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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: May 23, 1871
Text: Vassar College. May 23, 1871. My dear Mamma, The bundle of underclothing came this afternoon and now, after having tried on the garments, I sit down to write you of their safe arrival, and how they fit. They all fit very well and I am much pleased. If you make any more nightdresses please make them about an Inch narrower In front and a little less behind, this will make the neck, too, a little smaller; you know I like things short on the shoulder and this gown will be better a trifle shorter...
Show moreVassar College. May 23, 1871. My dear Mamma, The bundle of underclothing came this afternoon and now, after having tried on the garments, I sit down to write you of their safe arrival, and how they fit. They all fit very well and I am much pleased. If you make any more nightdresses please make them about an Inch narrower In front and a little less behind, this will make the neck, too, a little smaller; you know I like things short on the shoulder and this gown will be better a trifle shorter there. The sleeves of the chemises could be a little shorter and the sleeve bands smaller, and I like the pattern which I sent you of a round yoke, batter than the square one. The skirt I think has no fault, only I would gather more another one made with the gathers all round the band. The clothes are made beautifully. Carrie entirely surpasses me in the management of the machine, and I shall have to take lessons of her In the art of machining when I go home. 1 know when you read what I have written about the underclothes you will say, "Julie is so particular) why need she speak of these little faults when the whole is sa nice," but if these little things are changed the clothes will be perfect. You ask in one of your lettersif we have a lady Principal. No, we have not, and have no idea who will be. One will be appointed for next but until then Miss Morse does the duties of one. Our matron, who was a very poor one* has left College and has been married. A new one, Mrs. Humphreys has come in her place. There is an air of refinement and mystery about her, aad many arc tha stories reported of the wealth which she has possessed aad her sorrows which have turaed her hair grey. She looks about thirty, but has very grey hair aad this gives rather a mysterious charm to her face. No doubt she has beea well off for she appears to have 4a lived la very good society. I think she willdo a great deal to improve her depart* meat of the College. I believe I have aever told you of the lecture by Mrs. Henry Field of New York. Her subject was to have beea "French Literature, but the Pres. asked her to chaage it to "What Freach will do for us," Mad she did so. She told us of the writings of Mile Stvign* and of Madame de Stael and advised us to read them and la Freach. "la the first place," she and we need to learn said, "they would teach us how to write lettersAbecause no American lady kaows how to write a letter which will not be stiff. Then they would teach us to appear better la society, and to carry oa general conversation instead of two persons getting la a comer aad talking by themselves as isso com* mon with Americans." But Freach aovels Mrs. Field would not have us touch. Mrs. Field talked to us a short tim^Ln the day about theyway to leara Freach aad talked la French. She is a native of Fraace and does not speak English very plainly. Her talk In French was not, of course, very Intel* llgible to me. I could occaslaaally understand a sentence, but I did not get a very connected idea of the whole. Now I must close with much love to all your loving daughter Julie. iJulia M. Pease, >75,
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: 1874-02-12
Text: Vassar. Feb. 12. 1874. Dear Papa and Mamma, The new semester has begun for the Seniors and us Juniors in a very pleasant way. Dr. Anderson, the president of the Rochester University, has been lecturing to us upon Political Economy. As he has given two lectures today we have had time for no studies, and not till tomorrow, Thursday, do we go to classes. Dr. Anderson charmed us all by his pleasant ways, as well as his very clear and analytical manner of speaking. Of course in so few lectures we...
Show moreVassar. Feb. 12. 1874. Dear Papa and Mamma, The new semester has begun for the Seniors and us Juniors in a very pleasant way. Dr. Anderson, the president of the Rochester University, has been lecturing to us upon Political Economy. As he has given two lectures today we have had time for no studies, and not till tomorrow, Thursday, do we go to classes. Dr. Anderson charmed us all by his pleasant ways, as well as his very clear and analytical manner of speaking. Of course in so few lectures we have not gone very far in so immense a subject as that of Political Economy, but he hasthrown considerable light upon some subjects which were before utter darkness to rue. Banking laws and tariff questions he has given us a little insight into, which will help us If we continue to read upon the subjects. He impressed upon us the facts so often expounded by you. Papa, that money at seven per. ct. interest doubles in ten years: and that if we do not wish to become burdens upon society we must do something useful, be producers of some kind. Cliffie Loverin and I decided immediately upon our spheres of usefulness. She is to pick up pebbles and shells, as that will give her many rides and walks upon Galveston's charming beach; while I shallbe a horse tamer, such occupation necessitating much riding, and in order to ride wild, I must first ride gentle horses. What think you of our decisions? Are they not worthy of Vassar Juniors? For Cliffie has lately beea admitted to our class, and will graduate in 1875. Her mother must be exceedingly glad of it; and if it had not been for Mrs. Lover in's desire I think Cliffie would not have tried to overtake our class Occasionally I find some Texas items in a paper; and recently there has been a paper called the "South" in the reading room. It is printed in New York city, but is devoted entirely to Southern items of news. I saw there the death of Gail Borden. Who is this Gen. Maxey? Is he an old Texan? For I do not remember having heard of him. I hope Mamma that you will not become alarmed concerning the occular organs of the College, since you have heard such woful accounts from Mts. Bis sell. It is true that girls have sometimes to leave here on account of weak eyes, but such cases are owing to naturally weak eyes combined with over-exertion, which is prohibited by all College Laws. If we do as we are desired there is no danger of injuring our eyes, and a girl generally has only herself to blame if she gets them out of working order. Carrie writes that Mrs. Hunt is soon to leave you, so I fear she will have left you ere now. You will all miss her very much, I should think.With Love, your daughter Julie.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: November 19, 1871
Text: Vassar College, Nov. 19, 1870 ,1871, My dear Aunt, You were very good to write to me agaia without aa answer to your letter. As usual I have beea very busy, but still I ought loag ago to have acknowledged the receipt of the letter containing the pieces like my dress. Carrie has written me that her silk has beea received, and that it is so fine she fears to have Mamma cut it. Mamma says "what shall they do with so much lace? " I think they like our selection butcaa* not be certain....
Show moreVassar College, Nov. 19, 1870 ,1871, My dear Aunt, You were very good to write to me agaia without aa answer to your letter. As usual I have beea very busy, but still I ought loag ago to have acknowledged the receipt of the letter containing the pieces like my dress. Carrie has written me that her silk has beea received, and that it is so fine she fears to have Mamma cut it. Mamma says "what shall they do with so much lace? " I think they like our selection butcaa* not be certain. Carrie is pleased with the gloves and ribbons. X sm ashamed of myself for not having written to Jennie, but shall write today if I can think of anything to write. Do you hear oftea from her and Kitty? Is Candace still keeping house? and where is Ediths? I was very sorry to hear of Mr. Thompsoa death. This year I am taking lessons in oil peiating. It is quite difficult, for me, but I like it better than drawing from models. My other lessons are Freach, Latia aad Algebra. Compositions are the worst things for us this year. A good deal is expected from our freshman essays, andI, for one, caa not write a deceat one. Our first subject was "The Position of the Anglo Saxon Element in the English Language* and our aext is to translate into good prose several pages from Chaucer. Aunt Marin wants me to spend the holidays with her and says that Viola and Flora Cook will be in Binghamton then. I don't know whether I shall do so9 but think I shall go to New York or Brooklyn part ol the time, at any rate. I have lour other letters I ought to answer today and so must close with much love to Grandma, Annie and your sell, your loving neice Julie M. Pease. ,Julia M. Pease, '75, P.S. Is Lucy Clapp married yet?
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: November 24, 1874
Text: Vassar. Nov. 24. Dear Carrie, Again I have let several days slip away without writing home, and I will now take these few moments of leisure; and scribble off a few lines to send by the evening mail - This week has bean a rather busy one, as in fact are all the weeks with us. The old story that Seniors have nothing to do, is not true in our case.Perhaps next semester there will not be much to do, at any rate I hope so. Bird Bell's sister from town is in the room now, and jabbering as...
Show moreVassar. Nov. 24. Dear Carrie, Again I have let several days slip away without writing home, and I will now take these few moments of leisure; and scribble off a few lines to send by the evening mail - This week has bean a rather busy one, as in fact are all the weeks with us. The old story that Seniors have nothing to do, is not true in our case.Perhaps next semester there will not be much to do, at any rate I hope so. Bird Bell's sister from town is in the room now, and jabbering as fast as any child of thirteen can, so you may be sure I have no idea of what I am writing, or what to write - There are hundreds of things I want to ask about and tell you, but I can't think of them, so please excuse this scrawl, which I send only because you will all be anxious if no word from me reaches you this week, and I don't know how soon I can find time again for Thanksgiving day comes soon and we are pretty busy then. Do tell me all the particulars about the changes in the house & The Dining room must look lovely, and now you will be ready for a side board, I suppose, since the only objectionto it was the condition of the room The Senior parlor as Bird is just saying is all renewed- I lease write soon, with love, J. M. P.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: October 1, 1871
Text: Vassar College, Oct. 1, 1871. Dear Auntie, X am sending Annie my photograph and will write yoa a short note. I think the large photographs are better than the small one but both kinds look exactly like me. Our Lady Principal is Miss Terry from New Havea. Seme say she is Rose Terry but I cannot find oatcertainly. Did yoa not know the authoress Rose Terry, I wonder if this Is the same. She Is not very tall and has a very sweet face, bat looks as though she could bo stem If necessary. 1 have...
Show moreVassar College, Oct. 1, 1871. Dear Auntie, X am sending Annie my photograph and will write yoa a short note. I think the large photographs are better than the small one but both kinds look exactly like me. Our Lady Principal is Miss Terry from New Havea. Seme say she is Rose Terry but I cannot find oatcertainly. Did yoa not know the authoress Rose Terry, I wonder if this Is the same. She Is not very tall and has a very sweet face, bat looks as though she could bo stem If necessary. 1 have very alee parlor mates. Two are In my class. My roommate Is very pleasaat, bat aot particularly brilliant. X hear there Is another girl from Texas here, bat X have not seen her yet. What have you beea doing since X left? X presume it took some time to pat the house la order. X have aot unpacked my trunks yet having very little room to pat myclothes, Oae trunk I shall cover aad keep la the room. Did I leave the roll Of stuff like my Japanese silk la Poquoaock? H so X would like It seat me, for I find that the sleeves are very much wora. It may bo la my truak here but I think not. I have givea up the idea of hearing from yoa, bat perhaps Annie can send me a few iiaes. Give much love to Grandma and Annie and keep much yourself from your loving niece, Julie M. Pease (Julia M. Pease, '7St
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: April 27, 1873
Text: April 27, 1873. Dear Papa and Mamma, Immediately after hearing of your accident I wrote you a letter, which tonight I find uraent In my desks another case of my unpardonable negligence. I am so very, very glad that you escaped with no very serious injuries; but for some time I was exceedingly anxious lest, as is usually the case, you had both made out your injuries less than they really were. But Carrie's letter has relieved me greatly, and makes me hope that very soon my own dear Papa...
Show moreApril 27, 1873. Dear Papa and Mamma, Immediately after hearing of your accident I wrote you a letter, which tonight I find uraent In my desks another case of my unpardonable negligence. I am so very, very glad that you escaped with no very serious injuries; but for some time I was exceedingly anxious lest, as is usually the case, you had both made out your injuries less than they really were. But Carrie's letter has relieved me greatly, and makes me hope that very soon my own dear Papa and Mamma will be all well again. Woman like, it would be a great comfort for me to have something to blame but nothing, in this ease, remains but to Inveigh against the badness of horses In general. Great cause for thanks have we, though, at this as at all times, for we have certainly been greatly blessed. Several days ago I received an invitation (complimentary of course) from Frank Whitman to some sort ofa Junior (his class) exhibition at Brown University. It makes me the possessor of a very pretty monogram which as I am not making a collection Is of no use, but otherwise is merely a trouble to me. For I must acknowledge the receipt of it, of course, and I have not the least desire, or idea how, to do It. The heading of a letter to a stranger always "stumps" me. (O dear, I have written slang; please pardon me!) Whether to address it Dear Cousin, Dear Frank, or Mr. seen Whitman. Having the youth but once and then for very few moments, it is a difficult problem to solve. By-the-way while speaking of that branch of cousins, I can tell you that Carrie Norton's health is very poor, and she will not return to Vassar until June) she intends to study some at home and thus try and keep us with her class. Until this year I had never heard that she was not perfectly well, but this winter she went home and remained some weeks, and now again she Is compelled to stay away. I hope she will be able to finish the course; since It only takes her one more year to graduate, it would be a pity to have to give it all up. It is so odds way last October, I wrote to Mr. Swenson for some money which he sent Immediately, yet the letter did not reach me. In January his letter was returned him and he then sent it to me. It contained an invitation to come some time and make them a visit, so, of course, I then answered it; there the correspondence ended until day before yesterday when I received a letter from him saying that he had Just then rec'd my letter dated Jan. 21. This letter also contains an invitation to come and see them (indefinite?) which of course amounts to nothing so long as it Is not confirmed by any word from his respected lady. Aunt Maria Robinson writes me that she and Uncle expect to be in New York city about the 6th June, and hopes that I can meet her there. If I come home before the close of College this would exactly agree with my plans, and give me the pleasure of seeing Aunt, If I could go down to N.Y. a day before starting for home.Aunt could also assist In any purchases I must needs make. Founders Day comes on Tuesday, when guests are here in abundance. I wish you could be here, tho! nothing very fine could be promised. We merely have a lecture, this time by Phillips Brooks, a collation, and promenading until bedtime. But I suppose Mamma is still confined to her chair; what do you do for amusement? play bezique? Aunt Juliet writes me that they are again settled in pequenock, and things are going on much as usual. She seems much disappointed In the lateness of the spring. At last all our snow is gone, and we hope that our snow storm of the 22, is the last ef the season. A few little hepatlcas have blossomed In mild comers, but they are the only signs of spring life, unless, it may be, the appearance of huge turtles and some frogs eggs. Some of the latter we are hatching in our parlor, hoping to see them transformed from tailed and gilled tad-poles into promising young frogs. Shall try and write you again this week, and look forward anxiously to the next mail which may bring a letter telling how you are getting along. Lovingly Julie
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: May 11, 1872
Text: Vassar. May 11, 1872. My dear Carrie, Your letter of the 3rd has Just been received and joyfully read. I think I have enjoyed your description of your trip through the Capitol and Land Office about as much as you enjoyed the reality. Irving is so jolly and Captain Britten is tee, as I remember him, and at times you are not behind them, so I can imagine you were a gay party. Really, I am amazed at the change in the Governors office sincethe days when I used to ride in to bring home our honored...
Show moreVassar. May 11, 1872. My dear Carrie, Your letter of the 3rd has Just been received and joyfully read. I think I have enjoyed your description of your trip through the Capitol and Land Office about as much as you enjoyed the reality. Irving is so jolly and Captain Britten is tee, as I remember him, and at times you are not behind them, so I can imagine you were a gay party. Really, I am amazed at the change in the Governors office sincethe days when I used to ride in to bring home our honored Governor. It is well, for the whole Capitol was a disgrace to the state. Did Prof. Streunner, still find an earnest longing in your eyes? Miss Westcotts visit must be pleasant for you, though pleasanter if your "head cook and bottle washer" had not taken a furlough. You do not seem particularly pleased with Mr. Brickman. - Why is It? Is he young or old, good looking or plain looking, married or single ? I am anxious to know what he is like. So Walter Graham has become a beau, wellhe is just the age to have fun with, but what has become of your former youthful gallant, Lewis Hancock? As for being a favorite with my teachers, you are entirely wrong in your conjecture. I am not at all so, and cannot think what induced Dr. Avery to invite me to tea, unless because she wished to please Mr. Swan by being polite to his friends, and on Nannie's account asked me. Dr. Avery has two great pets this year. Jenny Beach and Pattie Thum, and they are enough for one year. Besides they are blondes, and as Dr. Avery herself is dark I amsure she fancies only fair beauties. She is a strange women, and I congratulate myself that she Is not my enemy. For the past few days our weather might rival yours in warmth. The trees take advantage of the heat and are fast growing green. Every- thing makes us think that summer is nearly here, but today it Is much cooler. Fans, shirt waists and Linen dresses as well as immense hats have been in requisition. Lake Mahunc (I don't know whether that is spelt rightly), is now all the rage. It us situated about fifteen miles from here, on the other side of the river. A new hotel has been built there, and to Spread its fame the hotel keeper has Invited the College to pass several Saturdays there, which it will do with pleasure. Our Steward is to go over and prepare temporary viands for us, so our only expense will be the ride over and back. Yesterday the Seniors, Juniors and many teachers were expecting to go, but alas it did not rain, and their trip is postponed for a week. Our turn, the Sophs and Freshies, comes next, but now we cannot go for two weeks. Justto think of your having been feasting on strawberries, peas etc. while we are eating the first green thing of the season, rhubarb. The Vassar Miscellany has at last made its appearance, and seems duly appreciated by all true Vassarites. At any rate it is a magazine we need not now be ashamed of. The present Editors are quite talented girls. I will send you one as soon as my extra copies arrive. Yesterday after- noon every student had a copy in her hand busily poring over it, and many even took a part In the Exercises of Chapel, atleast, so I Judge from their being admitted to Chapel. Our drawing class are going out sketching several times a week in future. We began last week but found it so exceedingly warm that we ventured out only once. As we remain out most of the afternoon, we are necessarily excused from Gymnastics. At this, my Joy is excessive. I like to practise in winter, but in summer it is a little too much to wear a warm woolen dress and twist myself Into all manner of dreadful shapes. The best of it is that I shall not have to be at the Exhibition at the close of the year. You aeed not be afraid to come to Vassar Commencement without a gentleman. Persons of the masculine gender are so rare here that that are not considered at all necessary. Even If papa does not come I wish you and Mamma would, though, as I have before said, the Exercises are not very interesting to a stranger. As the time approaches for me to see you, it seems as though I could not wait for it, dearest, it is so long since we have seen each other. I am sure I have forgoten something I wished to say, but I must now close and make Miss Howell, ourour shopwoman a visit. With love to everybody Julie.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: December 1, 1872
Text: J.M. Pease 1 Dec 72 15 " " Vassar College Dec. 1, 1872 My dear Papa, The little Eaton (?) girls are in our parlor, having come to see Maddie Clark, and making about as much noise as two little chatterboxes can, but still I think I can manage to scribble something. In spite of my declaration to them that I should not hear anything they said I find that my ears are not entirely impervious to their talk. A long snow storm we seem to be having, for the snownow lies quite deep in the...
