacher has not been assigned me yet - probably will be this week. We are required to rise at 6.30 and must not before that time, a rule ve^ little regarded In this College If X judge the rest by our Parlor. Breakfast at 7.15, dinner at 12.15. Lessons come betweea and until 5 oclock: everything goes by Periods here, and if you want a girl to walk with you at 4.15 you must say five dol- lars will be plenty. My Gymnastic suit books and Travelling took nearly all and although nothing more is needed at present I had better be Sept. 1874 -3 prepared. I will keap an account if you wish. Tell Bones and Hugh to write, give much love to Grandma and Aged P. I will write to G- soon, your affectionate Molly. Will you please send my Bible by mail. I forgot it. iMary E. Gaston, ex-v78,
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E.
Date: June 07, 1874
Text: June. 7. 1874. My dear Mother, I have Just finished e letter to Evie and feel completely written out hut X guess the best way will be to make this a repetition of hers* X shall be delighted to see Pappa next Friday week and if my examinations sre over by that time, will be able to show him around my self, if not a guide will take care of him, and he may hear any recitations that he likes except of course mine, that I protest against, but I hope all mine will be over by Thursday night. The...
Show moreJune. 7. 1874. My dear Mother, I have Just finished e letter to Evie and feel completely written out hut X guess the best way will be to make this a repetition of hers* X shall be delighted to see Pappa next Friday week and if my examinations sre over by that time, will be able to show him around my self, if not a guide will take care of him, and he may hear any recitations that he likes except of course mine, that I protest against, but I hope all mine will be over by Thursday night. The French teacher gave a lecture In Chapel on Wed evening about "Franca of to day*1, she made France out a perfect nation, aad a perfect martyr, and if that was her object she succeeded admirably: she gave a dig at one of our Senators, I dont knew which, saying that whan In Washington she had asked tha opinion of one of our most influential men concerning the issue of affairs In Franca, to which he gave a moat absurd answer, she gave said answer, but the part X understood did not seam so vary foolish to ma. X wish she had told us who the Senator was. fraa Last weak was fall of events we had two concerts, the first the Isst ^ one of tha season, aad was consequently vary good, all the finest par- formers of the college took part, the second which took place yesterday after noon, was a private onebut Miss Butterfield, one of the performers invited me, so I want to that one too: it was an operetta the "Miracle of the Rosas" and was very prettily sung* June 7• 1867 - 2 On Thursday Miss Terry gave out in the dining room that the cadets from R would ge the drill in front of the College, and she wished the young ladies, as she always dubs us "to look at them from the windows and not to show themselves on the grounds". It was a very novel sight to me and consequently I enjoyed it very much, but it did seem strange to see those great big men salute their commander who could not have been more than sixteen or eighteen, and who was evidently fully alive to his importance We went on our Botany excursion across the river yesterday morning and came back In time for dinner, it was very warm, and our Gym. suits very uncomfortable, but the ride across the river aad our view from the hill repaid us, which the number of flowers we got certainly did not. Poor Miss Haskell was I am afraid quite disgusted with my lack of enthusiasm, but I just squatted myself on the grass In a shady place, aad took it easy until the bugs aad worms drove me away. We were all glad enough to get home, I can tall you. I had a letter from Mame Evans yesterday, she said that perhaps Cousin Louise would go to P. with me, but I am afraid either want of clothes or of a girl will prevent her. I had intended writing to Hugh today, but every thing has gone in this letter, so I will try to find time during the week. We had some delightful strawberry shortcake with ice cream on it twice June 7, 1874 - 3 last week, but that is the only time we have seen them. Evie writes that she revels In them at Washington, it seems to me they revel In every thing there, even have a horse and carriage again. I believe this is all the news, lessons are about as usual, we generally get up an hour or more before the bell rings, it is so much easier to study early in the morning. It strikes me that this letter is rather mixed up, I think I had better number the pages. Good bye. Tour loving Daughter (Mary E. Gaston, ex-178, Dont for pity's sake dont let Pappa change his mind I have sotmy heart on his coming for me. I hope you are taking it easy this warm weather.
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E.
Date: June 1874
Text: jjune 1874? , My dear Mother, Hugh's lengthy epistle with the enclosed came yesterday, but I am quite in a quandary now about the boat for Miss Tarry informed us yesterday that the Albany boats did not stop at P. any more and there was only-only one boat starting at 7. A ML running from P. to New York. I suppose of course, that Pappa would prefer the cars to remaining another night, but as I am not quite sure will not purchase my ticket until he comes. X went to Mr Deaa to see about my...
