Pearl Dopp Collection

Pearl Dopp Letters, 1920

Wild Rose, Wisconsin

Apr. 16, 1920

Dear Mama and Papa,

Well, I am in school this morning and, as I have a few minutes to spare, I will write to you, as today may be the last time a letter will be able to reach you before you start for home.  We got your card yesterday morning and I was pleased to hear.

Flora and I got supper for grandpa last night and went to the donation.  They had a very good supper.  We were asked to take some cream, so we did.  We got home before dark, so were not gone long.

I stopped to see George, and he is coming up tonight so that we can go to the contest.  The Younglove girl will not speak because of the fuss the Taylors made about Ina not getting first place, so the second and third are coming here.  Wouldn’t it be a joke if we got beat by them? And there seems to be pretty good prospects at that!  Mary is going to speak second this time and Elizabeth forth.  Of course Mary cried because she didn’t get forth.

The chores are going along fine.  It doesn’t take me long, this morning we overslept, and didn’t get up until 6:15.  There was some hustling to get the chores done.  I got them all done, but didn’t have time to help much with the house work this morning.  Grandpa wanted some manure taken to the big greening tree, so that took sometime.

Ray told Flora he was going to drop in tonight on the way to the contest to see if everything was O.K. I guess he is coming down Sunday.  We probably won’t want to go to church.

The literary society was postponed for a week because of the contest, but I have on my new shoes and rose colored wool blouse anyway.  I am to sing in a quartet for it next Friday.

My face feels burny, I guess it isn’t used to being scrubbed so often, but I would wash it clear off rather than come to school smelling like a cow!  The work is going for me, and I like to do it.

Stay longer than just a week, please!  An have just as a good a time you can on this vacation.

With love from your,

Pearl

P.S. Excuse pencil as I forgot my pen.

P.S. again (after getting back from class)

The woodsawing went off fine.  They got there about 7:30 and Uncle Andrew came to the door to tell us that they would not be there to dinner.  They were through at ten.  We have a big pile of wood out there which I supposed is worth a good deal, and which many people will wish they had when next winter comes.

Miss Boughton is going to Oshkosh after school tonight as her father is quite seriously sick.  She came to me this morning and told me she was going to bring me some of that hair tonic.

Mary H. is still as big headed as ever, and, as a result, I have heard several of the students say they would like to see her get beat tonight, even by Wautoma.

I guess Aught Amanda is holding up alright.  I have heard nothing to the contrary.

Grandpa fixed up the rut in the yard between the barn and corn crib the day after you went away, and one would never know anything had happened to it.

Yours

Pearl

I will have someone mail this, this noon and I hope you get it alright.  Stay longer.

Letters transcribed by Parissa DJangi and Bryan Schneider

Pearl Dopp Letters, 1921

September 1921

Wednesday morning.

Dearest Mamma and Papa,

It is almost 6 o’clock and the rest of the house is quiet with sleep.  I just woke up, and got up to write to you, as I am sure you are anxious to know how I am getting along I thought this would be the best opportunity to write, as I shall probably be very busy the rest of the day.

We did not register yesterday but will do that first thing this morning.  Our trunks came soon after we got here, and it took the rest of the afternoon and evening to unpack. Everything came in good order but I’ll have to press a few of my dresses sometimes.  We are going to make the curtains today, and when we get those up our room will look quite like home.

I went to supper last night without any trimmings on, but today we have to braid our hair in two braids after parting it in the middle.  After breakfast we are to go up town to buy some green paper to tie it with.  The supper tasted very well and I had plenty to eat.  We had warmed up potatoes, cold sliced beef which was not tough, pickles, rye and wheat bread, good cake, and sauce.

The frosh freshmen tried to have their party last night, but the sophomores caught most of them.  I didn’t know there was one on, for there aren’t many freshmen on first floor.  I was glad I didn’t try to go, because I was rather tired, and a storm came up which would make it unpleasant.  As that party was not as success they
will have to keep trying until they succeed.

I hope that grandpa is behaving himself and that he didn’t cause you any trouble last night.  Don’t let yourselves be lonesome, for I shall see you again soon, and don’t worry about me, for the girls are very nice to me.  Mary is saving me from a lot of foolish trotting around even thought she is a Soph.  Don’t think for a minute that the dear home ties are weakened by my going away to school  They are strengthened tenfold and I love you both more and more because of having to be separated from you.  It makes me appreciate to a fuller extent your wonderful kindness and sacrifices in giving me an education.  As soon as you are not tied at home by grandpa I want you to come to Ripon where we can all live together.

I must close now, but I’ll write again soon.

Yours lovingly,

Pearl
Bartlett Hall, Ripon, Wis.

Sunday Oct. 30, 1921.

Dearest Mamma and Papa.

This has been a terribly busy week or I would have written you a letter, but I just didn’t have time. We had exams in public speaking, Latin and English composition.  I got 85 in Latin but I haven’t received the standings from the other yet.  I suppose you’ll be getting my report card sometime soon.  Don’t expect my standings to be what they were in H.S.  What I worked the hardest on was my note book for biology.  I thought we had two weeks to get it ready in, but Thursday Dr. Groves told us to have it in Sat. morning.

I had several eight page themes to write, class notes to prepare and a long comparative outline to make, besides four drawings and other question to answer.  I worked every night until quite late, and every day as much as I could to get it ready, but I couldn’t possibly get it all done until last night.  I got it into Ingram about six o’clock, but I may be put on the honor roll (a list published on the college bulletin board containing the names of those whose standings are questionable) because it was a little late.  I don’t imagine that I’ll get on, but if I do, I know I did the best I could.

Yesterday was a very busy day I went to lab two hours in the morning and worked on my note book the rest of the time.  At noon Elizabeth, Earl, John and Marvin came in the car.  They had no dinner so we had them come in here and eat fruit, Uneda biscuits and jelly to save time.  We went to the parade, which consisted of the college band and a float from each of the dormitories.  Some of the floats were beautiful and some were funny.  Then I went to the game which was quite interesting in spite of the drizzling rain the unevenly matched teams.  Carroll took her defeat well.  The Roberts’s went to the show last night.  The rest of the girls from here went to the big “Homecoming Dance.”  I was so tired that I went to bed at eight-thirty.  I slept a little while, then was awakened by the music and noise over at the gym made by the dancers.  I couldn’t sleep, so I got up and started a letter to Evelyn A.  Then Mary came home and we visited until twelve when the party was out.  I went to bed again and slept a little while when I was awakened by the sound of singing.  I got up and found that the Bartlett girls were being serenaded by the boys of Woodside dorm.  They sang popular and classical songs for about ¾ of an [sic] hr., ending up with “Good Night Ladies.”  I went to bed again and staid until morning.

This morning I went to Sunday school and Mr. Graham gave a very inspiring talk on friendship as typified in the life of Christ.  He says that an individual can make only three or four true friends in a life time.  He who makes six or more is an unusual person.  It was one of the finest talks I have ever heard.

There is to be the Cinncinati [sic] symphony orchestra here Wednesday.  The tickets are on $, but I think it is wroth it as there are about 80 players and only a very few orchestras in the U.S.  Those who have heard it say to be sure not to miss it.  I’ll try to go if I have time.

How is the Wild Rose Mercantile Co. progressing?  Who clerks there?  Is the sale lasting? Do may people patronize it?  Have you heard anything more about Ray?  Are the Stuarts there yet?  I hope you aren’t awfully tired.  I hope you don’t’ have to sit up with Grandpa any more.  How is he?  Is he gaining or loosing strength?  Did he know Lucy and Willie?  Is Addie still there?

I went over to Sidnie’s for a little while this P.M.  I feel so sorry for her.  She has to go around along so much only when I’m with her.  She gets so tired of washing dishes sometimes.  She is going to Chicago to spend thanksgiving with Juanita, and is going to see some good thing there.  I’m so glad she can go.  Her folks have just told her that she may have to quit school after this quarter unless financial things are better then than [sic] they are now.  I suppose that means if he get the P.O. I hope she wont’ have to leave, as I’ll be so lonesome with her.

Elizabeth brought Mary the most wonderful birthday cake I have ever tasted besides some lovely wool hose and fruit.  Her mother sent Mary a lovely blanket, but I don’t imagine I’ll get the inner room as she hasn’t said anything about it yet.  But I don’t care anyway.

I went to one act play given by the college actors last week entitled “The Valliant.”

It was the story of a boy who had left home and hadn’t written to his folks for six years. He committed murder but because of some fine reason would not give any of the details of the case.  He plead guilty and was sentenced to be killed.  All the time he refused to tell his identity for fear his folks would know he was a criminal.  Finally a girl came to see him to see if he was her lost brother.  He recognized her as his little sister but told her that her brother was killed in France.  She went away happy and he died with the satisfaction of knowing that his mother thought he had died a hero.  He was a wonderful character.  John D. was in the play.  He did well as usual.

Goodnight, dears.  I must study a little before going to bed.  Here’s your night kiss + +;

sleep tight.

Lovingly,

Pearl

Thanks for the fruit + cookies.

 

Bartlett Hall.
Oct. 3, 1921

Dearest folks,

I just sent you a card but I am starting a letter which will probably be written on the instalment [sic] plan at the moments when I am least busy.

Well, to begin with a gloomy subject—in Eng. Composition class this morning, Miss Finch, our instructor read some of our themes aloud criticizing them as to their betterment next time. Of course, only the one who wrote the paper knew whose it was. She read several, criticizing them thoroughly when she opened one which she said was a pitiful tragedy. She read it aloud praising it for the imagination shown, the choice of words and general technique. She said, “That girl can write. She has the talent and imagination, but she can’t spell!” Of course the theme was mine. At the bottom of my paper she wrote, “Very good, but misspelled words make me give you a D.” There were two words misspelled, but she refuses to mark above a D. with any, so I see
where I make use of my little dictionary in looking them up. In spite of what she says I would rather have an imagination than be able to spell, for one can’t buy imagination and I can buy dictionaries if necessary. It is just the thing that will help my spelling, even though it is a little severe. By the way, –D. is just getting through by the skin of ones [sic] teeth. But, believe me, I’ll get more than that on my themes hereafter,for I’ll look up every word if necessary.

I was brushing my clothes this morning and hit my watch crystal breaking it to bits. I’m glad I didn’t get a new one when I thought of it. I suppose I’ll have to have it fixed right away. I’m lost without it.

There were 92 in my biology class, so some of us have to have our laboratory work at another time. It was my ill luck (ever thing is ill today) to have lab work from eight to ten on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings. I don’t like the idea of working on Saturday at all, because I’ll be absent when I come home, but it can’t be changed at present. Probably, later, when some of the class drop out, the hours can be the same as before.

There was a Frosh at the train, and the poor fellow had to carry both our suit cases to Bartlett. Of course, I was glad not to have to do it myself, but it was mean on him.

You see, lots of things have happened today—mostly unlucky—but I’m sure they’ll be better tomorrow. I’ll go to bed now and have a good rest. (“Scany” said it was alright for me to miss gym once.)

Thursday evening.

I joined the Y.W.C.A yesterday. It was a very beautiful service of candle light. Each girl who was joining carried a candle lighted from a large one which an old member held. I think I shall like it, as the nice girls all belong.

Latin hasn’t been the very likable so far, but I am sure I shall like it as soon as I get onto the hang of it. You know, I never did like a subject that was hard to master. I am determined to get it, so, of course, I shall. Mr. Webster makes us work hard, but I’m sure we’ll know more about Latin when we finish than those last year who went about it as fast.

I am getting to know quite a few of the girls. They are nice, all that I have met. It is the better class, as a rule, who come to college, I think.

Edith and Enid are going through here on their way home from Chicago. Sidney, Mary, and I are going down to the train. We shall have to start soon.

The upper class girls of Bartlett are giving a party to the Barlett frosh tomorrow night. They are very nice to us. It is set for eleven o’clock in the evening, and I don’t know how late it will be when it’s out.

About my Saturday biology work—I think I can be excused some Sat. and make up my work in one of the classes that recite at a different hour. I’ll come home as soon as there are some coats in our wonderful new store. I haven’t had time to go to the St. Paul depot yet—I have even been too busy to finish this letter.

I gave my first public speech today, and am glad the first time is over, as I won’t be so frightened next time. I spoke on “the newspaper.” It was taken from a theme I wrote for high school last year. Probably you remember it. It dealt with the featuring of criminal cases rather than the reader. Of course I was criticized as they all are, but I rec’d several compliments on it from the students afterwards.

I am getting more into the run of thing [sic], and like it very much better than I did. Monday night I guess I was too tired to think straight then. I’m getting rested up now.

I only have two classes tomorrow—Eng. Composition at nine and Latin at 3:15. It will be an easy day. I’ll try to get some letters and cards written over the week end.

Miss Scanlan promised to call me for gym Wednesday morning. She forgot, and I slept until 6:30. I got up, went to her room, saw that she had gone, and decided she had forgotten me (my watch was not running). I dressed in my gym clothes and went over to come back with the girls. Scanny did not mark me absent because it was her fault.

I have gotten out of gym easily thus far.

I hope your [sic] well, and that grandpa isn’t causing you any trouble—go whenever you can. I’m glad you were able to have Study Club, but I wish I had been there to help you.

The table runner fits fine, and looks well.

Mrs. Bintliff (the music teacher) played several selections on the pipe organ in the chapel this morning. Her music is inspiring.

I must go to bed soon and there is a little studying to do first, so will close for now.

Goodnight. I love you mo’ntoncantell [sic]

Yours always,

Pearl.

P.S. Was invited to another 9:30 spread, the other night, given by Verna Taylor. Had a dandy time.

November 9, 1921
Bartlett, Ripon, Wis.

Wed. morning

Dearest Papa and Mamma,

I arrived here safely Mon. morn. And I am not very tired.

The “spread” went off fine.  There were fourteen of us and we all had a great pleanty [sic]. Oh, no, there were only twelve here because Evelyn Windsor was sick so Stell staid home with here [sic].  I took what was left in to them in the morning.

We had a good time.

I have gym class from 7:30 to 8:30 every Monday night now.  We play volleyball, and it is really lots of fun.

Last night I went to the second number of the lecture course given by two famous pianists Guy Maier and Lee Pattison.  They play on two pianos, and we couldn’t tell one piano from the other for their time was perfect.  They played on Chickering pianos.

The honor roll – (rather – the roll call) is to be posted this noon.  I don’t think I’ll get on for I got “B” on my biology note book.  If I don’t get on, I can have my Bartlett pin soon.

No girl who gets on the roll call is entitled to one.  They cost $7.50, which is a pretty big price.  They are set with pearls and look something like this – (drawing of pin) The campus is beautiful with the white snow on the evergreen trees.  The limbs are piled six inches high with snow and bend almost to the ground.  I didn’t realize there were so many fir trees until the snow came I suppose there is more water in the cistern now.

I didn’t miss anything in Sunday school by being at home, for Mr. Graham was unable to be there and Miss Finch, my English teacher, took his place.  The girls who went said it wasn’t very interesting.

Tomorrow night there is a C.E. mask party at the Congo church.  I don’t know what costume I’ll wear, but I shall find one somewhere.  I think I shall enjoy it, for I never was at a masquerade before.

Next Mon. night is the 3rd no. of our Lecture courses.  It is the greatest woman violinist in the world, Erika Morinin, who is only 17 yrs. old.

I don’t know whether I’ll go to Appleton or not.  I don’t care much about it.  There is a special train.  I’ll go if I care to.

I’m not on the roll call!  I just found out.

I hope Gramp is more quiet.  I hope he minds about keeping still at night so you can sleep.

Do you like the new method of “every other watch?”  I wish I could help.  How do you get along without Addie.  Have her come back if you have to work hard.

Your with lots, oceans, and continents of love,

Hastily your,

Pearl

Nov. 12, 1921
Bartlett, Friday A.M.

Dearest folks,

I got your letter this morning and am so glad that you rest better nights.  Does Gramp eat as much as ever?  How is his strength compared to what it was last time I was home?

I hope you went to the social as it will do you good to get out even for so short a time. Go every chance you get, as the horrible monotony of taking care of Gramp is hard on ones nerves.

I went to the masquerade party last night and had a good time.  I didn’t mask or wear a costume, for very few of the girls did.  We couldn’t find costumes.  There were some who were rediculously [sic] disguised and it was lots of fun guessing who they were.  We played games such as we used to play at church parties at home such as “Simon says” “Thumbs Up” etc.  We had a lunch of delicious pumpkin pie and coffee.

I think the blouse pattern you sent is very cute to be made up out of the green cloth. I am glad to find some way to use it, for it is really fine material.  With that blouse I don’t want a blue sailor blouse this year, so don’t send for samples.  Can you make it without fitting me?  If you like, you can leave it until I come home at Thanksgiving, for I won’t need it until after that.  Be sure not to get material for sailor blouse, for I don’t want it now.  I like the way the green one is to be made especially as it is a little
differant [sic] from what everyone else has.

The Y.W.C.A. had a sandwitch [sic] sale after Chapel this morning I helped sell.  Two girls stood at each door of the chapel with a bushel basket of them, and they went off like hot cakes at two for five.  I helped make them this morning too.

I don’t think I’ll go to Lawrence.  I don’t care to, and I have a great deal of studying to do.

This afternoon is a half holiday. (Nov. 11)

In haste and with all the love I possess.

Yours,

Pearl.

 

Sun. morning.
Dec. 4, 1921.

Dearest Papa and Mamma;

I started this last night but didn’t have time to write it.  This has been a very, very busy week I had to get my Biology note book in by Sat. and I worked hard all the week on it, but I managed to get it in on time.

I had my pictures retaken Wednesday morn and they are much better.  I ordered 1 ½ doz. Cards and ½ doz. Folders.  The bill will be $7.00.  That is an average of about $.30 (cents) a picture.  He gave me the cards for (1 ½ doz.) for $4.00 + the and the [sic] folders (1/2 doz.) for $3.00.  They will be done in about 10 days.

Monday, I was initiated into the B. society.  It wasn’t bad.  The ideals are personality, democracy and scholarship.  We are working hard to have the highest scholarship of any hall on the campus.  I hope we can succeed.  There in no roll call this 6 weeks but an honor roll on which those with A’s appear.  Of course, I won’t be on, but I’m glad theres [sic] no roll call for I may be able to catch up by next time so that I won’t be on.

They are given every other 6 weeks, there being 3 or each during the year.  I got 60 on my Latin exam, but I am doing better work now, for I spend three hours a day on it.  I’m sure it will turn out O.K. Mr. Weostes offered to help me, but I must learn it for myself.

He is a Mason I saw his pen.  Maybe my being an O.E.S. will help me.

I talked with Mr. Lutungian in the library a few days ago.  He told me more of his life in Armenia.  He was comfortably situated in his home and was buying vinyards [sic] around it.  There is continual warfare there, and the Armenians have to bank up their windows for months at a time to prevent being killed by the Turks.  It is garilla [sic] warfare.  His home was twice destroyed, and he became discourage, telling his father that he was coming to America to get an education, which would be something the Turks couldn’t destroy except by killing him.  So he came to America, not knowing a soul except a college professor living in Boston who recommended Ripon to him.  He is a brilliant student, but he is spurred on to scholarship by a great ambition for the future.  He gets homesick, but he is not a quitter.