Show moreJ.M. Pease 1 Dec 72 15 " " Vassar College Dec. 1, 1872 My dear Papa, The little Eaton (?) girls are in our parlor, having come to see Maddie Clark, and making about as much noise as two little chatterboxes can, but still I think I can manage to scribble something. In spite of my declaration to them that I should not hear anything they said I find that my ears are not entirely impervious to their talk. A long snow storm we seem to be having, for the snownow lies quite deep in the ground and it is still falling. As I write I hear the merry jingle of the sleigh bells. All lovers of sleigh riding I hope may be satisfied this winter. All day yesterday and the greater part of today our parlor and bedrooms have been as cold as a barn. Now, however, they are more comfortable. When the wind is from the North the north part of the house is freezing cold, but for the last few days the wind has come from the opposite direction and we have been the freezing ones. It seems impossible to keep all portions of the house warm at the same time. Last night I forsook any cold bed and slept under a delightfuldown quilt. The geese from whom the down was plucked could not have been warmer than under their soft covering. Today we had a visit (?) from a Mr. Walch, a missionary who had been twenty nine years in India. I am sorry to say that the all specimens of missionaries who have preached here have roused in me no other desire than that of going to sleep. Their sermons are very long and [?]. I pity the poor heathens who have to listen to them if they always talk in the same style. A few days ago Miss Lucy sent for me to tell me that she had had a letter from Ms. Smith saying that Mama wished me to comedown stairs. Just now there happened to be a vacancy on the third floor, in a pleasant parlor, and Miss Terry gave me my choice as to going down or remaining here. I would rather stay here if I could keep my room alone, but Miss T. did not know how long I could, and so I have decided to go downstairs. I don't know my future roommate at all, but am told that she is very nice. The little Eaton have gone but a little freeman has taken their place. The talk of the larger girl I find is still some disturbing, so that I fear this a most unmatched letter. Good night. With much love, Julie
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: April 5, 1873
Text: Vassar— April 5, 1873. Dearest Carrie, Every day this week I have been disappointed in not receiving a letter from you, for this is the second week since any letter has come from you, dear, and I cannot understand why it is so. Tonight after com- ing from a busy afternoon in Po'keepsie I was told a letter was awaiting me, but sad was I to find it was only from one of my last year parlormates. Everyone is rejoicing nowand thinking that spring Is really come. If bright warm days and the...
Show moreVassar— April 5, 1873. Dearest Carrie, Every day this week I have been disappointed in not receiving a letter from you, for this is the second week since any letter has come from you, dear, and I cannot understand why it is so. Tonight after com- ing from a busy afternoon in Po'keepsie I was told a letter was awaiting me, but sad was I to find it was only from one of my last year parlormates. Everyone is rejoicing nowand thinking that spring Is really come. If bright warm days and the singing of birds are a sign, then is it come. Only little patches of snow remain and the grass is almost green in places. Yesterday I brought in some pussy-willows, the first growing thing outdoors. As long as I have been here this is the first time I have seen them, which fact seems to amaze the northern girls. At last, at last the printed affair concerning Trig, has been received. It has been very nicely done, and I suppose most of the girls are exceedingly delighted at the printing of theclass speeches. I will send them and you can all judge for yourself of their merits. H ave you read "Off the Skelligs" by Jean Ingelow? I liked it so well that I want to own the book, so shall get it the next time I go in town, and if you like will send it to you to read. I don't believe you can imagine half the desire I feel to be at home again. It seems as if the time for starting would never come, and as is always the case when looking forward to some great pleasure, I can scarcely realize thatit will really come to pass. Every little thing about the place comes up to me so vividly; I see you all moving about so naturally that sometimes I shut my eyes and try to push away the picture, it makes me so Impatient. Next Thursday our vacation begins. I think never were girls much gladder than we to see the trunks brought up today, and to hear the talk about packing. We who remain at College expect to enjoy ourselves, in a quiet way, about as much as those who go; of course, excepting those who go home-———— I must stop writing for tonight now, though perhaps in the morning I may writemore either to you or Papa or Mamma. Goodnight little Carrie
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: April 12, 1873
Text: Vassar. April 12, 1873 My dear Papa, During our vacation, which has now begun, we are at liberty to sit up as late as we please, and, you may be sure, we avail ourselves of this privilege to a great extent. Last night it was nearly one before I saw fit to go to sleep, but tonight I only want to write to you, and than I shall be glad enough to go to bed. Yesterday was a lovely days we put up a croquet set and had the first game of the season. Prof. Hinkle came out and...
Show moreVassar. April 12, 1873 My dear Papa, During our vacation, which has now begun, we are at liberty to sit up as late as we please, and, you may be sure, we avail ourselves of this privilege to a great extent. Last night it was nearly one before I saw fit to go to sleep, but tonight I only want to write to you, and than I shall be glad enough to go to bed. Yesterday was a lovely days we put up a croquet set and had the first game of the season. Prof. Hinkle came out and watched our game with great interest. He makes me think of you, as regards his excitement over anything of the sort. Several times he so disapproved of my partner and my own plays, that he almost gave us up In despair, although he had espoused our cause, because we were just then, the winning side. He seemed vastly amused at our usual exclamations of delight. "That was an elegant shot!" Elegant he would keep repealing over,as if it was a strange way of applying the word. Then too, since the vacation has begun we have been out boating; but today, just imagine it, raining all the morning and finally ending with snow. I am glad you think that it will be best for me to return by way of New Orleans, for I should prefer that route. Don't you think, on account of the yellow fever, it would be best for me to start the first of June? I am perfectly willing to pass examination alone, in order to reach home sooner, and I think the Faculty would look favorablyupon the plan. I would like so much better to have you write to Mr. Swenaon, or whoever you see fit, about company for me, for I fear the Swensons have no great love for me; but yet if you write me that I ought to do it I must be satisfied. Reviews here begin the first of June. A few days ago I drew on Mr. Swenson for $200, part of which was to pay my College bill. That will leave me nearly forty dollars in my possession, partly sufficient for my car fare I hope, unless there are numerous articles to buy before my return. Today I received a letter from Carrie, in which she speaks of being alone. It gives me great curiosity to learn where you and Mamma have gone, for she does not tell me, and you have not given the slightest hint thatyou were going to make any excursion. I suppose each thinks the other has written. Having reached the end of my paper I will not give you the trouble to read further crossed writing. Lovingly Julie
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: January 30, 1873
Text: Vassar. Jan. 30, 1872 (1873) My dear Mamma, Your letters came to me later than usual this week, but when they came they were so particularly pleasant that Uncle Sam's mall carriers, or perhaps the snow storm, were readily forgiven. I fully agree with Papa in you come from a "poetic family." Aunt Maria, who is so famous for her rhyming, could not have done much better. I hope Papa will parson me If I say thatI laughed, until I nearly cried, at his letter In rhyme. But were they...
Show moreVassar. Jan. 30, 1872 (1873) My dear Mamma, Your letters came to me later than usual this week, but when they came they were so particularly pleasant that Uncle Sam's mall carriers, or perhaps the snow storm, were readily forgiven. I fully agree with Papa in you come from a "poetic family." Aunt Maria, who is so famous for her rhyming, could not have done much better. I hope Papa will parson me If I say thatI laughed, until I nearly cried, at his letter In rhyme. But were they not Intended to amuse I am sure my blundering attempts hoped to produce laughter. I find that I have begun this letter, by mistake, on the last page. And so like the Chinese you will have to read backwards. Greenland, I do verily believe, can not show much more snow, or be much colder than is Duchess County at this present time. Reports vary, in regard to last night's temperature. Prof. Mitchell has charge of the thermometer, and not being acquainted with her I have not heard the accurate account. Mercury is known to have been 20 below zero, and perhaps lower, not morethan 35°, I think, although one young lady said this morning In class that the thermometer was 37° below In her bedroom last night. She must have been pretty stiff this morning, I should think. Tell Carrie, please, that those German books did not come till this morning (Thursday) or they would have been sent sooner. Reviews are now fully under headway, and keep us busy. Trigonometry is not hard but merely longs Latin, though, is rather hard because Prof. Hinkle is so very particular about review translations. I believe it would almost break the poor man's heart if any of us should fail onexamination day. So we try and please him by giving every word the exact meaning which suits him. And so our poor horses are with "'setic sick." It must be very inconvenient for you since we live so far In the country. Fare thee well, dearest mamma, Very lovingly Julie M.P.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: January 15, 1871
Text: Vassar Collage Jan. IS. 1871. My dear sister, X think you might write to me oftener, if you were her and I at at least home I should write to you three times a dayAaad you do not write even once a w eeki Your last was a great treat and it was a nice iong letter. I don't see how Willie Rogers could ever become handsome. Why, I should as soon think of my growing kaadsoxael U your trunk had not come what did you wear to the hop at Gov. Hamilton's? You speak of John Ho ran. I have...
Show moreVassar Collage Jan. IS. 1871. My dear sister, X think you might write to me oftener, if you were her and I at at least home I should write to you three times a dayAaad you do not write even once a w eeki Your last was a great treat and it was a nice iong letter. I don't see how Willie Rogers could ever become handsome. Why, I should as soon think of my growing kaadsoxael U your trunk had not come what did you wear to the hop at Gov. Hamilton's? You speak of John Ho ran. I have always had such a desire to see him.As near as I can make out from your writing, you say that he is as handsome as a "small" man can be. I supposed from Mrs. Grumble's account of him that he was very tall Indeed. I hope soon to get a letter from you telling of the Hew Years calls. Waa the number of them very great? So many of our callers last year were army people that I should not think you could expect very many. Miss Beach, who 1 have told you about, lives in New York aad said that more calls were made there this year than last. They received sixty more than last New Year's day. What a number they must have had to feed I But they onlygave them cake and coffee. One of my classmates has had to go home. She lives In Ohio*and was staying here during the holidays, when one night the Pres. received a telegram saying that her mother was not expected to live, but not to tell Nannie how sick she was, only have her come home. She started faam the college la the night bat reached home too late—her mother was dead) Isn't it terrible. OhJ Carrie be very careful of Mamma and Papa, for we do not know how long they may be spared to us, aad what would we do without them! It makes me feel so badly when I think that if they or you shouldbe sick I am so far away* I cannot tell whether 1 ought to remain here another year or aot. Z would like to very well, but thea I think that Mamma aad Papa are growing old and we both ought to remain with them. Tell me ought I to remain or go home? But this is a mighty blue letter—perhaps because it is written with an empty stomach, for I did not get up to breakfast this morning. I must tell you the latest name that has been given to Miss Rollins, "the comedy in two parts." I suppose you will see the wit U you remember any- thing about her. The "tower of Babel" has at last... (Remainder of letter is lost, iJulla M. Pease, '75, \ \
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: March 18, 1873
Text: Vassar March 18, 1873. My dear Mamma, Again I fear you will become anxious because my letter will not reach you at the expected time, but I hope you will make allowances for certain lazy days, which come to all of us in a greater or less degree. This laziness is the only malady which ever affects me here. Sunday I put off writing you until Monday thinking to find time then, but my essay had not been written and must be handed in last night, so I went to bedwith one duty, at least, undone. Now...
Show moreVassar March 18, 1873. My dear Mamma, Again I fear you will become anxious because my letter will not reach you at the expected time, but I hope you will make allowances for certain lazy days, which come to all of us in a greater or less degree. This laziness is the only malady which ever affects me here. Sunday I put off writing you until Monday thinking to find time then, but my essay had not been written and must be handed in last night, so I went to bedwith one duty, at least, undone. Now that my essay is off my hands I feel quite a rest for the next three or four weeks. Poor things as they are, they give me great trouble and uneasiness. Only three more weeks before vacation and after that the time will seem to fly until the beginning of June. Da you think that any Texans will be going home about that time? I should not mind, in the least, travelling alone, but I presume you would feel much more comfortable to know that I had company. Many thanks for your birthday present. You areall very good to think of me on that day. As for myself, I was reminded of it only by receiving same little vases filled with flowers from two of my classmates. It seems we had, some weeks before, been talking of what day my birthday would come, but when it came the fact had escaped my memory. "As we grow old" you know birthdays are almost willingly passed by. The lace which you have seat will be of service. I have been wanting some for undersleeves for some time. There is no necessity for my sending a pattern for the grenadine. You know my sleeves never were made very prettily, and I want only enough of the stuff, wide enough & long also for a ruffle around the wrist. You can Judge better than I; per- haps a little over a finger In width. It seems so strange new to be talking of spring clothes, though seen even here it will be necessary, I suppose. Can't some of you find time to write to Jennie some time? She does not get many letters and would consider it a great treat I know. She has four studies now and I sometimes fear will have to study too hard when the warm weather begins. But she thinks net, and I suppose ought to know best what she can bear. With oceans of love— Julie.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: April 25, 1871
Text: Vassar College, April 10, 1871. Dear Papa and Mamma, This morning I had Just mailed a letter to Carrie, when X was handed one Irom Aunt Maria Robiason. I opened it eagerly, but lound that it contained sad news. Grandma is dead. Aunt's letter was written on Sunday and it was Saturday that they received the telegram Irom Janesville. I presume you have heard Irom Uncle John by this time, or II not as soon, you will have before this letter reaches you. Aunt writes no particulars, and Indeed,...
Show moreVassar College, April 10, 1871. Dear Papa and Mamma, This morning I had Just mailed a letter to Carrie, when X was handed one Irom Aunt Maria Robiason. I opened it eagerly, but lound that it contained sad news. Grandma is dead. Aunt's letter was written on Sunday and it was Saturday that they received the telegram Irom Janesville. I presume you have heard Irom Uncle John by this time, or II not as soon, you will have before this letter reaches you. Aunt writes no particulars, and Indeed, knows none, as yet. The funeral is to be inEnfield, Conn., tomorrow, Wednesday* Uncle ant Aunt Robinson, Uncle Richardson, Uncle John and perhaps oae ol the girls, will go oa to it. I should have liked to do so, but as X heard only today Irom Aunt, will not be able to. X hope Papa has decided to come North this summer. He must need the change very much, and U the weather here this summer will at all resemble that ol last, he cannot complain ol cold. X thought that X had many things to say, but Auat's letter has put them all out oI my head. May God bless and keep you all. Your loving daughter Julie (Julia M. Pease, »73,
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: June 4, 1871
Text: Vassar Callage, June 4, 1871. Dearest Carrie, I am beginning my letter te yen this morning so that I may have the afternoon for a nice long nap. Our evening Chapel services have been changed so that we may take our exercise after tea and before Chapel. It is much nicer so, because the day is very warm for walking. This Is the first Sunday of the month but it was so warm that I did net go In te church. We have to ride In an omnibus which is generally crowded and it Is not verypleasant. Did I...
