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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Date: March 04, 1866
Text: Vassar Mar. 4th/66. My dear Mather, Looking at my letter account I was greatly horrified to find that I haven't written to you since the 17th. You must attribute it entirely to the state of excitement that we have been in lately for various reasons. First the tableaux took up a good deal of attention, more after they were over than before, and since then Prof. Knapp's resignation, has completely filled our minds. Last night a new subject of surprise and astonishment presented itself...
Show moreVassar Mar. 4th/66. My dear Mather, Looking at my letter account I was greatly horrified to find that I haven't written to you since the 17th. You must attribute it entirely to the state of excitement that we have been in lately for various reasons. First the tableaux took up a good deal of attention, more after they were over than before, and since then Prof. Knapp's resignation, has completely filled our minds. Last night a new subject of surprise and astonishment presented itself to our admiring eyes in the shape of George Gilbert direct from Idaho. Miss Gilbert had no suspicion that he meditated leaving those blissful realms, until his card was handed to her. You can imagine her sentiments when she saw it, and him. We had the pleasure of a long talk with him - I don't like him nearly as well as I did John, for he brings some tinges of the Rocky Mountains with him -not much you know, but little things, such as tipping back in his chair. He seemed very glad to see us, and regretted very deeply not having seen Father in Washington. He, in common with all the Gilberts that I have ever seen, seemed to have been systematically trained in the belief, that there never was, never will be and never could be another man, equal to my Father. He mentioned having seen a warm friend of Father's in the shape of C.A. Trowbridge - I wonder when he was at Idaho. He likewise met him (C.A.) in New York. On the whole I liked him very much, but not any where nearly as well as I did John. In fact I was some what smitten with the latter gentleman. Miss Gilbert is going down to Poughkeepsie to spend the day and talks somewhat of going home for a few days. I hope she will, she needs the rest. Spring is coming in good earnest. Mud up to our knees. Mild, mean damp weather, in abundance. I dont like it at all, and having to trot out an hour a day is highly repugnantto my feelings. I am also realising the spring, in some thing of my old tired feeling. But summer is coming pretty soon and we are going home. We didn't suspend any of the school duties on Fast Day, thinking I presume that the girls would talk too much, and fast too little. I was very glad that they kept on. Minnie and Miss Gilbert went down town yesterday, and called on Prof, and Mrs. Knapp, he said that he dreamed of being at our house and going to church with Hattie. He said that he remembered perfectly just how the house looked, and all about it. I think he is the very best man I ever saw. I wish you could know him. He evidently likes Hattie and Minnie very much. We have finished all the Livy, that we are to read. Prof. Knapp, had intended to have us commence Horace. I don't know what the Pres- will do with us. Miss Gilbert is very proud of our Greek class, she says that she never heard a class render as fine translations as we do. Prof. Knapp never heard us recite -I am very sorry indeed. Minnie has gone to church. I suppose the Communion in our delightful church will come next month. I don't ever want to set my foot inside of the church again. What do people say with regard to Mr. Freeland? Is he any better liked now than before? How's Father? Has Dr. Kitchel accepted his appointment to Middlebury? Minnie had a paper yesterday containing Mrs. Howard's death. It seems sudden in spite of her long sickness does it not? Have the boys come home? Was Mrs. Hildreth with her? How very sad Mrs. Buckley's death is. Her husband must feel it very deeply- Has Carrie a girl yet? If I wasn't ashamed to, I'd write to her again. I think Lucy is as mean as can be. I always thought she was intensely selfish. Give a great deal of love to Carrie. Tell Sara that I am going to write to her very soon. I haven't felt much like writing lately. Love to all the girls. Tell Willie that I am waiting impatiently for some sort of a picture from him. Mr. Gilbert said lastnight that he asked Mr. T. about Willie but he couldn't tell him any thing about him. Lots of love to Nellie, tell her that she is growing famous in the epistolatory line - Love to all who inquire for us - I must say that I have signally failed to carry out the instructions of the Pres- and make every letter a model of elegance. Nevertheless you'll excuse me and take what you can get, won't you? Good bye Mother darling - I wish it was July Our catalogue will be out before many months. Yours lovingly Mattie
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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Date: January 10, 1866
Text: Vassar Jan. 10/66 My dear, dearest Mother, I don't feel a bit like writing to you this afternoon. I want to put my head in your lap, and tell you all about my visit in Brooklyn, how kind Auntie was, what a delightful time we had, and how very much we like the girls. I have enough to say to occupy several days, and then to think of writing it on a little paper. O dear! I want you to rid your self of any false impressions Bell may have given you concerning the girls dress, for from that...