He hears the call of his miserable people, so he is going back there as a teacher and doctor when his finishes his education here.  He is the most eager for knowledge of any person I ever saw, but he has a great motive to spur him onward.  We could all do better if there was something fine that we were called upon to do.  His life will be one sacrifice, for he will give it up to his people in doing good for his countrymen, and forsake the wealth and leasure [sic] that he could gain if he stayed in America.  If I could write, his story would make a fine book – one of those of self-sacrifice – you know what I mean.  I guess he doesn’t have a very good time.  He works so hard.  It would be nice for me to make a little X mas box + send to him [sic] without letting him know who it was from.  I’m sure it would please him greatly.

Thursday evening I went with Sidnie to see “The Great Divide.”  It was wonderful!  The whole account is given in the Sunday paper.  Maybe Bessie will let you read it.  It’s to [sic] lengthy to tell in a letter.

I had the most wonderful spread last night.  I invited 4 B girls, and Sidnie, + Martha Pilger it was a peculiar thing, but the other day in Lab. Carl Fehlandt (Mary’s admirer) came up to me and asked me if we girls liked spreads.  Of course, I said we did.  Well, he said he and his mother feel sorry for the girls in the halls who were away from their mothers’ cooking, and that they would like to have me be hostess of a spread which they would furnish everything on the Q.T.  They didn’t want me to tell where I got the stuff.  I accepted, and they send me a cup of jelly, a loaf of bread, some butter, some fudge candy and salted nuts, the most delicious pumpkin pie I ever tasted (It had pink whipped cream on top) and 10 monstrous boughten [sic] apples.  The spread must have cost 3 or 4 dollars. I can’t understand it, but we had a good time anyway.  The girls were dying with curiosity to know where I got the “eats,” so I told them that it was from a kind lady who felt sorry for us and who didn’t want her name exposed.  I’ll probably tell them sometime.  Sidnie came and stayed over night with me.  Thus far I have given three spreads.  I think that is enough for me.

I went to S.S. this morning.  Mr. Graham talked on the “Will.”  As usual it was fine.  Went over to Pilger’s a while this P.M.  Just got back from C.E. There is the C.E. convention at Oshkosh Fri. Sat. + Sun. 9, 10, 11 of Dec.  There are about delegates from our C.E. expected to go.  There was a committee meeting tonight and they decided on who they wanted to go to represent our C.E.  They want me to go.  All expenses of carfare are paid, and we are taken to private homes for our room and breakfasts.  All I would have to buy would be my Fri. + Sat. dinner + supper.  We would go on the bus Fri P.M. and come back Sun. P.M.  There are going to be several good speakers, Prof. Graham + Pres. Evans included.  My dollar rebate from the Commons would more than cover all expenses.

Do you want me to go?  Nordie is going and she says it is a good rest and inspiration. Let me know as soon as possible so that I may tell them.  I aught to hear by Wed.  It will be a good opportunity to meet nice people and to hear some good lectures.  I think my work will stand it.  I must really close now, with bushels of love to you both. 

I hope Gramps continues to be little trouble.  If you want me to go, is there anything you want me to get in the line of Christmas presents or shopping.

Love and kisses,
From your,

Pearl.

P.S.  Two weeks from tonight I’ll be suggly [sic] at home with my dear folks to stay for two weeks.  We get home Fri. or Sat. when we get through writing finals.  The Mon. + Tues. after New Years are registration days so I’ll have almost 3 weeks at home.  I’m sending you a poster.  I think I’ll go to hear the harpest [sic] Wed. night, for I don’t feel that I can afford to miss hearing Sal… [Unreadable], the greatest harpest [sic] in the world.  I’ll economize or, something else.
 

Letters transcribed by Parissa DJangi and Bryan Schneider

Pearl Dopp Letters, 1922

Barlett, Ripon, Wis.

Jan. 13, ’22 (Fri. eve)

Dearest Mamma and Papa,

This has been another very, very busy weak [sic]—one of the most busy I have ever spent. I’ll begin where I left off Sunday afternoon.

I think I told you about going to hear Mr. Sheyhill speak Sunday P.M. Well, he was late to his lecture, so he gave his best talk free in the Congo church in the evening. It was the story of a part of the war and was the most vividly horrible thing I have ever heard. I’ll send you the days with the account of it in.

Monday night was out regular C.T.G. meeting. It was guest night so I asked Sidnie to go with me. She joined the circle. It was Mrs. Wilson’s last night among us, and we were all sorry because of it. Mrs. Fehlandt is to be the next leader. She is a very fine woman, but lacks the magnetic personality that Mrs. Wilson had and which helped her so much with the girls.

Tuesday night I actually went over to the library and did a great deal of studying.

The next night was the farewell party of the Congo church to Rev. and Mrs.Wilson given by the church, Bartlett (Mrs. Wilson was “house mother”) and C.E. (Mr. Wilson always helped with that.) I had a nice time, and [sic]

Thurs. is my hard day, and I was on the jump from seven in the morning ‘till eleven at night. I had five hrs. in the class room, two hrs. of study, a gym lecture from 4:15 to 5:15 and a committee meeting from 5:15 to six. After supper I went to the 4th no. of the artists course by Hans Kindler (cellist) and Murle Alcott a world known contralto. They were wonderful.

Today, I have been quite busy, too. I have been trying frantically to write you this letter all the evening, but I’ve had one caller after another. Even now one of the girls is in my room, but I am writing anyway, although rather disconnectedly.

You know Mary is chairman of the missionary committee. Wednesday afternoon the traveling secretary for the Student Volunteer movement came to Ripon. She spoke at Y.W. Wed. P.M. and at Chapel Thurs. morn. As Mary is chairman of the missionary committee, Miss Segsworth had to stay in our room while she was here, as the Y.W. couldn’t afford to send her to a hotel. She went away this morn. While she was here Mary slept up stairs and she slept in Mary’s bed. I was terribly busy Wed. and Turs. and was gone both evenings so I didn’t see much of her, but she seemed to be a very sweet little thing.

I went to the Dr. again Thur. and he said he thought I was ride of the itch proppe and that it was only the after effect inflamation [sic] that remained. I have to put sweet cider vinegar on now and I never had anything smart so hard in all my life. My leg is one immense sore, but it is healing over and will be O.K. soon. You’d better boil the clothes good to get rid of the germs.

Lots of love in haste,

Pearl.

P.S. Thanks for the eats. They’ll come in good tomorrow (Sun.) morn. if I don’t get up to breakfast.

Bartlett, Ripon, Wisconsin.
Jan. 29, 1922

Dearest Mamma and Papa,

I haven’t time to write a real letter, but I’ll write a few lines anyway. Of course, I have been very busy, but I haven’t overworked and I’m nearly caught up again. I have about ten pages of my “Bees” essay done which is more than half of it. Things weren’t so bad as I expected.

My skin is really a great deal better. It doesn’t itch much any more, and I guess that when it does itch, it is more from habit that anything else. I keep on applying the lotion anyway. I don’t think I’ll need any more. If I do I’ll let you know. I didn’t have my clothes fumigated.

Prexy’s talk was fine. His subject was “The Breadth of Christianity.” He is going to preach in the Congo church every Sunday now. I went to hear him this morning. His thought was that we are all different. The world is made up of individuals. Mr. Graham spoke on the old kind of religion which taught of the fear of the Devil and Hell. It was quite humorous, but to the subject was effectively handled as usual.

Thurs. evening is another number of the Artists’ Course, Mr. Marshall, a dramatic singer. Course, I’ve got to hear that.

I studied over at the library for six hours yesterday. Then at four o’clock four of us girls went hicking [sic]. We walked quite a long ways, rode on sleighs and had an unusually good time. We got back just in time for supper, having a healthy appetite.

When I got back from home, the first things I noticed upon entering the room was a beautiful cyclamen having on it about fifteen flowers. Carl had given it to Mary. It’s quite an addition to our room.

Last night I didn’t feel like studying. There was so much music around here that I couldn’t have if I had wanted to. So, I got “Helen of the Old House” and continuing from where we left off, I finished it at eleven o’clock. It was pretty good, but I have read better books.

I must close now, and get busy. It’s a relief to know that everything is O.K. at home.

Oceans of love,

Pearl.

Thank you for the paper and little cakes. I didn’t get up for breakfast this morning so we ate them.

 

Thursday evening 2/23/22

Dearest Mamma and Papa,

I am writing to you by candle light, as all the electric wires are broken.

We had the worst storm of its kind here yesterday that has ever been known. It rained all night, night before last and all day yesterday. The temperature was at the critical point that enabled it to rain and still freeze the rain as soon as it touched the earth. In that manner, the trees became completely iced over. Ice cycles [sic] six inches long formed on the telephone wires as close together as they could stick until there was a beautiful silver fringe on all the wires in the city making a beautiful picture. But, the ice was so heavy on the wires that a half of the posts broke down, and now there is a regular wire entanglement all over the city. In consequence, the telephones, telegraphs and electric lights are not working. Prexy says that as far as the telephones are concerned, we aught to be glad that we aren’t pestered with the things, and, as far as the lights are concerned—“just think of the extra sleep you are getting!” The telegraphs don’t opporate [sic] so the trains dare not run. No one realizes the dependence one puts on electricity until all of the conveniences are taken away.

But, all of this isn’t the worst of it, for the campus is ruined, all of the beautiful elms being destroyed. All there is left of most of them is a bare stalk. The fir, and oak trees are injured too, but not to the same extent as the elms. The trees keep crashing to the ground constantly for two nights and a day. I got so nervous listening to them that I didn’t know what to do. It was especially nerve wracking, for there was no school. It seems terrible that the things which it takes nature a century to build, should be destroyed in a day! It is a beautiful world with two or three inches of ice surrounding each twig and millions of ice cycles [sic] glistening rainbow colors in the sun, but there is sadness about the ruins that the present beauty cannot overcome.

I am worrying for fear our maples are suffering from the same ice storm. I do hope that the storm did not reach you. One or two degrees difference in either direction would have prevented the calamity. I hate to things of the appearance of the world after the ice melts, and only the bare broken branches are left.

It seemed queer to have only candle light. I don’t study at night because it isn’t light enough, so I went to bed at 7:30 last night and am going almost as soon tonight. We probably won’t have lights or phones again for quite a while because the wires are broken and lie under the broken branches and trees. We were to have an intercollegiate debate here tonight, but the team can’t get here. The tournament (basket ball) is rather a failure. We’ll probably have school tomorrow P.M. after all.

I went up town to look at kimono cloth Mon. night. There is nothing pretty here except one piece a yd. wide which costs $1.45 a yd. I am sending you a sample. It has in it pink butterflies, foliage, and black spider’s web. It is very pretty, but I don’t believe we should pay so much for one as it will have quite hard wear. You had better send to Gladys unless you are going to Oshkosh soon. The crepe piece here weren’t at all pretty.

I’ll write more when I have a better light. I wrote to Edith yesterday.

Lovingly yours,

Pearl.

Mon. 2/27/22

Dearest Mom + Pap;

I am still wondering about our maples.  I hope they are all right.  We have gone back 50 yrs. in one day.  No electric conveniences.  Carl brought a lamp over to Mary, so we are better off than the rest of the girls who have to use candles they say we won’t have electricity for three weeks as over 6000 poles are down.  I hiked out to South Wood Fri. P.M. with one of the girls.  It is a beautiful sight, but it is awful, too, for all of the trees are damaged and most of them ruined.  I wore Henry Jones’ military trousers (all of the girls wear them on hikes) it’s a good thing I had them or I would not have been able to get through.

There was a joint Y.M. + Y.W. meeting yesterday P.M. the occasion was the international day of prayer there was a very interesting meeting.

Spring vacation is in three weeks, so I probably won’t come home until that time.  It is before Easter.  We will have the quarter exams before I come.  Nothing has been going on because there are no lights.  I’ll send my laundry.  Don’t know when you’ll get it.

Love,

Pearl

I wrote to Elva yesterday.

Sunday morning, 3/5/22

Dearest Mamma,

I’ll begin this letter before Sunday school and will finish it some other time.

Yes, I received my box containing my little brown dress. I have the dress on now and it looks much better. I also received the box of marguerittes [sic] which were delicious. The girls who were here to taste them say you, Mamma, are a wonderful cook. Thank you for sending them.

I kept my laundry in order that I might send this week’s along with last week’s to save making two packages. I sent my blue silk dress home. The hem needs turning up the width of the present hem, but if you turn it up a trifle more than that it won’t be any shorter than my other dresses.

Did I ever send home a man’s hankerchief [sic] to be washed? I borrowed one of Pilger’s once when I had forgotten one of my own, and I can’t remember what I did with it. It was quite a coarse—I think more so than any of Papa’s hankerchiefs [sic]. If you find it at home, you might send it sometime—there is no hurry; but if it doesn’t happen to be there, I must have put it away somewhere down here.

The spring vacation begins on the 25th of March, and I guess it lasts for ten days. I probably won’t come home until then, for I will need to stay here to study for the quarter finals.

I went for a long walk with Martha yesterday out into the country to call on one of her friends who is going to move to Minnesota this week. She has a cute little girl about a year old with whom we had a lot of fun.

I was over to Pilger’s to supper Wednesday evening. Had a fine meal of home madethings that tasted good to me. It seems good even to step inside of a home, for although Bartlett is very cozy and extremely convenient, it isn’t a real home. It is only the room where I sleep and spend my lounging hours.

There is a girl in my Latin class whom I like very much, by the name of Frona Walter. She is somewhat of my build, but she is very dark having black hair and pretty dark brown eyes. I have been over to her room several times—(she does light housekeeping with two other girls in a private home)—and I have had quite a few walks with her. She has a very sweet personality, fine morals and excellent character; but, like most of the rest of my friends, she is a Senior, so I’ll have to make the best of our friendship while it lasts.

I think the girls glee club is to be in Wild Rose sometime. Ignaty Hansen is a member, so if she comes to Rosy Town while I’m home we’ll have to try to have her out. I would like to show all of the Bartlett girls a good time while they are there, but there are so many of them that it will be impossible.

Glorious! The electric lights came on last night at supper time. It seems so good to have them back that we hardly know what to do. It is queer how little we appreciate things until we are deprived of them. We also have the other electric conveniences, such as telephone, town clock, buzzers, gongs, chimes, door bells, and pipe organ—and electric curlers which are very essential to the bobbed hairs.

The ice is almost entirely off of the trees for it is typical spring weather out of doors. It is very slushy because of the melted snow and ice.

Mr. Graham gave a fine talk on “individuality” today in Sunday school. He says that the purpose of college is not to give us information, not to give us a means to make a living, not to put us into society—it is to make us capable of thinking for ourselves—to give us individuality. He says that he is never happier than when one of his students gets up and contradicts him, for he realizes that the student has developed individuality.

We haven’t had anything to go to, because there has been no lights, but we are going to have quite a little variation this week. We are to have C.E. tonight, the topic being “Better Homes.” Tuesday night there is a meeting of the Christian Service Club, which is composed of some of the nicest students in school. I’ll go to the meeting with Mary, and if I like it I’ll probably join. After that meeting I’ll probably go to the gymn [sic] to see a basket ball game between Ripon and Lawrence. Wednesday night is the last of the series of Dr. Evans’ comunity [sic] talks. I’ll go to that if I have time. Thursday night a famous lady singer is coming to town. Maybe I’ll hear her. A week from tomorrow night there is C.T.G. meeting. I have to give a topic, so of course I’ll be present.

I didn’t study one night this week, partly because the lights weren’t good, and partly because there wasn’t much of anything to do. Professor Boody has been sick all the week so we didn’t have any public speaking class. In consequence, I had time to get all of my lessons during the day time.

Wednesday for English comp. we are going to have a spell down for the spelling and meaning of 100 words that she dictated to us. They are taken from words we had to hand in every weeks that we had acquired during the week. Every Friday we have to hand in 2 words that we have added to our vocabulary during the week with their meaning and a sentence in which they are used.

I had to write a 500 words theme on the storm for English. It was only about the beauty, awe, and personal impression of it. I haven’t gotten it back yet, so I don’t know my mark on it.

Latin isn’t quite so hard as it was, but I dread the final just the same. However, he will probably be easy on us, realizing that he would flunk us all if he wasn’t.

The girl who leads C.E. tonight was just in to ask me to give a little talk tonight, as I’m going to tell about a happy home that I know of and give the cause of the happiness that home is our home and the secret of the happiness is the love that each member holds for the others. Of course, I won’t tell them whose home it is, but some of them will probably guess.

Well, I must really close now and get busy at something else.

Lovingly,

Pearl.

P.S. In chemistry they weighed a twig of a vine and found that it was supporting 10 ½ times its own weight in ice.

I got a letter from Gladys this week. She is well, and told me to tell you that she would write soon. I wrote her a letter yesterday.

“Prexy” gave a fine sermon in church this morning.

Sunday evening Mar. 11, ‘22

Dearest Mamma + Papa;

I just returned from C.E. and will steal a few minutes to write to you.

Last week was quite a busy one, for there were a good many college functions to attend.  I managed to get through the week without studying at night for Prof. Boody is still ill.

I’ll begin where the “Days” left off.  On Wednesday evening I went to hear Prexy’s lecture, which was the concluding one of the series, on the “Sermon on the Mount.”  It was fine – I believe the best one of the series.  He dwelled upon especially, “Judge not that ye be not judged.  One of his interpretations were [sic] that we are judged by other people by the judgments we make.  If we make an unfair judgment of a person, the person is not changed, but we are judged by the kind of judgment we use.  Prexy is a wonderful man.

After the lecture, I went to three free plays given by the dramaturgy class.  They were fine.

You know for English we have been adding two words to our vocabulary a week, and each student handed in the two words which he had learned.  Miss Finch took 100 words out of those that had been handed in and gave them to us all to learn.  On Wednesday we had a spell-down on them for spelling and meaning. (We had 3 spelldowns)  In the first one I went down on the first word I had – a lot of them did.  The second time I stood up longer than anyone else, and the third time I was one of the four who were still standing when the bell rang.  (I really can learn words if I have to.) – so I suppose it’s up to me to do it.

On Thursday evening, I went to hear Torchiana sing.  She was very good but I have heard better.

Friday night there was a debate, but I didn’t go.  I remained at home and visited with some of the girls.

On Saturday I studied from eight o’clock until 4:30.  Then Martha and a [sic] went up town, and I got your silk.  Do you want me to get some mats?  I got a little from May thanking me for the ones I sent her.  After supper I went over to Pilger’s.  Mrs. Pilger, who is a fine pianist, played several classics for me, then Martha and I walked until 9:30.  It was a warm, moonlit, spring night and we enjoyed the walk very much.

I went to Sunday school this morning and Mr. Graham talked on “Spring.”  He painted a very vivid picture for us.  He said that the spirit of spring is the spirit of dreaming and achievement, and that it was that spirit that lead the pilgrim youths to set out for America and press on to the Western coast – they dared to say, “Good-bye” to old thins that they might seek better things.