Show moreVassar Callage, June 4, 1871. Dearest Carrie, I am beginning my letter te yen this morning so that I may have the afternoon for a nice long nap. Our evening Chapel services have been changed so that we may take our exercise after tea and before Chapel. It is much nicer so, because the day is very warm for walking. This Is the first Sunday of the month but it was so warm that I did net go In te church. We have to ride In an omnibus which is generally crowded and it Is not verypleasant. Did I write you that the last time I went In the omnibus went so far down In the mud that we all had to get out and walk seme distance? The Pres. gave us this morning a very long and, I presume, a stupid sermon. I say presume, because I could not keep my mind on what the Pres. was saying aad I hardly remember a thing which he said. You speak of attending the tableaux given by the society of our church at the Opera House aad have never told me before that there was as an Opera House such a placeAln Austin. Is It a thing sprung up In a aight like the ancient bean* or has one el our old halls been rechristened? I wish X could see Msj. Evans. Can't youby some means procure a photograph aad send me? If X remember Mr. Brittain well, his hair would not require much friaalng to make it resemble a fashionable dandy of the present time. Does he laugh as much as formerly? Do you remember the day he came out te call with his sister and the lemonade we passed them? Tau did net tell me who teok you to the hop, aad If it had not been fer Mamma's thoughtfuiness X should have been left In Ignorance upon that important point. iNaaaie? , X wish Mamie Hopkins would write to me. Ploase tell her so, and ask Carrie Haynie ,? , if she can find time to write ma occasionally. Do you ever see old Mrs. Grumbles and hor "gude man." The old lady hasnot written to me for a long* long time. Floase give nay love to hor and the Maj. whan you see them. Speaking of sending love reminds ma that Connie Smith wished me to sand hers to you. She has Invited me to visit her immediately altar school doses and I presume that 1 shall stay a day or so In New York before going on to Conn. 1 had rather not because it will be very warm and rather troublesome doing so, but Connie does not like it because X did not visit her In the spring, and Florence Smith wishes me totcome and see her this summer at Now Port. Will you ask Mamma If she thinks X had better do so? Our reviews are going to bo very hard. In Latin wereview an Oration of Cicero each day until we finish what we have read, and I presume that we will have four days far reviewing tho two books of Virgil which we have been reading this spring. I wish you were reading Virgil with us. I am sure you would like It. Tha story Is very Interesting and tha descriptions are so beautiful. I am really beginning to like Latin. I suppose because X can understand it a little. French reviews are hard. Miss Kapp asks all the little rules and X fear X should not do very well If she asked me many question. But she seldom calls on me to recite. X do not know why. Our Frenchclass is very largo, there are aver fifty scholars In it* When Mademoiselle Slmonds was here the girls tsted to left her class for ours* She was so cross* Have X told yon that Mile, left College? We were all so glad to get rid of her* around the neck In wearing the chemises you made for me I find that tine bandsAare rather small to be comfortable Will you make the others larger? I think that I sent you the length around those which I wear now* There have been®* good many cases of small~po* In Poughkeepsie and Dr. Avery thought that we all should be vaccinated. As it Is a great many years since mine took I have been vaccinated again. It Is several days since, but as yet it hasnot begun to take. The Dr. thought that it would because the mark on my arm Is so slight. The measles are in Poughkeepsie and it is feared they will reach the College. Isn't It fortunate I da not have them to dread again. I want to play "Tam a shanter" and hear you play "Wandering Jew." 1 wish I was home. \ . goodnight with love Julie (Julia M. Pease, '75,
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: January 17, 1875
Text: Vassar. Jan. 17 - '75 Dear Carrie, That postal at Cincinnati was never written, for want of the card. You know I forgot to take any from St. Louis and none could be procured on the cars - The trip was as comfortable as could be expected, when the weather was so cold. The conductor you spoke of was extremely kind, being much of a "ladies' man" he told me - Indeed everyone along the way was so kind that if I had not before believed in the "milk of human kindness" I...
Show moreVassar. Jan. 17 - '75 Dear Carrie, That postal at Cincinnati was never written, for want of the card. You know I forgot to take any from St. Louis and none could be procured on the cars - The trip was as comfortable as could be expected, when the weather was so cold. The conductor you spoke of was extremely kind, being much of a "ladies' man" he told me - Indeed everyone along the way was so kind that if I had not before believed in the "milk of human kindness" I should now be compelled to do so. Had not the slightest difficulty in being excused for tardiness - Before I asked for it Miss Terry handed me an excuse. If I had been a month late I do not doubt but it would have been the same, so great is her devotionto the Class of '75. Miss Terry looks well this Year, and says her health is good, perhaps that is one reason why she is so particularly amiable. Your cards were received, and also the papers containing the marriage announcement - And every day since I have been expecting a letter from you. Thinking you would not remain long in St. Louis, I wrotehome merely, and am glad now that I did not waste a letter on St. L. Found all my Class back and hard at work - The first night of my arrival a rehearsal had been arranged, in which Miss Kapp was to take my part if I had not come. And every day since there were rehearsals, sometimes two or three. Friday night the play came off, and very successfully, the audience say, and I shouldthink from the peals of laughter with which it was received - Several times we were compelled to stop until the room was quiet before continuing our speeches. The costumes were all good, and my satin greatly admired. The entertainment proved so satisfactory that I think Miss Kapp will feel like try- ing again. But we actors comfort ourselves with the thought that we will next time be audience.Dear, I am homesick for you today, and for the dear father and mother. 'Till now I have had no time for thinking and could not realise that I had really left home again. I hope Mamma is well, and that the excitement has not used her up - It seems hard to return to such cold weather. The thermometer says 10° and it is still growing colder. Every thing goes on runners, andI think I shall have to have some attached to my feet, or I cannot keep myself safe, for I have already had several falls- Two or three days ago Mrs. Livermore visited Prof. Mitchell and in the evening was persuaded to give us a talk. Her subject was "what shall we do with our daughters". We were all delighted with her and what she said, for all the opinions which she expressed that evening we could heartily second. Nothing was said about suffrage, in which subject many of us differ from her. She thinks, as who does not, that every girl should have some aim, and some means by which to support herself in time of need. The few of us poor women could eke out a livelihood If necessary - Randolph sent me a copy of his poem, and the poor letter travelled from the College to Texas and back again. Do write some and tell me about every one - Love to all - Julie
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: January 12, 1873
Text: Vassar— Jan. 12, 1872 ^1873, My dear Mamma, Again we are here at College, going through the same routine, eating and sleeping by a certain fixed rule. After our short freedom it seems hard to begin again, and almost all the girls are sorely afflicted with that serious maladie, homesickness. I have barely escaped this time, and can fully sympathize with the poor forlorn ones, doubting not that if I had been home as they have, I too would be blue. Changing rooms just at this time comes rather...
Show moreVassar— Jan. 12, 1872 ^1873, My dear Mamma, Again we are here at College, going through the same routine, eating and sleeping by a certain fixed rule. After our short freedom it seems hard to begin again, and almost all the girls are sorely afflicted with that serious maladie, homesickness. I have barely escaped this time, and can fully sympathize with the poor forlorn ones, doubting not that if I had been home as they have, I too would be blue. Changing rooms just at this time comes rather hard, for none of my present roommates are very sociableand it will take some time for me to feel at home on this third corridor, always having lived on the fourth. But I like my room very well. It is an outside bedroom, giving us plenty of light and air, and the advantage of sitting up after the retiring bell. The parlor is a model one, in regard to keeping rules and study-hours. I myself being a "black sheep" in that respect. Not that I break rules intentionally, but when they interfere greatly with my comfort I confess I do. The cold weather which you have been so long enduring seems at last to have settled down upon us. This morning at ten o'clockwhen I took my exercise the thermometer stood at 8° above aero, in the sun. Yet the day is so bright and still that it seemed much warmer. Wrapped up in cloak, furs, veil and leggins I went out anticipating a cold walk, which indeed it was for about ten minutes. We were then driven Indoors by the numbness of our feet, and after getting quite warm we started out again. This time we really enjoyed the walk, and returned as warm as after a tramp in the spring. I know of nothing more productive of ill temper than cold. But do not think that we are almost freezing.We are good for many winters yet. I saw in the paper yesterday the notice of the death of Gen. Carleten in Texas. There can be no doubt, I suppose, that it Is the one whom Carrie wrote me she saw not long since. If Annie Ansley really felt any affection for him, and she must, else how could she think of marrying an old man not particularly rich, she is much to be pitied—but she Is not a girl to grieve very long for any man. Aunt Maria went to Albany last Tuesday. Mary Eldrige came on as far as A. with Aunt. The Eldriges are very poetic, so I am not amazed that Mary is particularly charmingto me. Aunt Maria has promised to come downvery soon to see me, Lovingly—
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: April 21, 1872
Text: "Vassar." April 21, 1872. Daar Mamma and Papa, Even in Texas, the sunny dims this day cannot be pleasanter than here, With you everything is fresh and green, while we have that change still to look forward to, but I am sure you do not enjoy such a day as this as much as we, who have been nearly perishing (rather strong expression) of cold all winter. The birds, too, are beginning to sing, and we all long to be outdoors. Thursday afternoon as I was going to a recitation, I...
Show more"Vassar." April 21, 1872. Daar Mamma and Papa, Even in Texas, the sunny dims this day cannot be pleasanter than here, With you everything is fresh and green, while we have that change still to look forward to, but I am sure you do not enjoy such a day as this as much as we, who have been nearly perishing (rather strong expression) of cold all winter. The birds, too, are beginning to sing, and we all long to be outdoors. Thursday afternoon as I was going to a recitation, I encountered Dr. Avery, who was exceedinglysmiling and amiable. She told me that the day before she had met Captain and Mrs. Roberts and they sent a great deal of love and would come to see me very soon. Far a moment I could not imagine who she meant, but soon recollected the little couple. Then I had to hurry to my class, with my head in a whirl at the thought of seeing someone from home. They came sooner than I expected for directly after class I was summoned to Miss Haggett, who, after a few questions, permitted me to see them, although I had written permission from you. I should scarcely have recognized Captain Roberts, he looks so differently with theincreased amount of hair in face. If Mrs. Duval inquires of Mammie, please tell her she is looking very well now: she is very much thinner than when I last saw her. Imagine my amazement when they told me that the dignified and, as some think, stern Dr. Avery had invited Mr. and Mrs. Swan, Captain and Mrs. Roberts and would invite myself, to tea in her house the next evening. So at six the next evening we all assembled in Dr. Avery's parlor. Captain Roberts is as lively as a cricket, just as he always is, and Mr. Swan and Dr. Avery are together as gay as any young people, so we had a pleasant time. Then, too, it was so nice to be at a table witha few persons, everything is so much mere home- like. At eight o'clock there was to be a lecture in the chapel. The speaker. Judge Allen of this state, the subject: "The Legal Status of Woman." All being anxious to knew their Legal Status we proceeded to the lecture and there had difficulty in keeping awake. In it was duller than the very dullest lawbook. Captain Roberts said It could not compare with Blackstone. Mr. Swan grew so tired that he squeaked out before the lecture was finished. Altogether I had a very pleasant evening and one which I shall remember for a long time, for such things come but seldom to us in our College life. Captain and Mrs. Roberts willremain in Po'keepsie until Monday, then I believe they go to Conn. and in May return to Dakota. Captain Roberts told me that your (Papa's) name was on the list of those who are called to the Cincinnata Convention, and he seemed to think that you would come on when it meets. If that i so, you will be North very soon, and then you will all make a long visit. For Mamma and Carrie can come with you. I am very much obliged for your information concerning the persons of whom I inquired. The name of the gentlemen was Taylor. Really, my I's and S's look very much alike and I myself can not always recognize them.I have forgotten who asked me about him, but I am sure none of the gentle- men whom you wrote me of is the one, As he was young and recently went to Texas. Now I will ask you of somebody else. Miss Lhoyd (Emily Lhoyd), one of the music teachers, has a brother residing in Austin, and she wished to know if we were acquainted with him. I believe he is a Contractor for cattle, or something of the sort. He was very desirous to have his sister come to Austin and teach, about a year ago, as there was a splendid opportunity for her. I cannot imagine where. Miss Lhoyd is very nice, so it is to be supposed her brother is too. It is almost dinner time soI must close. I enclose severalphotographs of the girls. Lovingly J. M. P.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: October 7, 1874
Text: Vassar Oct. 7- '74 Dear Carrie, Your letter of the 1st arrived this morning to my great Joy. It makes me more than ever wish I were at home with you all. It seems as if I never wanted more to return than now, when the time of my absence Is in reality so short. But I won't weary you by talking of what can't be helped. This year will pass quickly away I hope, bringing with It no more burdens than we can easily bear.Owing to the improvements over at the Riding School, neither...
Show moreVassar Oct. 7- '74 Dear Carrie, Your letter of the 1st arrived this morning to my great Joy. It makes me more than ever wish I were at home with you all. It seems as if I never wanted more to return than now, when the time of my absence Is in reality so short. But I won't weary you by talking of what can't be helped. This year will pass quickly away I hope, bringing with It no more burdens than we can easily bear.Owing to the improvements over at the Riding School, neither Music or Drawing classes have yet been arranged. For the Music rooms and Studio are not quite finished. In the space where formerly was the Riding School, are two beautiful rooms; the one a Museum with galleries and divisions for all the Natural History &. specimens; the other is the Art Gallery. Our Society Hall has been enlarged and greatly Improved, and I wish you could be here at some of our dramatic enter-tainments. All the music rooms have an outside window and are very cozy. The whole building Is to be used for students, whereas formerly some portion of it was for tenements, occupied by some washerwomen and stable boys, and the stables were also there. It is hoped that some time this week the music rooms will be ready for use, and I shall then begin to practise. Tomorrow night. Bayard Taylor lectures in Po'keepsie and I think likely I shall go in to hear him, for I con't know how soon I may have another chance. The mail goes out in a moment, so I must close with very much love; Julie.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: February 26, 1874
Text: Vassar College. Feb. 26. 1874. Dear Carrie, If your letter had not reached me this morning, I should have sat down and written you a scolding letter. It Is the first letter received from you In a long, long time, but after your excuses I suppose I must be content. If your letters had been coming regularly I should be filled with remorse for my own negligence, but as it is my conscience Is perfectly free, I would have liked very much to have been with you girls when Jenny Potter was at our...
Show moreVassar College. Feb. 26. 1874. Dear Carrie, If your letter had not reached me this morning, I should have sat down and written you a scolding letter. It Is the first letter received from you In a long, long time, but after your excuses I suppose I must be content. If your letters had been coming regularly I should be filled with remorse for my own negligence, but as it is my conscience Is perfectly free, I would have liked very much to have been with you girls when Jenny Potter was at our house, and don't doubt you all enjoyed yourselves to the utmost. Mamma howevertold me nothing of your doings, so you need have had no fear of giving me a repetition; nor Indeed need you ever have; rather than miss having an account of your weekly proceedings I would be willing to hear them tea times over. Today Is Prayer for Colleges, and Is of course observed here. It makes our second holiday this week, yet seems more like Sunday than a holiday. This morning we listened to a vary fine sermon from Dr. Stores of Brooklyn. Last night he lectured to us on European libraries, giving us some very nice little facts in regard to them, and showinga wonderful memory for dates. Tuesday morning I came down from Albany having passed three very pleasant days with Aunt. It rained nearly all the time, so that we were unable to stir out of tho house at all. Did not get to see Mrs. Pillsbury for which I presume Mamma will be sorry. Aunt goes out very little in Albany, always sending regrets to dinner parties, etc. She seems to care very little for the society of any save her old time friends. Rather fond of making acquaintances was very glad to see them, and found them very pleasant. Aunt like Papa never asks any men to meet her nieces and seems not to wish them to meet together, so when the young people of the house met to slag hymns on Sunday night, she did not go and I of course remained also In our rooms. Uncle returned from New York on Monday looking very well. That night Clive Robinson and Will Carey, who had come la to attend a ball, took me to the theater. The play was a miserable one, "Daniel Boone of Kentucky". There was much shooting, escaping, etc. but the characters were not such as we would Imagine Daniel Boone, his Love, their friends and enemieswould be. I met Mrs. Church as well as her husband, who is a brother of Judge Ogdea's first wile. They tell me that Mrs. Ogdou's is quite a young woman whom Judge O. married In Texas. They hoped that I would meet her and seat messages of greeting. In case you meet Mrs. O. you might mention my having seen these people. Fannie Bufington received a postal from Kittanaing yesterday, saying that her Cousins, the Orrs, are in New York and hope to come up and see us soon. Perhaps you remember that I wrote you how much I was pleased with Miss Fannie Orr and herbrother Grier Orr. If they do not come Fan and I will be greatly disappointed as we have beea In a state of excitement ever since the news came. For some time Vassar has beea la a whirl of dissipation, that is, for her. We had two dramas, "Merchant el Venice" la which Fannie figured well as Basssaio, and "Taming el the Shrew". This week there are two lectures, one which I have mentioned, and the other by Bishop Huntingdon on Saturday night. Aad on Saturday the Caecelia Society gives a matinee. By the way I think I have neveracknowledged the receipt of the Psalm, which came to hand all right. I never dare read over my letters for they would seem so very egotistical. But as there is little to write of here that would interest you, I hope you will excuse my own doings holding se large a share of my letters, Mlt vieler Liebe, Deine theure Schwester.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: October 20, 1872
Text: Vassar College. Oct. 20. 1872, My dear Carrie, My roommate has Just showed me a new way of holding the pen by which she says one can write this half back hand much more smoothly. I, as you may perceive, am trying it but not, as yet, with great success. But this is not much more than my usual scrawling chirogrsphy. Do you remember a certain General Carletoa? He was stationed at Austin as Commander in Chief of the camp some time. He wasquite an elderly man and was very attentive to Miss- (O how...
