Union, Conn. Jan. 14, 1900.
My dear Susie,-
Neither father or I have been to church today though it is a beautiful day. We didn't get up very early, father didn't get the chores done in time and I don't feel like traipseing [sic] off any where alone because the roads are covered with ice. Since the ice storm father has taken several sleigh rides. He looks quite respectable going and coming - if one doesn't look at the horse.
Miss Mann is getting along quite well with the school though the Thayers think it is a menace to the morals of the district to have her teach and try to make other people think so too.
Mr. Kyle has resigned, Mr. Mathews is to be installed next Friday.
Harry Back told father last Sunday that some doctor who is acquainted in Mansfield told him that the High School was considered a very hard one for the teachers and that there were some bad boys in it. Isn't there a Dr. Robinson in Mansfield? There is one by that name in Danielson and they may be related.
The Foggs keep threatening to come so I have to be ready to receive them any time. Zida has gone back to her work of packing boxes. She went down to the Alderman's one day to try to sell them her buggy so I think she must have given up her teaching hopes.
A night or two ago I lay awake from one until after four. I thought of a thousand and one things and right in the middle of it my idiotic area had a spasm and I exclaimed "Those buttons come from the refuse from the Holyoke paper mill"! Is that right? Or have I guessed it before? I implore you to tell me. How is Mr. Packard's father? Did you read about the Tissot picture on page 46 of the Cong. also Mr. Swartz little piece in the same issue?
You might send me three or four of the front view photos sometime. Four of the recipients of my picture have written to thank me and tell how much pleased they were with it.
How much would you dare to bet that Miss Hopkinson won't say "it is charming"?
The name of your tooth soap is "Arnica Tooth Soap." C. H. Strong & Co. Prop's, Chicago.
The north door got open one night so farewell to all the plants in the dining room except the century plants.
Your affectionate
Mary.