Show morejjune 1874? , My dear Mother, Hugh's lengthy epistle with the enclosed came yesterday, but I am quite in a quandary now about the boat for Miss Tarry informed us yesterday that the Albany boats did not stop at P. any more and there was only-only one boat starting at 7. A ML running from P. to New York. I suppose of course, that Pappa would prefer the cars to remaining another night, but as I am not quite sure will not purchase my ticket until he comes. X went to Mr Deaa to see about my bill knowing vary wall that he would never think of it again if I didn't, he only said that he had not attended to it yet bat I will go again next Tuesday If X do not hearfrom him again. There were quite a number of poor girls examined in the preliminaries yesterday, and you could see anxious friends wandering about every^ where, trying to leak interested in the sights, but really thinking only of their daughters. I did pity them so for X remember what I endured. The papers telling the time for the public examinations were put up yesterday. X find three of mine come on Thursday the fourth oa Friday -time morning but as Geology comes at the same, Pappa may go to that or any thing else he prefers certainly not to mine -bu^ anyway although it Is only Algebra. I am so glad Evie has had her\ pictures taken and hope they will be goad. June 1874? - 2 I suppose you have them already as she said she would send them as soon as they came. I went to call on Elma Swift yesterday and she told me that they were to sail for England in two weeks and would spend the whole summer In the British Isles, intending to reserve the continent for another time. Those girls seem to have It so nice, but I would*nt be one of them for anything although I would like to be so smart. The Freshman list has not been read yet, although we have been expecting it every night for a week it certainly cant be delayed much longer. We are having delightful cool weather Just now, almost too cool ia fact, for 1 went out in my cashmere suit and blanket shawl yesterday without the slightest discomfort. I hope it wont bring on your rheumatism.I meant to have brought home some little thing for Rachel, but Miss Howell seemed to have nothing that would suit an P. Is such a dear place anyway, that Z gave it up. There doesn't seem to be any more news and It Is hardly worth while to write for the sake of writing since we will see each other so soon as How X do long for next Friday, It seems^of X cant wait. Tell Hugh I am much obliged for his letter and wish he had written before. Good bye, for a few days, Your affectionate Mollie (Mary E. Gaston* ex-'7ft,
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E.
Date: May 30, 1874
Text: May 30, ,18,74 Dear Mother, Last week was so busy that I had not time to write even one letter although I had hoped to. our reviews have begun and they I mean the long lessons, compel us to get up at five or earlier, and study until the last bell rings. I have thought of you aa housecleaning this dreadful weather and have wished to be at home to bear a hand now that Evie has gone, it must be hard; how- ever when you get this letter it wont be much more than two weeks and then three months of...
Show moreMay 30, ,18,74 Dear Mother, Last week was so busy that I had not time to write even one letter although I had hoped to. our reviews have begun and they I mean the long lessons, compel us to get up at five or earlier, and study until the last bell rings. I have thought of you aa housecleaning this dreadful weather and have wished to be at home to bear a hand now that Evie has gone, it must be hard; how- ever when you get this letter it wont be much more than two weeks and then three months of bliss* Can you tell me positively whether to expect Pappa and you for Com- mencement. I will have to tell veryshortly whether I stay or not as we must give in our names if we do. I do wish you could say yes, but am afraid it will be hard for Pappa to decide so long beforehand. The Cecilia Society gave a delightful concert yesterday, better than any I have attended yet; the Choral class presented the Professor with a beautiful baaket of flowers, and gave also a smaller one to Miss Finch, the organ- ist who plays splendidly, I wish Evie could hear her. Prof. Hinkle sails for Germany next Wed. or at leaat he leaves here on Tuesday and enste^i of being excused from Latin review aa we fondly hoped, we are to have Miss Lord the hardest or perhaps I should say the best Latin teacher in the College, the whole class are in a fright for fear we wont any of us pass for Prof. H. labored under the delusion that we knew all about parsing fee, and never troubled ue muck but Miss Lord will find out soon enough, and then woe be unto us all. Our Gymnastic exhibition is next Tues. and that will be the end for this year, and it is quite time too, for on Friday those hot flannel suits were almost unbearable, and it grows warmer every day. A gentleman connected with the Howard mission preached or talked to us to day, the whole service lasted more than two hours, and such a headache as I had. There were boxes placed at the door for con- tributions, but I am afraid it is a bad time of year, for any thing of the kind most of the girls are out of money. I am so glad that Mame Evans is coming to see us, and hopce hope the change will do her good, but unless they fully expect me I am not at all sure whether I ought to go back with her, however there is time enough to think of it when I get home. I believe we draw for our rooms this week sometime, I would give almost anything for a single room but there is hardly a hope of my getting one, for the Freshmen have the poorest chance of any and of course all would like to room alone. Have you had strawberries yet? We have not even seen one, and I am afraid wont very soon, the spring so cold aad late. I hope you are taking a good rest today. Your loving Give my love to Pappa. Mollie X will write to Louis very soon. (Mary E. Gaston, ex-'78,
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E.
