The Johns Hopkins Hospital Sept. 4, 1920.
Dear Miss Turner,
I am indeed relieved to know that the sciatica is only a postural thing. The corset will relieve you if it is made properly. If it doesn't work you've got to come down here & let Mrs. Howard fit you.
Had a letter from Miss Ball. She said you could ascribe your illness to overwork, & that should be some comfort. [smiley face] Much complex material beneath.
Well I'm started. Of course the students don't come till Oct. so I get adjusted before then. The Chief is in a buoyant mood. I feel my way along with the rest. I wish I felt firm ground under my feet in the Supt.'s office of the Clinic. Miss Taylor is alright, but her buffer, Mrs. King, I do not trust. One of her assistants is in charge of the Disp. Very efficient on that job & a help, but I run upon little whisperings in that front office with quick disposals when I appear. Men one can size up if he can not bank on them. Women have for centuries got their rights by subterfuge until it is almost a habit of mind with some of them. Of course there is a general atmosphere of tension between nurses & staff all over the Clinic particularly as the Resident is disliked by the nurses. Nothing has been said of the matter yet but I feel it coming. There is nothing to do but sit & wait for the storm. I do the work of each day with equanimity, willing to learn & not hasty in thrusting my opinion on others. Have met 2 of the visiting staff. It is embarassing to have them line up to present their cases. If I can swing this job without friction I shall be glad for the cause. The Chief is a bit quick to put me forward. It doesn't occur to him, apparently, that others may not share his ideas of my ability.
Please write me often. I need your letters. The battle with me is pretty much alone.
My love as always,
Esther