Show moreVassar Jan. 10/66 My dear, dearest Mother, I don't feel a bit like writing to you this afternoon. I want to put my head in your lap, and tell you all about my visit in Brooklyn, how kind Auntie was, what a delightful time we had, and how very much we like the girls. I have enough to say to occupy several days, and then to think of writing it on a little paper. O dear! I want you to rid your self of any false impressions Bell may have given you concerning the girls dress, for from that Helen wrote after Bell came back I know she said a good deal. (Mother I am writing this while Father is gone, because I want to tell you some things, Aunt Rebecca told me, but which she did not want him to know.) The girls dress very nicely, in perfect taste, but not extravagantly at all: not any more than we would all of us dress, if we were young ladies in Brooklyn. They had very handsome silk basquines last summer and wore them lined and wadded this winter. They don't wear any ribbons, or such little odds and ends that mount up so fast. As for those dresses from China, the trimmings couldn't have cost any where near twenty dollars a piece. I don't believe it was as much for both. The dresses are beautiful, the most exquisite pine apple berage, very different from any I ever saw for sale, almost like a cobweb - They are trimmed with blue silk - and nothing else. I had no idea that I should like the girls so well, they are charming - I hope when you write to Auntie you will tell her something about how much we enjoyed ourselves. And Mother I wish you would write to Emma andinvite her to stop and see us when she goes to Missouri next May. I think very likely that she will not be able to, but yet I know that the invitation would please her. She is not strong, and traveling tires her extremely, therefore by the time they reached Detroit, I think they would both be glad to stop over night at least. The Millers liked Mr. Cartlidge very much. Mother, Auntie wanted us to charge you not make a confident of Bell. She said she mentioned it in her last letter to you, but not as much as she wanted to. She says that Bell has improved very much since she was married, but still she is not to be trusted. She will, and did, repeat all sorts of things that you said to her, about Aunt Martha and others, some of which Auntie thought it very doubtful if you originated them. She said it was not safe to trust her with any thing you didn'tdesire to have promiscuously repeated. She seemed very anxious that this fact should be repeated impressed upon your mind. Aunt Charlotte is going to Brooklyn to live in the spring - They all of them seemed anything but delighted at the prospect. Aunt Rebecca said that she didn't want to talk about her, because she knew that every word she said, would some way be wormed out of her, but some time she wanted a regular "goings in" on the subject. They don't appear to anticipate a great deal of peace and comfort in store for them. Did you know that poor little Emma fell down on a tumbler last summer and cut her hip, hurting her so badly, that they are afraid she will always be a cripple. Isn't it terrible? If you knew it, why didn't you write to us? It must be a dreadful trial for Aunt Phebe. Emma Hopkins thinks that Aunt Phebe's family are the mostperfect models that ever came into the world. (The same authority states, that Mary Leach is maturing or rather being matured, to such an extent, that by the time she is twelve years old, she will be in her second childhood. Did you read her letter to me? The style and matter were sufficiently childish certainly, but perhaps you noticed that she is studying Greek. Think of that for seven years old! I presume Hebrew will follow soon. Aunt Rebecca took it into her head to find me much more "delicate" than she had expected, therefore don't be alarmed, if you receive all manner of documents from her explicitive of alarm. Because really every one says that I am fleshier, stronger, and healthier than when I left home. I was not well while in Brooklyn, for I was quite tired from school, and then took cold, which added to the fact that I was unwell made me feel mean, but I am verywell indeed. The Miller girls are so very feeble that they tremble for every one. Fannie was unwell when we went there, and in the same condition when we left. Auntie and Uncle both, said a great deal about Hattie's strong resemblance to Mother. Auntie could hardly keep her eyes off from her. She didn't think that I looked nearly as much like Aunt Martha. Oh Mother! I beg leave to inform you that I have been exalted to the position of Latin teacher! Just think of that will you. I had the honor ofteaching a class of twelve young ladies in Livy this morning. Yesterday I heard the same class in Prose. Your curiosity is roused now, isn't it? To explain, Mrs. Wyman our Latin teacher was taken ill into her bed with the pleurisy (Miss Gilbert says, spell it plewricy), and immediately sent for me Taking me by the hand, she solemnly adjured me to hear her Latin class, and allow her to be ill in peace. In great exultation I promised to do it - and immediately left the room lest she should change her mind - Imagine how grand I looked, sitting up in front of the class, in which I had formerly recited, and with the greatest possible dignity requesting "Miss Baker to begin" - I felt extremely complimented by Mrs. Wyman's asking me, and informing me that I could do it "just as well as any body else" - She hopes to be well tomorrow. I don't believe that teach-ing is my peculiar vocation - Hattie and Minnie have been undergoing an experience - Prof. Knapp invited those two young butterflies to attend Miss Anna Dickinson's lecture, in company with himself - The result was most unlooked for. Hattie suddenly grew deaf