Date: May 24, 1874
Text: May 24, 1874* My dear Mother, If I did not know you were so bnsy, I should feel very cross at not hearing from you or anyone yesterday, for it is such a disappointment not to hear on Saturday, but I will forgive you tkk time supposing you are preparing Evie for her Washington visit. I had expected to have our trip across the river to tell you of this time, but owing to our not sanding in our names in time, wa ware not able to go yesterday but must wait until Sat. week. X believe I told you...
Show moreMay 24, 1874* My dear Mother, If I did not know you were so bnsy, I should feel very cross at not hearing from you or anyone yesterday, for it is such a disappointment not to hear on Saturday, but I will forgive you tkk time supposing you are preparing Evie for her Washington visit. I had expected to have our trip across the river to tell you of this time, but owing to our not sanding in our names in time, wa ware not able to go yesterday but must wait until Sat. week. X believe I told you that there was a crazy man or supposed to be crasy who has been Jumping out at the girls and teachers, from behind trees and stumps; there are two policemen stationed now on Sunsethill and in the dan to catch and we were forbidden last night to walk altar 7.15. it is becoming quits exciting and if X could catch a glimpse of "the wretched moa" as Miss Terry says- calls him I should be quite delighted. I have been trying te get to tha Reading room to read an account of Nellie Grants wedding, but have not been able to yets if Uncle Andrew sends you the "Capitol", will you sand it on to mm after you have read it. The Juniors have always given tha Seniors a reception in tha parlors but +M? year they are going on a moonlight excursion down the river instead, which no doubt will be much pleasanter. May 24. 1874 - 2 One of the Juniors, whom our now parlor mate knows, wrote a latter ago to Miss Alcott two or three years, which "Meg", her sister, answered, we heardMiss Butterfield speak of it, and so as we wanted to see it very much, she borrowed it for^ our benefit. I copied it and would send it to you but it is quite long and would take more stamps than I could afford, it is a very pretty letter and interesting telling about tho different characters in "Little Woman." On Friday for the first time we were obliged to recite in German, that is, after translating one of Schiller's ballads, we ^ had to recite in prose, and in our own words the substance of it, and the worst of it is you are sura of being betrayed in to a sentence which you dont know words enough to finish, but it is an excellent exercise, although hard. I have on my white dress to day, for the first time, and it fools delight- fully cool. White dresses are a great comfort and I advise Evie to got one. she will need in Washington if any whore. I hope Aunt Sarah is enjoyiag herself at Somerville. I wish I could soe her very much, and if she will come to Vassar will show her all the sights and try to convince her that this is not such a dreadful place outside as so many imagine, it certainly does look very beautiful, now that tho trees are in blossom. I am glad to hoar that Emma Parker is bettor and hope it may last. May 24, 1874-3 I will send you Sadie's picture in this letter, it looks like her, but Is wretchedly finished. Your loving daughter Mary. (Mary E. Gaston, ex-'78, Give my love to all except Hugh fc Fanny who I think deserve a whipping more they might write once In a while.
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E.
Date: May 10, 1874
Text: Sunday May 10 (1874? , My dear Mother, Such a wonderful shoe as I got by mail last Tuesday it quite took my breath away, it reminded me of our Christmas stockings. X am very much obliged for the belt It Is Just the right color and will be needed soon If this sultry weather con- tinues, grenadines and cambrics have appeared already, and spring suits are positively uncomfortable. Yesterday, about twenty of us foolish girls went to Cedar Ridge for wild flowers. It cant be much more than a mile,...