Show moreVassar College. Oct. 20. 1872, My dear Carrie, My roommate has Just showed me a new way of holding the pen by which she says one can write this half back hand much more smoothly. I, as you may perceive, am trying it but not, as yet, with great success. But this is not much more than my usual scrawling chirogrsphy. Do you remember a certain General Carletoa? He was stationed at Austin as Commander in Chief of the camp some time. He wasquite an elderly man and was very attentive to Miss- (O how I forget names!) the young lady who desired "style is death." I mention all these things concerning him because you may not recall him any sooner than I did. Well, yesterday I learned that he Is paying attention to an old parlormate of mine, Annie Ansley, and that there is a likelihood that she will marry him. He told her that he was very well acquainted with Miss Pease, and she not knowing very much of his character, sent to enquire what I thought of him. Of course I had nothing in particular to state, having known him soslightly. Annie Is quite young, I think not more than seventeen and pretty, altogether just the one for him to fancy, but I don't see what can induce her to marry him, unless it Is that she thinks him wealthy. Last night our class had Its usual monthly "sociable." This was an unusually pleasant one. The play was a short pantomime, "The Babes in the Woods," one of the most laughable things I ever saw. The Robins were represented by two of the tallest girls in our class, whose costumes were extremely ridiculous. They chirped and pipped abour covering the poor babes with leaves, doing their part to perfection.Then there were some not very remarkable tableaux. And dancing then became the amusement. Yesterday we had a hard hail storm and I was out in it all. We were on the other side of the lake when it began, and thinking that It would be over In a few minutes we braced ourselves against a tree, covering our heads, but finally as it began to rain we sought refuge In a mill near by. Here we remained some time, in company of several Vassarites, some dripping dogs and teamsters. Altogether we had considerable fun from It. You did not write me whether Aunt Maria was going to remain West all winter, Please do so, andalso if the Townsend family are now In Austin. I wrote Susie some time ago, directing my letter to Austin. Remember me to all enquiring friends. With "piles" of love. Julie
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: May 13, 1874
Text: Vassar. May 13, 1874. My dear Carrie, Your nice long letter, containing so much news, has Just been received with Joy. I am sorry you were all so anxious about me, but sometimes my home letter does not get started far several days after it is written, and sometimes does not get written as soon as it should. Please never worry about me, for there is not the least occasion to. I am perfectly well, and have been all the winter. it seems so nice to hear about all the people at home, and I only...
Show moreVassar. May 13, 1874. My dear Carrie, Your nice long letter, containing so much news, has Just been received with Joy. I am sorry you were all so anxious about me, but sometimes my home letter does not get started far several days after it is written, and sometimes does not get written as soon as it should. Please never worry about me, for there is not the least occasion to. I am perfectly well, and have been all the winter. it seems so nice to hear about all the people at home, and I only wish Icould be with you sometimes when you go visiting, not making fashionable calls, which I detest. I am so seldom at home, that I fear to be forgotten by my old friend. Is Barclay Bell's wife a Philadelphia Lady? It is odd for him to marry, and what a dull time his wife will have at Brushy. Yet don't you wish we might spend another such week as the one last summer an Mr. Hurd's ranch? By the way, when is Augusta Palm to be married? and how does Agnes get along with her little beau? Our Geological trip has at last been arranged. We leave here an Thursday, thetwenty-fifth, go right an to Albany, from there to Howe's Cave where we arrive at six o'clock; remain there part a! Friday and reach Trenton Falls at six of the some day. Here we stay until Monday, or perhaps Sunday, the twenty-ninth - Than Lillle Lewis wishes me to go on with her to Burlington, and this I suppose I should do if you cannot come on by that time. If you can, don't wait on my account for this visit Is of no consequence, it would, no doubt, be very pleasant, and I can hardly refuse to go, if you are not on by that time. Yet I scarcely like to lay myself under obligations to so many girls whom Ishall probably have no chance to repay. There are quite a number of little things I would like to have you bring on, and will make a short list some day and send you We have to make oat oar list of studios for next year very soon, and as usual are in a quandary. Chemistry and German I shall have, but am hovering between Astronomy and M. Philosophy. The former I think I shall have, what do you think? I can't bear the thought of being a Senior. This has been such a charming year and the next will bring with it great responsibility, and the overwhelming knowledge of how little we know, andare fitted to go out Into tho great world. With love to all, your loving Julie
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: November 3, 1870
Text: Nov. 3. 1870. My dear sister, You write as if you were homesick, but Carrie you ought not to be for saying so when you are going home so soon. Don't blame meAfor I feel as though no be one had a right toAhomesick but myself who am all alone, I expect there are very few girls here but t? , knew someone when they came and the only person I had ever seen before was Miss Hamlin, and as I am not on her corridor I see very little of her. I wish every day that you had come with me, for I know...
Show moreNov. 3. 1870. My dear sister, You write as if you were homesick, but Carrie you ought not to be for saying so when you are going home so soon. Don't blame meAfor I feel as though no be one had a right toAhomesick but myself who am all alone, I expect there are very few girls here but t? , knew someone when they came and the only person I had ever seen before was Miss Hamlin, and as I am not on her corridor I see very little of her. I wish every day that you had come with me, for I know that you would like it here very much, and I hope another year you will decide tocomenas "special." Even now you might enter and take French, Music and any other study you choose or not as you please. You ask what I mean by Double Latin. It Is learning and recit- ing two lessons a day and is the same as two studies. The class is for the benefit of those who are deficient in that study and wish to be prepared for the Freshman class in one instead of two years for we really do two years work in one. You may know that we take any lessons when we have beea through the "Latin Lessons" which we used to study In the six weeks we have been here and there is a great deal more In this one than In our old one. Monday Is our first lesson in Caesar and we must translate 3 booksbefore Christmas. I received a letter today from Papa In which he told me of the changes he had been making in the house—rather of the addition he had been putting on. It Is very nice Indeed, a bathroom with a fixed tub opens from Mamma's room, there is also a sink or washstand with a pump in it ho which brings water from the small cistern. ThenU making a large stove room and closet. Had you heard that Mr. Messina t? , has bought Judge Merrill's place and expects a sister and her family to come out and live with him. I wonder where tha Merrills will live, as the Judge he has business in Galveston presume they will spend their winters there and summers North. It will be a good thing for youto have Aunt Maria act towards you as if you were no longer a child, for it will give you more self possession and courage. But I should think you would be almost afraid to travel from Buffalo to Binghamton by yourself as you will have to do after leaving Aunt Carrie there, more because you are nearsighted than any other reason. But you can put on your glasses aad travel on as fearlessly as we this summer when we went to Boston alone, and perhaps have someone elss put under you charge for you know, I wear my glasses nearly all the time. I found that I could not get along at all in my classes without them, for I could not tell when the teachers were speaking to me unless they called my name, and when I was studying Algebra could not sea the examples which wereput on the blackboard. I shall try and take Double French next term if the Pre*, will let me for they begin "Noel aad Chopssl's" grammar which I am very anxious to study, and they accomplish as much from Feb, to June as the Freshman class in a whole year. You do not say whether Grandma is going West with Aunt Carrie or aat, and only that she is better. 1 do not know now if she can recognise anyone. On my own account I wish to know, as well as to tell Carrie Norton so that she may illness write home about it, for Mrs. Whitman has heard of OrandmaAonly from Carrie. W ill not Aunt Maria write and tell her all about it? It seems as though I had more to say but cannot think of it at present. Did you find my chemise stud in cleaning up the little room we slept in? I haven't it with me and Msmma says it is not with her things. X am afraid it is lost and it is the nice one Mamma gave me about ayear ago. I shall be so sorry if it's not found. Will you not come and see me with Mamma before you go home? You might meet Mamma either at Albany or New York and come here for a day at least. I wish you would for I shall feel badly to have you go home without seeing you again. Please write as often as you can to your "laving, loving, loving," sister Julie. (Julia M. Pease, '75, P.S. I forgot to tell you, and so have to write a postscript which I dislike to do that Mr. Allen called last Saturday and Miss Lyman gave permission for him to take me out riding with a teacher. I chose to take Miss Hamlin and we had a very pleasant ride. This letter you will see by the date was commenced some time ago and has been waiting until today to be finished. Thank Aunt Maria far kindness in letting me invite some one to spend Christmas with ma at her pleasant home, but there Is no one I care par- ticularly about asking, as I have navery graat friend here, and most of the girls X know are going either home or to New York. Carrie Norton is going home Christmas. Goodbye my precious sister. Again I must add a lew lines and I presume you will think I am never going to end. But as you are always making collections, would you not like to get old "postage stamps'1 ? For a million the Government will pay you three hundred dollars. I have written to Papa asking him to save his and I will keep mine lor you 11 you wish. I hope this morning to get a letter from you but am afraid I will be disappointed. My lave to Aunt Maria and tell her I am looking forward with great pleasure to spending Christmas with her and it is only a little over six weeks before the time. Only think you will be home then, but you must think of me as wishing heartily to be with you all. Next time I write I had better commence on anothersheet of paper than cross so much, for I am afraid you can scarcely read this scrawl. Julie iJulia M. Pease, '75,
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: March 22, 1871
Text: Vassar Collage March 22, 1871. My own dear Mamma, You will feel discouraged, I know, when you see this immense » sheet of paper, hut I think that I am justified la using it hy the amount 1 have to write you. Your long letter has kept me In good spirits ever since the receipt of it, which is nearly a week, aad I fear I shall have to live upon the contents of it much longer, unless my home letters come more regularly than they have for the last few weeks. Just as X had written you that your...
Show moreVassar Collage March 22, 1871. My own dear Mamma, You will feel discouraged, I know, when you see this immense » sheet of paper, hut I think that I am justified la using it hy the amount 1 have to write you. Your long letter has kept me In good spirits ever since the receipt of it, which is nearly a week, aad I fear I shall have to live upon the contents of it much longer, unless my home letters come more regularly than they have for the last few weeks. Just as X had written you that your letters came In the right time they began to come very seldom. However, I think it is because you do not write very often. not You say that you fear that 1 can^lways find time to read your letters, but you are mistaken. Ittakes much less time to read than to write a letter and so If that Is your only reason for not usually sending me long ones you will find that removed by my telling you that I can find time to read a letter even though it be twenty pages Instead of half that number. I received a letter from Mrs. Hayes a few days ago. All were well, I mention the receipt of her letter specially because she said that Mrs. Gillette wrote her that Miss Augusta Palm is to ^be, married and I to know am very anxious-for yau^te tell who the happy gentleman is. I shall be very glad to have you make me a few underclothes, another year I shall need them. I do not want them perfectly plain, any trimming will be suit* able except ruffling. Here we can get very nice edgings or trimmings something like ruffling, which look pretty, aad are easily washed aad ironed. If you prefer, you can send them to mo plain and X can put some* thingon. X am afraid that you can not make tha drawers to fit ma without t i * • 1 • ■ , a pattern and as soon as X can cut one will send it. Gough lectures in Poughkeepsie this week. Tho President will not let any of us go in to hear him, hut has asked him to come here and lecture. We do not yet know whether he will accept tha invitation. Although X have heard him several times, I could listen to him as many again and still ask for more. X think X have never written you of a lecture delivered hare by Dr. Robinson from Rochester. Tho gentleman had a very fine ffcce and is said to bo a deep thinker. Ho certainly appeared to be, for his lecture was much to deep for mo to foal much Interest In it. He touched upon many subjects but only for a moment, leaving us to finish them. Of course X did not, for when I go to hoar a lecture I want somethingthat does not require much thinking. Latin uses up about all the brains I possess. Prof. Van Ingen the drawing teacher has commenced a course of lectures upon the "history of Art." To attend his lectures, I have to recite one lesson in the evening privately with two others. This only comes once a week but on my busiest evening, Monday, when there is corridor meeting and I have a bath. I wrote you the last news which I have heard of Grandma. I am owing Aunt Maria a letter and will answer it as soon as X can In order to hear from Grandma again. In the last letter I havs hsd from Aunt she said that Carrie was owing her a letter, aad she told me at Christmas that Papa had never answered her letter. H they will net write of course they cannot expect to hear from her. I mast close now aad learn my Rhetoric. We have more than fifty words to leek outin the Dictionary and find their meaning and derivation^ ^iqfi$ and it will take some time to da it. With very much love Julie.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: May 16, 1873
Text: Vassar College, May 16, 1873. Dear little sister, Your last letter was just six days coming; it does seem almost like talking to you to get letters in so short time. Yet I have been study- ing the calendar and find that unless my letter to Papa goes in the shortest time possible and his answer returns in the same way, there is no time for an answer to my letter before the twenty-ninth, or thirtieth, when I would like to leave here. Immediately I must begin to prepare for my examinations. They...
Show moreVassar College, May 16, 1873. Dear little sister, Your last letter was just six days coming; it does seem almost like talking to you to get letters in so short time. Yet I have been study- ing the calendar and find that unless my letter to Papa goes in the shortest time possible and his answer returns in the same way, there is no time for an answer to my letter before the twenty-ninth, or thirtieth, when I would like to leave here. Immediately I must begin to prepare for my examinations. They will be private, of course, and pretty hard, but I do not dread any but Zoology. That is the easiest study yet the most difficult in which to be examined. Poor little Carrie, you must be nearly used up with your manifold cares, and the hot weather coming on. And then, like Mamma, you do not get all the work you can out of the negroes. U you had your sisters laziness I don't know what you would do now. Last night some of us went over to the Observatory to gaze at the stars. You would have thought us "moon-struck" certainly to have seen us down uponour knees, or even reclining upon the steps in order to look through the little "Holland," a small specimen of a telescope. After all we could see nothing, whatever, and a Junior offered to get the focus for us. In vain did she gaze and gaze, and see nothing, but finally she discovered that the "solar eye-piece" was in. This was a good joke on us but not so good as when the Junior gazed and gazed and wondered what could be the matter with that splendid "coast-survey," for all looked dark at the other end. Finally a Sophmore kindly informed her that the "cap" had not yet been removed! I have come to dislike Gymnastics as much as you used to. They are hard work when the weather is warm, and I am delighted to think that I shall get rid of that wretched Exhibition on Class Day. By means of our sketching outdoors we are excused from Gyms, two days in the week, and I hope to be from the other. Carrie, my letters seem so disgustingly egotistical that I hate to send them. From beginning to end it is I. But yet there seems little to tell of interest to you unless in some way appertaining to me, as the only person you know here, so please excuse them. The other day I looked at hamburgs and saw some very pretty patterns for seventy five cents. It seemed safer to get them and bring as the time is now so P.S. Will you ask Ma mm? If she is willing for me to spend enough of that money Grandma gave me last summer to get a sash? I don't see what I shall do without some kind of a one, this summer. I don't know whether I have made it plain that, unless I can have company, I would like to start for home from College on the 29. In either case I shall have to receive letters or telegrams from Papa or Mr. Swenson, in order to leave. near. With much love to all, Julie.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: November 3, 1872
Text: Vassar College. Nov. 3, 1872 My dear Mamma, Since dinner I have been reading one of Miss Mulucks novels, "A life for a life"! now having finished it I get out my desk and begin my letter home. President Raymond preached, this morning, for the second time only this year. His discourse was less a sermon than a lecture. Sobriety, in Its different forms, was the chief topic. Dress, unbecomingmirth etc. were discussed by him. It was a splendid talk and much needed in the College, yet...
Show moreVassar College. Nov. 3, 1872 My dear Mamma, Since dinner I have been reading one of Miss Mulucks novels, "A life for a life"! now having finished it I get out my desk and begin my letter home. President Raymond preached, this morning, for the second time only this year. His discourse was less a sermon than a lecture. Sobriety, in Its different forms, was the chief topic. Dress, unbecomingmirth etc. were discussed by him. It was a splendid talk and much needed in the College, yet scarcely the subject for Sunday. This matter of dress is carried to a great excess here; you, who think that too much time, labor and money is spent on my attire, would be astonished to find that I am one of the very plainly clothed ones. Of course there are some who are poor and do not dress at all, the girls would say. I consider myself a happy medium. Miss Terrys letter has had no effect whatever upon them. The President is really aroused, and fears that we will become a "noisy rabble."Speaking of dress, I have almost decided to have my silk waist made. If I find that I can get along well without it, I will do so. Will you send me, some time before next spring, a piece of my piece grenadine large enough to make ruffles for the sleeves. Much will not be needed, and I think it can easily be sent In an envelope. As yet Miss Terry has not been able to give me a room down stairs. At present she is In New Haven with her mother who Is very ill. I live In hopes of something better when she returns, for she says she will do her best for me. My parlor mates are so pleasantthat I would change only for a much nicer room. I suppose you have heard that Kitty is in Boston attending lectures. Jenny complains of Kitty's negligence in writing. Harry has written to Jenny once. The letter was the usual length, between four and five lines. I do hope the horse distemper, which is now prevailing in New York and Boston, will not reach Texas. We have bean unfortunate enough, lately, with our horses. It must seem strange to see the cars drawn by oxen, as they are in Boston. The horses have not been affected in Po'keepsie. Have reached the bottom of the page and will close with much love to all. Your daughter Julie. P.S. Do you mean that Papa does really think of moving to St. Louis, or is it merely talk. I don't yet know whether I would like it, but I presume there will be no occasion for me to find out. J.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: May 11, 1873
Text: Vassar College, May 11, 1873. My dear Mamma, Sundays seem almost always disagreeable days at Vassar, and this Is no exception to the rule. A day which is nothing in particular, neither rainy or pleasant, is, I think, an abomination. "Distance lends enchantment," &, so I imagine all the days at Wood-Lawn are perfect, and perhaps I shall be disappointed In that respect next summer. Papa's note to the President has been received and delivered through the medium of his "...