This afternoon was Vespers.  A man, who works among boys in making them better morally and in strengthening their ideals, spoke to us of his work.  He was an extremely clever speaker, and the methods he used to test and control boys were very interesting.

I went to C.E. tonight, the topic being “Habits.”  It was a peppy meeting.  We lost in the contest, so we’ll have to give a treat to the other side sometime soon.

C.T.G. meeting is tomorrow night.  I have to speak on “Planters Extraordinary.”

I got the laundry and the box of doughnuts and cookies.  The eats were fine.  Thank you!  The dress is the right length.

I have to study now, so I’ll say “nighty-night” with love and kisses.
Pearl

Friday eve Mar. 17, 1922

Dearest Mamma and Papa in all the world;

Yes, I am twenty years old today, but really am only one day older than I was last night.  I got the lovely box of things this morning, and I was extremely pleased with everything.  The little nighty is just darling!  I think it is so much cuter than the blue one you made for Lula.  The kimona [sic] is a perfect fit – length and all, and I like the cloth and pleating very much.  Wasn’t the little teddie Blanche made too dear for words?  Call her up and thank her for me, will you please?  I’ll write you just ever’ never so much!  The girls just rave about all my presents.  Ethel J. sent me a cute little fudge apron made of unbleached muslin with a pink piece at the top and bottom embroidered with little daisies.  The shape in something like this: (drawing of the item).  I’ll bring it home when I come, so that you can see it.  I certainly faired well, and everything will be very useful.  I got a lot of cards, too.  One from Marjorie and Elizabeth, Evelyn Jenks, Evelyn Anderson, Ethel J., and Mrs. Holt. ————- besides ————I got the most beautiful one from __________ guess who _____________.  Mary Humphrey!!  I nearly feel over!  The sentiment on it was fine.  I wonder if she she [sic] has forgotten our enmity.  I’m sure I have come to the point where I do not blame her for what she has done, for I was as mean to her as she was to me.  Such things are extremely foolish to remember for they only made me feel unhappy and uncomfortable.  I’m glad I have forgotten about it.  I’ll bring the card home.

My new friend Frona took me up town tonight to give me a treat of an ice cream sundae.  After I was all through eating, I told her she had given me a fine birthday gift, for I was twenty today.

This has really been a very happy birthday in spite of the fact that I had to spend it away from home.  I would have been happier to have been at home for dears, there is no place like home – especially on my birthday.  I had a happy day anyways, and will be very glad when I can be at home with you.

Your birthday wishes were splendid.  Thank you for them.  I really feel that I have accomplished very, very little in the twenty years which I have lived.  I have merely existed having all of the hard knocks kept from me.  I has been a selfish life live only for myself and you and the near of friends.  I have done nothing worth mentioning for other people.  I hope that my “twenties” will be more successful in service than my “teens” were.  There are a great many opportunities to help if I could only see them.  I hope, when I am thirty I’ll be able to look back on my twenties and say, “I have done my best to make people happy and help them in any way that came in my path.”

I am going to a debate tonight between Ripon and Bowden college in Brunswick, Me.  It is sure to be good, but I am afraid we will loose for one of our speakers is taken ill with the “flu”.  One of the other boys has undertaken to fill his place at twenty-four hours’ notice.  He is a brilliant fellow, but, naturally, he won’t be able to do as well as the other fellow who has had all of the training and practice.

I’m going to have a “spread” tonight.  I bought some bread to make sandwitches [sic] of the conserve.  I “swiped” some butter and milk from the commons and will make cocoa.  I’m sure we’ll have a good time and a fine feast.  Thank you for the cake and candy.

I’m vice president of the Ripon College Y.W.C.A.!  Aren’t you proud of your daughter?  Ha!  I was elected 5 to 6.  There is a very little work or responsibility to the office of which I am very glad.  Mary is president.

I went to the Christian Service Club Tuesday evening and joined.  The meeting was extremely interesting.  Mr. Hamley gave a talk on “Opportunities for Christian Service in the Community.”  He told some very interesting things about his work among factory people and lumbermen.  I’m sure I shall enjoy the society even more than Y.W. or C.E.

I practiced target shooting last night for the first time.  It was fun, but I am rather lame today from holding a heavy army rifle.  I shot twenty four times.  I didn’t hit the bull’s eye everytime, but Captain Adington said it was consistant [sic] shooting and that I would improve.  I’m glad to be able to know how to at least hold a gun.  Everyone ought to.

Mr. Boody has been here this week.  He is a mere ghost of himself, for he has been very sick.  He does not feel very well even yet.  Our orations don’t have to be in until after the vacation because of the delay.

I’ll be very busy from now until I come home with “cramming” for the finals.  I probably won’t be home until Sat. night for my p.s. exam comes on Sat. morning.  I wanted to “hike” home, but now I can’t.  Mildred Hotchkins and Henry Jones were going to hike, too, but they won’t now, so long I can’t go.  You know, we would take the train when we got tired.

I’m “tickled to tears” at the prospect of seeing Mr. Merritt after so long a time.

Love.

Your,

Pearl.

Sunday evening Apr. 9, ‘22

Dearest of all Mamma and Papas;

Well, I’m back from C.E. and will write a little note before I go to bed.  Had the most wonderful lecture by Mr. Graham this morning.  He talked on good books as an aid to the development of ourselves, and above all books he reccommended [sic] to us the 66 in which are written tragedies and human stories, pictures of character, knowledge of science and every form of poetry – the Bible.  He told of his own experiences in finding the worth of the Book.  It was one summer when he was all alone in the wilderness of Dakota and had nothing else to read except the Argusic and a sport magazine.  He said that he came back in the fall a changed man.  He quoted from Landor this verse which I think is very beautiful:

“I strove with none, for none was worth my strife, nature I love, and next to nature art, I warmed my hands before the fire of like, it sinks, and I am ready to depart.”

Landor wrote the verse on his 75th birthday.  Mr. Graham has the deepest insight into human character of any person that I have ever seen.  It does not seem possible that he is only 28.

I gave the M.E. church a negative answer to the proposition of the choir.  It was purely a selfish motive, but I can’t stand it to listen to their minister.

Friday was Martha’s birthday, and she invited eight of her friends out to South Woods to a picnic supper.  We went and had a wonderful time.  There was a fine spread of buns, heated canned corn, wieners, marshmallows, + olives.  Martha didn’t think we knew that it was her birthday, so we got her a little present and took it out there as a surprise.  (it was a little Ripon College seal).  We totally surprised her, and it seemed to make her feel quite happy.

There is Y.W. installation of officers Wed. night.  We are going to have a regular banquet with toasts ‘neverything.  The new officers have to make speeches, so you see I’ll have to prepare one soon.  My vice-presidency makes me automatically the chairman of the membership committee which looks out for new members in the fall.  As vice-pres. I am on the Y.W. cabinet which meets every week for a few minutes.  These things won’t take much of my time, for I shall do them at odd moments which would otherwise be wasted.

The C.T.G. is tomorrow night.  I am on the supper committee but our supper is to be quite simple, as I won’t have to do much but serve.

The roads down here a very well dried out and I surely hope they are at home, so that you can come her for Easter.  I am so anxious to have you!  Try to get here by 10 o’clock for Mr. Graham’s class it to begin promptly and you should not miss the opportunity of hearing him.  Vesper services are in the P.M. from 3 to 4.  It would be very nice for your to see how they are conducted.  You would have plenty of time to get home after that.  We can stay to the church services after S.S. if we want to.  Mr. Wilson is to back for the occasion, and there is sure to be fine pipe organ and vocal music.  I am very anxious for you to come and see me and get another view of the campus and Bartlett.  If you come, you must meet Frona and Martha and Ignaty.  Please come if you possibly can.

I have bought some new pumps.  They were $5.00 which is quite a good deal cheaper than $7.00.  They are very dressy, having thin sole, pointed toe, which perforations, fine soft patent leather, and one strap, with a large lead buckle on the side.  The heel is medium low.  They are different from anything I had planned on getting, but I like them better than anything I have seen.  My watch is being fixed.

Be sure to let me know if Mr. Merritt is coming Thursday.

Easter morn. we are to have a sunrise devotional service for C.E. on the steps of the church at 3:30.  It is sure to be fine.

(There were only 7 in a class of 86 who got A [sic] in biology, and nearly all of them are Seniors.  I wouldn’t have gotten A [sic] if I hadn’t “crammed” for half the night before the exam and had a good note book.)

It is getting quite late.  The lights are all out, so I must go to bed.

Good night (+ + +) (+ + +) (3 apiece.)

Love,

Pearl

 

Bartlett, Ripon, Wis.
Fri. morn. Apr. 21, ‘22

Dearest Mamma and Papa,

I am sorry that I have not written before this week but I have been quite busy and have written to no one.

I must tell you before I forget that Frieda Hempel is to sing here on the night of May first. You must try your very hardest to come, for I know it will be worth while. You see, I am planning on coming home with the glee club girls on April 28th. You could bring us (Agnes and I) back Sunday night or Monday morning and stay over for the concert in the evening when you could stay over for the concert in the evening when you could stay over night and go home the next day. Or, if you think it would be impossible for you to stay overnight, you could easily get home that night. The roads aught to be pretty good by that time, so please try to come. Let me know for a certainly as soon as you know so that I can get the tickets for some good seats. I don’t know how much the tickets will cost but probably about 3 or 4 dollars. I’ll let you know as soon as I learn.

We have had come very peculiar weather this week. Everyday there has been a demonstration of every season of the year. We have had beautiful June days, April showers, February snow storms and fall windstorms all in one morning. A tree and a telephone pole were blown down Wednesday. Today is beautiful thus far, but we do not know what to expect before night. However, I hope it will continue to be pleasant.

Nothing of much importance has happened this week outside of regular school routine. Wed. after school I went for an invigorating walk in a severe wind with Martha. I went over to Frona’s for a little while in the evening. Last night, Donald Mack, one of those “U” students who came to Ripon a while ago, came over to Bartlett and gave us a violin concert. He is one of the most wonderful players that I have ever seen. He and some others played dance music for a while and the kids danced, but from 7:30 to 8:45 he played some of those beautiful classic solos that are familiar to us all. We were as quiet as mice and were so enchanted by the music that Mrs. Gardner allowed him to play far beyond the quiet hours. It seemed so good to hear something besides “jazz.”

Oh, yes! and I have some good news for you too! I nearly forgot. I have a chance to go to Appleton Sunday if it is a nice day and the roads are good! There is a Student Volunteer convention there, and there is a car load going from Ripon. Frona is going, and as she has asked me to go too. She doesn’t like to be the only girl in the load, so she insists upon my giving too as there is plenty of room in the car. Of course, I am “tickled” at the prospects of the nice trip, for I never get any car rides except when I am home, and besides I am anxious to see more of Lawrence, for I didn’t get a very good look at it when I went with “Prexy” because the trip was so hurried. I always enjoy myself when I am with Frona, for she is a wonderful girl, much to my taste. One of the professors volunteered the services of his car, so it won’t cost much except the meals. I shall get a rebate for Sunday from the commons which will partly cover expenses. When I get back (if I go) I’ll write to tell you all about it. I’m confident that I shall have a fine time, and I know that you are pleased too for you always are unselfishly happy over my good times and opportunities.

The other day Prof. Groves gave us a test in biology, and, much to everyone’s surprise and my good fortune, he excused those who in the final grade for last quarter had a mark of “A” or “B.” I was lucky to be excused for I really didn’t know anything about the questions. You see, I hadn’t “crammed.” Dr. Groves is always doing something unexpected. He is the funniest old jigger! Yesterday he was scolding us in lecture for not working harder, etc., and we were all listening as we always do when he scolds us, but while we listen the scolding goes right out the other ear. He tries terribly hard to frighten us, but we know his bark is worse than his bite. When he had finished, I looked up at him and grinned, and he couldn’t keep the laugh from creeping into his voice and face. He is certainly a peculiar man—very unusual in his appearance and talk. We have lots of fun with him, but after all, he has the ability to make us work.

There is certainly a great deal of trouble around home. I hope everyone is better by this time. Did you get to Almond to the funeral. [sic]

I am so glad that you, Mamma, have had your eyes tested at last! It is a great relief to me. Have your teeth out at the first opportunity.

This is the night of the great “Prom.” Of course there are many new gowns and happy faces for the occasion. Mary nor I are going, and maybe we will go over to Sidnie’s for a while this evening, as she has asked us to come.

I thought when I began to write that there wasn’t much to tell, but I have been unable to find a place to stop. I guess I could rave on and on forever to you even though there isn’t much news. But, I must really stop now, not for lack of things to say, but because dinner is served in five minutes and I must get ready. A hunger pang is warning me.

Yours lovingly,

Pearl.

Tuesday evening, Apr. 25, ‘22

Dearest Folks,

Just a few hasty lines to tell you a little of the news.

I had a wonderful trip Sunday. The day was beautiful. The convention was rather uninteresting, but I had a good time anyway. Went through some of the college buildings. The chapel is the most beautiful building I have ever seen. Appleton is a pretty city. I have been telling you only minor details—Here is the big point! I saw Mary Davies of Manatowoc [sic] and had a fine visit with her for about an hour. It just happened that I went up to Ormsby to get cleaned up after the ride. I inquired if she was in college this year, and found that she was in that very hall. I’ll tell you all about everything when I get home. I am in a great rush now, for I am rather behind my work.

Yes, Ignaty will come home with me from the train. Don’t “fuss” for her one mite, mamma, for she is as common as anyone. She will make herself at home and cause no trouble. I hope Mary can come home too, then we may get time to be alone some. But, if we aren’t we can’t help it.

The eats that you sent Sat. were delicious. I had them for my Sun. morning breakfast, so that I could hand in a rebate. But, Mamma, you simply mustn’t send things every week as you have been doing! I don’t want you to. You shouldn’t waste your time and strength that way. I have plenty to eat, and can get along very well without it. You mustn’t bother to send things so often—Now, you see, I have scolded you for things to eat are not necessary for my happiness when there are letters from home, and I would a great deal rather have you go calling or read or do something that will give you more pleasure.

The Robertses have just been here on their way home from the hospital where Mrs. R. has been examined. She is poisoned from her tonsils which she has to have out next week. If that does not help her, the Drs. have her no encouragement. Mary is going with her to the hospital some time next week. She is dreadfully worried.

What do you suppose! I have to speak in chapel tomorrow morning! I just found it out and will have to make my speech tonight. Ruth Vancirk is a Ripon girl who graduated from college here and is now a missionary in the foreign field being supported by the college Y.W. and Y.M. Tomorrow two Y.W. girls and 2 Y.W. fellows are to speak in chapel urging the students to pledge liberally. They are to make the annual pledge in chapel after the speeches. I know I’ll be just petrified, but I’ll do my best. I don’t know why they always make me do things like that. I always have to be the goat! I suppose I aught to be glad of the opportunity, but I’m not, although it will probably be a benefit to me after it is all over.

The boys’ glee club sings here tonight, but I’m not going. I have a great deal of work to do, and besides, I am tired and want to go to bed early.

I saw Robert Jones today. It just happened that I met him in the hall at Ingram. I was greatly surprised at seeing him, but found him to be the same old ticket.

I must close now and get busy. We’ll exchange the rush of the news when I get home. I am so “tickled” to come! I love you so much!

Lovingly,

Pearl.

I really did know how to spell those words, but I was in too much of a hurry to stop and think how to write them. Thank you for sending me the list anyway.

Pearl.

Bartlett Hall, Ripon, Wisconsin.

Wed., April 26, 1922.

Dearest Papa,

Now, I am forced to scold you for not jumping at the chance to hear Frieda Hempel, the world’s greatest soprano. You have heard the world’s greatest man singer, John McCormick, now take advantage of the opportunity of hearing the world’s greatest soprano. The tickets will cost $4.00 a piece, but what it they do? What is your money good for if it isn’t to enjoy yourself with and to better your minds. [sic] You had better make use of it while you can. There is no need of your digging and scraping every minute of your life, for life is short and you should make the most of it. You can well afford to miss a day and a half of work to hear something fine. Now see here! If you don’t make use of your money now, I’ll spend it for something foolish for myself. You had better spend it yourself, for then you will know where it goes. Make your decision right away, so that I can get you a good seat. If you still don’t care anything about coming, make Mamma come anyway, for I’m sure she would like to do so. I’ll have to know before Friday noon so that Mary can get the tickets on Saturday morning.

I just got through with my chapel speech. It went off fairly well, but I was scared green!

Bushels of love,

Pearl.

P.S. We raised $402.00 in pledges in the chapel as an after effect of the three student speeches. I’m sending my speech home. We are going to get more pledges than that before we quit, although I think that was doing quite well.

Pearl.

Sunday morning

May 6, 1922

Dearest Folks,

The flowers that Mrs. Holt picked in Wausau were very pretty and came through in good condition. Some of them are different from any that grow around here, and so they were excellent for biology specimens. We are each making mounts of all the wild flowers we can find. Thank you for sending them.

I wish you might have seen South Woods the day we girls went out. The low ground was white with trilliums and the hills were covered with violets. I have a bowl of violets and a vase of trilliums in my room besides three glasses of specimens of all different kinds. We came back from the woods with our arms loaded with beautiful flowers. When we got back, we had our supper in Bartlett’s lower parlors, consisting of tomato soup, toast and doughnuts.

I got my botany theme in on Wednesday. I don’t know whether it will have a lower mark for being late or not, but it doesn’t matter anyway. I wrote my oration Wednesday night (when the Girls’ Glee Club gave the concert in the auditorium.) When I got to class Thursday Mr. Boody asked me to read it for the class. (I’m really “teacher’s pet” as far as public speaking and Mr. Boody are concerned.) He liked my oration and thinks it will be fine after it is rewritten. At commencement time there is to be an oratoracle [sic] contest for both boys and girls who are to deliver orations of their own composition. The prizes are ten and fifteen dollars for the first and second places. Mr. Boody is urging members of his public speaking class to enter. I don’t know whether to enter or not. Of course, if I did it, it would merely be for the sake of the benefit and experience I would get. I would expect to get the lowest standing. I wouldn’t consider entering if I didn’t have to prepare and deliver an oration anyway. It would require but very little more effort to prepare it for the contest than for public speaking class, for there will have to be several rehearsals in either case. I wish you would write and tell me what you think I have better do, for I am greatly in doubt. There won’t be very much work in p.s. from now on except improving and committing our oration for delivery. Tell me what you think. I have tried to tell you all about it that you may better judge. Do you think the students would think I was egotistical to go into a contest the first year. [sic] Do you think it would be unjust to Mr. Tutunjian by bringing up horrible memories? I never will enter if I don’t this year, for it would be too much work to prepare a speech for the occasion. Advise me as to your conclusion, and I shall be satisfied with your decision, as I am unable to make one myself.—The contest will be in the Congo church, the place where we have chapel services.