Show moreSunday May 10 (1874? , My dear Mother, Such a wonderful shoe as I got by mail last Tuesday it quite took my breath away, it reminded me of our Christmas stockings. X am very much obliged for the belt It Is Just the right color and will be needed soon If this sultry weather con- tinues, grenadines and cambrics have appeared already, and spring suits are positively uncomfortable. Yesterday, about twenty of us foolish girls went to Cedar Ridge for wild flowers. It cant be much more than a mile, but very hard walking, and I for one, was so com- pletely used up, that I have'nt got over it yet. probably it was the heat more than the walk* and then we had on our flannel Gym dresses, which made It worse. There is absolutely nothing to fill this big sheet and If X had had nay it other paper X would not have attempted Chapel service has been changed from directly after supper to forty minutes later which gives us an opportunity to walk in the evening. Evie says she does'nt understand my allusion to the sick but If I was'at so told In two letters and In distinct terms that both you and Rachel were, then X can't read writing but so as you are well now we won't quarrel about It. Since you kftjiX like to read the Miscellany so much I will subscribe for It* and will receive a number in July or August It only comes out every May 10, 1874 - 2 three months, prohably It will describe the commencement more fully than the papers, and as none of us will be here It will be alee to know about It. I am not so very sorry that Evie and Cousin Louise will wait until next year, lor I must stay next year whether I want to be or not, sad now I feel as If It would be Impossible to here a moment longer than I caa help* I am sorry that your predictions concerning the piano tuner were cor* Mr rect and hope that^Racie's man will do better. I have tried to do my duty by my music but I am sometimes so tired by five odock that tfe^t It is impossible to raise a note, never mind about my exercises H you cant find them the Italian one do just as well. I do wish I could have one accomplishment any way, but I dont seem to have the smallest kind of talent for anything except perhaps making "puddins and pies", which seems to come natural. How does Liszie like the measles ? every one's UttesX sisters seem to have them and several glrla here have been sick with them. Is Annie Barcalow all well now? she does hit deserve to be asked after, for she has never written to me, but I never know she Is when the girls ask me. I will tell you now if I have not before, that ray dress looked very fine Indeed, at least every one said so, our looking glasses are ao email we cant see mere than our faces, and shoulders. May 10, 1874 - 3 We had a very pleasant meeting of Exoteric last night quite a nam- of ber of Seniors and teachers were present the entertainment consisted^ a debate a few tableaux and the reading of Mark Twains ridiculous story of "a good little boy who came to a bad end". The society came so near dying out that it is a wonder it is able to lift up its head again. Tall me of Cousin Louisa's purchases when you write, I suppose she got the summer silk she talked of. We have almost finished William Tell and will then read a novel for variety but I dr A to think of our finishingthe former for we have to a take I dont know hew many pages at a time and give^synopsis in our own words, it is decidedly the hardest study I have not excepting Latin although we have Prof. Hinkle for a teacher. I never realised what a blessing it was to have a neat room mate until Annie Iredell left. Minnie Culver is anything but neat and tries my patience so sometimes that I can scarcely stand it, but ahe is the best hearted girl alive and that is a good deal. I hope I can have a single room next year but the Freshmen have the poorest chance of any, and besides I have'nt the plea of ill health to help me. I heard a few days ago that Miss Terry had only been engaged for three years, this being her third, and that her health would not permit her to come back, meat of the girls would rejoice if she did not, for they all May 10, 1874 - 4 her seem to dislike^, although they probably would dislike anyone In har position. There this stupid letter is finished and I am glad for such stuff I never wrote, but you must blame the menotony of school life and not me. Good night. Your loving daughter j Mary E. Gaston* ex-'78,
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E.
Date: February 14, 1874
Text: 74 Sunday, Fab. 14 (1S74, Dear Mother, I wish ever so much that, I could be at home to go to church with you this lovely morning. Sunday never seems like H'm sell here but there Is id use In wishing and it Is some consola- tion to think that seven Sundays from to day I wont be here. President Raymond delighted us very much on Friday by saying that Mrs Lippin- cott alias Grace Greenwood would lecture to us in the evening on "Indoors"* Her lecture was bright and witty like her...