Show moreVassar College, May 11, 1873. My dear Mamma, Sundays seem almost always disagreeable days at Vassar, and this Is no exception to the rule. A day which is nothing in particular, neither rainy or pleasant, is, I think, an abomination. "Distance lends enchantment," &, so I imagine all the days at Wood-Lawn are perfect, and perhaps I shall be disappointed In that respect next summer. Papa's note to the President has been received and delivered through the medium of his "box." For you must knew that we have no personal intercourse with our respected President. All our business must be transacted by means of letters, and our only view of the great man Is at evening prayers. Monday there is Faculty meeting when, I suppose If nothing more urgent is on hand, the learned body will discuss the matter of say early return home. After their decision I much fear that you will be informed of It sooner than I. If the decision is only favorable forever will I "extoll to the stars," (Horace) the faculty of Vassar College. Finding myself in avery dilapedated condition as regards clothing I have sent for some stuff to make one of these new spring polonaises. It is not very expensive, but the same shade as my eld Japanese silk and will do nicely for an overdress. My black alpaca Is In the last stages of decay, so I have had had to have recourse to my brown dress for every day wear until the weather grows warmer. I send a sample of my dress as well as some others to show the spring styles. Last night one class had its grand Sociable of the Semester. There was a nice little play and afterwards dancing. For a long time some of us have beea greatly troubled at the lack of sociability and of class feeling among us, but at last it seems to be roused and on the increase, for our sociables are now enjoyed by all. Perhaps the fact that th number of members is less has something to do with it. We are to give the Freshmen a party soon and of course, as it can be only a plain dancing affair, wish to get up Music and a supper in fine style. Yet Miss Terry will not allow us any men musicians, and women are not to be procured, onwhat we shall do we cannot tell. The best players in our class will be otherwise engaged, and it would not be nice, any-way, to make our own music. And then it seems an insult to the classes to think that they will flirt with common musicians. This is Miss Terry's only objection to having men. The supper too has been cut down somewhat, on account of the expense, but our Class taxes, as yet, have beea almost nothing. Jennie has beea In my room all the afternoon. She says that she has written you today. She Is very busy and I am generallyso and I do not see as much of her as I would like. But we always walk together on Sundays at any rate. Don't you aeed to have me get you some kind of a bonnet frame for summer wear? The fashions have really gone back to the old capes for bonnets, and I suppose you will be glad. My roommates are talking pretty excitedly, so I fear this is a very disconnected letter. With very much love and the hope that you are all well, Julie
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: June 22, 1874
Text: Vassar, June 22. 1874 My dear Carrie, Having plenty of sparse time from now on, I begin a letter to you, my dear and will keep It In band perhaps until our festivities are over. I look forward to them with very little pleasure, for there is a great sameness after having seen these affairs twice. I have been to take a look at the frog, dear Aggie, and I find it is my last, for the poor thing will never breathe again. Us little eyes are glazed and its body is stiff, and we know that is not ...
Show moreVassar, June 22. 1874 My dear Carrie, Having plenty of sparse time from now on, I begin a letter to you, my dear and will keep It In band perhaps until our festivities are over. I look forward to them with very little pleasure, for there is a great sameness after having seen these affairs twice. I have been to take a look at the frog, dear Aggie, and I find it is my last, for the poor thing will never breathe again. Us little eyes are glazed and its body is stiff, and we know that is not "playing possum," as It frequently does. Did I tell you that Dr. Webster gave it some cream and ever since it has apparently been In pain; sometimes Stretching itself out, until like a line It has only length without breadth or thickness, and again receding, to one side as If paralyaed. Now I shall take him to Prof. Orton and see what he will do with it. Trenton Falls, June 28. Until today I have had no time to finish this letter, and even now I feel very little like it. This afternoon some of the girls are going to make a second trip up to the falls, but I feel more like remaining In the house and trying to keep cool, which latter is no very easy task! To say that we have had a glorious time seems tame, so I knew not what to say. Every moment has been crowded with enjoyment, and we look forward with sorrow to the morrow which Is to part us. I must say that I anticipate no great pleasure at Burlington, I never went any where with so little desire of so doing, and the hope of leaving soon - You will want to know why this is, and if so I why go, I presume, and I will try and explain. Lillie Lewis most persons think a very charming person, and so I suppose should I, but really we are not congenial. She is one of these quiet soft little persons, apparently yielding and unselfish, yet with a will of her own and a way of her own which seldom agree with mine, and I being unhappy unless having my own way, you see the difficulty. I don't knew why, but she was very desirous that I should visit her at the same time Bird Bell did, thinking that youwould all be in early I declined, bat finding you will not, there seemed nothing to do but accept, for refusing would have been telling her, In so many words, that I did not wish to visit her. I do not expect to remain longer than Monday of next week (the 6th) and perhaps not so long. Our trip would take me so long to describe that I will not attempt it, merely stating that we went safely over some very hasardous places, and saw wonderful sights, leaving the remainder to copious notes taken for the benefit of the absent, and the October number of the Miscellany In which on account will appear, written by Emma Clark The falls are wonderful, the house well kept, and the proprietor, Mr. More, the most obliging and kindest of men. This morning he took us, at his own expense, threemiles away to his Unitarian church, where we were kindly received, and thanked by the minister's wife for coming. Mr. M. is something of a Geologist and all the family are musical. A pipe organ is in one of the rooms, a grand piano in another, and a square in still another. Wo sing hymns for his benefit in the evenings, the organ being played by young Mr. Denny, a boarder, and a most curious specimen of the genus homo. Twenty two years old, he is not bigger than a child of ten, wears glasses and talks in the most proper manner. Fan & I talked to him for some time thinking him a boy of sixteen. When seated at the organ his feet do not touch the floor. I am getting to warm to write more at present, so good-bye. Heed notexpect another letter from me as I shall expect you on beforeanother can reach you -
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: November 20, 1870
Text: (November 20, 1870, Saturday Evening. You are a dear good girl Carrie, to write so often to your sister, and X thank you for it, and only wish Mamma would do as well. I have not heard from her for over a week but suppose she is hard at work for one and so 1 ought not to complain. If you would write a little plainer I could read your letters better. At first I had no difficulty at all in doing so, but the last ones I have had to study over and even then could not exactly understand what you...
Show more(November 20, 1870, Saturday Evening. You are a dear good girl Carrie, to write so often to your sister, and X thank you for it, and only wish Mamma would do as well. I have not heard from her for over a week but suppose she is hard at work for one and so 1 ought not to complain. If you would write a little plainer I could read your letters better. At first I had no difficulty at all in doing so, but the last ones I have had to study over and even then could not exactly understand what you wrote. For instance in one of your lettersyou say that Mamma has given you something which you like very much, but what it is I can not make out. Would you really like to have me write you what words you spell wrong ? I have not noticed maay, in you last I think there were only two, "tear" which you spelled "tair," and "ripped" which you had written wrong. Last night Benson Lawson (Lossing? , delivered a lecture before the college. His subject was "chivalry, the past and present." He told us the origin of the name "sirloin" as applied to certain pieces of meat, and also that of the "Order of the Garter," and many other interesting little things. 1 presume you read the aewspapers, and know something of what is going on, butI never do. There are always aewspapers in the library, and sometimes I think I will read them but do not get about it. And so X had not heard until yesterday when I received a letter from Mary Rawson telling me of it, of the railroad accident at Grand Junction; you will remem- ber the place, one of the many times we had to change cars on our way North. There were a good many of our Texan friends on the train, but none of them were injured although four persons were killed and as many wounded. Mr. & Mrs. Morrill, Mrs. Rives and her daughters, Mr. and Mrs. West and Mollie Duval, and Mr. Raymond and his two nieces were In the party. What a fright they must havehad. Yesterday afternoon X was very much surprised as well as delighted, when the messenger girl came up and told me that Mr. and Mrs. Epperson were in the parlor and would like to see me. They have sons attending school in Poughkeepsie, and had come up to visit them, and I think it was very kind in them to ride out and see me when I had known so little of them. Eugenie has been attending school at the Packer Institute. (I forgot to say that she was with them) but she does not like it very well, says she cannot get acquainted with the girls, and I do not wonder, for if I were in her place I would net ask any one to call upon me at Mrs... (Remainder of the letter Is lost, (Julia M. Pease, «»5,
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: December 22, 1872
Text: Vassar College. Dee. 22, 1872. Dear Carrie, Even vacation does not change my usual time for writing, and I am seated tonight, desk in lap, (our peculiarly feminine position) answer- ing letters. Neither the parlour which I have left, nor the one into which I am moving are kept warm during the holidays, so that I have come into this pleasant corner room with two or three others. Because it is vacation we think that all our old customs must be thrown aside, and since we can, we think that we...
Show moreVassar College. Dee. 22, 1872. Dear Carrie, Even vacation does not change my usual time for writing, and I am seated tonight, desk in lap, (our peculiarly feminine position) answer- ing letters. Neither the parlour which I have left, nor the one into which I am moving are kept warm during the holidays, so that I have come into this pleasant corner room with two or three others. Because it is vacation we think that all our old customs must be thrown aside, and since we can, we think that we must do Just as please. Naturally then, we turn night into day, and dine at all hours of the day in our parlor. Last night we did not go to bed until about twelve and now, at seven, I have Just wakened from a nap. Cold as it was, I ventured In to church this morning, for there was no service here today. Several of the girls went coasting this afternoon, and to pay them for their wickedness, I suppose it was, they ran Into each other andgot badly bruised. Pattie Thum Is now making a sketch of the affair. Don't you think we are a depraved set? Really, I had no Idea how very lazy I could be until now. I have, so far, done nothing but eat and sleep, and these few days are a specimen of those to come. Next Friday I expect to go up to Troy for the remainder of the vacation. Ida promises me no gaiety, but she says, "a good deal of quiet enjoyment." They hope to receive an Invitation to spend New Years day la Westfield, but I hope not. I had rather stay in Troy than go wandering off very far this cold weather. I can Imagineyou helping to trim the church for Christmas. How I would like to be with you through this week! One of our girls has gone home to Omaha. That is almost as bad as going to Texas for two weeks. I am going In town tomorrow If it is net too cold, and will then get your belt. Jennie is going down to Brooklyn on Thursday to visit her rela- tions there. I feel too lazy and stupid to write any more now, so goodnight darling— "Merry Christmas to all. And to all a goodnight"— was the greeting of Santa Claus long age, and is mine tonight- Julie
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: March 4, 1873
Text: Vassar — March 4, 1873. Dear Papa and Mamma, Your letters do not come as regularly now as formerly. At one time I could without fail expect them on Tuesday, but today has passed without my receiving one from home, as well as several other Tuesdays. Your letters mailed on Tuesday reach me as early as those mailed a day before. I presume it is owing to the time when the mall steamers start. I think about going home so much lately. I don't know why it is, for it is a perfect age yet before...
Show moreVassar — March 4, 1873. Dear Papa and Mamma, Your letters do not come as regularly now as formerly. At one time I could without fail expect them on Tuesday, but today has passed without my receiving one from home, as well as several other Tuesdays. Your letters mailed on Tuesday reach me as early as those mailed a day before. I presume it is owing to the time when the mall steamers start. I think about going home so much lately. I don't know why it is, for it is a perfect age yet before vacation. I have just been writing my German exercise and afterwards practising the making of letters, until now I find myself continually on the point of making the German Instead of my usual irregular scratches. Jenny Ladd was admitted to the Freshman class, the other day. It was a time of rejoicing for us both. I am very anxious to have her come over on our side of the house, both to get a pleasanter room and to become better acquainted with her classmates, but I fear even If Miss Morse suggests a change, Jenny will not be willing to avail herself of it, for she is very timidand does not care to leave her friend Maggie Lemon. But Jenn's parlormates now are far from agreeable companions. Jenn is studying Trigonometry now, so that if she returns next fall she will be something ahead of her class. The girls tell me she is a very good student. By the way, now when I think of it, I wish to correct a mistake I made some time ago about Cliffie Loverin. She did not have to be reexamined in Lit., I am glad to say for the credit of the "Lone Star." As I heard Prof. Backus tell her she must be I supposed it was inevitable, as did she, but when the time came for examination Cliffie wasnot sent for. It must have been one of Prof. B's jokes, but a very poor one, since it cost Cliffie an afternoon of weeping. Papa, did you ever hear of a Mrs. Wilsoa who has a plantation near Austin? There is rather a queer story connected with her, one which Dr. Avery told me, but which is not worth writing. She said she had daughters at the College, but has none, so we think her plantation, for which she desired Dr. Avery's brother-in-law as overseer, is also a myth. Kitty Ladd has made a long visit in Boston, for she has quite recently returned to Poquonock. Tell Carrie that she has someone to keep her company, for Kitty's letters are like "angela visits, few and far between." But Carrie is excusable, I think, when she has company to entertain- Goodnight dearest peoples in the world— Your loving Julie.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: April 2, 1871
Text: Vassar College. April 2nd 1871. Dear Carrie, Bessie Hogg aad several other girls have beea in my parlor all the eveaing singing hymns and have Just gone away as the bell lor silent time has struck. During the holidays our evening silent time commences at hall past nine aad lasts until ten minutes ol ten and at ten our lights must be out. I like this arrangement very much, it is nicer to have a hall hour of quiet before going to bed. This alternoon I have beea reading such a alee little story,...
Show moreVassar College. April 2nd 1871. Dear Carrie, Bessie Hogg aad several other girls have beea in my parlor all the eveaing singing hymns and have Just gone away as the bell lor silent time has struck. During the holidays our evening silent time commences at hall past nine aad lasts until ten minutes ol ten and at ten our lights must be out. I like this arrangement very much, it is nicer to have a hall hour of quiet before going to bed. This alternoon I have beea reading such a alee little story, it is called "One day's weaving" and is almost as interesting as "Little Women." I intend toread "Stepping Homeward" this week. I am told it is much better than the book by Miss F helps that we read. Have I aever written you that I do not write compositions ? I think I have done so. The reasoa is that I have never studied Rhetoric before coming here. Please keep your pity for another year, so much will be expected Irom us when we are as Freshmen, aad you know as wellAI do that I cannot write a composition. I would not say so i! it were not the real truth, for I do aot weat to conless my deficiency in brains. U you say aaything snore about my being the it smart one ol the family I shall not like. The reasoa that X was seat here A was because I knew so much less than the others. So you think that because we are colleglates, we do not think ol eating. What do yousuppose we live upon? I never had such an appetite as I have here and you know that mine was never very small. The principal articles ol food are cracked wheat, hominy and brown bread* I can't endture the first, the smell almost makes me sick* It is said to be very good for brain work* Very likely the reason X am failing in that respect Is because I never eat any wheat prepared in this tempting manner. Hominy I begin to like and make my dinner of it when that meal consists of mutton, brown bread, pan t? , potatoes, sad dates* Eggs are plenty now and they give us custard pie, and eggs for breakfast very often* I do not like to send you a letter with one unwritten page but I wish to send this in the morning's mail and if I do so must seal in a moment or it will be too late. Your very loving sister* Julie iJulia M. Pease, 'f5,
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: March 25, 1875
Text: March 25. 1875 Dear Carrie, Tour pretty present has been received - You guessed my wishes well, for it is just what I have frequently desired- What weather you must be reveling in, while now as I sit by the window, nought but snow and leafiest trees are visible - To crown all we had a pretty heavy fall of snow the day before yesterday, but today the sun is glorious. I don't wonder people talk so much about the weather, for with meits condition makes all the difference in the world. I can...
