[This letter was folded in with a letter from Gertrude to her father dated Jan 13, 1886, and mentioned by her in the letter.]Kenwood
Collegiate Preparatory School
for Girls,
5001 Lake Avenue.
Chicago, Jan 7th 1886 [but it's a new year, and she forgot and dated this 1885]
Dear Mr Robbins, The same carrier that took my letter to you brought me one from Gertrude. In it she said she could not loan more than 200.00 (not saying she would loan that amount), and expressing regret not to be with me. Today sees two more pupils entered, one a boarding pupil, and I feel as if I might venture, even on 200.00 though 300.00 would be better. Also today, Miss Sheldon, a teacher who had come for two hours a day informed me that owing to the growing invalidisme of her mother she felt she could not teach for me after the 15". This will leave more work than Miss Graves and myself can possibly do, and I now write to express the hope - the earnest hope - that Gertrude will come to my relief at once with her help, and whatever money she can conveniently raise. The opportunity seems to me to brighten all the time and I have no doubt I shall have a maying school for the fall term. I feel sure Gertrude and I could work together most harmoniously.
As I am, as I told you, in such immediate straits for money, if you can see your way clear to come to my relief - that is, if you and Gertrude are willing to risk something on the opportunity if it is possible to let me have whatever the amount may be at once, it will carry me over the dead point. I shall have some 200 or $300. coming in from boarding pupils about the 18", but to reach that point is the problem now. I am writing in haste for the mail, and am perhaps a little incoherent, but I feel sure I have your sympathy and your confidence, and I truly believe that if Gertrude can come to my relief - in teaching and financially even to the extent named, we shall make the shine. With what anxiety shall I await a telegram from you - The carrier is at the door
Yours in Anxiety
Helen E. Starrett