and blind, so that she was unable to notice us in the least, while Minnie strutted to such an extent, that fears were expressed lest she should fall over backwards. I murmurred to myself as I saw them flutter off to ask Miss Lyman's permission "Pride goeth before distraction and a haughty spirit, before a fall-" Nevertheless I did my best to assist them, by making very pretty brown velvet hat for her to wear - i.e. Minnie - At six o'-clock Minnie, Hattie, Alice Hubbard, Miss Grant, Miss Avery and Prof. Farrar sallied forth in the omnibus. M. and H. contemplating picking up Prof. Knapp at the Forbus House, where he boards - The omnibus stopped, and there was amoment of breathless silence, after which the Prof.'s dear little moustache and pale face appeared at the door to say, "That he was very sorry but he had received a letter which obliged him to attend to important business immediately-" &c &c ahem - he was very sorry indeed, et cetera. Oh my Mother! had you and I only been there to see the crest fallen countenances of those fair damsels, to assist their troubled friends to pour the oil of consolation over their troubled spirits, and, afterwards to have reaped the reward of our labors, in oysters and cake at Mr. Swan's (the Sec. of the College), this however is not to be repeated. I believe they enjoyed the lecture highly and afterwards received the excuses of the mortified Prof, with smiling faces - Have you had any weather in Detroit? If not we have plenty to spare. Sunday was a bleak, cold day. Monday the thermometer stood at 15 in the morningand did not fall during all that day and night below 15°, which accompanied by a very cutting North west wind, rendered the day nearly, if not quite, as tedious as that memorable New Years Day - Prof. Knapp walked out, being unable to get an omnibus, or driver, of any kind - and nearly perished. His left ear was very badly frozen, he went directly to his recitation room, but Miss Lyman succeeded in coaxing him up to her parlor where ("tell it not in Gaite), he was treated to hot sling. He held his handkerchief up to his ear all day long. It must have pained him very much, thawing out in that slow way - Some of the girls came into Po'keepsie that night, and could not get anyone to bring them out for love or money, and had to remain in the city over night. Yesterday was less windy than Monday but yet very cold, today is beautiful, very clear and cold - Is the Week of Prayer observed in Detroitthis year? We have had a prayer meeting every evening this week. Miss Lyman has conducted them. I have enjoyed them very much. Miss Lyman does not always impress strangers very favorably, but she has a very fine mind, and I don't think I ever heard a lady speak and pray, so beautifully as she does. She always says just what you want, just as you want it. She spoke last night of South Hadley's devoting one day to pray for Miss Fiske's school, which reminded me of that prayer you have. I wish you would send me a copy. I know it would interest Miss Lyman. You don't know how much our room has been, above all the other rooms in the house. It is the only private room - i.e. one belonging to the young ladies - into which either Mr. Mitchel, Prof. Tenney and I think Prof. Farrar have entered. Mr. Mitchel has been here three times. I gave him some of the doughnuts Auntiegave us, greatly delighting his hearty thereby. Prof. Tenney lives next door, and we have fallen into a habit of spending about two hours per diem in there. He is a dear good man, his wife ditto, and they seem to enjoy our coming — (Minnie is filled with astonishment at learning that Mrs. Tenney is a man). Prof. Farrars is an elegant place to visit. I spent about an hour there Sat. eve. half of in in the dining room and kitchen - I forgot to say that our room was the first one that Mrs. Bannister was in - How many callers we had who never came before. They must have had a nice time at the Dr.'s. How do they get along? What do they call Mrs. Pomeroy? Have you called on her yet? What a pity that Mrs. Wilkins is sick again - I hope she will live - I wish I could see Mrs. Carnis the bride, where did he know her? Give a great deal of love to Mary Colburn and her baby - I wish I could take the dear little one in my arms, and kiss it - Please give a great deal oflove to Mr. and Mrs. Freeland - I would give a great deal to shake hands with him - Ask Carrie if she has forgotten me altogether - Tell Willie that I believe the sight of his hand writing would make me to sing Madame's hymn - You have no idea how much we all enjoyed our letter from you. Tell Sallie to be good and forgiving and write soon - I hope you won't be discouraged by the length of this epistle but I have so much to say that I can't bear to stop even now. Excuse that blot, my wretched pen fell off and did it. I do want very much to kiss you good night Won't you be sure and come here in the spring. You know you ought to have come this fall. Don't you suppose Father will be willing?Has Nellie finished reading my letter to her? Good night my darling Mother MattieHattie wants you to ask Father to send us some money Ours has given out almost
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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Date: January 21, 1866
Text: Vassar College Jan. 21st 1866 My dear, dear Mother, Hattie has gone to Bible Class, Minnie to church, Emma to Missouri and I am snugly ensconced before the register, looking very much, as if I had been indulging in a prize fight, from which I had come off, forty-second best. (Yesterday my left eye seemed altogether minus, but in the course of the day was induced to make its appearance, by the aid of some warm soap suds. I am nearly, but not quite, as wonderfully beautiful, as last winter when...