Show moreMarch 25. 1875 Dear Carrie, Tour pretty present has been received - You guessed my wishes well, for it is just what I have frequently desired- What weather you must be reveling in, while now as I sit by the window, nought but snow and leafiest trees are visible - To crown all we had a pretty heavy fall of snow the day before yesterday, but today the sun is glorious. I don't wonder people talk so much about the weather, for with meits condition makes all the difference in the world. I can't be very blue or miserable while the sun shines; at least in this climate, where it is a rarity - We manage to "put in" our vacation time very pleasantly doing nothing, most of the day - Sometimes it is hard work to do nothing industriously, but this spring I am tired enough to find it very easy. In the morning I practise a little, for if I know my piece I shall play it at the next concert; then draw fora while, and after dinner sleep or read - Last night we passed pleasantly enough in our Senior parlor, one of the girls reading while the others worked - One of Poe's tales was chosen, and I think it speaks well for Vassar training to say that although afterwards sleeping alone In a distant part of the house I was not at all frightened, neither had bad dreams. But I am not at all confident that I shall be so brave at home - Indeed I know in that robberish land I shall be afraid - That velour could not be obtained in Po'keepsie, nor in New York either - What's to be done? Shall I get a grey hat and send, or order one made by the time you come on? And had I not better have a bonnet made for Mamma here. You know you must all look your best at Commencement time, for Vassar is a critical place. And although it will make no difference to me how you look, other people make remarks. Papa should have a new and fashionablesuit, especially If he sit upon the platform as Colonel Smith said - Above all things make him buy a stylish hat - What will Mamma have for a dress? I think that cashmere if made up nicely would be most suitable, and perhaps as you have so much sewing to do at home, if it would be better to send it on and have it made here. The time is so near at hand that we must be thinking about such things.Please pay particular attention to the preceding remarks, and answer necessary questions. Received a letter from Julie Edith a few days since, and it was sad enough - I will write to her today if possible. I hope she can be persuaded to spend next winter with us, for I think the society of young people will do her much good - Having one or two other letters to write, so adieu for today - The "Chips" arrived in safety and were good} many thanks for them, as also the occasional papers. Did I ever write you, your marriage notice appeared in some of the N.Y. papers at the time? Who do you suppose put it in?
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: May 20, 1871
Text: Vassar College, May 20, 1871. Dearest Carrie, Much to my surprise this morning I have received a long letter from you. I have given up sspecting any thing from you but a short note with Taps and Mamma's letters. Another letter which I received tMs morning surprised me. It is so long since I wrote to Julita Rlgby that t thought -he was not intending to answer my letter, and of course the one from her was a great pleasure. She says, "Send my love to Carrie wh^n y ou write, that is if...
Show moreVassar College, May 20, 1871. Dearest Carrie, Much to my surprise this morning I have received a long letter from you. I have given up sspecting any thing from you but a short note with Taps and Mamma's letters. Another letter which I received tMs morning surprised me. It is so long since I wrote to Julita Rlgby that t thought -he was not intending to answer my letter, and of course the one from her was a great pleasure. She says, "Send my love to Carrie wh^n y ou write, that is if she is within sending distance, for she may be on the Alps or at the North Pole for all I know, dear old Carrie. I remem- ber her so well. I fancy X see her now bending so studiously over some dry eld book and yet always so ready to Join in any fun that did not take her out cf her atmosphere of books."-— Julita seems to be enjoying her- self vary much, and I think is something of a flirt, and yet I don't like to apply that word to her. Cur first sketch from nature was a view of our lake. It is a pretty as view but of ccurseAmy first attempt it is not very good. It is recogniaable but tLo foliage look much as if a fly with dirty wings had been crawling over tho ;>aper. We are now making a drawing of a fine old pine tree, whichis jufet outside the college grounds. Next Saturday we intend to go down to the river and sketch. We shall provide ourselves with lunch and spend tlits day on the river bank. "Only four more weeks," we say again fc again as we used at the old Ftm. Sem. But these four weeks are very terrible to look forward to. We review ia all our studies and the classes are all open to visitors during these weeks. I dread Rhetoric more than any study because we recite by topics. It disturbs me, first, to see Miss Clarice sit there and fold her arms after having given me a topic, and then while I am trying to express in words one idea all the others take leave of me. I hope you do not think thatI write compositions now. My first attempts will be next year while Freshman. The thought of writing them '♦fills me with anguish," but fortunately the thought seldom comes to me. With the noon mail came the Latin Grammar. We have finished learning rules this year but it will be useful in looking them up when we prove our lines fer scanning* I have been using a grammar belonging to one of the girls and am glad that I can now return it. time I have always forgotten when I have had to cut a pattern of my drawer.:, but this evening will do so and send soon. Are you reading many books now? I commenced "Hypatla" a long ttnas ago. After having had it renewed for three weeksand then keeping it a week over my time, I returned It without having read half of it. Sunday afternocnn for the last three or four weeks we have been reading "Faith Gertney" a little story by the author of "Leslie Goldthwait." We have now finished it and I have tak<m from the library a book by Hawthorne. Very lik«I> X shall keep it until college cloeea and not find time to read it. I planted the balsam seed snd '.he seed of the sensitive plant which mamma sent me* Our heliotropes and geraniums are beginning to show signs of life, but we need rain very much. I imagined that here we would not haveto water our plants but fic-5 that we do, and already I have watered them several times. In a letter I received a few days ago from Aunt Maria, she says, "Mother was in about her usual health till Friday morning the 21st April, when she was suddenly taken with spasms of the throat & lungs and was insensible from that time till she died, on Saturday morning at two oclock, wl en she dropped away very quietly," Do write me good long letters, and tell all you are doing. With much love to all Your loving Julie.jjulia M. Pease, »75j The pattern of drawers which I have cut is of those which are banded at the knee.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: October 21, 1871
Text: Vassar College, Oct. 20, 1871. My dear sister, 1 have Just received year letter sad feel that yea were slightly "blue"when it was written. I can sympathise for I am sometimes so. Wouldn't it be better If you went out with young people more? You can make yourself entertaining when you please. (You see I am talking to you In a motherly manner.) But I fear the trouble with us both Is that we do not please. Did I ever tell you that a young gentleman once told me that it was my own...
Show moreVassar College, Oct. 20, 1871. My dear sister, 1 have Just received year letter sad feel that yea were slightly "blue"when it was written. I can sympathise for I am sometimes so. Wouldn't it be better If you went out with young people more? You can make yourself entertaining when you please. (You see I am talking to you In a motherly manner.) But I fear the trouble with us both Is that we do not please. Did I ever tell you that a young gentleman once told me that it was my own fault If I did not make myself agreeable. Oh, I was angry but it wasthe brother of that young lady who boards at Mrs. Browns and X scarcely knew him. As for your being an old maid, it Is all nonsense. What of Nannie Hopkins, even Nexmie Duval fc Mary Hamilton. I expect to be an old maid because I shall never find anyone to suit my fastidious taste and perhaps it will be the same with you. I want so much to have you come here next year with me. My Rhetoric Is missing, someone must have tsken it from my room but I shall try and find one In the waste room, and send you. You could pass In that after a very little study, Just study punctuation thoroughly. (Yea can see by my composition that one can pass an examiaatlea without being very perfect). ThenAlgebra you can study from our eld book and I am sure you will have no difficulty until you come to Radlals, unless it may be evolution. Next summer 1 can show you any little things which trouble you. Then you can pass Into Freshman French by leaking ever Otto's Grammar, far that Is all we have to study before the freshman year. I want you to enter my class and know that you could, of course you cannot pass in Latin unless you study it some this winter, but in place, you can pass la English Literature. You have read so much that by a little study you can easily do it. Please write me and say if you will come next year. U you do, the little study you will have to do will give you some employment forthe long winter. There hasn't a funny thing happened here for a long time. Did I write you that the Sophs made one attempt to "haae" us poor Freshman. They drew a picture of a large eagle with outstretched claws holding In t ' ... them poor f7S. It did not affect us much aad I hope they will have sense enough to make it their last attempt of the kind. We have very little respect for the class of '74, for they are poor scholars, but weAmake no pretense tas yet to any brilliancy except In fcfethematlcs. Hone of ear class are very talented but can do a great deal by hard study. I want very much to read the "Virginians** now that you have spoken so highly of it aad think I shall, for 1 find more time for reading than I did last year. Do decide to come here next yearit accept for yourself aad all the family (Including my Imaginary brothers) much love. Julie iJulia M. Pease, '7S,
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: June 10, 1872
Text: Vassar College. June 10, 1872. My dear Carrie, Since I did not write home Sunday, I fear I shall not have much time now for a long letter. The reviews have come and in Geometry it is pretty hard as we take a book for a lesson. The other things are not as bad and so we manage to get along. I am so sorry you have been sick. Bilious attacks are so very ditime. And this Is your birthday! "May you see a thousand returns of the same" etc. etc. Dearest, I wish I could be with you today,...
Show moreVassar College. June 10, 1872. My dear Carrie, Since I did not write home Sunday, I fear I shall not have much time now for a long letter. The reviews have come and in Geometry it is pretty hard as we take a book for a lesson. The other things are not as bad and so we manage to get along. I am so sorry you have been sick. Bilious attacks are so very ditime. And this Is your birthday! "May you see a thousand returns of the same" etc. etc. Dearest, I wish I could be with you today, and see you enter upon your twenty second year, for you are really twenty one, is it not so? It seems hard to believe, now, when I think of it end when I see you it will be still harder. But the years make no difference, you are not a bit older now than when "sweet sixteen." Indeed I believe you grow younger. I think of you In our cosy dining room eating the birthday cake, for that good old custom will never pass from our house. And I think of the many birthdays we have spent In the same way, and of the pretty flowers with which we used to deck the cake. Tell Papa that his letter written in Cincinnati was received. I thought I had mentioned its receipt, but suppose 'twas forgotten. This surely must be the rainy season. Almost every day abundant showers fall, and although very much needed by vegetation we cannot help complaining of their frequency. I havedone scarcely anything in the way of paintings this year, so do not raise your hopes very high. I paint very slowly, and then I spent much time and patience trying to paint some corn from nature, and alter all the corn could scarcely be recognised. I am sleepy and stupid tonight, and cannot write more at present. Goodnight Julie.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: January 31, 1871
Text: Janvier 31. ,1871, Ma chfere Carrie, Je n'ai jamais 6crit une lsttre en franpais, mals aujourd'hui je croyais que j'cssaleraic de le fa Ire. Je sals que ma lettre sera remplie de fautes, mais j'espère que la prochaine sera écrite mieux. Car ne répondrez-vous pas cette lettre en français? J'ai une nouvelle compagne de chambre, Mademoiselle Woolaey par nom.Janvier 31. ,1871, Ma chfere Carrie, Je n'ai jamais 6crit une lsttre en franpais, mals aujourd'hui je...
Show moreJanvier 31. ,1871, Ma chfere Carrie, Je n'ai jamais 6crit une lsttre en franpais, mals aujourd'hui je croyais que j'cssaleraic de le fa Ire. Je sals que ma lettre sera remplie de fautes, mais j'espère que la prochaine sera écrite mieux. Car ne répondrez-vous pas cette lettre en français? J'ai une nouvelle compagne de chambre, Mademoiselle Woolaey par nom.Janvier 31. ,1871, Ma chfere Carrie, Je n'ai jamais 6crit une lsttre en franpais, mals aujourd'hui je croyais que j'cssaleraic de le fa Ire. Je sals que ma lettre sera remplie de fautes, mais j'espère que la prochaine sera écrite mieux. Car ne répondrez-vous pas cette lettre en français? J'ai une nouvelle compagne de chambre, Mademoiselle Woolaey par nom. Avez-vous jamais lu "Little Women"? Mile. Woolsey est tant comme "fori t? Elle dit que sa pins grande douleur depuls sa naissanee a été, qu'elle n'6tait pas un garçon. Elle a l'air d'un garçon, et elle agie comme un garçon. Mais Je ne peux vous dire de lui en fran^ais et J'attendrai jusqu'à ce que j'écrirai en anglais. Mademoiselle Kapp notre lnstltutrice française rirait, de bon coeur, je prenne, si elle verrait cette lettre. Je trouve que depuis lepremier Janvier J'ai écrit sept lettres a ma maison et Je n'ai reçu que dix lettres de ma maison, quand il y a trols personnes pour écrire a moi. "Comment est-ce pour haut?" comme ma compagne de chambre dirait. Cette lettre est presque le plus stupide que j'ai Jamais écrit. Je crois si grasse que Je puis a peine voir. Mes joues sont très grasses. Quelqu'un m'a dit qu'il est parceque je bois tant de lait, et je pense quecela est aussi le raison pourquoi J'ai si sommeil. Je ne boirai pas du lait encore mais je prendrai du thé. Ma premiere interrogation vient ce matin a onze heure et cinq minutes, et j'en ecrira a maman. Ne monte pas cette lettre a quelqu'un, mais reponde bientôt. Donne mon amour a chaque personne a la maison et accepte beau- coup pour toi-meme. Pense souvent a moi. Julie M. Pease {Julia M. Pease, *75j
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: September 24, 1872
Text: Vassar College. Sep. 24, 1872. Dear Carrie, I write immediately to satisfy the family fears concerning me. Reached Po'keepsie all right and found the omnibus all ready to convey me, together with seven or eight other old students, directly to the Col- lege. This we find about full as the old scholars are nearly all back. Yesterday I saw Jennie. She has entered Into the Freshman class with the exception of Latin. That she will have to take in addition to her Freshman studies. She did not...
Show moreVassar College. Sep. 24, 1872. Dear Carrie, I write immediately to satisfy the family fears concerning me. Reached Po'keepsie all right and found the omnibus all ready to convey me, together with seven or eight other old students, directly to the Col- lege. This we find about full as the old scholars are nearly all back. Yesterday I saw Jennie. She has entered Into the Freshman class with the exception of Latin. That she will have to take in addition to her Freshman studies. She did not attempt to pass farther than Freshman Algebra and I think was a good deal frightened during all the examinations. Poor Jenny! she is now rooming with the girl of all these whom I could not stay with. But there Is some hope of her rooming with her friend Maggie Lemon. I have not yet seen Carrie Norton or Nellie Whitman. They called upon me last evening but unfortunately I was not at home. Tomorrow our classes will be read out. Until that time we have only to unpack, get settled and callupon our friends. A delightful day of ease and Idleness. Today I suppose you are steaming away in a hot and dusty car. This weather is almost as bad for travelling as it was last July when you came North. There are same changes here. In the first place, Miss Morse is Assistant Lady Principal. Of course all are dissatisfied with that arrange- meat. Then the Dining Hall has been considerably enlarged, and much improved by having windows at the other end. A small building has beea put up back of the College, but as yet we know not what will be its use. Professor Backus, who has been passing the summer In Europe, will favor us, this morning, with on account of his travels. His talks are usually entertaining and we expect to enjoy this one very much. The Junior who was expecting to have the single room in our parlor does not return. Her place is supplied by another from the same class. A lady like and nice girl flourishing In my yellow calico dress, and Had another young lady whose taste is the same, for her dress is off the same piece. I should think, although hers is bought here and mine In Hartford. Give my love to all the Janesville relations. If the girlswould send me their pictures as they promised, I would be very glad. With much love Julie.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: October 1, 1874
Text: Oct. 1. 1874 Vassar College. Dear Papa, As you thought, your letter was very acceptable, coming to hand at a time when, if ever, one is inclined to be homesick. U homesickness consists of weeping and "blueness" merely, I have not beea afflicted, but if, as I think, it is sometimes an infinite longing to go home, then I also have beea effected. - I think of home all the time, and want to be there; the knowledge that this is my last year making matters worse insted of better, Yet I...
Show moreOct. 1. 1874 Vassar College. Dear Papa, As you thought, your letter was very acceptable, coming to hand at a time when, if ever, one is inclined to be homesick. U homesickness consists of weeping and "blueness" merely, I have not beea afflicted, but if, as I think, it is sometimes an infinite longing to go home, then I also have beea effected. - I think of home all the time, and want to be there; the knowledge that this is my last year making matters worse insted of better, Yet I never came back and found things pleasanter than now. We being theupper class, are looked up to, and in all things treated with the utmost consideration. Then of course we have many friends among the teachers as well as students, all of whom welcome us back gladly. Miss Terry too, is very kind, calling us "her Senior Class," from the fact that we were the first regular class whom she has taken through the course, we being Freshmen when she first came. We are not called upon to report for Exercise and the ether minor affairs as the other classes do; neither are we put upon our honor. But we can walk In or not as we please, though it Is expected that we will do, having beenduly instructed that good health demands regularity In that matter. I presume you will be very glad to know that I have Natural Philosophy instead of a second year of Astronomy. Carrie in particular did not seem to like the Idea of my omitting the former from my course, and knowing that you also are not vary desirous that I should study the higher Mathematics I have made this change. I myself am very well pleased with the change, as the new Professor of Philosophy Is a fine teacher. Miss Mitchell was kind enough to say that she missed me much from the class,and invited me to go over and see the Instruments whenever I desired - Did you over receive, sent to me, a printed account of the doings of last Class Day? Please let me know as soon as possible, for if they were received I must pay for them, and If not, have another seat. This letter Is written In great haste; and in my own, not over warm room, when I was driven by the noise In our parlor. Please excuse mistakes, and accept very much love, from your aff. daughter Julie
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: March 5, 1871
Text: Vassar College. March 7, 5. Dear Carrie* I sigh every time I receive a letter from you to find what nice letters and interesting ones you can write me, while mine to you are such stupids. You ought to study Rhetoric, principally for the sake of punctua- be tion, and then write a little plainer and your Utters wouldA"perfect.»* I must praise your last one, there was not a word hut what X could read. Have you tried the "second string to your bow," shooting? It * ri i .... .j * i ...
