South Hadley April [1871]
My dear Mary
I was overjoyed to receive a letter from you and H. last night. Franc and I had just got our carpet down and all fixed in our new room, when your letter was brought in.
We find ourselves in the North Wing basement. Hattie remembers where Ellen Rowe roomed when she was here, well it is only two doors from there in the same hall.
There are fourteen of the class down here, which makes it seem quite social. I always thought I should dislike to room in the basement but I think I shall be reconciled to it when hot weather comes, for it will be so cool and nice. We have a very spacious closet which we consider as a great item here.
I have not yet heard from Richard but hope to soon.
Mr Durant is here today. Spoke to us this morning and will again this evening. He had us sing that hymn that you have sung so much in M. "I am coming to the cross." It is beautiful with the piano accompaniments.
April 11th This letter was not finished when I begun it, and I have seen no time since. I have been washing, practicing gymnastics, and am soon going up to the Reading of Our Magazine, which will finish up this evening and leave letter writing undone.
Prof Churchill [from Andover, taught lessons in elocution] is with us. We are hoping he will give us a reading one of these evenings before long. His lectures are capital of course -
There is not much to write about any way, and I cannot sentimentalize much with such a regular "influenza cold" as I am blest with just now. It is wearing off, however, and I still trust in being able to "know something" by and by.
9 o'clock Have returned from Reading[.] It was very good indeed. But Churchill was in, and three Amherst fellows, for spectators. The seminary at Oxford Ohio - a sister of Holyoke - burned to the ground a few nights since. [The fire was Apr 7, 1871.] That is the place where Miss Shattuck has gone. Poor Miss S. lost the greater part of her wardrobe and things she carried with her. Several of the girls escaped only with their lives - lost their entire effects. This is the second time they have lost their building by fire. I presume you will see a notice of it in the papers, tho' it is most interesting to us here -
I heard from Richard last Thursday. He has had another visit from the smokers, as perhaps he has told you. They don't seem to make out much coming to see him. It is getting most time for the tardy so good night
Your loving sister
Cornelia