Show moreVassar College Jan. 21st 1866 My dear, dear Mother, Hattie has gone to Bible Class, Minnie to church, Emma to Missouri and I am snugly ensconced before the register, looking very much, as if I had been indulging in a prize fight, from which I had come off, forty-second best. (Yesterday my left eye seemed altogether minus, but in the course of the day was induced to make its appearance, by the aid of some warm soap suds. I am nearly, but not quite, as wonderfully beautiful, as last winter when I astonished the natives. The pain is almost entirely gone, and nothing remains but for the swelling to go and do likewise. So that by the time this reaches you, very likely I shall be around again,a mere representative of commonplacedom. You have no idea how kind Mrs. Tenney has been to us - She has come every day to inquire for me, furnished us with hope and hot water, brought me most elegant tapioca pudding, and canned peaches, offered us a lounge and been our ministering angel generally - If ever I can won't I enjoy assisting her? Miss Avery has been to see me every day, and one night gave me some medecine, to make me sleep. I have had a perfect shower of letters, they couldn't have come more opportunely if you had known that I was sick. Thursday came one from Sara, good too. Friday morning one from Carrie and in the afternoon, Helen's magnificent long letter and a copy of the "Nation" and "Every Saturdays" from Charlie - Wasn't that a harvest worth having? Please tell Nellie that I shall answer her just as soon as my health permits me to I don't see how this got so ruffedgive the subject the consideration it deserves - I should never have an easy conscience if I should put her aside with such a letter as this - Emma had a letter from Aunt Martha the other day in which after various and sundry rather disparaging remarks, she said "she was very sorry that the standard of the College was not equal to Holyoke, as she had hoped it might be." Emma's wrath was fully roused, and last night read us her reply, in which she puffed the College up to the sky, and puffed Hattie and I on top of that till we entirely disappeared in the blue - She stated among other things that Miss Mitchel said she never knew a young lady of her (Hattie's) age who had had so thorough a Math, training - I don't think Father need worry about our being favorites here. Minnie is undoubtedly one of the most, if not the most, populargirls here, both with the teachers and scholars. Hattie is very much liked too, but doesn't begin to be as well known as Minnie. As for me I don't suppose one half of the girls are aware of my existence and the teachers barely. Miss Lyman doesn't trouble herself about us one way or the other, altho' she is always very kind when she has occasion to be any thing - Mother, I want to see you very much as Nell says, "the nearer the time grows the more impatient I am," but I must confess that the time doesn't seem marvelously near to me yet. I suppose you have seen Mrs. Dickinson and heard all about us. I am so glad it wasn't Mr. D. because a lady can give so much more satisfactory discriptions than a man. We live in hopes of seeing you some time in the spring - I don't see but I have used up all my paper, and not said anything - an unheard of event with me, attribut-able solely to the state of my health, which by the way has perceptibly diminished since I commenced - If you have any difficulty in deciphering this don't injure yourself it is not worth it - Good bye, with a heart full of love, Mattie - Tell Willie that if he hasn't time to write to me - I shall be obliged to answer my own letter instanter
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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Date: January 28, 1866
Text: Vassar Jan. 28, 1866 My dear dear Mother, I don't believe that you in all your busy employments at home, can have any idea what a perfect feast home letters are to us. We had been looking for your letter so long that when it came yesterday morning, all the girls around here were ready to rejoice with us. I have just read it over for the fourth time, and each time have found something new to rejoice over. My face is all well now, but your kind sympathy was welcome none the less. I knew at...
Show moreVassar Jan. 28, 1866 My dear dear Mother, I don't believe that you in all your busy employments at home, can have any idea what a perfect feast home letters are to us. We had been looking for your letter so long that when it came yesterday morning, all the girls around here were ready to rejoice with us. I have just read it over for the fourth time, and each time have found something new to rejoice over. My face is all well now, but your kind sympathy was welcome none the less. I knew at the time that it was with me, but I like to hear you say so. Miss Avery says that I must take care not to take cold, she likewise complimented Hattie upon my fortitude. I certainly didn't take cold by wetting my feet because I haven't done that since I was here but once - when we went down to see Father. Hattie is very anxious to assure you that her health will permit her to be carried home on a litter next July, but not before. She says shecan't remember any particular period at which her health has been any improvement upon the present. Mrs. Dickinson will, I think assure you of that. Seriously she is perfectly well hadn't thought of any contrary state of mind. I promise you that if I see any symptoms of decay, or even modified health, I will let you know immediately - I must say that I feel a little bit injured that Father should feel anxious about Hattie leaving me in the cold, when any one can tell you that I have grown thin, with such alarming rapidity during the past week that my very sister says I don't seem like the same person, while Miss Avery has given me over altogether, and says that she can do nothing more - I can't tell you how great a weight is lifted from my mind to hear such favorable reports from the Dr.'s. I was so afraid that while there might be no open rupture there would be continual jars, and collisions, which would prevent mutual confidence and love, I am also glad to hear so pleasing a report of Sara's looks - as I had feared that all hercare, anxiety, and hurry, might wear her out. I grow more and more impatient at the thought of being absent from her wedding. Yet I should be very sorry to leave here, a day before the close of the year. Besides I am very anxious to welcome her here, and show her everything and body. Give a great deal of love to Rose and her baby - I am much obliged to her for keeping us so faithfully in mind. That sack for her boy must have been very pretty. Did you embroider it with purple? How did C. L Walker come to be reelected? What style of a Deacon is Mr. Silsbee calculated to make? How is the Church? Do the people agree any better than they did? and what are the prospects for Mr. Freeland's settlement? You never mention him lately. Please give him and wife my love. Did you notice a statement made in a Free Press not long ago that Dr. Kitchel has been appointed Pres. of Middlebury College? By the way I wish you would please send us some more papers, we enjoy them exceedingly - but I haven't seen aTribune for a long time - Never mind about my album, it will be all the nicer to be new next summer, and I have no photographs now. But Mother, won't you have your picture taken to help fill both Sara's new book, and mine? I leave the subject to your careful consideration - I rejoice with you, Father, and Willie in the possesion of your new over coats. What have you been wearing all winter? It is a comfort to think that Father and Will have those much needed articles at last. I do want to see Willie desperately, tell him to have some tintypes taken before he is a day older, and send me three, at least. Likewise please bestow upon him, his sister Harriet's sympathetic congratulations upon his oration, sympathetic, because she, as