I hope next Sunday will be as fine a day as this one is. If it is I’m sure you will come won’t you. I’m so anxious to have you both come down for the day. Probably you had better bring the Etheridge girls, for they probably expect it. I would be very glad for the Holts to come too if you have room in the car to bring them, or, maybe they would take their car too. Everyone is welcome at church services, and I think I can find room at the commons for you all, because many of the students will be at home over the week-end. I do hope you can come. Let me know whether you can or now, and at what time you will arrive, so that I can be watching for you.

Sun. evening.

Sidnie D. called up right after dinner asking me to go for a ride with her and the Seeliegs (where she has her meals). The Seeliegs have a fine sedan. We went 103 miles at Waupun, Beaver Dam, Lomira, Rosendale, Fon du Lac [sic], etc. It was an ideal day and I certainly enjoyed myself while seeing a country which I had never before seen. We got back about 7:30 and I had my supper at Seeleig’s. They are fine people—even though they are aristocrats. They were extremely nice to me.

Went to S.S. this morning, and was disappointed when Mr. Graham was unable to be there and Dr. Groves talked at our class.

I have an exam in English tomorrow morning, so I must close and review a little before going to bed.

I was over to Sidnie’s all Saturday P.M. She asked me over. Frona was here to spend the evening last night. I have been doing a lot of studying while I have been alone.

Lots of love,

Pearl.

May 10, 1922

Speech of Vice-President of Y.W.C.A.

I have been greatly perplexed in thinking what I should say tonight, for there are so many things about the Y.W.C.A. that would make interesting topics that it is hard to choose any. But, finally I decided to tell you a little of what Y.W. has meant to me, and what it aught to mean to every member. I can’t express the deeper influence of this organization, for it is too deep for words. I can simply say this: that I have been present at nearly every meeting this year, and that there has never been a meeting that has not left a deep impression upon me. I have never left a Y.W. service without fine food for thought and a feeling of something worth-while added to my life. The organization gives me a message of friendship, of fellowship, a message of oneness that bids us love each other and go forward hand in hand to spread the message of Christ.

I feel very incompetent to fill the office of vice-president, but I am very willing to learn and I promise you that I will do my best as a member of the cabinet to help the members keep up the fine standards that have been set this year. I am so thoroughly interested in the work that the task, instead of being one of hard labor, will be one of pleasure and benefit to myself. My highest ambition for next year, as chairman of the membership committee, will be to carry out the slogan “100 of 0 memberships for the Y.W.C.A.”

There is a sad tendency in college toward drifting away from Christianity. There are many causes of this condition, but the one thing that will do the most toward remedying it, is the influence of the Y.W. and other Christian organizations in college. Many a Freshman girl comes here from a Christian home, only to find her faith growing weaker and weaker until her whole belief is shattered and she finds herself a pagan in reality if not in name. If the new students could be gotten into the right environment at first, their whole life would be changed. It is the duty of all Y.W. members to bring them under the right influence by urging them to join our society. The responsibility of the new students falls upon me, but I cannot do it all alone. I need the cooperation of every Y.W. member if the project of 100 of 0 memberships is to be a success. Yes it will call for work, but the work will be repaid 100 fold by the satisfaction it will be after the new students have become members to see them happily following after the footsteps of Christ, by living up to the purposes of the Y.W.C.A. and “extending the Kingdom of God throughout the world.”

Pearl Pierce.

Easter evening 5/16/22

Dearest Mamma + Papa;

Although I have had not a great deal of studying to do this week.  I have been very busy with other necessary things.  Consequently, I did not have time to write you anything except a card.

I went to Christian Service Club meeting Tuesday evening, which Mr. Tutunjian lead.  He talked about the reasons for the drifting away from Christianity in college and the remedies for it.  It was such an impressive talk that we had an enthusiastic discussion afterwards determining that the service club should help the condition by getting the Freshmen students next year into some Christian organization such as the Y.W. or Y.M. or C.E.  If we can do it, it will make all the difference in the world to the new students, for it will mean that they will be started right.  I got the idea for my installation speech in Y.W. from this meeting.  I am sending it home.  You know, as vice president of the Y.W.C.A., I automatically become chairman of the membership committee which will do a great deal of work next fall with the new freshmen.

The installation was a fine success Wednesday evening.  The tables were three in number and were arranged in the form of a “Y.”  They were decorated with ferns and narcissus plants on white table cloths.  The refreshments consisted of brick ice cream and angle [sic] food cake.  After the refreshments, the president (ex-pres. now) made her little speech and called for speeches from each of the new officers.  Mary, in spite of the fact that she is taking public speaking, was terribly frightened and didn’t do as well as she aught.  ‘Stell Pearce gave one made up mostly on the spur of the moment and saturated with her jokes.  I didn’t give my talk as well as I should have done, but everyone seemed interested so I aught to be satisfied.  I wore my blue silk dress which every admired greatly.

I am with Frona a great deal because it is a very short time that she will be with me and I want to see as much of her as possible during that time.  She is a girl of very high principle and an unusually sweet personality.  Frona invited Nordie and one of the teachers with me to an Easter supper last night.  We had a magnificent supper of pork roast, “scalloped” corn, fruit salid [sic] and vegitable [sic] salad, besides jelly, cookies, candies etc.  The salad side dish was very cute for Easter, for the eggs were carved in the shape of little baskets which were filled with chopped stuffed olives.  The yolks were using in the dressing like that in develed [sic] eggs.  This with tomatoes was [sic] placed on hed letters [sic].  We had cute little Easter place cards, napkins, and a large nest of eggs and chickens in the center of the table.

Worked hard in lab. all Sat. morning getting my biology note book ready to hand in.  After dinner, I got all of my summer dresses out and pressed them.  I wet the organdie on my red gingham dress and pressed it while it was wet, making it look just like new.  The dresses are not at all dirty.

I had a nice time with Mr. Merritt Thursday evening.  It seemed good to see him again after three years.  We walked nearly all of the time he was here, and if he wasn’t such a big husky man I would fear that I had tired him out for he is not used to walking much.  I suppose he had told you all about it by this time.

Ethel gay was much pleased with the stockings.  I have the money which I will give to you when I come home.  Don’t bother to get me any high priced stockings.  I would rather have another pair of 75 c. ones.  The girls down here like them very much.  I think, at last, that I have struck the right kind of shampoo in eggs.  My hair has been very nice after washing it with them at home.  I got two eggs at the commons tonight free of charge and had another shampoo tonight.

I am so sorry that you weren’t here today, but of course it can’t be helped.  I got up at five o’clock this morning to go to the sunrise C.E. service.  There was a fine program consisting of a pretty pagent [sic] of Easter.  I am glad that there was a large crowd present.  At then, I went to S.S. and Mr. Graham talked about the rebirth in life as signified by the resurrection.  He gave as essentials to happiness in life, work, forgiveness, love and friendship, ones soul must be the tomb for other people’s secrets and a fountain of youth for their joys and sorrows.  I agree heartily with his beautiful sentiment.  I went to the Baptist church with Anges for the church service.  Mr. Hamley doesn’t preach there and I was quite uninterested in the sermon I heard.  It spoiled the effect for the time of Mr. Graham’s beautiful message.

We had vespers this P.M. I hope you will see a vesper service sometime this year.  They are very interesting having a good deal of formality about them.  This P.M. was an entire musical one producing an Easter contata [sic] by the Congo choir.  It was all singing and was very long.  I wish you could have heard it.

We had chicken dinner at the Commons!

I am so sorry about Orval’s hand!  I shall try to send him a card.  Sidnie has already written.

Thank you so much for the delicious “eats” you sent for my Easter!  They were lovely.  Ignaty + Mary were wild about the Washington pie, for they had never had any before.  The box of candy was cute and the cookies were very good.  Thanks heaps.  I like the little teddy suit.

It is ten o’clock so I must close and go to bed.

Oceans of love,

Pearl

P.S. I got a nice “Thank You” letter from Dorothy S.

 

Sunday, May 28, 1922.

Dearest of all Mammas and Papas,

Mary D. is resting, so I will write you a few lines. I realize that I haven’t written you for a long time, but I have been on the jump every minute since I got back from Milwaukee.

About graduation—I have received invitations from Eunice, Elizabeth, Evelyn Jenks and William. You remember I gave Eunice and Elizabeth little aprons for graduation, so not much else is necessary. As far as Evelyn is concerned, I would like very much to make her a little powder puff or some pongee handkerchief if there was time to do so, but I’m afraid there isn’t. I wish I had finished the little puff when I was at the puff making job. Everything here costs so much that I hate to buy anything for either she or William here, and I don’t know what to suggest to have you get them there. Have you any of those nice little books left? I don’t think it will be necessary to give gifts to every member of the class. Lester M., Henry S., Evelyn Attoe, Bud Herlin and Elizabeth Palmbach hardly require any unless some of them send invitations. Possibly you should give Clinton something if you send something to Harley. Is Eunice valedictorian? And who is salutatorian? I imagine either Evelyn J. or A. are salutatorian, but I haven’t heard anything about it.

I am shocked to hear of the addition to the O.E.S. I can’t wait until I get home to find out all about it. How could it happen? I am very sorry you could not go to Portage for today, because it is a beautiful day for a trip. I don’t understand, I don’t know at which end of the line the difficulty lies [sic]. Is Aunt Ann worse, or did you find that you couldn’t go alone if you went? I wish you could have gone, but we must work it so that you can go later. I don’t care to go to Portage, so you had better try to go before I get home. If you can’t arrange to go before I come home, we can all go sometime in the summer and I can visit Frona at Mauston while you make your stay at Portage. I don’t believe Mauston is far from Portage is it?

In less than 3 weeks I’ll be home for all summer. I can’t wait to come, but I dred [sic] leaving all of the senior friends whom I may never see again. I’ll miss Frona most, but of course I’ll try to keep in touch with her always. It doesn’t seem possible that I am nearly at the end of my freshman year in college. I will certainly be busy next year with all of my offices. I think I’ll let all my other interests go, and give my attention to the Y.W., Christian Service Club and the matters of Bartlett. That will take up all my spare time when I’m not studying. I’ll leave off enthusiastic work in C.E. and C.T.G. for the sake of the other organizations, for I certainly can’t do much at any if I keep them all. I think the Y.W. and Christian S.C. are the most interesting anyway. The Y.W. will require quite a good deal of work during the 1st quarter but I got quite a few suggestions, as to how to carry on the work, at the convention. The C.S.C. will require very little work, for we only have meetings once a month and all I have to do is write a short account of them for the “Days.” Of course the house duties won’t be at all pleasant. I’ll have to nag at the girls for money, keep books, and trot around paying debts. But worse than any of these jobs is the duty to members of the house council. The council has to make the rules and illicit penalties on all those who disobey. It requires work and the only pay we get is unpleasant notoriety and kicks from the persecuted. I guess I’ll live through it, though. The new council is going to meet soon to discuss plans for next year.

I’m just crazy about the new dress, Mamma. It’s a fine fit, and I like the way it’s made.

Mary Roberts has gone on a house party at Green Lake with Johnie Schmidt. They are going to stay until Tuesday night. This would have been a fine week end to have studied in if I had been alone, but of course, I am glad Mary. D. could come to see me. I think she will go back sometime tomorrow. By the way, she is a devout Catholic. She went to mass with “Schwingie” this morning, because she is never supposed to miss a Sunday without mass. She declines to go to S.S. with me too, because they are not supposed to attend another church. I was surprised that she was Catholic because of her father, but she speaks as though they all go to that church at home. Maybe Mrs. D’s sickness has made some difference to his change. Mary is a very nice girl.

Bartlett is not going to have a house party because the time is all taken up for the other things.

Yes, I think the trip to Milwaukee was worth all it cost. I didn’t realize until I went to Milwaukee how very little I know about the city, but I know quite a good deal more now than I did before I went. One certainly has to shove oneself along if one is to get anywhere. The rule seems to be “first come, first served.” “Take everything you can get and give as little as you can.” The crowds, large buildings, noise and bustle are much different than I am used to. Downer is a beautiful school. The buildings are red brick and the peculiar part about them is that they are arranged so that every building is connected with every other building by little covered, indoor walks or sun parlors. The dormatories [sic] are magnificent on the inside with padded floors and elegant parlors, but the rooms aren’t so convenient as our Bartlett room for two girls live in one room which is smaller by far than our study room. The girls there have a noticeable polish that we in a coeducational school do not get; but, nevertheless, I wouldn’t care to go to school there. It strikes me as being too aristocratic. I wish some of the girls here, who kick about the rules, could go to Downer for a while. When they got back they would think Ripon rules were snaps. I had a very nice room there and a pleasant time. Some of the girls took us to Lake Park Saturday morning. It is a beautiful place overlooking Lake Michigan. Probably you have been there. We had a few conferences before dinner and then went out on the Downer back campus for a picnic dinner. Downer has 40 acres of wild woods back of the dorms. We had our after noon meetings there which were very informal discussions of the problems of the different campuses. That night there was a four course banquet in the normal school dining rooms. It was a fine affair with toasts and speeches. Sunday morning we went to a meeting until ten o’clock, then we went home and went to Mary’s relatives to a delicious Sunday dinner. They are fine people. Mr. Joe Roberts is a M.W. Rail Road man. From there, we went to see the “Home Electric” which is a new modern home where everything is run by electricity. It had been open to the public for three weeks as an electrical advertisement. The home was magnificently furnished and had electric applyances [sic] from dish and clothes washer to ironing machine and radio outfit. Monday morn we took the train at 7:15 and came back to Ripon. I enjoyed the trip and learned a lot, but it seemed good to get back away from the noise and dirt.

I may not have time to write another letter this week, because I am going to be terribly busy. I have my oration to learn and 10000 word short story to write. I am supposed to lead C.E. Sun. night, but if I feel that I can spare the time, I’ll cut it and come home. I want to if I can get my work done far enough.

Oceans of love,

Pearl.

Thur. Sept. 27, 1922

The dearest Mom + Papa in the world,

I have really been awfully bush since school began, but now that the Y.W. is successfully started (I am its president), the Bartlett girls are beginning to understand what they can and can’t do, the Christian Service Club has gotten underway, and the routine has begun, I feel that I’ll be able to live on 24 hours a day if I have a strict enough schedule.

I’m not feeling tired, although I have been working night and day.  I have a ravenous appetite, but as the meals at the commons are unusually good so far, my hunger is easily satisfied.  No, you needn’t send anything to eat, for it is better not to lunch.  Thanks heaps just the same.

I haven’t bought any slippers yet, so if you would just as soon send to the “National” for the oxfords we were speaking of, I would be pleased.  You had probably better order size 5, so that they’ll be plenty large enough.  When you send the laundry back next week, would you send my white dress and stocking and slippers?  I think I’ll have to wear white at initiation for Y.W. as long as I am president.  Don’t wash or press the dress.  I’ll press it when it gets here and that’s all I’ll wear it this year.

I led Y.W. yesterday.  Stell, Sidnis, Doris Spencer + I sang a quartet “One Sweetly Solemn Thought,” and Mrs. Gardner gave the “Welcome” address.  There was a large crowd and I hope the work will be of benefit to all.  Because of too much other work, Stell resigned her Y.W. Tresureship, so we had to get both a new Tres. + vice pres.  At the meeting for Freshmen girls the other day, about 40 girls signed the Y.W. pledge.  Quite a lot, I think.

Stell’s chum came last night.  Stell hired a car and went to Fond du Lac to meet her, taking Sidnie, Rose Hanlon (our gym teacher) and me along with her.  We had a fine time getting back about 9:45.  We had our supper there.

I went with Rose Joe (that’s what I’ll call Miss Hanlon hereafter) to take her Frosh class on a hike this morning before breakfast.  We went to South Woods.  It was invigorating to get up for a brisk hike before breakfast.  Did I get an appetite?  “You bet!”

I went to a Christian Service Club meeting Tuesday night.  There were a number present and quite a good deal of enthusiasm was shown for this year’s work.

I was elected W.S.G.A (Woman’s Self Gov’t Association) representative from Bartlett yesterday.  Although there isn’t any real work to it, I hated to accept it, for all one makes in that position is a lot enemies.  It is really a court where the cases of unruly girls are brought up and punishments are executed.

Today an Alpha Ceti Alpha (the journalistic sorority I have spoken of) member asked me to be a pledge.  I accepted and will probably be admitted in the spring.  Do you think I did right?  It is a national sorority of high honor.  If you’d rather I wouldn’t join let me know.

I think I’ll go to the lake with the girls.  Sidnie is invited too, and we’re sure to have a wonderful time.  We’ll probably go out tomorrow P.M. and come back Sun. P.M.

I am so anxious to see you!  You’ll just have to come down a week from next Sunday if the trains aren’t on by then.  I’m afraid I hadn’t ought to miss Monday classes so soon, for I have four of them.  But if you can’t come down, I’ll come home anyway.

Hastily with love,

Pearl

Nov. 15, 1922

Dearest Mama,

Your letter just came and as always I was glad to get it.

Hope you enjoyed Study Club yesterday, and I’m glad you carried your mesh bag.  I got it for you to use, and I might not be please if you don’t do it.

The concert last night was marvelous, as I expected it would be.  But really, it was for the most part too classical to be thoroughly enjoyable.

Tonight, Henrietta and Dorothy are giving a spread to which Justine and I are invited.

I’m all rested up after taking an hour’s nap every day.  It makes a world of difference.

Now don’t work too hard cleaning house, because it can just as well be postponed until I can help you.  And you know I really enjoy that kind of work.  By all means let George pound the carpets – it is too heavy work for you, and you might better put up with him than to try to do it yourself.

I hope the week-end is nice, but if it isn’t we’ll have a good time with all the music and reading we can do.  Vespers isn’t until 4 o’clock so we won’t have to hurry back.  Oh yes – if my old girdle is handy; you might send it along in my laundry box.  I happened to think of it yesterday and wondered how it would feel to wear it.  I’m a little tired of round garters.

I don’t suppose I’ll have time to write on Sunday, but I may write a note before we leave for Shiocton.

Your own,

Pearl.

P.S. No, Stuart didn’t have any place to put the apple blossoms, so I didn’t give him any.

Bartlett Hall, Ripon, Wisconsin

Dec. 10. 1922

Dearest Father and Mother,

I should have written oftener but I have been very busy making up work I don’t seem to get things done very fast probably due to the fact that my system isn’t quite back to normal.  I’m sure, now, that I shall have to study all during the Christmas vacation.  I’m not anticipating the task by any means, for it won’t be much like Christmas if I have to have a book in my hand all the time.  I am rather nervous yet.  The least noise makes me jump.  When I am studying and someone comes to the door, I can’t help but jump.  Other trifling incidents have the same effect, but I hope and expect to get over it before so very long.

The girls of Bartlett got up at 4:30 this morning and went all over Ripon singing Christmas carrols [SIC].  I practiced with them and planned on going, but when the time came I decided I had better stay in bed.  The songs sounded very pretty.  Last night Ripon played Stevens Point in basketball but I didn’t go.  Ripon won 6-18.  The Y.W. freshman made about $20 yesterday on the Christmas sale.  I sent the purchases home except a pair of $30 shoetre [SIC] which I may need to give Sidnie for her birthday.

