Mt. Holyoke College
So. Hadley, Mass.
Feb. 14, 1898
Dear Exits,
You know by this time that I have had quite a long visit from Charles. He came up Friday and stayed until this morning. He seems to be in good spirits and quite well. The dean to all appearance is meek as a lamb and is being managed to their hearts content. The summer school business is not settled as yet. I advised him to get rid of the housekeeping and the secretaryship for the summer.
Yesterday was a beautiful day and the parson announced that he would be installed this afternoon and evening providence permitting. It was quite pleasant all this morning but is now raining and snowing by spells. Eight people in the laboratory. They are working diligently. it is getting on toward half-past-four.
Tuesday morning.
Heard Mr. Jefferson last night. He appears to be a rare man. Am glad Broadway got him. Will enclose the valentine Chas wrote for my table yesterday morning. Table did a small spread last evening - lobster (?) salad and ice cream valentines coffee. I drew a half dozen pink pinks with the enclosed poetry. There is the chapel bell and we must be off.
Expect to hear from the social today. Well good bye for the present - Seraph
*** The poetry Seraph mentioned with her drawing:
To My Valentine.
A simple flower may confer
As much of love to-day,
As richer gifts, then accept Miss Bliss,
These simple flowers, I pray.
*** Charles' valentine
To my thirteen Valentines -
Were you but one,
Twere easy said.
But Thirteen!
it turns my head.
For two long days
I met your steady gaze,
Watched you work
Dish the sauce
and pour the tea
Chase the spoons
and carve the turk. -
Enjoyed your pleasant ways,
Your sparkling eye
and winsome smile.
Met your pungent wit
Not flinched a bit.
But freed from restraint
Led by your [...] saint
I dare not meet you,
Without more adou.
Early in the morn
By storm and lightning borne,
I lie me down
To the great and wicked town,
My poor heart
Pierced by many a dart.