Presidentess of Chapter B - has been requested to deliver an address before them at their next meeting, Friday - Feb. 2, 1866, at 7 1/2 P.M. Minnie read an essay last meeting on "Societies and Clubs." It was very good indeed. Mattie spoke a pome likewise very good, and beauti-fully delivered. Don't I beg of you feel any annoyance about that lecture of Miss Dickinson's. The fun and laughter since, has more than repaid any momentary disappointment. I am thankful that your dream was only a dream. I hope next time you'll be more prudent, altho' in your sleep. Hattie read Emma what you said of herself and Mother. It pleased her exceedingly - She thinks now, that she can get away from here, in time to spend her birthday, the 2nd, at Brooklyn. one of the new teachers has come, and two more are expected this week. Mr. Cartlidge proposes to fix it, so that they can stop over Sunday at Detroit. I know you would have a most gorgeous visit - We are much delighted at the news concerning His Mightiness the Pope, and only wish it was Mr. Killdog whose place he has taken. How pleasant it must have been to have Sara and Mary together, I suppose Mary is wholly absorded ia her baby - and considers it a prodigy, as all first babies are. I am "truly grieved" (vide Mrs. Aldritt), to hear such bad news of Mr. Ball, what's the matter with him? Mrs. Ball told me before she left last summer, that she thought something was the matter with her, but it seems she was mistaken. I do hope she will get along nicely - How hard it will be for Miss Swift and Helen to move. Miss Usher, is I believe rather hoping for a visit from Helen on her way to N. York. We of course, would be delighted. We have changed Corridor Teacher. Mrs. Metcalf has gone on the third floor and Mrs. Wyman, come down here. Our corridor consider ourselves rather more advantaged than the third floor. Mrs. Wyman is very pleasant and good, and I think we shall like her very much. Minnie had sick headache yesterday and I got Miss Avery for her, who merely prescribed hot water as an emetic, which gave her much relief - Minnie this morning expressed herself much disgusted, she said she didn't see the use of having a doctor for the first time in one's life, and thennot having her give you any oppodilldoc, or corrosive sublimate, or anything with a name, but merely hot water, which any one can have any day in the year. I seem to have strung out a long letter and not said anything just as I always do, but what can't be cured must be endured - I don't write as often as I used to but I can't bear to stop when I once begin — Oh! I had almost forgotten about exercise - We are obliged to exercise out of doors, fifty five minutes, every day of our lives. It is the only thing on which we are required to report, but we have to on this every Monday night to our corridor teacher, and she alone excuses us, only upon the plea of very bad weather or ill health. Give the usual quantity of love to the usual persons, from us three - Miss Gilbert sends love to all but Willie but Emma with superior charity includes him also - With a thousand kisses I am your youngest daughter Mattie S. W.
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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Date: February 03, 1866
Text: Vassar College, Feb. 3rd, 1866 My darling Mother, I haven't forgotten that today is our little Birdie's birthday. I have thought a great deal about you today - of how lonely you are feeling, and have wished more than ever before, that I might put my arms around you, and talk of our little Angel Baby - Ah Mother dearest! there is our comfort, that she is not only a pure and spotless angel now, but she has never had a stain or blemish to wipe away - She went to our Savior's arms...
Show moreVassar College, Feb. 3rd, 1866 My darling Mother, I haven't forgotten that today is our little Birdie's birthday. I have thought a great deal about you today - of how lonely you are feeling, and have wished more than ever before, that I might put my arms around you, and talk of our little Angel Baby - Ah Mother dearest! there is our comfort, that she is not only a pure and spotless angel now, but she has never had a stain or blemish to wipe away - She went to our Savior's arms without having "crucified him afresh", as we so often have done, without even one sinful thought to be forgiven. It seems strange, when we think of this side only, that we can mourn for her at all, does it not? How cunning she would have been if she had lived,but how much her knowledge now, surpasses all our earthly wisdom. When spring comes, will you please plant, a white rose, on her grave, for me? I was very much shocked by what you said of Mrs. Avery. I had a letter from Carrie while I was sick, in which she merely mentioned that her Auntie was not at all well, but said nothing whatever about Lucy's having left home. We think there must be something back of it, for a woman of her age, would certainly be capable of lowering her voice, to accomodate a sick person, who had filled the place of a Mother to her, for so many years - It will be too hard for Carrie, I am afraid, to take care of the house and her Auntie both, you know she is not all strong. I wish that if you she can Lucy would go home, and as the President said to us this morning, about being noisy in the halls, "behave like a good girl, and a sensible woman as she is" - I do hope Mrs. Avery will be well soon. Emma was much pleased with her note. She really is not fit to stay a day, but has promised to another week, as they are in great trouble over their music teachers - The girls went down town to day, and got her a beautiful sugar spoon for a wedding present -It is to go from all three of us - The price was five dollars. They had it marked E.S.H. in German letters. I wrote a little note to go with it, and the whole contrivance is waiting for her to come down from the library - She had a birthday yesterday - was twenty six - We shall miss her very much when she goes - Minnie insists she will more than either of us, because she reminds her so much of her sister Lizzie - My sister Harriet made her maiden speech last night, to a crowd of thirty six gaping girls. We, in our humble opinion, considered it very good indeed - I am on the committee, having the scrap box in charge - and am so far ahead ofMiss Frost. Emma has come in and as she declares, is knocked all in a heap. She thinks it is beautiful. I am just as well as can be and feel continually with Theedie Sadue "I want to go home. Won't it be gorgeous when next Tune comes? O my! I don't dare to think of it. Emma says she is going to write to you. I am ashamed to say that I have nothing to say, that will interest you in the least - unless it is - that Miss Lyman has been sick, and recovered, that Miss Gilbert, in humble imitation of her superiors, has been and gone, and done likewise, that Hattie, by Prof. Knapp's direction heard Miss G.'s begining Greek class, winning golden opinions from the young ladies - that we have most elegant chocolate every Saturday - &c - &c - I hope I shall feel more interesting next time I write - I gave your thanks to Mrs. Tenney and she seems pleased but said she hadn't done anything at all, which was a society fib - Minnie, Hattie, Emma, and Mattie send great heaps of love to their Father, Mother, bro, and sister. Mattie -
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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Date: February 17, 1866
Text: Vassar College Feb. 17th 1866 My dear Mother, Before I tell you how very glad I was to recieve your letter, I shall feel it my duty to apologize for the extreme untidiness of my sheet of paper. I didn't notice how very much tumbled and soiled it was. Hoppie (short for Emma Hopkins) left this morning for Vergenes, amid the lamentations of the whole house. Every one from the President to Miss Pratt head waiter seemed to regret her departure. As far as we have learned, she left nothing...