Tonight is the union young people’s meeting which occurs annually at Christmas time.  I’m sure it will be splendid, but I feel that I can’t use the energy to go.  I’ll need it this week in the exams.  I’m studying instead of going.

But, tomorrow night I am going to hear the “Massiah” given by the students and people of the city with four other singers from away.  It is being put on by the school of music, the instructors in which have been training the choruses for two months.  It is sure to be greatly worth seeing, I can’t afford to miss it.

I aunt Celia there?  I imagine she is by this time.

I don’t know yet when I can come home, but I’ll let you hear from me in time.  I know I can’t come before Friday noon, and maybe not then.

Much love,

Pearl.

P.S. Tuesday P.M. Bartlett is giving a Christmas party for ten poor little girls of Ceresco.  They will have a nice supper (obtained from the commons + some ice cream and candy) and will each receive a little gift on the Christmas tree.  Stell is to be Santa.  We’re sure to have lots of fun entertaining them.

Is there anything you want me to buy here to bring home?  Did you get anything at the Baptist bazaar?

 

Letters transcribed by Parissa DJangi and Bryan Schneider

Pearl Dopp Letters, 1923

Thursday A.M. Jan. 4, ‘23

Dearest Mama and Papa,

Yes, I arrived here safely and took the bus to Bartlett according to orders.  Of course, everything was in a “hub bub” during the rush of registration; but, today, classes are meeting again and things are settling down to the usual routine.  I signed up for the same number of hours work that I took at the beginning of last quarter and am confident that I’ll be able to carry them without injury to myself, if, at any time I see that I ought not work so much, I’ll drop a subject.  Prof. Boody promises that I’ll be on the staff if I continue in College Day work.  My “incomplete” in Bible was due to the fact that Prof. Allen neglected to hand my “What Think Ye of Christ” in to Dr. Evans.  It is all fixed up now, but I don’t know what standing I received, it is probably a fairly good one because of my reputation, through the Y.W. presidency, of being a student of religion.

The bill, I believe, I have settled quite satisfactorily.  I am going to pay it by check on Saturday, after which day 6% interest will be charged.  Of course, we don’t want to pay the interest if it isn’t necessary.  The bill won’t come to only about one hundred dollars.  I get $36 back from the Commons and about $10 back from tuition on the subject I dropped.  The bill otherwise would be $141.  Next summer when I take my absentia course, I will have to pay a small sum, but I am farther ahead to take the full refund now and pay the other when the time comes.

I am sleeping much better now, and find that I am not so nervous since I began to take my little pills.  (Possible the improved conditions are due as much to the satisfactory confidence in the medicine as to the real healing qualities of it!)

I have some quite important news that I haven’t yet told you.  Last night, I was called before the Congregational examining committee which asked me a few questions concerning my purpose and reasons for wanting to join the church.  Luckily they didn’t examine my faith because it is a trifle shaky at present.  However, I trust that I shall be mentally at ease on that score by Sunday morning when I am to be baptized and taken into the church together with three others – one a college student.  Do you want to come down for the ceremony?

I’ll send my blue dress Saturday with my laundry.  I have looked it over and have come to the conclusion that it can’t be made the way I wanted it for I fear it wouldn’t be “formal” enough if it were two colors.  The only other thing to do is to have it made the other way like this: (sketch of the dress).  In this case, all we would need of other material would be enough for under one arm.  You might get samples from Johnson + Hill of Silver cloth or of some lacy material or anything else you think appropriate.  I haven’t decided fully yet, whether I shall go or not.  I may find someone to ask out happens that Mr. Gifford, the Englishman I spoke of, is joining the church Sunday too.  If I get to know him well enough sot that I dare ask him, I may do so.  If not, I’ll get someone else to be on Feb, 2.  Should we wait until Feb. 8 to go to Oshkosh or shall we go during the better part of Jan?

The penalty we imposed upon Katherine Dunsmore for coming in the window was loss of all privileges for a month.  That means that she must report to Mrs. Gardner at 7:30 every night.

John (Tutunjian) has accepted a position as laboratory assistant in Biology, so will be here for a time at least.  I haven’t seen him, so I don’t know what his future plans may be.  I just read your card and am relieved to learn that your cold, Papa, is better.

Albert Spalding, a great violinist, is to play tonight at the auditorium for the 3rd number of the Artists Course.  I expect that we shall enjoy him.

I must really close now and being the new year right by studying.  Drab the sociableness [SIC] of some of the girls.  I’d be able to get an education maybe, if I was a hermit on the very tip-top of Mt. Tacoma!

Yours with love,

Pearl.

Jan. 12, ‘23

Dearest folk;

Just a note before supper—

I like the way you are planning my dress. It ought to be very pretty. Be sure to make the waist long, and the skirt not very long because the other girls’ dresses won’t be very long. If it is possible, you might turn it in at the top to save the material. If most of the gathers were the sides of the skirt, it would have more the appearance of and will gather well. What are you going to put under the silver in the waist? Or doesn’t it need any? I am going to take George Burgan, a very bright fellow who does not dance. He was one who went to Yellowstone this summer and came back part way by canoe. He hiked to Wild Rose once with Henry Jones several years ago. I have sent him a formal invitation and have rec’d his acceptance.

I sleep quite well now and am drinking egg nog between meals—I bring it ready made each morning from the commons. A medical missionary, Miss Harriet Davies, of Oshkosh, was here to speak to council the Y.W., and told me to do it by all means. No, the work is not hard for me. I am able to concentrate to quite a great degree, now which enables me to get my lessons in about ½ time.

I’m afraid I can’t come home before we go to Oshkosh, because my “incomplete” must be made up along with my history. I want to come always, but am afraid I can’t now. After I get everything made up I’ll feel like come home every week-end.

I can’t write more now, must hurry to buy silver—{ } before supper and mail it.

Yours lovingly,

Pearl.

 

Thursday, Jan. 18, ‘23

Dearest folkses;

It seems years since I left home after Xmas vacation, but the calendar says it is only two weeks! Two weeks were never before so full of events and yet so slow in progress as those just spent.

It was a year ago this morning that Papa, telephones to me about grandpa’s death, and a year ago tomorrow was the stormy day of his burial.

I am feeling pretty well and am standing the work much better than I feared I would. My College Days incomplete was all made up by yesterday. It is a relief to have a clean slate. However, I have left so many things undone because of that work, that I still have a lot staring me in the face. I sleep pretty well now and don’t get so tired as during the first few days of school. I don’t feel the cold so much either—I guess I’m getting accustomed to the weather. However, I was pleased to get the extra blankets. During the cold weather I’ll need the old ones for covering. Are the blankets you bought for yourself pure wool?

I want to come home so badly, but I’m afraid I can’t do it until after we get back from Oshkosh. I’ll write Dr. Connell right away about an appointment Feb. 10th.

Where did you get the little pencils? I was so surprised and pleased to get them, but you shouldn’t have done it. How much were they, or did they come as the first issue of a $1000 prize? I’ll send one back with my laundry tomorrow. Thank you!

Stell has found that because of a misunderstanding in credit, she can’t graduate in June. Everything seems to be going against her, for the faculty, influenced by the prejudices of her advisor, would not grant her the privilege of making up the work she lost during her sickness. For a while she had her mind made up to leave Ripon and to accept a position in Pa. to teach, but yesterday Prexy talked to her and offered to do all in his power to get her case successfully past the faculty. He appealed to her pride and honor by telling her not to be a quitter, but to stay and live it down. Now, she is considerably staying. Of course, it has all caused me a great deal of worry, because I think as much of Stell’s friendship as that of any other person on the campus and I hated to see her go away.

Donald Christenson’s mother wouldn’t speak to me the other day—probably because I didn’t send the dear boy an Xmas card. Needless to say, I was greatly pleased. However, last Friday night he called up to ask me to do to the show Sat. evening, but I had very urgent business for the evening! If he keeps on, I’ll become a professional liar.

Sunday is vesper service and I have to write it up for the “Days.” I’ll have a lot of things in the next edition. Will send the two last ones in my laundry.

We had quite an interesting Y.W. meeting last night on “Ceresco.” After the meeting we served a lunch which was a surprise to all but the cabinet. I think it affef enough interest to pay for the cost and labor. A series of meetings is arranged for the next 4 weeks with different faculty ladies to speak. You’ll probably read the account in the Days.

In connection with the Bible course. Prexy is going to ask interested ones in his class to come to his home once in a while of an evening to have informal talks about things in the Bible they don’t understand. I’d like to go once in a while if for no other reason than to be near such a splendid character.

Isn’t it glorious that Ripon won over Lawrence in the basket ball game? The score was 18 to 30! It is the first time it has happened for several years and the gym was in an uproar.

You remember Hazel Alexander stayed at Prof. Groves’ this year instead of a dorm. She has been having trouble with him and has moved to Bartlett. He is beginning to look to me like a regular old scoundrel—he was so mean to Alex and it was through his influence that the faculty was unreasonable with Stell. He has a grudge against her because she quit his job as assistant biology teacher. I’ll tell you what I think of him when I see you. I’m invited to a spread in Hazel Alexander’s room tonight—my first this year. I’m so glad she’s back, for she’s a peach of a friend and helps me in Latin when I need it.

I have had two nice letters from Mary since Xmas. I must answer them. She isn’t at all well and doesn’t plan on coming to school until next fall.

I resigned my S. sec. and treas. It’s a relief not to be on the house council to get the kicks of the wayward.

Agnes H. said in a letter that she knows about Carl F. through a friend of hers from a Park Falls. Carl is still there, but for some reason he didn’t make a good in selling aluminum and is now driving logs on the river and is seeing a good deal of hard life. I feel so sorry for him. I suppose he doesn’t feel fit to write to Mary. Don’t let her know about it. If I can think of something that will help him, I’ll write a few words of encouragement sometime.

I had a nice long letter from Frona last week. She is teaching at Hartford in the high school and pleads that she is as much a friend as ever even though she has been too busy to let me hear from her. She also shyly mentioned the fact that she is wearing a diamond on her engagement finger. I don’t know her fiancé, but from hearing her mention him once or twice last year, I judge he is a steady, plodding farmer with not much education but fine morals. I hope she’ll be happy in her decision between matrimony and foreign service.

I had a “thank you” letter from Nina. She and the better halves are usually well and happy.

Mr. Allen is giving me some fine marks and criticisms lately on my composition. I’ll send home some of the papers and you can return them at your leisure together with “Me and My Cyst.”

Did I tell you that “Jian” is assistant in Biology here? He is busy and I never see him except to exchange a “Hello!—Nice day.”

I am actually getting somewhat interested in history—the first time  in the history ofme! Latin isn’t half bad. Shakespeare is rather a bore under Prof. Boody, but I learn quite a little about it, and I’m crazy about Comp. We’re going to have to write some poetry this quarter. I pity those who never before tried to make rhymes.

How is everything at home? Do you hear from L.A. Jones? Are Lelah and Knights yet married? It seems as though I’ve been away long enough to have the whole village rebuilt with a park and auditorium and everything else that we need most.

I must close now and get ready for supper.

Love from the depths,

Yours,

Pearl

P.S. Mama, have you a good pair of silk hose I can wear to the formal? They ought to be quite fine. My ribbed ones are more for sport than formal wear.

I wonder if those little flowers that Elsie gave me would be pretty on the shoulders and corner of bottom of waist, or aren’t the blues a good match? If they match, it would be a good chance to wear them. They are in my cedar chest.

Bartlett Thur. P.M., Feb. 15, ‘23

Dearest folks;

I don’t know when this letter will reach you, for the roads a bound with snow, but I’m writing it that you may hear from me as soon as possible.

I got my pictures Tuesday. There were only three folders—he thought I had only ordered that many—and I have given Jo and Stell each one and am sending the other to you. They are quite good pictures, aren’t they? They will be all gone when I send Ignaty and Ethel Gay each one. (They gave me theirs last year with the understanding that I should return the complement with one of mine. I sent one in a letter to Mary because I thought she might be pleased while she is sick—and the picture was just as cheap as anything else I could do for her. Besides those, I have given to Hazel Alen, Mildred, Martha Groffman, Ruth Davies, Sidnie, and Marg Dahlke (an exchange). I expect pictures from Martha and Mildred too. The entire bill was $3.00.

I am wondering if you are snow bound there, too. I hope not.

It is Lent and I am keeping it this year. My resolutions are not to eat any candy or Eskimo pies, not to dance, and not to go to any shows ( I never do anyway). I have kept it thus far—2 days.

Jo has been sick this week with indigestion.

How do you like our new dresses, Pap? “Ain’t they cute!”

What is Gladys’ address? I got a valentine from her, but couldn’t remember her street and number for the one I got for her.

We have a holiday next Thursday—Washington’s birthday—Whee!! Goodee!

Everything has settled down fairly well, now, and I hope it continues thus. Stell’s friend, John Krolevek spoke to her very nicely the other day. It must be that she was mistaken or else he changed his attitude suddenly.

What do you hear from Mary? Ethel Gay has been in the hospital with “pneumonia” for sometime. She wasn’t expected to live, but is a little better now, I guess.

• –  –  –  –  –  –  –  –  –  –  –  –  –

 

I just got from supper and was so pleased to find a letter from home. I hope the roads are beginning to be passable by this time, that the snow in the drive way and yard isn’t near so deep or so hard as you feared. I must get this note mailed right away so that you’ll get it as soon as possible. I’m glad you called up Sunday morning, for the snow storm made other communication impossible for such a long time. The ice storm was about a year ago at this time. – I believe on the 28 of Feb.

I am feeling fine now. Have rested up and risen partially to the top of my mountain of work. No, I haven’t any intentions of quitting school in this stage of the game. The Y.W. girls are acting quite natural again. Wednesday in the blizzard there were quite a few out. That’s doing pretty well isn’t it?

I’m going to study good and hard over the weekend and try to get on top of my work instead of letting it get on top of me.

We haven’t been having Chapel since Tuesday because we couldn’t get there.

This is rather a disconnected epistle, I fear; but I’m in a hurry for there’s lots of work to do.

Lovingly,

Pearl.

P.S. I skipped classes Wed. P.M. for I didn’t like to “weather the blast.” However, I made good use of my time doing outside reading for History.

 

Bartlett, Ripon, Wis.
Friday eve. Feb. 16, 1923

Dearest Mom and Pap;

I’m just writing a little note again to say that I’m feeling fine and am sending my laundry.

I received my clothes today and the dainty donation of “goodies.” Now I won’t have to get up for breakfast Sunday morning. I think I shall tomorrow morning though for I have a lot of work to do. Thank you so much for sending me the eats, but you mustn’t do it so often. I gave Stell and Jo each cookie. Stell isn’t feeling very well, and Jo is still sick in bed. There are six “B” girls quite ill. Aren’t I lucky to stay so well through everything. There seems to be an epidemic of colds and grippes going through the dormitories; however, the sick ones aren’t seriously ill.

I feel so good tonight! Sylvia Rhiner, my ex cabinet member, has been here and we have come to a general understanding. She is coming back into the cabinet and everything will be running smoothly once more. At the W.S.G.A. meeting that memorable night, I suggested that Sylvia (a W.S.G.A. member) not be allowed to vote. She was offended because she thought I distrusted her. Dean Kingsland found out the difficulty and told me. I asked Sylvia over and everything’s all O.K. now.

You’d better not try to send my dress and hat. I’ll get them when I come home. I’m so pleased to think that my new hat is all done. I wonder what you found to make it of. Does it match my dress? and suit? I’m anxious to see it.

I think I’ll come home next week. Do you think I’d better? There are only four weeks of this quarter left. I’ll see you both before very long any way.

Love,

Pearl.

Bartlett Hall
Ripon, Wis.
Mon. Feb. 25, 1923

Dearest folks,

I’m up! and I think I’ll start going to classes today. I’m feeling pretty well now except for being rather weak. That will be conquered in time, though.

What do you suppose!? Yesterday, Mrs. Boody (prof. Boody’s wife) and Mrs. Inghram (the Congo. minister’s wife) brought me a delicious chicken dinner consisting of chicken, mashed potatoes, string beans, head lettuce, creamed onions, bread and butter, and fruit salad! It certainly tasted good. Just the fact that it was served on dainty china dishes was a great help to my appetite. The two nights before, Mrs. Inghram had sent me home made soup.—one night, cream of celery soup, and the next night, oyster stew and some bread and butter for toast and an egg to cook for breakfast. Haven’t they been lovely to me?

I’ve missed so much school, and, have gotten so far behind that I’m afraid I won’t be able to come home this week again. I’ll have to content myself until two weeks from Friday when I can come home for 10 days. I’m so sorry that I can’t come. I’d like to see your hyacinth in bloom.

Stell is quite ill again with a bad case of neuritis in her right arm. Jo is busy taking care of her. Sidnie has been a fine little nurse for me, and when she wasn’t here, the other girls have run in and out to keep me company.

I hope you’re well. Is the snow fairly well melted away after the nice “thaw?”

Elizabeth C. stayed in our room over the weekend. When Henry said she was coming, we didn’t hardly know how we could manage it, but now I’m glad she came, for she made herself at home, was very little trouble, and really helped do quite a lot of things. Of course, Henry took her to meals. As I understand it, he and his girl in Ripon have “busted up,” and so I imagine he imported E.C. just to show Mildred Bard she wasn’t the only pebble on the beach.

I must close now with oceans of love to you both.

Pearl

Tuesday P.M. 2/27/23

College Library.

Dearest Mom and Pap;

Although I had been doing quite a little worrying because I didn’t hear from home, I was quite shocked at the news that you, Papa, were ill. I was afraid something was wrong, because I hadn’t heard anything since Tuesday, but I had kept hoping that you were both well. I’m so, so, so sorry that you have been sick! Would you like to have me move home over the weekend to give you a little rest mamma, and to tell stories to our sick little daddy? Although I have some make up work to do, I’d be glad to let that go if I can be of any help at home. Let me know exactly how papa is, and tell me whether or not to come home.

I am feeling pretty well now, although a little weak and “pepless.” I’ll be as good as ever in a day or two. I had a 102° temperature the first night, but after that I did remarkably well and managed to get back to school yesterday, and to go to the Y.W.C.A. “Stunt Nite” last night. It went off very well, and we made about $40.00 clear, I think.

I was quite relieved to know that you telephoned Sidnie that Pop was much better. I’m sure he’ll be better after this than he has been for some time. IF he minds dear, sensible Dr. Fisher and our two less authoritative but extremely practical heads about cutting out the tobacco. See, Pop, now we have you under our thumb. While you’re down, if you don’t solemnly promise to cut smoking exactly in two, I’ll come right home and use the horse whip on you. I’ll use it, too, and not just talk about it as you have always done. BEWARE !!!!!

I mustn’t write any more, now, because I am due at cabinet meeting.

Lovingly your own,

Pearl.

Bartlett, Ripon, Wis.
Mar. 10, 1923

Dearest Mama and Papa.,

There is a little lull between leaps this morning, so will dash off a few lines to you. Am so sorry that I haven’t had time to write more often lately. I’m so anxious to get home that I can hardly wait for the time to come. I think I’ll be able to get home Friday noon. Don’t have anyone meet the train for I can just as well walk out as not.