Show moreVassar College. March 7, 5. Dear Carrie* I sigh every time I receive a letter from you to find what nice letters and interesting ones you can write me, while mine to you are such stupids. You ought to study Rhetoric, principally for the sake of punctua- be tion, and then write a little plainer and your Utters wouldA"perfect.»* I must praise your last one, there was not a word hut what X could read. Have you tried the "second string to your bow," shooting? It * ri i .... .j * i > would have been the only one I should have attempted. "No studying law for me."h a year, for as you are so apt a student no longer time will be required for understanding law thoroughly, 1 shall hear of Miss Carrie Pease practising law at the bar, and when I return home I hope to greet you as my sister, "Judge" Pease. Mamma wrrte that George G. had invited you to attend a ball, to be given the 22nd of last month. Did you go, and if so how did you enjoy yourself? Were you not aware, that Ash Wednesday and Washlngtons birthday were one and the same day? We have such nice little meetings now. Miss Garland, the Secretary, reads the Episcopal service and we all sing* An organ has beenengaged from Poughkeepsle aad when some- one plays on that, we get along very nicely, for none of the chants in the evening service are difficult* Miss Garland told her Bible class that next Sunday would be her last here. I am sorry that she is going away just now, but presume some scholar will take her place In our meetings. Are you •till studying Philosophy, or have you given that up lor your mora interesting one? Wo have finished reading Caesar lor this year and have now commenced Cicero, I like it very much, hut am surprised to lind that X do not remember anything at all about It. From new until the lirst ol April, we have to read lour orations; Justtwice as much ss you sccom- piished in a yearl I received a letter Irom Aunt Maria Robinson last week. She has heard irom Aunt Carrie again. Aunt writes, "Grandma has much improved in mind since leaving here, realises new that she Is In Jamesville, and (Aunt Maria) wants me to come next spring and visit her, snd wanted Aunt Carrie to buy a wedding present Irom her, Grandma, to Carrie Raynor, who has Just been married." I take that from Aunt's letter, because she says that as you Appear disposed to drop the correspondence she will let you do so. Yester- day the snow was determined to fall, and the sua was determined to prevent it. 1 don't know whichwould have conquered II the time had not come lor the sun to go to bed. That settled the matter and the snow loll as long as it chose covering the ground beautifully. However, the sua rose early and melted in a lew hours last nights labor. I meant to tell you ol the lecture by Curtis, upon Sir Philip Sydney and the one delivered since by ProI. Bacchus (Backus F of Vassar College, about the literature ol the nineteenth century. Suffice it to say that both were good. Curtis is the most fascinat- ing speaker I ever heard. I am expecting the ten oclock bell every moment, excuse so can not wfltt any mora* Please writing— Your loving Sister Julie, There is the bell now! (Julia M. Pease* '75,
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: April 27, 1874
Text: Vassar. April 27. 1874. My dear Mamma, After several days of cold weather it is again bright and warm, and with the change from gloom to sunlight, our spirits change from sad to cheerful. Nothing is more depressing to me than a dark day, and I think other Vassarites think the same. We have been favored with another snowstorm, which we all devoutly hope is the last of the season. The fall must have been at least four inches deep, but has been very quickly dissipated by today's sun. with...
Show moreVassar. April 27. 1874. My dear Mamma, After several days of cold weather it is again bright and warm, and with the change from gloom to sunlight, our spirits change from sad to cheerful. Nothing is more depressing to me than a dark day, and I think other Vassarites think the same. We have been favored with another snowstorm, which we all devoutly hope is the last of the season. The fall must have been at least four inches deep, but has been very quickly dissipated by today's sun. with anumber of wild flowers are now in blossom, bloodroot, hipatica, adder's-tongue, fee and they are hailed with the greatest joy by us as the first fruits of spring, while you are revelling in sunshine all the week through and roses in perfection - Wednesday is our Founders day, for which great preparations are being made. Fannie Buffington's brother is coming with two friends, and we are quite looking forward to the evening. I received a letter from Aunt Maria a few days since. She was quite busy preparing far a Reception which Uncle was going to give, and at the same time she was packing to return to Binghamton. She had just heard from Aunt Carrie, who has made her plans to come East in August. Uncle says she shall expect quite a visit from yau and Carrie in the summer, ii letter from Aunt Juliet also came a day or so ago. Kittie is teaching in a High School in Chelsea, and still stays with the moors. Her eyes are better, but not yet very strong. Uncle Life grows no better. Aunt Julia mentions that she has heard fromnone of you recently. My dress is finished and looks very nicely. I will send you a sample, for it is not the same, as the sample I sent you before. I like the color better than the other and the price was two dollars instead of two and a half - Must close now, in haste. Lovingly, Julie M. P.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: February 11, 1871
Text: Vassar College, Feb. 11, 1871. My dear Mamma, X will commence a letter to yon this evening and III do not have time to finish It before the bell rings lor ten ocloek, X will leave it and write whenever I have time and anything to say. I have Just come over from the Gymnasium where the girls have been dancing. I am as load aa ever I was ol dancing and wish so much to learn to dance well* It seems strange that there Is no dancing master here, II there was one he would be well patronised, lor a...
Show moreVassar College, Feb. 11, 1871. My dear Mamma, X will commence a letter to yon this evening and III do not have time to finish It before the bell rings lor ten ocloek, X will leave it and write whenever I have time and anything to say. I have Just come over from the Gymnasium where the girls have been dancing. I am as load aa ever I was ol dancing and wish so much to learn to dance well* It seems strange that there Is no dancing master here, II there was one he would be well patronised, lor a great many girls say that they wish to learn. I suppose the Trustees think that our heads and leetcannot both be trained at once. Our lady principal Miss Lyman is very ill, and we suppose is not expected to live but a lew days. We do not really know much about her health, but this evening in Chapel Prol. Orton prayed particularly lor her, something which has never been done before. It & not the case with almost all consumptives that a short time before their death, they seem much better? 1 think I have heard so. About a week ago Miss Lyman was better than she has been for a long, long time. She even went to Faculty Meeting and was on her Corridor several times during the day. But since she has been growing worse, until now we would not be astonished any morning to hear that she was no more. Last evening a lecture was delivered before the College by Bishop Huntingdon ol Central New York. I was very much pleased with the lecture, butwas so very sleepy that . . . parts ol the letter are destroyed, did not pay it the , . . attention. I am told . . . he will preach tomorro . . . such a pleasure to hav . . . -copal service now, whea we have it so seldom. It will be quite wonderful if I am not a Baptist whea I retara home, for almost everyoae here belongs to that church. The Presideat aad I think all the Frofessors are Baptist. W ed. Whea I stopped writiag 1 was telling of how we expected to pass Sunday, and new I will tell you how we did paas it. In the morning Bishop Huntingdon (I don't know whether his name is spelled with a T or d.) preached. The text was, "The Master is come aad calleth for thee," and the sermon was very fine, although very long, it did not seem so. We were In Chapel two hours aad I think our service is net more than one hour long. Mrs. Blxby, a missionary fromBurmah made an address in the evening. She told us a great deal that was Interesting about the Burmese, of their religion and customs. They believe in transmigration and accord- ing to the manner in which they have lived in this world they will be placed In the next. The women try to be very good so that when they are bora again they may be meni And this is their greatest hope. After her address Mrs. Bixby showed and explained to us many articles which she had brought with her from Burmah. I don't know what you, who have such a horror of wearing earrings In the very civilised manner In which we wear them. Many of would think of those we were shown. A The earrings are larger around than my thumb, aad are pat through a hole made la the earl. The hole Is made ■mall at first bat gradually Increased In slae. They manufacture silk, which is really very nice. I have come tothe end of my paper and will , i .. , 1 I , • ', ' i • i . ■ . close my description of last Sunday by saying that It was almost the pleasantest day I have passed In the College. Tour loving daughter Julia. (Julia M. Pease, '75,
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: October 31, 1872
Text: Vassar College Oct. 31, '72. My dear Sister, Your letter written a week ago was received this morning with delight. I can imagine you starting off on Prince, "little fattie on fattie" as you say Dr. Phillips calls you as equestrienne. You mention a young man (I cannot make out his name) who is acquainted with a cousin of Ida Whitman. Is this cousins name Taylor? I should like to know, for I have heard so much of Mame Taylors brothers that it seems almost as If I knew them. I...
Show moreVassar College Oct. 31, '72. My dear Sister, Your letter written a week ago was received this morning with delight. I can imagine you starting off on Prince, "little fattie on fattie" as you say Dr. Phillips calls you as equestrienne. You mention a young man (I cannot make out his name) who is acquainted with a cousin of Ida Whitman. Is this cousins name Taylor? I should like to know, for I have heard so much of Mame Taylors brothers that it seems almost as If I knew them. I doubt not Austin will have parlors enough, and would like to have a peep at some of them. Cliffie Loverin told me, one day, that her father thinks of moving to Austin to live. Don't you think she would be an acquisition to our society? I think Cliffie is at heart a good girl and she is real good company. All that about her attempting to enter our class and her having made up Livy during the vacation is merely her mothers talk.Cliffie, although a really good scholar, has not ambition enough to study outside of school hours. Remember me to Mr. and Mrs. Levancoat, if they at are, in Austin when this reaches you. You know I never did consider him so dreadful a man as many This week I rec'd a letter from Susie Townsend. Do you think they are well satisfied at home? It must be very pleasant for you to have them to visit. I do like the girls so much. There is something so quiet and restful about them, that It makes me feel better to have been in their company. I hopeyou and Mamma are not working too hard in your ambition to get the house in order. Susie told me you had been out very little since your return. There must certainly be something in a name, else why should all the poor forlorn youths pitch upon me as the one with whom they desire a correspondence. This morning I rec'd a letter from a youth in Madison Wis. to the same effect. I thought the first one of the sort which came was amusing, but It is getting to be an old story now. This is the second this year. I know there is something I wish either toask or tell you, but it has escaped my memory just at present. Farewell darling. Your loving sister, who sends much love to all.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: November 13, 1890
Text: Vassar College. Nor. 13* 1870. My dear Fapa, la your letters you have said nothiag about the "testimonials" which X wrote you about. We are required to have them, aad although they have not asked me for them yet, they will expect them to be givea soon. As X have never attended aay school at home you will have to get them as to my character from the minister, aad I presume the reasoa you have aot seat them is because Mr. Rogers has aot yet returned from his trip North. When he comes...
Show moreVassar College. Nor. 13* 1870. My dear Fapa, la your letters you have said nothiag about the "testimonials" which X wrote you about. We are required to have them, aad although they have not asked me for them yet, they will expect them to be givea soon. As X have never attended aay school at home you will have to get them as to my character from the minister, aad I presume the reasoa you have aot seat them is because Mr. Rogers has aot yet returned from his trip North. When he comes home will you get him to write some thing of the sort and send to me and my mind will be much eased upoa that subject. Sometimes X think X would like to go through the course here, and then again I do not care to, but the last two years before graduating are not very hard, and a girl who has gone through the Sophomore class here is about as far advaaced as oae who has graduated at aaother school. I presume at almostany boarding school X could graduate ia one year, and now I should have to come four years besides this. Indeed there are several young ladies in my classes who have graduated at High Schools before coming here. I am so glad that you will give Carrie the watch, for X know the present will make her perfectly happy. As for myself, I have nothing to ask for as my expenses at school will be very great, aad will be enough for one year. I thank you for asking me what I would like, but I do not care for any present now. Do you ever remember a Gov. Rollinsof Missouri? He has a daughter at school here whom I know quite well, she is a very nice girl, but she would not be very sensible in your eyes, because she has a very small waist which shows that she either has or does now lace very tightly, I have a roommate Annie Johnson from Red Wing, Minn. She is a very smart girl and we get along very nicely together. Our parlor is very small and not particularly pleasant, but only we two have the parlor and bedroom together, which makes it very quiet and nice lor studying. There are only two or three parlors In the building which are not occupiedby lour or live young ladies aad we think ourselves very lortunate in having this one, although it is in the back part oI the college and the window is up quite high. Does Mr. Rogers spsll his name with a "d" ? X am alraid I have written it wrong. Carrie wrote me that you had had blinds put on the windows on our house upstsirs. It will be a great improvement making our rooms so much cooler. With very much love your daughter Julie M.P. (Julia M. Pease, '75,
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: October 5, 1873
Text: Vassar Oct. 5, 1873. My dear Mamma, Having just listened to a long and prosy talk from a Dr. Tyler of London, who has come over to the country to attend the Evangelical Alliance, I am so sleepy that I feel that bed is the best place for me. Yet having neglected today to write any letters and make some necessary calls, I must punish myself by sitting up until the last bell. Carrie's short letter is the only one I have received from home, and I am looking anxiously for another. Today I...
Show moreVassar Oct. 5, 1873. My dear Mamma, Having just listened to a long and prosy talk from a Dr. Tyler of London, who has come over to the country to attend the Evangelical Alliance, I am so sleepy that I feel that bed is the best place for me. Yet having neglected today to write any letters and make some necessary calls, I must punish myself by sitting up until the last bell. Carrie's short letter is the only one I have received from home, and I am looking anxiously for another. Today I took a long walk around the flower garden which is looking perfectly beautiful. It has not been at all injured by the few frosts we have had. I could not help thinking how happy you would be among the flowers, yet even here everything does not go smoothly. This is my fourth autumn at the College and it is the first when I have been able to find any beauty in the garden. And even now all has been attained by great labor! constant watering has been necessary here as well as at home all summer. Yesterday while in townI thought I would [have] get the buttons for my brown dress, and no one was missing from my gray polonaise, it seemed best to get that sine, and only think, I want into every known store in Po'keepsle without finding any so large. Finally in despair I was for starting for the College when I saw a newly opened store, and believing firmly in the old saying that things turn up in most unexpected places, I went in, and was successful. Just so, is Po'keepsie in regard to everything. Austin possessed not only the large buttons, but the very sine I needed only I could not get at them. President Raymond's daughter Minnie, who graduated last June, Is to be married on Wednesday. The ceremony will be in Chapel so we all expect to go; some few favored ones will attend the reception after- wards. we hope the wedding will be the means of our having a holiday. As the performance comes off at four p.m. a hall holiday must be given at all events. The engagement has beea a long one, ever since I came and I don't know how much before. Hoping every one Is well, your loving daughter Julie
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: May 2, 1871
Text: Vassar College, May 2nd to 8th ,1871, Mr, and Mrs. £. M. Pease; My dearest Parents, How do you like this form of address? One of the girls told me that she always commenced a letter home in this way, and I thought that I would try it. Dear papa, won't you come North this summer? I want to see you so much. If my wishes will influence you at all, you will certainly come. But there is more to be considered than my earnest wish to see and fondle you again. For the sake of us all you ought to...