Show moreVassar College Feb. 17th 1866 My dear Mother, Before I tell you how very glad I was to recieve your letter, I shall feel it my duty to apologize for the extreme untidiness of my sheet of paper. I didn't notice how very much tumbled and soiled it was. Hoppie (short for Emma Hopkins) left this morning for Vergenes, amid the lamentations of the whole house. Every one from the President to Miss Pratt head waiter seemed to regret her departure. As far as we have learned, she left nothing behind her, except her napkin ring - We miss her sadly, especially at table. I am very glad that she is going to stop in Detroit - How I wish I could be at home. I am glad that your skirt for Sarais going to be so pretty. She wrote me about it, also that Nellie is going to braid a night gown for her. I wish Mother, when the time comes, that you would please get her some thing nice for me, something silver. I know that she would like that best, and it goes farther than any thing else I think. Don't you? I am very much obliged for that prayer. I'll show it to Miss Lyman as soon as I have an opportunity. Miss Mitchel has a brother and his wife visiting her. I think they both look very smart. Mrs. Mitchel is a granddaughter of John Q. Adams. I had the honor of an introduction to them after dinner - Miss Mitchel paraded her astronomy class down to see them yesterday. Miss Palmer of Northhampton, you have heard us speak of her, received a telegram today saying - "Come home directly, bring your trunk," her mother has been very sick, and from the indefinite style of the telegram shehas every thing to fear. Don't ever telegraph for us in that style. Mrs. Judd of Warsaw has come here to teach music. Did you know her? She gave Fannie lessons when she was about ten years old - since then she has married and lost her husband. I think you that you and Nellie have made famous improvement in the calling line, since we left. It must be owing to the lack of my fascinations to keep to at home. When we come back see if I let you even look out of the window - If I haven't altered in any respect, I have increased to such an extent that it requires a very powerful pressure to check me, when once I have started on an oration, most people fold their hands with a sigh of resignation and let me have free course. I have been reading "Tom Brown at Rugby" out loud. I think I obtain more and more good from it every time I read it - We are going to readArnold's sermon's to his boys. The weather is bitter cold; today just after dinner the sun was bright and warm, so we walked the hour after dinner. It was perfectly delightful, we went way off over by the fence, where I had never been before; we walked on the crusted snow, as I never have done since I left Burlington. We are going to have another spelling match tonight, likewise tableaux next Thursday (Washington's birthday). Has Father come back from Washington? I feel so exceedingly like writing to my brother William that I shall do it immediately and send it in this letter - I hope Mother that you won't be very greatly agitated if I inform you that I have opened a correspondence with a young gentleman residing in St- Joseph Mo- who signs his name "Your Cousin Will"- Our correspondence so far has been limited to conundrums sent via Emma's letters, but no one knows what the result may be - I hope you didn't ask me any questions for I'm too lazy to get your letter - How sadit must have been for Mrs. Avery to be so sick. I should think she would be very impatient at being confined to the house - A great deal of love to all the dear good people - I wish you could have heard Miss Lyman pray for Miss Palmer at prayers tonight - Tell Nellie she's a jewel - love to Bridget - and all the others Your loving daughter Mattie Did Helen ever tell "Fannie" King that we couldn't make appilication for her without regular authority, and her father would be far the best one to do it.
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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Date: February 10, 1866
Text: Vassar College. Feb. 10th 1866 My dear Mother, I shouldn't feel a bit orthodox to let this letter go home and not send you a Sunday letter, therefore I'm beginning it tonight to be sure and have it done for Monday morning's mail. What in the world started off Father, to Kentucky? Has he decided to give up that Washington scheme? I wish he would come home by way of Vassar Female College. Mother aren't you coming at all? I do not believe that I can survive till summer not...