I wish I could get home before I realize that you, Mamma, must be awfully tired; and, Papa, I imagine, you are quite nervous if you aren’t very strong yet. But, control your nerves the very best you can for you’ll get well that much quicker if you do. I hope you’ll soon be feeling fine. I’m sure you’ll both be less nervous after G. is gone. He’s enough to drive any one wild, even though he is well meaning. I’m so anxious to come home to be of some little help to you.

The play last night was splendid! I had seen it before. Do you remember once a show company gave “The Passing of the Third Floor Book”? It was the story of the change in character of the people living in a boarding house after a Christ-like man came among them. Jack Davies was the Christlike wanderer. I’m quite sure you saw it when it was given at home. I know I did.

I didn’t tell you all about the Spanish club program did I? I had been asked to play my guitar behind the scenes for a serenade while the man who sang it made believe he was playing one he carried. I went over to practice the afternoon of the night of the production. The curtains were drawn and a lovely window was inserted at which the Spanish maiden was to appear, Mr. Gifford who was to sing the serenade was taken sick about 5:30 and they thought they would have to drop that whole scene until someone suggested that I step into Mr. Gifford’s Spanish costume and do it all myself. I consented, but was a little “shakey” about doing it without rehearsals; however the scene went off beautifully. The whole theater was dark save for a light shining thru the window, I sneaked out and looked up and down the street then up at the window to see my lady love. I began to play on the guitar and she sang a perfectly beautiful Spanish song. She threw a rose to me at the end of her song, which I picked up and kissed passionately. She disappeared and I thought I heard someone coming down the street so slipped silently away. All was done in a very dramatic manner. Then, there was a cabaree scene in which I took Mr. Gifford’s part, drinking and clapping at the Spanish dances etc. It was all quite simple, but I wish I could have practiced it before.

One night some of the girls down stairs ordered some orange “sherbet” and I got to come with them and had a little spread that night for all the 2nd floor girls who had been so kind in bringing my meals to me when I was sick. We had wafers and “sherbet” and sang and joked during an enjoyable hour. Now, you see, I won’t have to have any more spreads. This one cost me about 80 cents.

I’m so glad to hear that Mrs. Altoe is a little better. I have heard Nordie has sleeping sickness, and am pretty sure it is true. We feel dreadfully about it, for she was once of the very finest girls in college last year. That disease is nearly always fatal. What do you hear of Mary? Is she still in Waupaca?

Mom, have you ordered the little built syringe that we couldn’t get here? There’s no hurry, but I thought perhaps you had forgotten it.

A very successful debating season is just over. The teams have been debating whether or not the U.S. should join the league of nations. And at the last one, with St. Olaf, who do you suppose was one of the judges?! Mr. Buzzervity! I went up to him afterward and he came forward to shake hand recognizing me as the little girl who used to have long yellow curls and the name of Pearl Pierce. Isn’t it remarkable that he remembered me! He looks just about the same as when he was in W. R.

The letter you sent this morn. was from Evelyn Anderson. She is still in Evanston although in a different home. I gathered from the letter that she is taking care of a little girl and doing kitchen work. She says she has been unusually well this winter with hardly a cold, and that she is quite fat.

I had another letter from Frona a while ago. She wrote to invite me to stay with her (if I was in the Glee Club) when the club came to Hartford. It would have been a fine opportunity to see her again.

Stell and Jo are still ill. They won’t be coming home with me Friday. There is a possibility that they can come for a day or 2 just before school starts, but it is very doubtful. I hope they won’t try it, for we are sure to be quite busy; and when we aren’t working, you should rest.

I must close now, but I may write a few lines later as this won’t go out until night anyway.

I love you,

Pearl.

Bartlett

April 1, 1923

Dearest Mom + Pap,

There are a few minutes in which to write before going to C.E.

I hope you have had a very, very happy Easter.  I have had quite a busy one, got up at 6 o’clock this morn. to go to the C.E. sunrise service + came home and rested until 10 when I went to S.S. + church.  This P.M. had been very quiet, Marion Conkle and I have been a little walk, after supper and are going to the union young peoples’ service tonight.

I am wondering how thing came out yesterday.  I was glad to hear that their program was illegal, and certainly hope things turned out right.  Did Mrs. Patterson find her umbrella?  Do you like your blouse, Mom?  If you don’t – send it back.

The next number of artists’ course is to be given Tuesday night and what do you spose?  I’ve got a beau for the grand occasion.  I was simply dumfounded when Stewart Moffit (you know his people) called me up the other day and asked me to go with him.  He has the reputation of being a splendid fellow, but I scarcely know him at all.

I went to a spread in Klara Dahlke’s room last night and one in Still’s room Thur. night.  Had lots of fun, playing, singing + joking.  Joe is feeling almost like herself again and Stell is quite well.

I’m feeling quite well again.  Had another lesson in make-up Latin yesterday and will have one next Saturday too.  In a few weeks everything will be all made up and I’ll have a clear slate.  It will be such a relief!  Such a burden was taken away when my history done!

I got a lovely picture of Evelyn Anderson the other day.  She looks quite different – is more aristocratic in appearance.  Her cheeks are quite fat.  I’ll bring the picture home the first time I come.

I have to talk in Latin club Thur. night on Virgil’s influence on art.  Sunday night, I have to lead C.E., I’m planning on being busy; you see.

It’s time to go, so must close.

Always your own,

Pearl

Bartlett

Sunday P.M., April 22, 1923

Dearest Moms + Paps,

It will soon be time for Vespers, but I’ll at least start at letter home.  I just got through writing letters to Mary, Gladys and Carl.  I’m so behind on my correspondence!  I’m must try to get time soon to write to Nordie, at least.  Perhaps I can before supper.

Tonight, the Men’s Glee Club gives its sacred concert in the Congregational church.  I’m looking forward to it very much.  It is free, but a silver offering will be taken.  Mr. O’Brian, the famous baritone, who traveled with the club has returned on his own expense to sing tonight.  The audience last Tuesday night was thrilled with his beautiful solos, but when he sang in chapel Wednesday morning, every student simply went wild with applause.  How I wish you could have heard him!

But you just must come to the last number of the lecture course on May 1, and to the commencement play in June.  You’ll let me know about the concert as soon as you can won’t you, so that I can secure some good seats.

I had a splendid time at the Congo social Wednesday night.  Marian Conkle and I were the only college girls there, but everyone was so nice and there were so many cleaver students played that we passed a very enjoyable evening.  I like to get out to places like that where I can meet the nice town people.  We had good enough time to repay us for missing the Y.M. Stunt nite which they say was unusually good.

We had a splendid Christian Service club meeting Thursday night.  It was the first of a series of weekly meeting on different topics under religious education.  We’re going to take up the Americanization problems of Indians, Negroes, Japs, and Ellis Islanders.  Did you know that there are religious week days schools throughout the U.S. under the supervision of religious education?  In Ripon, schools close every Thur. P.M. and all the children go to their own church for religious instruction and moral training.

I’m so glad you got a pretty new hat!  Now remember, you were going to get a nice evening wrap for this year something I can wear next year, won’t you?  I want you to by all means, I’m glad, too, that you found such an attractive and easy way to remedy your blue dress.

I don’t need to have my red hat reblocked for this summer – I’ll wait until next.  My old blue hat is prettier this way than it could be any other way.  I’m all fixed up in everything I need for the summer.  It’s foolish to get a hat for the use of only two or three Sundays.

After the concert.  This P.M., Stell was taken ill and I, on the spur of the moment took her place in a duet she was to sing at the B.Y.P.U. tonight.  Sidnie + I sang the duet and stayed at the church to supper.  Had a lovely time.  Went to the concert of sacred songs which was as impressive as any sermon I can imagine.  Mr. O’Brian sang some beautiful solos.  The Glee Club is giving him a “smoker” tonight and we rather expect a screnade [SIC] about half past one or two o’clock.

So long as you are running the car, I’ll probably not come home until Friday night, for I hate to miss my classes because it’s so hard to make them up.  If you want to, we’ll paper on Saturday.  I’d be glad to help.

Dean Sparell of Harvard University is to be here tomorrow and will talk to the students of Christian Life Service.

Tomorrow night is also Club Meeting night.  Our rooms are so cute! Imagine this week will be as busy as last in getting things ready to come home.  I hadn’t ought to go to church for a year – I’ve been 6 times today – Catholic, Congo, Vespers, B.Y.P.U., C.E., and Concert.

Lovingly yours

Pearl.

Apr. 23 ‘23

Dearest folks,

In Shakespeare class, Mr. Boody is having a very good time reading to us, so I’m going to make use of his diversion to write you a little note.

Sidnie is better and is going to classes now. Her father is in town today. I saw him a moment. Tonight is the Prom and many are getting ready for the great event. I can’t decide whether to stay at home and study or to go to the movie with the girls to see Jackie Coogan in “Trouble.” It is a fine picture, but I want to go outside reading for history this weekend. I think I’ll read a book a write a resume as I did for my make-up work. It is easier than outlining individual lessons.

I’m glad you found my stockings. I really needed them.

I’m wondering how Mrs. A. P. is getting along. If she doesn’t get well, let me know and I’ll come home. Perhaps I can get off to come home next week anyway. I want to.

There’s a meeting this P.M. of all interested in taking parts in the commencement play. I think I shall go, altho there is really no chance of my getting in.

The concert of Irene Pavloska and Lyle Barber was splendid! Miss Pavloska has a charming personality, making her lovely voice all the more effective. Lyle Barber, the pianist, has marvelous skill in his “technique.” Mr. Moffitt (guess that’s the way to spell it) was very nice to me. He took me to hear the girls’ Glee Club Wed. evening and I am going with him to the men’s glee club concert next Tue. night. Don’t get excited. Although he is a fine young man, I’d really enjoy myself with the girls from B. I’m saving you some cash, Dad! Ha!

You needn’t send me the Vancouver papers. I’ll read them when I come home.

I hope you’ll soon be able to run the car. The snow is nearly all gone here, so I imagine you can get through soon.

The magazines I sent, you might return as soon as you are through with them. We’re not supposed to send them away, I guess, but they’ll never know the diff., for they aren’t due for quite a while yet. I hope you find some interesting material in them.

Did Mrs. Patterson ever find her umbrella? How is Mary R? I must try to get time to write to her soon.

I have been most awfully busy since Sidnie has been sick, making little walks out to Graham’s dayly to get her meals.

Last night we all wore our ratine dresses to supper for the first time and today it is cold and disagreeable. Wonder if that was a cause.

It seems so good to have all my work made up. I don’t know what it will cost yet, but that will be settled before long.

I must close now or you won’t get this until tomorrow. Am sending a cucumber with my laundry, I brought it up to town thinking there weren’t any in W. R. yet.

Rec’d the magazines O.K. Thanks for the eats.

Love always,

Pearl.

 

Monday P.M. May 7, ‘23

Dearest Moms and Pops;

I planned on writing yesterday, but was kept so busy that I failed to do so.

I have begun my sweater and have about 2/3 of one side done. Two balls are nearly gone, so I’m afraid I’ll have to have more, but you’d better wait ‘till I see. It is fascinating work and it doesn’t take much of my time outside of class. Yes, I received the dress and it fits fine and I like it. I wore my silk dress and new cape and graduation hat yesterday. The girls are crazy about the cape. Do you like my new slippers? The stockings go with them very well. Are they the 90 cent pair at the Mercantile? I’m sending to Johnson and Hill for samples of sport skirting. My sweater will be awfully pretty. All of the girls have a knitting craze, so I’m right in style.

I studied all day Saturday and finished writing my speech for the C.E. Convention which is to be May 21, 22, and 23 in Rosendale. I’m to speak on Sunday as I supposed.

Saturday night some of us dressed up in the old clothes left here for the Student Fellowship campaign which the Y.W. is carrying on, and we had heaps of fun. Ruth Davis and I were dressed as men and hid in Stell’s closet until she came home from the show and found us there. She said her heart missed several beats.

I rested yesterday morning until time for Sunday school. After dinner Marian Conkle and I washed our hair and made fudge. Perhaps you wouldn’t call it fudge for we didn’t have any cream or milk or butter or flavoring. It consisted on sugar, cocoa and waterand a few nuts I happened to have. However, it was some of the best tasting candy I have ever eaten.

Last night I went to C.E. and I am the only nominee for president for next year. I refused to take it for a while, but the whole bunch looked at me as though I was a quitter, so finally I accepted. Now, don’t go up Papa, for it isn’t one tenth as much work a Y.W.C.A. was this year.

I had a lovely long talk with Mr. Tutunjian after C.E. He is so thoroughly fine that I feel like a nonentity beside him. He isn’t coming back next year, but he already has several fine positions offered him. It seemed so good to talk to him again—it was the first one we have had this year.

Now here comes the important part of the whole letter. Can’t you come down next Sunday for mother’s Day? I want you to so badly! I think Mitcheal’s glen is still open although Mrs. Mitcheal died last Saturday. If we find that it isn’t open, we can have a good time somewhere else—in South Woods, Arcade Bluff, or Green Lake (which is only a little way from the glen. We can go to the commons for dinner. All of Barlett is to be at one long table to honor “mother Gardner” and Mrs. Kingsland. My mother and father would be very welcome, too.

Yours ‘till Sunday and ever after,

Pearl.

Sunday, May 13, 1923

Dearest folks,

I just came up from talking to you on the phone. Maybe it was extravagance but it was worth it. I just had to call on mother’s day.

The services were quite nice this morning, but the sermon wasn’t especially good. The music was sung by Edna Gindars with violin, piano and pipe organ accompaniment. It was lovely.

I’m going to a concert in the German church this afternoon sung by a great German lady—I can’t remember her name, but if I get a program I’ll send it home for you to look at. I’m enclosing a convention program. You needn’t return it, for I have another one.

The dinner tonight was very nice. All of Bartlett sat at one long table with Mrs. Kingsland and Mrs. Gardner at each end. The menu was mashed potatoes and gravy, roast pork, corn, individual salads of pineapple and peaches with whipped cream, bread and butter of course, and ice cream and cookies. Everything went off fine except that you weren’t there.

I am going to have another very heavy week. Tomorrow night there is practice for a little Latin Club play in which I have a small part. Tuesday is cabinet meeting and in the evening Christian Service Club for an hour. Wednesday after school is Y.W. meeting as usual but installation of officers in addition. Wednesday evening, we have the advanced composition class which we were unable to have Friday because of Mr. Allen’s absence. Thursday morning, I have to teach Prexy’s Bible class on the relation of science and religion as given in Genesis. Imagine me teaching the relation of the Bible to evolution! Friday there is the church picnic for Congregational students at the stone “quarry” for supper. I’ll come home and get ready for the “informal.” Jo Morris is going with me, because Stuart Moffat doesn’t dance. You have probably heard me speak of Jo—he was C.E. president last year and was at the convention in Oshkosh etc. He’s a very fine young man.

Then on Saturday comes the climax of the week. Mr. Allen is taking his journalism and advanced composition classes for an all day’s picnic to the “Old Distillery,” an old ruin used to make liquor before the Civil War. They say it is a lovely trip.

I had a very nice time yesterday afternoon. The girls at our table at the commons went out to South Woods to a supper on top of a high bluff whose perpendicular face goes down into a canyon. The woods are beautiful at this time of year, and we found so many flowers that it was the work of only a few minutes to pick all we could carry home. It seemed so good to get back to nature for ever so short a time! Although I was tired physically when I reached Bartlett again, my mind was blissfully rested. I slept from ten last night until about 9:30 this morning, and feel fine today.

Stell went to Chicago over Friday and Saturday to meet the superintendent of a high school where she may teaches in Nile, Michigan. She is pretty sure of a job at at least $1500 a year and work she likes very much.

Mr. Moffat has asked me to go with him to the Math Club picnic at Green Lake on Decoration Day. Donald Christenson had already asked me but I had put off my answer. I don’t know yet what explanation to make of him, but I don’t want to go with him. I want to go to the picnic, though, for it will be in a beautiful spot and several of the other girls from the hall have been invited.

Let me know how Carl gets along. Did Mrs. Patterson ever find her umbrella? I always forget to ask when I’m home.

After tonight, I’m president of the C.E., but it won’t take much of my time.

Your own,

Pearl.

I love you so much!

Thursday evening

[after May 21, 1923]

Dearest folks,

Hallelujah!!! My sweater is all done—in fact, I am wearing it at this very minute! It’s so cute! I have elbow length sleaves [sic] for the present, but I may make them longer later. I have scoured the stores for gray skirting but have found none that is a good match for the rose in the sweater. Even the Boston store and Gimbles failed to send satisfactory samples. But Coco Trautman has a pretty skirt and is sending to her home in Sheboygan for some cloth. It will probably be here by the first of the week and Iwant to make it myself. The sweater will be just the thing for the house party even though I haven’t a gray skirt, for I have taken the black velvet off my pink gingham and have run it around the neck and sleaves [sic], to match my black skirt.

I had my mind all made up to buy some twede [sic] knickers for $3.75, but went down and found that there wasn’t any my size. But I won’t need them anyway for it is to be a dressy affair. I told you that it was to be at the spring group hotel didn’t I? I don’t see how some of the fellows can afford it, for it is costing each one $3.50 a day, besides the incidentals. We’re going out tomorrow after school and will get back probably Sunday evening.

I have to teach Bible Tuesday and Thur. next week, but I’ll have lots of time to study for it at the lake. Maybe Jian can give me some suggestions, he is such a student of the Bible.

I’m planning on writing a one-act play in blank verse while I’m out there, too. That will be for advanced comp. I have the plot all figured out and approved by Mr. Allen.

Speaking of picnics, reminds me that the Math Club outing is to be an excursion all around the lake. We’re going out at two in the afternoon, so I’ll have the morning to study if I need to do so.

The convention was very interesting and I met several very fine people. Many of them seemed to like my talk, especially was I distinguished as being the only lady speaker. ahem! [sic]  I’m sending my talk.

I went to a C.T.G. picnic supper tonight. We had a very nice time. It is our last meeting of the year. I don’t care to live a “picnic” life all the time. It’s a good thing I have work to do, for all play and no work is as tiresome as all work and no play. The novelty wears off after a while. But I’ll never be in college but once.

Dr. Mutch is entertaining the Christian Service Club at his home to supper next Monday evening. You remember, he did it last year too. After the supper, we give out Latin Club play “The Roman Wedding.” The same night is out B. club meeting and I’m to help with the program. Too bad I can’t be in two places at once.

I think Sidnie is coming home this week. Wish I could be there. I imagine everything is perfectly beautiful there. I’ll be there for good on the 14th of June. Commencement comes before the examinations. Don’t forget that you’ve just got to come down for the class play. It’s sure to be good, and will probably be our last chance to see Jack Davies and Meta Bohman, the renounced stars who are graduating this year. As soon as the date is known, I’ll let you know. Don’t plan to drive down and back the same day, but stay a while so we can go to come of the lovely picnic grounds around here. I’m getting acquainted with most of them. Maybe we can go to Green Lake.

