V.C. Dec. 13, 1868.
Dear Cousin Ann:
Will you please excuse pencil-writing to-day, but A. Is
using the ink in Mrs. Pierson's room and I am writing in the cosiest,
prettiest, sitting-room possible. Every chair is an easy one and there are
lovely black walnut book cases around the room besides an open fire place
beneath a low handsome black walnut mantel piece. The walls are very
exquisitely papered with much walnut about the walls. The floor is of hard
wood and a lovely rug in centre of room. A south bay window with table near
it, makes this library a perfect one.
Have you thought us very neglectful? I wrote four pages last Sunday but
was too disgusted with them to think of sending them. Before then I had
planned to write, but times have been so crowded this year.
Since we wrote last we have enjoyed a flying visit from Miss Sarah Woolsey
who seemed to be quite pleased with VC. Of course we were charmed with
her. She purchased most of Aunt Helen's papers for walls, carpets, etc.,
and said that from Aunty's description, her new home must be quite perfect.
Soon after her plaassat call we spent Thanksgiving in Yonkers and were with
most cultured people in a very elegant home. We were a little lil-at-ease at
first. The week after Thanksgiving came Philalethean Anniversary, the exer-
cises of which were very successful. Anne was one of the officers of the
Society and had to assist in receiving guests, ss well as to march up in the
procession of dignitaries. She enjoyed the receiving more than she expected
Sept. 22, 1869 - 2
and well she might, for she met several very alee people. Gen'i Terry
was one of such and he remembered meeting Aunt Helen as Helen Fiske,
and as Helen Hurt. Then we met Mr. and Mrs. Loomls who used to know
the Palmers very well. After that entertainment there were but two weeks
before vacation which began last Thursday, and they were very busy but
very peaceful until two days before we left when Miss Terry called together
the Seniors and announced her resignation as Lady Principal. Each member
stood still with amazement, and now that no public announcement was made
to the other students, we are more amazed than ever. What the causes of
her going I cannot imagine, but we will not see her again as she does not
return after Christmas. It is not a sudden thing, although so sudden to us.
There have evidently been some unpleasant circumstances connected with
her departure or President Raymond would have expressed our feeling con-
cerning her resignatloa. The majority of the girls, I think, are sorry to have
her leave. She is a very fine woman and I hope we will have a good successor.
We are indeed fortunate to have such kind friends, with whom we are invited
to spend all our vacation and I trust we appreciate their great kindnesses.
I never longed to be at home as I have this winter, but we ought to be very
thankful for such blessings as we have, and not long for more.
Mamma is more of a wonder to me than ever. We have not heard from Richie
for three weeks and are again anxious about him. Friday we had a treat
while calling on Mrs. Johnson. Her little "Helen Hunt" is perfectly bewitch-
ing. She must be as mischievous as Aunt Helen ever was and if she continues
Sept. 22, 1869 - 3
to be as bright I should think she might be a second "H.H." We are
anticipating a call from them.
We feel badly to have made no Christmas presents whatever, but it, in
every consideration of the subject, has been quite Impossible. Hoping
you will not be troubled in deciphering this stupid epistle, but especially
that you are well and Cousins Ellen and Adeline also. Wishing you a
Merry Christmas I am your very loving,
Helen F. Banfield,
V.C. '79
Orange, N.J.
Care Dr. Wm Pierson Jr.
iHelen (Banfield) Jackson, '79,
To Ann Schoifield, Boston.