[I'm guessing on the year; Apr 23 lands on a Sunday in 1848 and again in 1854. Assuming the writer is Martha Luce, it sounds like she is still a student at the Seminary. However, she is not listed as a teacher or a student in either of those years in the Mount Holyoke catalog. Rev. Hawks was steward 1844-1855, and Martha Scott taught those exact same years, so mention of them doesn't help. Miss Murdock was another student in the class of 1850 and taught 1850-51, so I conclude that this cannot be 1854. However, I am uncertain whether students roomed with faculty members; maybe Miss Murdock did come back to teach and was not listed in the catalog. She wasn't listed in 1850-51 when she taught, and she wasn't listed in the 1847-1848 catalog as a student.]South Hadly [sic] Apr. 23.
My Dear Sister Carly
It is Sabbath evening and you may be somewhat surprized [sic] to learn I am yet in my old room. They did not come for me yesterday as I anticipated, so that I am obliged to remain here. There are five tables full and you may imagine how that fills up the dining hall. Some of the time it has seemed very lonely but the time generally passes quite pleasantly. I do not know when I should go away, perhaps tomorrow and perhaps not I do not feel as anxious about it as I did, all I want is to be free from suspense which you know is unpleasant. Miss Scott seems to enjoy it very much. Miss Murdock rooms with her and they have fine times.
It has been a very gloomy day but has not had such an influence upon my own mind as such days do sometimes. I spent the time usually occupied in getting my Bible lesson in reading the book of Daniel went to church as usual, listened to Mrs. Laurie this fornoon [sic] Mr Hawkes this afternoon, returned home spent most of the time before tea in the Reading room. After tea attended meeting in room A. had a very good meeting, and now to close the day I am writing a few words to my absent sister while Lizzie sits near me writing in her journal. She says 'give much love and tell Carly I will write when the next letter comes." I would like to know what have been your success and happiness since you left, hope you will return much refreshed and strengthened for the duties of next term.
It is colder than ever here and as our fire has about expired I think I shall retire and get warm once more. If it were not for the night I believe I should freeze. Lizzie is all ready to jump into bed, so you may readily imagine about what an appearance our room has.
The letters which I enclose do not give a very elegant appearance to the outer envelop[e] but I thought it better to put both in one, and that my folly may take up but little room I will send only half a sheet. I hope your letters contain good news[.] It is so cold I cannot stop to look over these few lines will you please excuse me.
Your ever true sister
Martha