The $5.31 check to the Express Co., is for sending the old clothes to the Near East. I’ll be getting that back. The $7.00 was to go toward my $3.75 knickers. Now, my pocket book is full of money. Have you got your thin dress yet, Mama? If you haven’t, I wish you would, and if you haven’t enough time, have Mrs. Sage help you make it.

Here is some awful news: Mr. Graham won’t be here next year, for he is going to be at the “U” on leave of absence getting his Dr’s degree. That means that I’ll have to take “education” under someone else, and I’ve just been living in wait for a chance to be in his class.

I know I’ll have a good time on the house party, especially so long as Marian is going. She is such a splendid girl! She’s going on the Math club excursion too. I’m saving a whole dollar these [sic] week-end in rebate! How I wish you could be here with me! I don’t feel right about taking all of the good times myself while you are shut off in W.R., away from everything worth while. I hope we can all go one [sic] the little trips we planned for the summer. It doesn’t pay for you to dig all the time. Personally, I don’t want to go a single place unless you are along. I’m so glad I won’t have to study absentia this summer! We’ll have all the more time together. I have paid for the course, and it came to thirty some dollars.

I don’t think Evelyn will be coming, for I haven’t heard a word from her. I would have wired her, but her plans were to visit at relatives and so forth on her way home for a week or more, so I don’t know where to reach her. If she comes, it will be unfortunate, but I’m sure she’ll understand, for I can have the chance to see her a great deal during the summer so long as she is planning on staying at home, and this is probably the last chance I’ll ever have to see Mr. Tutunjian.

I must close now, for there are quite a lot of things to do yet before I go to bed. If there is any chance to get a letter out while at the lake, I’ll write you from there. I’ll write my Sunday letter anyway.

Nighty-night dearest moms and pops.

Pearl.

xxxxxx (three a piece and oceans more)

My poem, “Home” was published in the “Days” in the Mother’s Day issue, and was well liked.

The bloomers are Marian’s. I borrowed them for the informal. She borrows my black dress quite often, so it’s O.K.

May 22, ‘23

Dearest folks,

I received your two letters this morning and am hurrying to answer them.

Do not think that it isn’t perfectly proper to go on a mixed house party. All of the clubs have them and some of the very nicest girls in Bartlett are going—especially Marian Conkle, the minister’s daughter of whom I was telling you. As far as Stuart is concerned—I wouldn’t hesitate because of him because if he had wanted me to go with him he should have asked me sooner. He probably isn’t going at all. Besides, I don’t want to go with anyone steadily, I’d rather change off. That doesn’t mean that I have too many “on the string” as you suggested—in fact, I’m not the least interested in fishing, but if any nice fish happen to get into my line by mistake, I gently pick them off and put them back into the water again. Ha!

Please don’t worry about my getting to think too much of Jian. I could never consider him in any light but that of a fine fellow, nor does he have any other thought of me. He is certainly the one foreigner who is the exception that makes the rule. He had chosen me for a friend because he thinks I am less frivolous than the average American girl and because I am interested in the experiences he tells me of. He is far removed from the emotional type of alien. I know him so very well that I am quite capable of judging. His least serious thought is that of girls. I’ll probably be with Marian and the others most of the time, and yet I don’t feel as if I can afford to lose the opportunity of spending a couple of days in the influence of such as fine and unusual character as Mr. Tutunjian. It will probably be the last visit we’ll ever have for there isn’t time for anything during the rush of the last three weeks of school. You know I’m not the kind of a girl to “fall” for every man I see—I have too much of my mom’s and pop’s common sense for that.

I haven’t heard a word from Evelyn since I gave her the invitation a couple of weeks ago. I don’t believe she can be planning on coming, but I’m going to write again to find out.

Thank you for the beautiful apple blossoms and flowering current. I imagine everything is lovely at home now. How I wish I were there! But I probably can be next week end. Thanks just heaps for the doughnuts too. They tasted so good. But, you just mustn’t bother to send me things to eat. I get a plenty and am feeling unusually well for spring. I’m so sorry about my laundry! It rained so hard Saturday that Sidnie couldn’t get the card mailed telling you that it wouldn’t come and not to wait for it. I simply didn’t have a minute to send it in, but I’m awfully sorry that it made you so much trouble!

I’m going to Rosendale tonight. Rev. Ingram is taking me and some of the other Bartlett girls too. I’ll probably meet a lot of fine young people. I certainly plan on staying at home all summer except when we all go together. Perhaps we can all be at the lake during the conference. I don’t care about going only as it will make my C.E. work easier and more successful. I want to stick close to my mom and pop all summer long.

I’m sending Aunt Mary and Mrs. Holt both a “Scribbler.”

Your loving,

Pearl.

P.S. Stell said when I told her that I was going, “I don’t know of another man on the campus that I’d rather have you go on that house part with” If you would rather I wouldn’t go, however just say so and I’ll be glad to give it up.

I’ll send my speech home after tonight. I’m not committing it to memory—just getting the general idea.

 

May 1923

[after 23rd]

Mon. morning

Dearest, dearest folks,

We all came back from the house party last night at seven after having the best time imaginable. The weather was incomparable. Most of the time, the water was so smooth as glass, and I never saw more beautiful sunsets.

The whole crowd was so congenial! There wasn’t a single person to mar the enjoyment. Mr. Tutunjian said that in his first and last experience of the kind in America, he was going to have a good time. He seemed to enjoy every minute of it. I’m glad he went for everyone present learned to know him better and so to admire him more. He proved himself a perfect gentleman.

There was something doing every minute. Friday evening, two boat loads of us went out on the lake and sang for a couple of hours. I took my guitar.

Saturday morning, Marian and Lynn Jones and Jian and I took a small motor boat and went to a sandstone camp a most beautiful spot on the lake, from there to the Lawson estate, then to Sherwood Forest Hotel and home. In the afternoon we sat in the parlors and read aloud and later hiked to the Bible Institute to look it over. In the evening we all sat in the par. and sang again.

Sunday morning, Dr. Groves (who was one of the chaperones was nicer than I imagined he could be) took Marian and Lynn, Dr. Groves’ mother-in-law (another splendid chaperone) and Jian and I to Mitchaell’s Glen in his car. We took a lot of pictures there and got back to the hotel in time for dinner. In the afternoon we had a little impromptu program before the whole crowd. Burl Miller sand several solos, Jian sang an Armenian and a Turkish song, and another fellow did some slight-of-hand tricks. After that we all went on a big lake launch, similar to those at Chain’s Lakes and took an excursion around the lake. When we got back, we walked to see a fox farm at a little distance, came back to supper and autoed back to Ripon.

I’m not nearly so tired as I expected to be. I guess it did me good to get away from all the thoughts of study for a while.

Evelyn didn’t come. I haven’t heard from her yet.

Tonight there are four club meetings—I haven’t decided which I shall go to yet.

I must close now and get my lessons. This is rather a short letter but I wanted to let you know right away what a nice time I had.

Don’t forget to plan on the class play. I’ll let you know when it is.

Love,

Pearl.

Bartlett, Ripon, Wis.

Sept. 20, 1923

Dearest folks,

Things are fairly well settled now and I shall take a few minutes to write you about them.

Instead of psychology, I am taking Survey of English literature, because psychology education, philosophy and religion are all quite theoretical and poorly rounded. However I have been retained the last three for the present at least. In addition I decided to take Spanish instead of French, which I am confident will be quite interesting. The total is seventeen hours. I may do a little changing about with something like economics for education because my program is quite inconvenient as you can see by looking over this diagram—but I’m not decided yet.

Hr.	Mon.	Tue.	Wed.	Thur.	Fri.	Sat.
8:00		Religion		Religion
9:00		Spanish	Spanish	Spanish	Spanish
10:20		Education	Education	Education	Education
11:20		Philosophy	Philosophy	Philosophy	Philosophy
12:20		Noon
1:15
2:15	Psychology		Psychology		Psychology
3:15	Eng. Survey		Eng. Survey		Eng. Survey

I have been very busy, as is usual at the beginning of school. There was a meeting of my C.E. cabinet yesterday P.M. with Rev. Inghram (He and I had met the night before to talk things over.) and I hope my plans can be carried out successfully. After the C.E. gets well started it can almost “run itself.”

I haven’t bought an umbrella yet, but may before long. I haven’t had time to work on your luncheon set yet, Mom, and fear it won’t be done by your birthday—which by the way, comes on the Sunday you will be in Ripon. Hooray! Did the ornament you were putting on your blouse fit? If it didn’t there are lots of beauties in town.

The walk-around is Fri. nite. I haven’t a date—have been too busy getting them for my little sisters. However, I’m not at all anxious to go, so won’t be disappointed if I don’t.

I have to lead C.E. Sun. nite—then that will be over with for a long time.

I love you

Pearl.

 

Bartlett Hall, Ripon

Oct. 7, 1923 (Sun.)

Darling Moms and Pops,

I’m ashamed that I didn’t write a letter during the week, but I have been working hard and taking it easy between times. Don’t worry about me being tired—I’m not!! Everything is coming along splendidly—it is no comparison to carrying the absentia’s last spring—I have my schedule all made out (I mean my study schedule) and am not going to study on Sunday or after school. It’s a relief to get up Sunday morning and know that there is no studying to do.

I did go to Sheboygan after all. Warren Mutch, you know, took his car and he told me there was room for me beside the other delegates—so I went. It was very much worth my time and effort. I saw several of the people who were at the Green Lake conference. Rev. Munger, who sent me the book in the summer, told me he had another for me which he would send soon.

Stuart, in his last letter, said he was coming down to Homecoming Nov. 10. I had a letter from Gorge, but he didn’t say anything about coming down. I have caught sight of “Jian” two or three times rushing across the campus seeming to be as busy as ever. Rumers [sic] have come that he carried off all the honors at Chicago U. this summer.

E.E. is coming on just fine.

We won the game yesterday 26-0, with Northwestern! Wasn’t that thrilling? It was so one-sided that it really wasn’t very exciting. I felt sorry for the poor N.W. fellows—they looked so downhearted. I know how were would have felt had we lost. Now, Iwant you to come to the Homecoming game. I know you’d enjoy it and a football game is something you ought to see. It doesn’t make any difference if Stuart does come. He’ll be with his chums in town most of the time anyway—and I’d lots rather be with you than any man my keen imagination can imagine!

I wish you could have stayed longer last Sunday, but I was awfully happy to have you stay as long as you did. I hope Uncle A.P. thought he had a good time.

The first Vesper service was the P.M. so it’s lucky that I didn’t plan on coming home. I’ll try to come next Friday night though.

Oh, I almost forgot to tell you the most interesting thing I’ve done for ages. The Christian Service Club conducted the services in a little country church six miles out of Ripon today. One of the fellows preached, Givendolen Morse and I sang a duet (one I sand with Sidnie last year) and Sidnie sang a solo. The church has no minister and it depends on outside help for its existence. There was quite a nice crowd there. Professor Moore took us out and one of the parishioners brought us back. On the whole this has been rather a full week-end.

I had a letter from Evelyn a few days ago. Hope she will be better after Dr. Connel gets through with her. I must try to write to her soon.

It is getting late and I must go to bed.

Goodnight dears,

Pearl.

O xxxxOOOO

OxOxOxoxxxxxxoxxOxO

 

Oct. 22, ‘23

Dearest Moms and Pops,

Another busy week has just passed and an equally busy one is just beginning.

Last night, Sidnie and I were invited to a recital given by Lorraine Foat who has been studying in a school of expression in New York. It was a wonderful thing. She read several selections. Beside her contribution there was violin music, piano solos and vocal solos. The Theta Alpha Phi (the national dramatic fraternity) was the host, you might say. It was at the Grand View Hotel where the “frat” had been having a six o’clock dinner. We happened to be among the fortunate few beside the faculty, who were invited.

Tonight, the C.E. is having a six o’clock supper, after which Prexy will speak and there will be special music.

Stuart writes that he is coming by car to go to the Lawrence game. I received a nice box of candy (which is all gone now) from George, but I haven’t heard from him. However, I am going to write a note to him this P.M. thanking him for it.

I’m sorry about Mrs. Morse’s sickness, and hope she will get well.

Yes, I think I’ll be able to get some extra copies of the Scribbler when it comes out before Christmas. I haven’t been able to write anything for it, so I guess I’ll hand in some things I wrote last year. While I have nineteen hours of work, I don’t expect to spend much time writing—not even letters. However, I broke the record this week and wrote to several people, Aunt Mary included.

Is there any possibility that you could bring me back next Sunday afternoon if I should come home? It may not be necessary, I don’t know yet. I want to come very much and will if I can possible do so without getting tired. I wish I could come home every week-end, I enjoy it so much, but I must stay here and just rest sometimes. I feel very well so far, and want to continue. I certainly want to come but if I think I’d better not, I wish you would come down here. I’ll write you all about it in the middle of the week.

All the girls are crazy about my red dress.

I had my watch fixed and it cost just three dollars as I expected. Some of the works were broken. The jeweler asked me if I had dropped it, but I can’t remember having done so.

Ripon won the Stevens Point football game yesterday. I didn’t go—it was terribly cold—but the girls came back with glowing reports of splendid playing. The score was 21 to nothing, and was won by several of those thrilling dashes by which one man carried the ball nearly the whole length of the field with the players trying in vain to catch him while the mad mob on the sidelines hooted and jumped and threw hats into the air. Gee, I hope you can come to the Homecoming game!

I hope I’ll see you this week-end.

Yours always and always,

Pearl.

Bartlett, Ripon, Wis.

Oct. 31, 1923

Dearest folks,

There isn’t time to write much, but I’ll just scribble a few lines to tell you that I’m feeling fine and am as busy as ever.

The plans for Saturday are working out beautifully. Marian and Mr. Krebs (Stuart’s friend) are going with us. The Conkles have invites us out there to dinner Saturday, and I think we’ll go unless something happens to Stuart. Shiocton is 19 miles on fine roads from Appleton.

What do you think! Betty Lyons, Terry Donavon and I were entertained at Prexy’s last night to a four course dinner which Mrs. Evans cooked herself. It was delicious! Afterward, we went into the radio room and listened to concerts consisting of vocal solos, quartets, choirs, lectures, violin and piano solos, orchestras and almost everything else in the line of entertainment that you can imagine. It was a wonderful experience! The Evans’s have the humbleness of true greatness. We stayed until after ten, and then could hardly drag ourselves away. They urged us to come over any evening that we cared to listen to the radio.

Tonight the annual Hallowe’en party comes off—nobody knows where. The college is to be escorted in trucks to the mysterious destination. I guess I’ll go and hope it will be rewarding. Don’t worry—I’ll dress warm.

I had a lovely time at home over the week-end even though unexpected things did happen. I hope you aren’t overworked with company this week as a result.

Always

Your loving,

Pearl.

Bartlett, Ripon, Wis.

Nov. 11, 1923

Moms and Pops, dears,

Well, Homecoming is nearly over, and the quiet prospects of the future are very welcome, indeed.

A good many of the old girls came back. Ignaty did not come—I don’t know why Ethel Gay, Verna Taylor, Jo Case, Eva Mathison (I didn’t see her) and many strange guests were here from Friday until now for shorter or longer periods of time. Mildred Hotchkiss was also here.

Although the Ripon team played, if anything, superior football, we lost to a score of 3-0. It was one of the best games I ever saw. I s’pose I’ll have to make some candy for George!

He came down on the morning train and went back on the evening train after we had spent a very pleasant day. We walked around to all the places he remembered when he was here “ten” years ago. We had both dinner and supper at the Leroy Hotel—Sidnie accompanying us at the latter. Everything was very pleasant.

How is Mrs. Roberts getting along—and Mary too? I wrote Mary a letter and sent her a poem I had written for the occasion. I haven’t had time to write Glenn and Hanah [sic] a congratulatory letter yet.

Most everyone went to the dance Saturday night, so Sid, and a few other girls and I went to the show up town. It wasn’t especially gratifying except as a diversion.

I didn’t go to church or Sunday school yesterday, (this is Mon. morning) but we had Vespers in the P.M. so I wasn’t altogether heathen. Mr. Tutunjian spoke in C.E. last night on the problems of Americanization. From his own experience as a foreigner in this country, he had a wealth of things to offer. Of course, he made it wholly impersonals, but one could read into it his own struggles. It was splendid! He said he would be an American citizen on July 1st. I have heard that he has sent for his young brother who is now in Egypt and will educate him in this country. Then, when the boy has a workable knowledge of our language they will send for the mother and make a home for her here. I don’t know how true this report is, for she has said nothing of it to me.

My narcici are budding and I am hoping they will bloom before Thanksgiving vacation.

Gwendolen is planning on coming home with us. We believe Sidnie will want her for the first few days, because Juanita may be coming home later. I’ll let you know more definitely about that later.

The college play, “Three Live Ghosts” will be given the Friday night before Thanksgiving—Nov. 23. By all means you should come to see it. Please do! Let me know just as soon as possible that I may get your tickets,

Oh, by the way, George said that my red dress was one of the prettiest dresses he had ever seen. He had a bad cold, so couldn’t enjoy himself as much as he might otherwise have donw.

Sidnie had a spread last night for all second floor. We had a nice time. Tonight six of us, Sidnie, Klara, Dahlke, Schwingie, Ruther Davies, Esther Haase and I are going to have another. Schwingie has a chicken, Klara is getting a cake, I’m getting ice crams and the others will buy other goodies. We’ll have a regular banquet. I don’t want to give a spread until after Christmas.

I am in a pageant, “The City Beautiful” for am evening service next Sunday. Mr. Boody is directing it, but I don’t believe ths fact will influence him in choosing characters for the plays for I’m only in a chorus.

Betty Lyon and I went to make out dinner call at Evans Thursday P.M., but as they weren’t in, we left our cards. I must go to Groves’ soon, too.

I went to the hair dresser’s Thursday for a shampoo, and she did a wonderful job. I am awfully disappointed that we haven’t any soft water here this year. It is very inconvenient.

I’m awfully anxious to see you. It seems a long tie since I was home. Be sure to come down to the play.

Heaps of love,

Pearl.

 

Letters transcribed by Parissa DJangi and Bryan Schneider

Pearl Dopp Letters, 1924

[April 30, 1924]

Darling Mama,

Another lovely day! How much the weather can influence the way we feel!

The faculty is of course very kind, but I’m going to get on the roll call anyway, I guess—But we don’t care a bit do we.

The robe came this P.M. It’s lovely of you to send it even though I don’t need it any more. Given thinks it is very pretty. Is my lavender dress done? If it isn’t could you send my blue dotted for me to wear evenings over the week-end. Don’t trouble if it is too much bother.

I got a commencement notice from Lila Smith. What shall we do?

Pearl.

[May 6, 1924]

Tue. A.M.

Dearest Momsie,

Your letter came. I am always so glad to hear!

You needn’t send my dresses, for I’ll get them when I come home. The lavender dress is just right and quite becoming. Be sure not to forget your own sewing on making things for me. Get a good coat! No, I have no need or desire for one.

