#5001, Lake Avenue
Chicago, Ill.
(Please tell Mr. [...] to forward all my mail here.)
Mr. Joseph Robbins
Dear Father;
Came out here Friday and struck the thermometer at 26 [degrees] below zero, and plenty of snow. I got my breakfast at the Union depot, then took a bus over to the Illinois Central, & nearly froze going over, when I got there a policeman had to lift me out of the 'bus and help me into the waiting room, the result was I've been sick ever since I came, am feeling better to-night. I never experienced cold like it in New England, every one on the street was so bundled up you lost sight of the individual, and every one was running. I occupy a room on the fourth floor facing the lake, at least I suppose it does for I cannot see an inch beyond the window pane the frost is so thick. Mrs. Starrett was in the City all day yesterday, so I have not yet made my business arrangements with her. I am to teach three classes in Arithmetic, English, and U.S. History. We are through teaching at one o'clock. Have the afternoons to study in. I am going into the City to-morrow to buy a pair of blankets, comfort[er] and sheets & pillow cases, they amount to quite an item. My expenses are counting up terribly in spite of all I can do to have them otherwise. I will send you a copy of Mrs. Starrett's new book. With a great deal of love,
Your daughter - Gertrude
[Writing on the margins is illegible due to paper destruction.]