Just received A. H. T.Allston, Mass.
March 26.Dear Abby,
Your letter would make a cat laugh. I regard my call upon you in the cage as one of the racy adventures of the month.
But - to business quam primum! We are mush pleased to find that you have decided to take the suite and in the phrasing of the Inn-Keeper, we will say that "We will do anything to make you comfortable." Of course any decision about a room outside the suite can be made later. Miss Hooker will doubtless explain all conditions etc. My plan is very crude, and the house plan which she has sent us, contains the original arrangement so we do not know exactly where doors and windows are. Dr. Hooker has agreed to have the house in good condition in the fall. When I go up to S- H- later, either soon or at re-union time, I shall inspect the entire house with regard to paint, tinting and general appearances. As you say, Freshman [sic] are mighty careless.
Dr. Hooker told me that each room was semi-furnished, i.e. a couch-bed, set of drawers or chiffonier, and a plain chair etc. She said both students and teachers had generally provided book-receptacles and easy chairs, and other personal touches[.] The $25 rate on the suite does not include sweeping. The $5.00 rate for meals we give to you since there are to be two persons urely (possibly more) in your suite. The usual rate for meals is to be 5.50 a week. We feel that this reduction could be made for you, as there is a possibility of three persons in the suite. Partial rates, we cannot decide on, now, for rates of that sort depend on numbers and manner of service.
We expect to be "on the grounds" by the middle of September, and if possible, before that time. It will be difficult to close our home at Kennebunkport in so short a time but it is the "long hustle" that spells money, you know.
My re-union card has not come. My sentiments in regard to this Mrs Perry who conducts the Prospect House at Amherst, resemble a prayer-meeting or a funeral, I don't know which. Complications have arisen so that we may neither pray nor eat in that rural town.
I have written the other applicants for housings at our place, and hope to be answered soon. Although there will be a delay on account of the vacation. Will let you know, how they decide,
Cordially,
Eva T. MellorP.S. I enclose Collier article on "Dr Snow", which I mentioned to you. [Article no longer with letter.] Direct to 31 Ivy St. Boston.