A Partial Letter, probably written about June 3, 1847

proposition in your last letter has to know her return next year has greatly relieved me. It is just what I greatly desire, but did not dare propose it, lest it should end in her never receiving the diploma of the institution, which would greatly grieve me. This gratification is one, not for the present, but for life, & we ought if possible to give it to her. Since the proposition has come from herself yourself, I trust, Providence permitting, that you will accomplish it, & that she will return to us to her again under our care for a little time. After receiving your letter, I wanted what she would decide for herself. At first she cant hardly break away away [sic] from the ties of her class, but I think she is not decided on duty.

She has had great tenderness of conscience on the subject of religion, but does not enjoy the peace & joy of a believing heart & a confiding seat. [?] O what you wanted in this have every on the dear [...].

I shall make some effort to try to find her company. Still I think she can go safely & comfortably down.

Yours, with every respect,
Mary Lyon.

[This letter was written about Ezra's daughter Jane, who graduated in the class of 1848. She was listed in both the 1846-47 catalog, and the 1847-48 catalog, so I'm guessing this was written between the two academic years when perhaps Jane wasn't sure she would be returning to the Seminary for her last year.]