Show more74 Sunday, Fab. 14 (1S74, Dear Mother, I wish ever so much that, I could be at home to go to church with you this lovely morning. Sunday never seems like H'm sell here but there Is id use In wishing and it Is some consola- tion to think that seven Sundays from to day I wont be here. President Raymond delighted us very much on Friday by saying that Mrs Lippin- cott alias Grace Greenwood would lecture to us in the evening on "Indoors"* Her lecture was bright and witty like her letters, but such sffectattea such rolling of eyes and wringing of hands I never saw. She immense wore a light silk, with s long train and an awimflm black vail oa her head, something like Bell Tunison, altogether, she was frightful and reminded me mere of Mrs. Skewton in Dombey fc Son thsn anyone else. Yesterday the Sophomores had their annual ceremony of burning their the Trigonometries as idlest mathematics, they are obliged to take, there were addresses by the Sophs* & responses by the Freshmen and they Written ended by singing an original song^by one of the class. The programmes were in the form of a triangle and were very funny there was a picture oa them something like this I wish I could send you a programme but as of course I did'nt go, I have none. The Phila- lethean Society gave its grand play of the season yesterday The Merchant of Venice. I was net asked to go for Annie Reed the only one I know who would ask me was la the play herself and I suppose did'nt like to. Annie Feb* 14, 1874 * 2 Barcaiow is out of the Infirmary and pretty well again, but she has a heavy cold yet, she told me something that I was very sorry to hear, that Kutz Schenck is dead, Tunison's store wont seem like itfs self without him. Was'nt It one of the childrea who seat me that horrible valentine? I thought it was a letter from some stranger until I opened it, for the handwriting was entirely strange, you might as well confess. Louise Kellogg is to sing in Po'keepsle this week I am glad I have heard her for I don't feel tempted to go again. The Cecelia Society gives a concert next Saturday* I hope nothing will keep ma from going as last time, some of the girls play beautifully bat none of thorn better than Evie. I caa Judge for sometimes they play her pieces. Our bills come la very soon, this week, I think, shall I send It home or la the world do you manage it? Tall Evie I am read* lag The Vlrgiaiaas", and I expect Miss Finch will give me a lecture for reading It on Sunday, for she saw me reading It to day and looked as solema as tea owls. Annie Barcalow's box came last week* aha told me to coma down and gat all 1 wanted, the Idea Just as If I were going asist- down there for anything she might send me up a piece of cake. You may imagine me fating Ice cream for dinner aa Tuesday fc Thursday no matter how cold it is. This letter Is awfully written bat Nettle Cornwall Is here and such a chatterbox I never saw. It Is Just Impossible to write. Your loving Daughter (Mary E. Gas tea, ex-'78,
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Creator: Gaston, Mary E.
Date: February 29, 1875
Text: Spring, F eb* 29, 1875?, Dear Mother, It does'nt seem nt nil like Spring, for the snow is six inches thick, hut the sun is quite warm and altogether it is a beautiful day, Last week was so full of good things that it has spoiled me* Monday was a holiday it being Washington's birthday or the day after, which is just the same and Thursday, "The day of Prayer for Colleges"* Dr Storrs of Brooklyn gave us a very fine sermon and on Wed., a very interesting lecture on "...
Show moreSpring, F eb* 29, 1875?, Dear Mother, It does'nt seem nt nil like Spring, for the snow is six inches thick, hut the sun is quite warm and altogether it is a beautiful day, Last week was so full of good things that it has spoiled me* Monday was a holiday it being Washington's birthday or the day after, which is just the same and Thursday, "The day of Prayer for Colleges"* Dr Storrs of Brooklyn gave us a very fine sermon and on Wed., a very interesting lecture on "European Libraries", yesterday, a concert by the Cecilia Society of which I send you a programme, and last night another lecture from Bishop Huntington, on "The unconcious Power of Education", which I am ashamed to say almost put me to sleep. Said Bishop will preach for us this morning, with the Episcopal ser- vice. I am so sorry my prayer book is at home, although it is a shabby specimen. Our Linear Drawing is getting to be much more interesting, we have advanced from barns to human heads* and the change is agreeable, it is a perfect mania in this parlor to draw them and papers are lying all around with horrible looking faces on them* Prof. Van Ingen told us to draw some one we knew so I tried to draw -be Pappa but before I got through I decided it looked more like the Emperor Augustus, but my greatest trouble is that I cant Feb, 29, 1875? - 2 make women's faces at all, they all look like men, so I clap some back hair on and declare they are women although the girls laugh at me, and say they cant tell whether they look the most like effemi- nate men or masculin woman. While I think of it, I will ask you to make my dress skirts pretty short, so they dont touch the ground at least, but if you have made them already, it is'nt worth while to change them. I am quite anxious to see what you have bought.—— The Chapel bell interrupted my writing, the Episcopal service was, such n pleasant change but it made me feel blue, thinking of you all at home, the time\ goes fast enough on workdays or else we have no time to think of it but on Sunday the time drags. 1 wish there was something pleasant to tell. I cant think of anything except that we had turkey for dinner yesterday, that will please Evie I know. Why did'nt she write me last week. I looked for a letter every day, but none came; dont for- get to tell me how Annie Is, the girls ask me and I am ashamed to say I dont know. Congratulate Rachel for me. what posseses her to get married, tell her it dont pay} and that we cant do without her. We have almost finished Cicero that is all we are going to read and next week begin the Eclogues. I am awfully hungry and wish the dinner bell would ring. Your loving Daughter, Mary. (Mary E. Gaston, ex-'78,
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