Show moreVassar College. Feb. 10th 1866 My dear Mother, I shouldn't feel a bit orthodox to let this letter go home and not send you a Sunday letter, therefore I'm beginning it tonight to be sure and have it done for Monday morning's mail. What in the world started off Father, to Kentucky? Has he decided to give up that Washington scheme? I wish he would come home by way of Vassar Female College. Mother aren't you coming at all? I do not believe that I can survive till summer not seeing you - besides, you really ought to come for your health. We aren't going to stop expecting you, till you come. We had a gay time after silent hour, most of the girls in corridor, assembled in one of the recitation rooms and we had I was chosen captain on one side, and Nellie Duffield on the other; our side spelled down all but one, and had five left, that one, Miss Glass, spelled against all of five of us, until she, Florence Hart, and myself, sat down on Bdellium. The other three with one accord, departed at a barbecue. We are going to have them every Saturday night. I think they will do us a great deal of good. Minnie put out the words last time, but I believe she will have to take her turn next week - There is s remarkable young lady here, by the name of McClintock who has the most singular sleeping turns, of which I ever heard. The first one was last term soon after we came here, when she went to sleep Sunday afternoon, and slept until Teusday afternoon. Since then she has had one or two such turns, and is enjoying one at present, she went to sleep Friday night. It is impossible to wake her - she went to sleep in the parlor, and they had to carry her upher up stairs, and put her to bed. She doesn't eat anything when she is up. Miss Avery has given her positive orders, to eat at least a slice of bread every meal. Last Sunday was communion in the Cong. church. Hattie and I went, but shall never set my foot in that church again. I thought it was bad enough when last communion, (that was in Oct.) he compared our Lord's passover, to John Brown's last supper with his wife. But not content with that he, last Sunday, taking for his text, "Looking unto Jesus" he uttered the following noble sentence, "In the first century of the Christian era, Christ was crucified by the carnal lusts of the Jews, while in this the nineteenth, he is raised to the point of adoration, by the superstionse of the Christian Church-" a little further on, "Even the whining psalmsinging puritans of Conneticut have a speculative Jesus." "Conneticut can sing psalms through her nose till the day of Judgement, but she can't do it." (I.e prevent the negro from voting.) Dignified for the pulpit wasn't it? Likewise are excellent preparation for Communion, especially for the Conneticut girls - He afterwards remarked "that one great fault of the church was too superstitious reverence for Jesus." Then in reading the verses which preceed and end his text, he said "Laying aside every weight," &c "let us run with patience the race set before us, looking unto Jesus the racer that beat them all." I never was more shocked and disgusted in my life. Mr. Corning may be a very talented and good man, but if so he is a very skillful actor. I am going to the Dutch Reformed church after this. Their minister preached for us one Sunday and the sermon was very good and only half an hour long - Dr. Raymond's sermons average an hour. Last Sunday he preached seventy three minutes. I regret to say that in the midst of it, I found myself walking down Jefferson Ave. with Sara. If he preached in the morning we could listen better I think, as it is I am thoroughly delighted when he finishes - I expect everyinstant to hear the chapel bell ring - So I must say Good bye - I want to see you dreadfully. Mattie - Hattie and Minnie send love.
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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Date: February 10, 1866
Text: Vassar College Feb. 10th, 1866. My dear Helen, You don't know how delighted we all were by your letter. It is just two weeks today since I had had a letter from any one, man, woman, or child. Emma has gone to Brooklyn to spend the Sabbath. She is almost worn out, she teaches seven hours a day part of the time in a room where eight pianos are going at once. She says it makes her almost crazy. I am very glad she has gone to Brooklyn, and hope that she will bring us back some doughnuts....
Show moreVassar College Feb. 10th, 1866. My dear Helen, You don't know how delighted we all were by your letter. It is just two weeks today since I had had a letter from any one, man, woman, or child. Emma has gone to Brooklyn to spend the Sabbath. She is almost worn out, she teaches seven hours a day part of the time in a room where eight pianos are going at once. She says it makes her almost crazy. I am very glad she has gone to Brooklyn, and hope that she will bring us back some doughnuts. What has possessed you to take an other scholar? I think you had better follow up your marvelous Mexican plan - dont ever allow your plans to stop half way, in anything. We had a most delightful literary meeting last night, after which Hattie, Minnie and I adjournedby invitation, to Prof. Tenney's where we had some elegant coffee and cake, just such delicious coffee as Mother makes, and cookies like those Minnie has at home. We are falling more and more irretrivably in love with Mr. and Mrs. Sanborn Tenney. They are my ideal of married happiness exactly. I do wish that you and Mother could see them. Hattie Raymond's intended is here visiting, his name is [Loyd] from the oil regions, very light hair, nice looking I guess. Hattie and Minnie saw him getting into the omnibus. Madame Spartan still honors us with her presence. I believe that most people have come to the conclusion that she has the disease called "non compos mentis." If not she is a perfect fool when I go home I'll tell you stories as long as the moral law about her behavior. She met Emma in the hall the other day, and began to talk with her, in the course of the conversation Emma mentioned that she was going to leave. "And do you go of your own free choice Miss Hopkins?" "Certainly I do. I never wouldstay in this house one half hour after the slightest intimation that I wasn't wanted" "O but your case is so different from mine Miss Hopkins!" "Not at all Madame." after which she (i.e. Emma) gave her some plain, common sense advice, but it made no impression upon the obdurate damsel. By the way, she has confided to some of the girls, her fixed determination to capture and lead to