So. Hadley. Mass.
March. 15. 1885.
My darling Gertude.
Why is it I have not heard from you in this long time. You aren't forgetting me dear I am sure! Does it seem possible it is only about one little year ago since you came down here to spend the "spring vacation"? I begin to realize it, as the time for school to close draws near. If we could only have our dear girls together once more we should look forward to it with unbounded pleasure.
How far apart we are! And dear Winifred is to take a slip far in advance of us all so soon. I hope she will be greatly blessed in the new relation - will it not be very pleasant for you, to have her come to live so near your home? I think too it will make her feel a little less like going into a strange country among strangers. I sent you a paper giving full account of Lizzie Luettes wedding. They tried to make a fine affair, but I have only heard of it through the papers.
Your little cousin Bird is to stay with us a few days, before she goes to visit some school friends. I think she is a very lovely girl, and gives promise of making a very attractive woman. The Seminary will be a good place to develop her character I am sure. I have had Mrs Browns girls in my S. S. class this winter, so have gotten quite well acquainted with your cousin.
The young ladies of the church have started a missionary society, and chosen me for president. So I have a new care. We were led to do it through the efforts of Mrs Purington of Chicago, and Mrs Gulliver a former Principal of the Seminary. I hope it may be a success, and I can assure you I tremble a little under the new duties. It does not seem to me I can speak before a large company. But I trust in help for the trying hour.
We are all pretty well, and go one from day to day, in much the old way. I am busy getting up nother Easter service for the children. There are such beautiful Easter hymns it makes the task pleasant. Although perplexing. I have a selection from Longfellows "Children of the Lord's Supper" Alicia Carys "Fire by the Sea," and "M little bird of the air," A swedish "mother Hymn." A beautiful "Hope Song" Dr. Muhlenburgs "I would not live alway," selection from Whittier, and some lovely Easter hymns. Then for a wind-up a part of that old exquisite "Immanuels Land." Is not my programme inviting? I hope it may be well carried out. May our blessed Lords Easter bring joy to your heart,
Good night my dear little girl.
Lovingly,
Rebecca F. Smith.Write and tell me all about youself and doings.