Mount Holyoke College -
Dec 4, 1921.Dear mother:-
I would have written to you before of my safe arrival but I've been very busy. I was sick for a couple of days but am O.K. now. I really think I am a bit thinner. [?] You needn't worry any more about my cutting my hair. I decided to do it yesterday or not at all & I didn't do it - saved my money for Xmas instead. Speaking of Xmas - I finished Marie's towel and sent it today, have Aunt Jennie's scarf nearly half done and the sick scarf for one of the boys all done except for fringe. Hows that!?! If by any chance the boy[s] want to know what I want for Xmas - I'd like brass corners for my blotter to go with the desk set, or a brass letter opener, mahogany, brass or silver (!) candlesticks, books (preferably a vol. of Maeterlink's, Galsworthy's, Ibsen's, Björnsens or Barker, or Mackays, Barries, plays or a combined vol. or something of the sort - or a pretty dish vase or anything that would be nice for my apartment. Dot gave me another picture for it tonight. You see I really but truly am serious about it. Just because I am never going to get married is no reason why I cant [sic] have things for my home is it? If they felt inclined to present me with some madiera [sic] I should not weep (Autaki has it most reasonably - small pieces you know for $1. or $1.25) Now these are only suggestions but they might help.
I've made a regular day of it today - washed and mended 7 pairs of stockings, pressed, studied, made fudge for some freshman, studied, went to vespers and a supper party - The music at Vespers was wonderful - Mr. Hammond played March of the Magi and Halige [sic] Nacht among other peices. [sic] I could listen to him play forever I do believe. He was accompanied in some selections with the harp.
I had a letter from Aunt Jennie telling me about coming out there the 27th for the rest of vacation. I think I'll make me a new dress before going out - a crepe one peice [sic] dress and maybe make that blue serge suit into one of those lose [sic] one peice [sic] dresses, dont [sic] you think it could be done easily?
Gladys Morse was at college a week ago Saturday but didn't come to see me but called me up later from Holyoke. I am peeved so I certainly shall not write to her.
When I was ill the girls were lovely to me. I was showered with, fruit, jelley, [sic] and Campbell soups by various freshmen. Five of them escorted me to Vespers to-night - They certainly do appreciate every little help you give them in lessons or anything - We do have nice freshmen here at Pearsons. Havn't [sic] seem [sic] Margaret lately but trust her to get on by herself!
Lots of love,
Ruth.Have a quiz Thurs on Hegel, Schopenhauer & Spencer! Pray for me! R.M.