the hymeneal altar before the close of the year, one of the Mr. Vassars, John Guy I think, but alas! for her scheme, he has sailed for Europe. Probably in order to fly Madame's fascinations. Little Carrie Wiebe sails for Germany in May to meet our (I humbly beg her pardon) her betrothed. She is the only daughter of our musical Prof., very odd but a nice little thing. I have decided to follow Helen Dana's advice, and corner a man, in order to have a multiplicity of letters. Emma has one every day, and sometimes two, great long ones, five or six sheets. You mustn't be to critical of G. Ladue, he can't help it. I don't wonderat him at all. Seems to me you and Mother must have rather a mania for calling. I hope that you won't have any more such serious mishaps as that of which you wrote. Your moral was useless as I haven't made a call since I have been here. For that matter I haven't been into Po'keepsie except to church and the depot, in all this time, even when I was in Brooklyn, I didn't enter a store for any purpose what ever. What a treat you have had in your lecture course - Wendell Philips lectured in the city last night quite a number went to hear him, but we didn't think it would be worth while - Prof. Tenney considers him the most perfect orator in the country, he has heard him several times. I am going to write Mother, consequently I shan't give you but one sheet this time. We are going to have a spelling match in our corridor after silent hour, won't it be fun? Give my love to all the people in Detroit. Isn't Mrs. Ella Rose Randall's death sad? And Mrs. Woodbridge's also. Do you knowthat there has not a year passed since they were married without a death in the family? It is just about a year since Mrs. Seely died and left a little baby. Mrs. Woodbridge's baby was born during Mrs. Dickinson's absence. We are to a reception of the President every month. Isn't that fine. We are nearly thro' Livy, and are going to read one more book of Homer. Farewell Helen Frances Warner - Respectfully M.S.W. (Martha S. Warner, '68)
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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Date: December 02, 1865
Text: Vassar, Dec. 2, 1865 My dear, dear Mother, It's Saturday evening again and I am writing to you. How ridiculous that I haven't written since Father was here. It seems at least a month. Words cannot tell you how very greatly we enjoyed his visit - It was almost like going home ourselves, the girls said the next day that it did them good to see how happy we looked. I was as proud of him as could be. You don't know how handsome he looked. He saw every one we wanted him to besides....
Show moreVassar, Dec. 2, 1865 My dear, dear Mother, It's Saturday evening again and I am writing to you. How ridiculous that I haven't written since Father was here. It seems at least a month. Words cannot tell you how very greatly we enjoyed his visit - It was almost like going home ourselves, the girls said the next day that it did them good to see how happy we looked. I was as proud of him as could be. You don't know how handsome he looked. He saw every one we wanted him to besides. I think we had a delightful visit. I had the pleasure of reciting Greek yesterday before John Gilbert, likewise of shaking hands with him to the distress of all the other young ladies of the class, who couldn't say"good bye" to him, nor ask him to come and see them at home. You probably remember writing to me about Miss Avery our doctor. She went down to New York with Mrs. Banister Thursday, without leaving word where she was going to stay. The next morning a telegram came saying that her father was dead. No one knew where to send or what to do, they telegraphed to Mrs. Banister in hopes she would know where she had gone but I believe she didn't, and tonight she has come back without knowing anything about it. She stopped at Miss Grant's room and she said to her, did you get the telegram? "What telegram, is my Father dead?" Miss Lyman has gone down to the depot with her, as she has gone to try and get home before the funeral. Monday - I wrote so far Saturday evening and then went to see Prof. Farrar. The all absorbing topic just now is a Literary Society which is forming - As far as I can see Minnie and Hattie are going to havematters in their own hands to a great extent. I am very glad they are going to have one for it will do us all good. The President has been very kind indeed, and takes a most lively interest in all our proceedings. Yesterday we went to Church because Miss Lyman made a mistake, and supposed that they did things decently and in order here, and had Communion every two months. We found that it only comes once in three months, but were much delighted at being allowed to go to church. I wonder if we would have such a longing to go, if Church was accessible every Sunday. As it is there is hardly a girl here who doesn't spend half her Sundays wishing she could go to church - I suppose that Dr. and Mrs. Pomeroy will have started on their wedding tour provided, as I imagine they are married in the morning - before this letter reaches you. How anxious we all are as to the result of that marriage! If it turns out wellI think it will be a most excellent thing for all, even Mary, because if her Father was going to act so I am sure that it will altogether more agreeable to have a nice lady at the head affairs that her younger sister. I want to write to Sara in time to have it reach her Wednesday, which will necessarilly be a sad day for them. Emma says they are going to call her "Mary" i.e. Sara and Mary, while she will have to say "Mother," I don't like that. If I didn't say "Mother," I'd say Mrs. Pomeroy - I wonder what they'll do with that little girl of hers. I don't see but I have managed to write as thoroughly unsatisfactory a letter as I very well could. Hattie had a letter today from Lottie Dwight - she didn't tell any news. How are Helen's eyes? Don't let her use them too much. I am going to electioneer this evening after silent hour and study hours. Mattie say tell Mother I am busy writing tickets, and sign my name and send it. Only two week to vacation, M. says send a ticket. Good by Mattie & Hattie.
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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
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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Creator: Warner, Martha S.
Descriptor(s): Ditkoff, Andrea
Date: 1865-1868

Creator: Warner, Martha S.

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