Show moreVassar College, May 2nd to 8th ,1871, Mr, and Mrs. £. M. Pease; My dearest Parents, How do you like this form of address? One of the girls told me that she always commenced a letter home in this way, and I thought that I would try it. Dear papa, won't you come North this summer? I want to see you so much. If my wishes will influence you at all, you will certainly come. But there is more to be considered than my earnest wish to see and fondle you again. For the sake of us all you ought to come, that you may get well and strong,and be spared to us many more years. I am do sure you wlllAwhat we are so anxious to have you do, and it will be so much better to come North early in the summer. You speak of selling that piece of land which I have always called mine. I do not agree to it, unless it is want to absolutely necessary. What shall I do when rbuild my old maids cottage, if the land on which to build it is gone? It would be nice to have a fine park near home, but I think the land is much nicer as it is. I am as bad about having our land sold as those old ladies in Hartford, whom you used to tell of. Every little thing about homeinterests me. How many cats &c. you have. Even the death of a chicken. By the way, is the chicken cholera entirely over? I think you mentioned in one of your letters that you had had that Madonna, which I drew, framed. It is pretty good for a crayon sketch but it ought never to have been framed. I hope when you know that I do not like it, you will take it out; anyway, do not have it hanging on the wall. I waa amused at your thinking it looked like me. It brought to mind the french fable about the owl and its little ones. Love blinds your eyes to all my defects. It is very pleasant to have if so, but others cannotbe deceived any more than the hunter could. He, being told by the owl not to kill her little ones which were the prettiest birdllngs In the forest, went directly which and killed them, for he thought them the ugliest he found. Fapa did you ever know a Dr. Kapp of New Brannfeld? He is a German and brother of our German teacher. He is not now in Texas, but has sons living there. I often wish I were with you at your Saturday evening game of whist. W e played several times during vacation, but of course do not play now. I believe it is against the rules although we havenever been told not to play* I can imagine you. Mamma, wearing your old straw bonnet com- fortably, You are a living example of one who does not think that 'dress makes the person,' and one who carries out her opinions, too. Really, though, you ought to have a new bonnet. I suppose this one has been with you so long that you have an affection for it, and cannot bear to put it aside. Please make my nightdresses quite long, and do not mark them. I want to get a stencil plate, and mark my things when they are finished. I want to ask papa If he will tell me Just how muchmoney he can let me spend a year. If he will decide upon a certain sum I will keep within it, and feel more comfortable than at present. I wish you would think of it, and whan you have decided how much X ought to have give Mr, Levenson authority to pay it to me three or four times during the year. I shall have to send to him for more money before I leave College. I shall try and not need any until I hear from you. Then X hope to know how much I shall have this summer, and can make my plans accordingly. Please do not give me more than you easily can.There has been quite an excitement lately about smoking, drinking and cardplaying. X presume you have heard of it, because the papers gladly find all they can to say against Vassar College. I will tell you about it so that you may not believe the reports which you hear. There has been smoking and cardplaying here and X have known of it myself, but it has not been to any extent. X think there has never been any drinking. The report says that young ladies of Vassar commonly smoke and drink and that is not so. Three young ladles have been discovered flirting: r:i&Q have written and received letters from gentlemen in Po'keepsie, and the letters have been carried to and fro by a boy, son of one of our Professors. The other one tooka gentleman who called upon her into the Art Gallery and there met someyyoung ladles. Although these things were not so very bad, yet, as the Fres. had said that flirting would not be allowed, these young ladies have been put under watch. They can walk only a short distance in front and back of the college, and can receive no more calls from gentlemen. beta This letter ha»A lying in my desk some days, and this evening I • will finish It. Your letters came today and made me very glad. You do not say whether I shall have xoy photographs taken. I wish you had done so. For my own part X would not pay 5 dollars a doaen lor them, but 11 you wish me to, I will. They will be taken very finely. The photographer is Kurtz of New York and he is here now. You are much mistaken. Mamma, If you think that overskirts are not now worn. They are longer and larger than ever before, and more generally worn. X fancy that they make me look dumpy, and as the material of my dress is stiff, X had it made with- out one. Sleeves are made either with a deep cuff or flowing at the wrist. Mats are worn farther back on the head. This will suit you I think. The hair Is worn pompadour, which is the reason for putting the hats so far back. Almost all styles of hat are bent down at the sides, slightly. The \ first eight of my sea side would amuse you. The crown is rather high and for me the sides are bent down quite low. U you think It best^to go to Poquonock, before going to MSine, X will do so, but it seems to me an unnecessary waste of time and money. X could have my large trunk expressed on to Windsor and my small one with me. X would be glad to have Auntie go on and will write to her fcbout it. Xf she does not go X could have the company of so nr girls from the College. Several here, live In Maine. Thin lengthy epistle Is now drawn to a close, so now rejoice. W ith muck love end many kisses your loving daughter, JulieH I have my pictures taken I shall have to send for more money before this letter can be answered* lJulla M. Pease, *75,
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: December 7, 1873
Text: Vassar College. Dec. 7. 1873 My dear Mamma & Papa, Your letter reached me unusually early this week, because mailed on Sunday, I suppose. It seems so nice to get a letter from home the same week in which it is sent, and also wonderful when I remember in my first year here, your letters were never more than fourteen days on the road and sometimes more. Our week of dissipation was very pleasantly ended by a visit from a colored troop of singers, members of the Hampton School for Negroes....
Show moreVassar College. Dec. 7. 1873 My dear Mamma & Papa, Your letter reached me unusually early this week, because mailed on Sunday, I suppose. It seems so nice to get a letter from home the same week in which it is sent, and also wonderful when I remember in my first year here, your letters were never more than fourteen days on the road and sometimes more. Our week of dissipation was very pleasantly ended by a visit from a colored troop of singers, members of the Hampton School for Negroes. The Super- intendent of the School, Gen. Armstrong, accompanied them, and gave us in a few words the purpose and present prospects of the school. These singers are traveling about and giving concerts in order to raise money for building the School rooms, etc. The whole cost of the buildings will be seventy five thousand dollar a, and they have now received twenty five thousand, ten by their singing and fifteen in contribution. They give a concert in Po'keepsie this week, and wishing to visit the college were invited out by the President to sing, we were not asked to give them any money, but our Prex. said that he thought we had "better take our pocket-books in our pockets, as their was no telling what we might feel moved to do"I And I am glad to say that nearly all felt moved to give something, so that about eighty five dollars was given, and as their is some talk of given them in thanksgiving offering of fifty, quite a nice little sum will have beea contributed by a "white sister Institution." The darkies were very nice looking, seven men and five women, and I am sure will carry away pleasant recollections of their Vassar visit for I never saw the College so enthusiastic over anything before. The most celebrated singer could not have received half the applause that these poor drakes. We clapped and clapped, till we could do no more. I really feared my hands would be blistered. The singing was very nice indeed, and the songs were thoroughly negro melodies. In one song, one man sang "Oh! then my little soul will shine, shine in heaven," alone, while all joined in the chorus. And every time he began "Shine my little soul" the chapel was convulsed. Another song in which every brother and sister was enquired far in this manner, "I wonder when Brother Liyah's gone!" was very good, especially when all sang together, "Now, Peter go ring dem bells!" very low and soft: there was a ring and mellowness about all their choruses which is never heard in white people's singing. A woman sang "Down on the Swanee ribben", exquisitely, and I cannot imagine anything much sweeter or sadder than the chorus sung by those full, rich voices. ' While we were at supper the darkies came down to the dining hall and sang us two more songs. One of them was first rate, both for the sentiment and heartiness with which it was given - It was in regard to the differentdenominations. A female voice began, "Foxes have holes in the ground, and birds have nests In the air, and everything has its hiding place, but the poor Savior have none!" Then all burst out with "Now ain't that hard!" with such vigor, that they Just "brought down the house," as the saying Is. One aid man then sang that "Baptist was he, and Baptist he would die," another one nag "Methodist was he," fee, until finally one sang "You may go this a way, you may go that a way. You may go from doe to doe, but if you've not God's grace in your heart, the devil will get you, shore !" Tonight Gen. Armstrong comes out to address the meeting of Religious inquiry, so we shall hear something more from them,- and their doings. It seems the school is not alone for teaching "book learning", but more especially for teachingthem what it will be necessary for them to know in order to make their livings. Cooking, sewing, etc. for the women, and other occupations for the men— Tell the darkies, please, who always want to know if I see any of their complexion up here, how delighted the Vassar girls were with these singers, and how they welcomed them. One rather excitable girl went round and buttoned all the women's gloves upon their departure, and vowed she would have kissed them all If they had let her! I do believe that I have written nothing only about the darkies. But I have no more time to write new, so will have to leave unsaid anything more I may have to say. With much love, Your daughter, Julie.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: November 27, 1870
Text: Vassar College, Nov. 27, 1870. My dear Papa, I expect that almost by the time this letter reaches you Mamma and Carrie will be at home, lor in a letter I received Irom her yesterday she said that they would come here and see me this week either Wednes- day or Thursday and after that they will go to New York and irom there home. She also said that Mrs, Crabb had invited them to visit her in Philadelphia and all start together lor Texas irom there. 1 hope they will do so for...
Show moreVassar College, Nov. 27, 1870. My dear Papa, I expect that almost by the time this letter reaches you Mamma and Carrie will be at home, lor in a letter I received Irom her yesterday she said that they would come here and see me this week either Wednes- day or Thursday and after that they will go to New York and irom there home. She also said that Mrs, Crabb had invited them to visit her in Philadelphia and all start together lor Texas irom there. 1 hope they will do so for I think Carrie ought to see something of Phil, before going South, as it will be hard work to get her away from home again. What kind of a Thanksgiving did you pass all alone? Did Maline cook you a nice dinner and how many courses did you have? I imagine she does not understand getting up a nice dinner very well. This has been a very pleasant Thanksgiving for me for one passed away from home. The "faculty" tried to do their best to have us enjoy it, and they succeeded admirably. The "dinner," of course the most important thing, passed off very well. 1 will send you abill of fare and you can than sea for yourself what we had to eat, as it would take me a long time to tell you all we had. Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings we were expecting to have an exhibition of Prof. Cromwell's stereopticon pictures, but much to our dis- appointment his views did not arrive In Poughkeepsie in time for the enter- tainment Thursday night. The Pres. very kindly read to us irom Shakespeare to make up for the loss of the pictures. Ho selected "Midsummer Night's Drearand Indeed It was a treat to hear him, his specialty is comic read- ing and he acted "Bottoms'1 part to perfection. After the reading there was a reception In boththe college and President's parlors, when we were served with leu cream and cake. The stereopticon views were shown three times besides, Sat. morning and evening besides Friday evening, and they fully came up with our expectations. Views were shown us of England, France, Switzerland, Constantinople, and Egypt, and a few in Spain. Those of the Alhambra I enjoyed very much having read so much about it in Irvings books. There was a great deal of statuary also which was very fine. Ther great attraction was in appearing so lifelike,and as few of us will ever see the real places, it is a "rare opportunity to make mere imaginings a tangible reality" as Prof. Cromwell says in his circu- lar. And now as I have another letter to write 1 must close with much love. Julie M. Pease. iJulia M. Pease, '7$, 1 hope soon to hear from the "testimonials."
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: March 6, 1874
Text: March 6. 1874. My dear Sister, Two or three nights ago I sat down to write you, but was interrupted, and even now I fear the bell will ring before I can scribble off something in the shape of a letter, to enliven you, if so my letter can. Religious Inquiry meeting was this evening, and feeling In duty bound to go, I went. Some Po'keepsie minister held forth for over an hour, in a cracked and high voice. The very fact of his being from Po'keepsie made me prepare to be bored, as I was...
Show moreMarch 6. 1874. My dear Sister, Two or three nights ago I sat down to write you, but was interrupted, and even now I fear the bell will ring before I can scribble off something in the shape of a letter, to enliven you, if so my letter can. Religious Inquiry meeting was this evening, and feeling In duty bound to go, I went. Some Po'keepsie minister held forth for over an hour, in a cracked and high voice. The very fact of his being from Po'keepsie made me prepare to be bored, as I was, and still more so was I, when it was told by him that he would talk upon the religious sentiment in Europe, his knowledge of which was gatheredduring a flying trip of three months. Thus I had to leave my letters, and now being excused from Gymnastics tonight, the time usually given them I will devote to answering letters. By-the-way, I have grown to dislike Gymnastics as much as you used to in our old days at Hartford. We have them the last thing in the evening, the best time as regards dressing, because there is no necessity for changing the dress after them, yet we are always tired at that time and dislike to take any exercise, even the slightest. This has been one of the blustering, lion-like days, for which March is noted. My battle with the wind during the half-hour spent out-doerswas the hardest I have had this winter - I wish you could have seen us: it would have made you laugh to see us blown in every direction at once, and at one time I really thought I should be taken up bodily and blown across the road, as Mrs, Raymond told us she was once. We are just getting into the Interesting part oI geology; before now we have had to study minersiogy more particularly, but I begin to like it very much as we study the stratas. We were very much amused and I suppose somewhat Instructed by a man who visited our class this morning and lectured to us. His name Is Professor Coke, and he is the Secretary of the Natural History Society in Philadelphia. His special branch of Science is Paleontology, which he has been studying recently to some extent in Kansas and Missouri. Talking to a lot of girls I suppose he thought he must be funny, and so he made himself, in many cases, almost ridiculous by trying to make us laugh. Once he was speaking of a fossil formed out West, whose neck was twenty feet long, when, putting his finger to his nose in a comical manner he said "Think of the amount of sore throat, twenty feet of it". Did I ever write you that Ida Whitman came down some weeks ago to see Nellie? She looks Just as ever, and is quite as lively and talkative. When asked as to her futureprospects, she blushed a good deal, and in that not a sign of approaching if not present engagement? Of course I know nothing of such things as you do. Aunt Maria R. asked me if you had a beau, and of course I answered truthfully, "yes". Then she asked point-blank if you were engaged. Then I was caught, for you had given me no permission to say anything about it and so I had no right to say you were, neither could I tell a deliberate falsehood. I bethought me of a talk we had In Bible Class once upon truth, and how Miss Braislin said that in some cases where others were concerned evasion was right, and so I evaded by telling her I thought you would write her all about it when the time came, So Carrie you will tell her, I hope, for I shall be again attacked in April. Painting is such slow work and Professor wishes me to do things which will help me Ink drawing and which do not show, so that I am in utter despair. I want very much indeed to paint Mrs. Buffington some little thing to send home by Fan, for she was so very kind to me last Christmas; then I ought to give Aunt Maria R. a picture, and certainly Aunt Jule & Annie ,Emmit? ,who have done so much for me, that a little gift is due them, & they would best appreciate a picture, & I could not go home without something. Don't you think I am in a sad plight, & I possessbut one that would do to give away! Have you seen ,£ll? , Shropshire since he came to Austin? Josie Buffington sent word to me the other day that Ell, was in Austin, had been admitted to the bar, & had been made [Sergeant? , at Arms ,to Whin] Mamma spoke of Shropshire in her letter. I supposed it was the father not the son. Having a little mercy in you I will tire you no longer with my scrawl, but give you a most loving goodnight kiss In Imagination, little sister - Lovingly, Julie.
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Creator: Pease, Julia M
Date: November 23, 1873
Text: Vassar, Nov. 27, 1873. My dear Carrie, Thanksgiving morning has at last arrived. Breakfast being at eight, I have Just time to start this letter before the bell rings. No letter has come from any of you this week, and I have been, hoping that my Thanksgiving would be made brighter by receiving one. Now, however, the day is over and none has come. It is a long, long time since I have written to you, Carrie, and you must think me negligent indeed, while youhave been more than usually punctual...
Show moreVassar, Nov. 27, 1873. My dear Carrie, Thanksgiving morning has at last arrived. Breakfast being at eight, I have Just time to start this letter before the bell rings. No letter has come from any of you this week, and I have been, hoping that my Thanksgiving would be made brighter by receiving one. Now, however, the day is over and none has come. It is a long, long time since I have written to you, Carrie, and you must think me negligent indeed, while youhave been more than usually punctual in writing. One week I had been told that I must read my essay In class the next Monday, and of course I felt very little in the mood for writing; by the way I have never told you about reading that essay, have I? It was perfectly terrible! I was the first one appointed to read; Em Rice read the same day after me. I had to stand in front of the class and read and then came the criticisms! The latter were not very hard to bear: the girls said they had none to give, and Prof. Backus said there was very little chance for any. He liked my analysis, but, thought I had left out one thoughtwhich would have made my essay more effective; and found energy in some of the short sentences, called for my unit sentence and then all was over. The girls all tell me they liked my essay very well, but they would tell anyone set Just so much do I believe in school-girl protestations. Since the reading of mine two very fine essays have been read one by Emma Clark, on "Webster as an Orator" and one by Miss White on "Doubt." The other essays read have not amounted to very much. Well, after reading, I felt very little like letter writing, and so I have allowed so much time to pass withoutsending you one of my miserable scrawls. Yesterday morning, Thanksgiving, I did not go to church, but Idled around in library and parlor J dinner was served at four oclock, we remained there for over two hours and then adjourned to the Parlors where there was singing and playing. At eight o'clock we met In the Chapel and the Prex. read; this reading is becoming an institution In the College, and a very pleasant one. He read selections this year. One of Mrs. Stowes "Old Town Fireside stories, some passages from Othello, a lay of Macauley's and the never tiresome "Lend me the ? of a ? ," were the pieces selected. A little more eating had to be done In the shape of Icecream and cake, Miss Terry must be shaken hands with all round, and then the Thanksgiving of seventy five was gone, nevermore to come again. It has been quite a pleasant one, but to me not so much so as previous ones, perhaps, because the novelty is wearing away. It is so wintry here, the ground being covered with snow and all the leaves gone from the trees and It is bitter cold. You, I suppose, are also shivering over the cold, but Wood-Lawn even In winter does not look very dreary. I am glad Jack and George still visit you, otherwise you must be rather lonesome sometimes. Mamma wrote that you had been cleaning your room, so I presume your blinds are finished. How do you like them? and how does your room look? Aren't your pincushion, be nearly faded out, so that I can make you a set? and do you a till prefer pink? Mamma seems always so anxious about my eyes, which are indeed perfectly well. And there are many times when it is much pleseanter for me to have a little fancy work to do. So far, however have had none. I dreamt, the other night that I was home, and it was, oh, so nire! It made me almost homesick. I must now end this stupid letter with very much love to all. Your loving little sister.
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