I’m not on roll call! Aren’t the professors fine to me?

I’ll be coming home Friday night by car. If anything happens to detain me until Saturday P.M., I’ll telephone if it is too late to write. As it is, expect me.

Glad you went to O.E.S. It won’t be so hard now.

My Spanish is all made up, and I have nearly decided to enter the contest. What do you think?

Lovingly,

Pearl.

 

1924

Darling Momsie,

You were such a dear mama to work so hard to give us a good time! I appreciate it, and I’m sure Gwen and Don do too. They seemed to have had a very nice week-end.

I hope you are rested by now. I had a long night of sound sleep last night and feel like an athlete today.

I received a nice letter from Sidnie yesterday. I hope everything will turn out O.K. between her and me. It will be a pity if a small barrier must part two friends like us. I don’t believe it will—she said nothing about the thing in her letter.

I am to have a rehearsal every day from now on. It is coming along pretty well.

I wish it would rain Chinese poodles for a few days and then clear up for a while.

Yes, I’ll be home Thur. noon and I’ll be so happy when I can be with you for good.

Lovingly,

Pearl.

 

Friday morning Sept. 26, 1924

Dearest Momsie;

Isn’t it a lovely morning?!  The weather helps so much when changes must be made!

From your card, I judge that you aren’t having time to get lonely, and I hope it continues to be so.  Vespers is a week from Sunday, but I’m sure Dean Graham will excuse me if I’m not there if I explain the circumstances.  I just have to come home then.

It has been a busy week.  There was a formal after noon tea given by the W.S.G.A for all girls at Lyle yesterday, and a reception of Prexy’s for all of the students last night.

Both affairs were horibly [sic] formal.  I don’t see why people insist on having things like that when they know no one enjoys them.  Mrs. Evans had five gallons of punch left over and is giving it to Bartlett.  Consequently Bartlett “old girls” are giving a tea for the new ones this P.M.  Oh dear!  And tonight there is the walk-around.  I may go.  All this isn’t exactly fun, but I ‘spose it’s good for us.

I partook of my first meal at the Commons and decided it would be my last!  So I am eating with Justine Schwingie, Esther Haase, Dorothy Pasties and Ruth Davis, at Mrs. Hunold’s quite near the campus.  She loves to cook and is taking boarders for that reason.  I don’t see how she can break even with five dollars a week serving suchwonderful meals.  This week, I have been going to breakfast which costs a dollar extra.  Tell me what you think I should do about it – if I eat in my room it won’t cost quite as much.  Don wants me to go to Mrs. Hobbs with him, but she doesn’t hold a candle to Mrs. Hunold, and it’s a long ways to her house, too.

The frosh seem to be very nice and I like my new roommate much.  She is a splendid student, very neat about the room, and very generous.

I have seen the Wild Roses several times.  They are moaning over the fact that they can’t be in Bartlett, for Lyle is rather unpleasant to them.  By the way, the frosh made a successful party.

I had a date with Stuart Wednesday P.M.  We sat on the campus and visited – but no one saw us.  He doesn’t appeal to me at all anymore, and I think I’d rather have my good times with the girls.  However, I’ll do nothing drastic for a while – and perhaps I won’t need to, for he isn’t especially delighted with my company either, I guess.

My bill was $122.00.  It seems as though prices are up, I haven’t had a voice lesson yet, and if I don’t like Miss Evans I’ll drop out.  The board bill is to be paid weekly.

Must run down to the post office with this, so you’ll get it today.

I love you,

Pearl

I wrote George, and rec’d a platonic letter from him this morning.

Saturday evening Sept. 27, ‘24

Dearest of mothers;

This has been a strenuous week but the routine of work will bring more leisure to write home and do other things quite as essential.

Yes, I went to the walk-around, and you’ll undoubtedly be shocked to learn that I took for my pardner [sic] Robert Page Sims, a negro from West Virginia.  He is a freshman here and there isn’t one white man in a hundred who has as much culture and gentlemanliness as he.  I saw him on the campus and realizing that he would undoubtedly not get a chance to go to the walk around, I conceived the idea of asking him.  First, I went to Don to ask his advice.  He said he had been talking with Mr. Sims and believed him to be splendid; adding that it would be fine of me to take him.  He asked him for me and came with him to call for me last night.  (Don took Justine.)  Well, we went and everyone treated him very nicely.  He is very retiring, but an especially interesting conversationalist.  I have heard that his father is president of a southern negro college; but he didn’t tell me.  I can see that he has had a refined environment.  I’m sure I lost nothing by taking him, and it was an extremely interesting experience.  Prexy told Marian that there were only two or three other girls in college who could have gotten way with it.  He and others seemed much pleased.  I’m telling you this only to make you feel better about it.

I am so glad Miss Shepherd is to be with you this week-end.  You will have good company.  Don’t stay alone when you are blue or lonesome.  I’ll ask Dean Graham about coming home Friday.  Pretty sure he’ll let me come.

I like Justine better all the time.

Sunday

Anna has been in Ripon over the week-end.  We went uptown to the frosh initiation yesterday and to church this morning together.  The services were inspiring.  Instead of S.S. they have an “inquiry group” led by members of the faculty.  Dr. Goodrich talked this morning and was most fascinating as usual.  Miss Evens, the new vocal instructor, leads the choir and sang a solo this morning.  Her voice is lovely – much more so than Miss Armstrong’s, I have my first lesson tomorrow and hope she is as good an instructor as she is singer.

Don and I are going to call on Mrs. Knot, an invalid, this P.M.  He and Gwen used to visit her last year.

Mrs. Graham asked me to call on her soon.  I saw the children and Marian remembered me!  The Grahams are just as lovely as ever.  He is to talk in C.E. tonight.

Mrs. Gardner and I are quite congenial.

The delicious meals at Mrs. Hunold’s still continue.  Mrs. Hobbs telephoned the other day to say Hello and told me she was going to invite me over some time to eat supper with Don.  She has a big crowd to cook for.

I’m so pleased with my course with Mr. Allen.  I’m sure I can use dramaturgy wherever I go and as for comp –!!!

I might write more, but I must retire.

Good night + + + O

Pearl.

Mon. Morn. Oct. 20, 1924

Darling Momsie;

The fog was so thick last night that we didn’t get to Ripon until 11:15.  Had to drive very slowly.  It seemed good to sleep this A.M. until seven, altho I did want to stay at home longer.  It seemed as tho we didn’t have any visit at all this time, but you must come down soon to make up, I did so enjoy being at home with you!!!

Yesterday P.M., I believe someone began to see my point of view.  We were very frank.  I told him that like all other women, I wanted the greatest thing in the world, but that until I knew I was getting it, I couldn’t forget the goals I have been working toward all my life.  I told him also that a man married as a matter of course and went on with all his activities just as before, while to a woman, marriage is everything – She must drop her profession as well as many other things to become a wife!  When she is getting real love in return it is vastly worth the sacrifice, but until I know I’m getting it I’m not going to throw away my life.  To all this he agreed.  I don’t suppose anyone ever talked to him like that before and it opened his eyes.  He feels that a great responsibility rests upon his shoulders for if we married and it didn’t turn out right, he would be responsible for my loss of everything else.  On the other hand, I told him that if he was quite sure he loved me and refrained from telling me because of that fear, he would be doing me a greater injustice.  In conclusion, we decided to let time do the deciding for us, and in the mean time to go on as before.

Now, as to Stuart.  I told G.  ‘ that I had been going with him some, and he said that so long as it afforded me any good times that I might otherwise miss, he didn’t mind.  So that’s all right.  Now the next thing is to tell ‘S, that G. is, coming to Homecoming.  I’ll let you know the results.  It’s interesting.  I’m playing a pretty exciting game of chance all by myself!

How thankful I am for a mother who understands!!  So many girls are denied that privilege!

Your own loving,

Pearl.

Oct. 27, 1924

Darling Mama;

I was glad to get your card telling me that you were to spend Sunday with the Holts.  I didn’t want you to be all alone.

Probably George told you of the great surprise that came to both Lawrence and Ripon Saturday with a 7-7 tie.  Everyone expected that we’d lose at least 60-0, so a tie was as good as a victory and for Lawrence as good as a defeat.  It surely was a thriller.  People haven’t gotten over it yet.

The Alpha Chi Alpha initiatory service went off beautifully.  It was so impressive that Catherine Whittier who was receiving the degree, fainted and had to take the rest of it on the davenport.  It was quite a family reunion, for all but five members were back.  Dean Kingsland, the honorary member, and her daughter Mary, a charter member, (in whose home we had the service) served a lovely breakfast.

After that George and I went to the glen to spend the day – and such a beautiful day I never saw.  It was very quiet and restful out there.

Had a very nice time all the week-end.  Sidnie and Mildred Hotchkiss stayed in my room but I didn’t see much of them.  The other girls entertained them to meals for a change.

Hastily and most lovingly,

Pearl.

P.S. I’m expecting you this weekend.

Fri. A.M. Oct. 31, ‘24

Mama, dear,

So sorry I can’t come home this week-end – but I don’t dare ask to be excused from Vespers.  I’m sorrier yet that you aren’t coming until Friday.  I haven’t seen you for solong!

I hope your eye really isn’t sore.  It’s a shame, but you shouldn’t stay home because of that!

By the way, bring my white slippers and a pair of white stockings with you.  I need them for the play.

S + I went for a walk yesterday and talked things over for the first time.  He said he wasn’t overjoyed at the company I had over the week-end but that he was glad to continue as before if I cared to do so.  I told him that I enjoyed his friendship and company.  He asked if I didn’t want him to come to W.R. last summer, and I told him that I hadn’t felt equal to facing the gossip.  He said that during the summer someone in Waupaca sent him a clipping of our trip to the Dells.  Oh well, it’s a relief to have an understanding.  I’ll tell you more when I see you.  I’m going with him to hear Miscla Elman Tuesday night.  How I wish you could come!

Tonight the R.O.T.C. is giving a Halloween masquerade in the gym.  If we can figure out some costumes, maybe we girls will go.  It’s a non-date affair.  Maybe we’ll be witches.

Went to a Halloween party at the Congo ch. Wed. evening and had an awfully goodtime.

Six weeks’ exams are next week, but I’ll have the week end to get ready for them.

Your card just came I think it would be lovely for you to go to Oshkosh from here, but you mustn’t go until you have made me a good visit.

Your loving,

Pearl

Sunday eve. Nov. 2, ‘24

Mama, dear,

I wish you had been here today.  Where were you?  Did you stay at Aunt Effies’?  Is Dell still there?

Vespers was quite thrilling today although I didn’t care particularly for the speaker, pastor of the First Congregational church of Oshkosh.  The Seniors marched into their places while the organ played a Prelude Processional and the congregation rose in a body.  I’m not used to such distinction, and the whole service, especially my part in it, seemed very unreal.  I can’t realize that I’m a college Senior.  The fact that I am one is wholly due to the labors of you and Papa.  I can see that I lack the ambition to have done it by myself without your support.  And I am grateful.

Yesterday afternoon Stuart had to go into the country on business.  He borrowed a car and took me along.  On the return trip we went to Green Lake where the waves were rolling up onto the shore in a white fury.  It was truly an “awful” sight.  The red sunset tinted to [sic] white caps beautifully.  The biggest reason why I enjoy being with Stuart is that he takes my mentality to the utmost.  I have to sharpen my intellect to meet him on his own ground.  It is fun, too; but other than that there is nothing you know.

Yesterday was the formal opening of the new Fargo Jeweler store.  Deidrich’s had attractions too.  They gave away a bon bon dish just like the silver and gold one Ning showed us, you remember, for every dollar’s purchase.  I bought a dear incense burner which is a little piece of statuary in itself.  It is a cherub holding a bird’s nest in which the incense burns.  It cost $1.20, and so we have 2 very nice Christmas gifts cheap.  Fargo’s gave away a diamond ring, a pearl necklace, a man’s watch and cuff links – but of course I didn’t draw the lucky number.

Ning sent me the wax ornament she was making.  It is very pretty.  They are moving into a home of their own and she is quite elated over it.

Justine’s friend, Mr. Ender, was here Friday, and that night we had a party for them in the parlor – Don + Vera Root! Stuart + I.  It was a fudge party, but the fudge wasn’t good.  Had an awfully good time.  Afterward we went over to the Halloween masquerade for awhile.  It was quite a concession for Stuart as he hated dancing.  Vera and I bought some penny balloons and wore them on our dresses.  Cut idea, eh?  There were some very clever costumes and some that weren’t so clever.

I have been studying hard today, for this is a busy week.  We’ll be practicing quite a bit for the play, and I have to talk in Rowell (literature) club on tendencies of modern American poetry, Wed. night.  It is easy to prepare for I just finished reading Amy Lowell’s book on that subject for advanced comp.  I’m glad that I’ll have my duty done in that club for the year.  Mischa Elman plays Tue. night, you know.

I haven’t been at C.E. since I got rid of the presidency.  Guess Rev. Ingram thinks I’m backsliding.  He’s right and I’m glad of it.  It’s a relief to be rid of the responsibility.

Come as early as you can this week.  I’m anxious to see you, dear.

Your

Pearl.

P.S. I’m using some of A.X.A’s stationary.  It pays to be president.

P.S. no 2. I forgot to tell you that after the first artist course number Stuart took me to Reichmuth’s with Don and Justine.  He asked me if I’d like to go, and said, “I told Don that I had never been able to get you to go to Reichmuths.”  !!!

 

Nov. 2, 1924

Dears,

The weeks are blithely passing by, and our Pearl has been so preoccupied in doing worthless nothingnesses that she has neglected Robin shamefully, if shamelessly.

This afternoon, the noble Seniors marched in stately caps and gowns to Vespers.  The stateliness was not so habitual as it was expedient, for the slightest inclination of the head might have resulted in the tumble of the “mortar board.”  It was a thrilling experience, but I hardly realize what it meant.  The thing which I have read and reamed of since I was a little child, seemed in it reality very unreal.

I love college, but sometimes I am quite impatient with its superficialities.  We rush about on the hill in an endless sequence of “activities,” little dreaming of the vital problems the people in the valley are facing – problems of life and death, of food and clothing.  Is it any wonder that they look upon us with a little resentment that makes their drudgery a little less bearable?  It is they who make it possible for us to sit on our pretty pedestal – and it is well that many of them don’t realize it.  Oh, I want to get down and live!!  I have my theories – now I want to use them!

But more than anything else at this moment, I would like to talk the whole thing over with you three who mean so much to me.  Writing is so unsatisfactory, because all I can do is thrust my little thoughts upon you without getting any answer outside my imagination of what you might say!  You are very near – so near that it seems as though my ears must have lost their keenness.  Please, won’t you speak a little louder?  I want to be reassured that you understand!

Tomorrow night I teach Community Religion, Tuesday night we hear Mischa Elman play his violin, Wednesday night I give an hours talk on the tendencies of modern American poetry for the Rowell Club, Thursday night is dress rehearsal of “The Well’– Remembered Voice” by Barry, and Friday night we present it in the Little Theater.  Incidentally, there are nineteen hours of classes and six-weeks’ exams!  Thus the weeks fly past.

My thoughts are inexpressable [sic], and rather than be dull I’ll say,

Goodnight.

Pearl.

P.S. I just read this of the middle ages – and people really believed it – “Bear’s grease, coming from animals thickly covered with hair, is recommended to all who fear baldness.”

Friday evening.

Nov. 14, ‘24

Mama, dear,

Br – r- r !  Isn’t it cold?!  It must warm up again though before winter, for we haven’t had Indian summer yet.

Evelyn Mc. road on the train with us Mon. morn. + said that Evelyn Anderson came home Sat. night to stay until Christmas.  Perhaps we’ll have a real visit yet.

Sat. Morning

have a bright idea for your Study Club stunt – if you can use it.  Get English walnuts in the shell (enough to go around) Pry them open and scrape out the insides, then put a capsul [sic] (some of those I got while I was in the hospital) inside, and glue them (the halves of the shell) together again.  Tell them you are giving them the key to good health, have them open the walnuts and ready the funny stories aloud.  Is that O.K.?

I’m glad you are having such an enjoyable week and that you are to be with Mrs. Darling this week-end!  It was lovely of George to take you to O.E.S., as far as the extra drive was concerned, but I’m sure he enjoyed doing it for he likes your company very much.  However, most men wouldn’t have thought of it.  He is very unusual in that as in other respects.

Don’t mind Edna.  Perhaps she has cause to be offended if you haven’t talked to her or called on her for a long time.  In spite of her petty faults, she is a friend worth keeping.  It doesn’t make a bit of difference to me what she thinks about George and me.

Thursday was the day when all the Sororities did their pledging.  We had a beautiful little ceremony Thur. nite for 7 pledges, followed by a delicious lunch and songs.  Had an awfully good time.

“L Ombra,” Tuesday evening wasn’t as a good as I had anticipated it to be.  I don’t believe you would have enjoyed it, for the words of the songs were almost indistinguishable.  Consequently, it was hard to get the story.  The voices were quite good; I liked “The Impresario” of last year much better.

I have to sing my solo part in church tomorrow.

It seems good not to have to practice “the Well-Remembered Voice.”

The sun shines brightly this morning, and I hope it will warm up.  If it doesn’t, I’m not going to the game this P.M. for it is cold sitting on the bleachers.

The president of Lawrence died yesterday.  Their Homecoming which was to be this week-end is postponed of course.

Lovingly, your

Pearl.

Dec. 8, 1924

Mon. morning

Dearest Momsie;

Your letter and tablets just came.  I didn’t get any tablets myself, so I’m glad of these.  I don’t feel any bad effects from going without them.

The Holts are lovely, aren’t they. [sic]  Yes, I think it would be nice to give Alice some little thing for Christmas.  If I can get cloth, maybe she’d like one of those candy dolls like Gwen gave me.  We’ll see about it when I get home.

Please tell me what to get you.  Would you like cloth for a new dress?

About my book ends: I don’t think we’d better spend money for them until commencement time. Justine is getting some for X mas and will use them in our room.

About a dress: Justine’s sister is giving her a new one and Justine will sell me her lovely satin faced canton crepe, dark blue if I want it.  She just got it thru a friend of hers at wholesale for $25 and will give it to me for that if I want it.  I don’t think I want a dress now, for I’ll have to have some in the spring.  I wore my blue taffeta yesterday and like it, the neck is O.K., so don’t worry about that.  My red dress is still stylish and my brown one is awfully cute and I like my black one a great deal.

You needn’t send any more of my laundry nor my bathrobe.  I have pleanty [sic] of things to last ‘till I come home.

Hope you decide to come Sunday.

Now listen, I don’t want you to spend any money on me for Christmas!!  I mean it.  There is nothing that I have the least desire for.  I don’t believe I even want combs, for they seem to take the natural wave all out of my hair.  Don’t order those short ones anyway.  Those down here are short too, but I’ll get some long ones somewhere sometime if I want them, and I don’t think I do.  I’ll be needing things later and I’dmuch rather not get much for Christmas. Please, mama!

There is a lovely bill fold up town laced around the edges and with a small masonis emblem on the inside in gold.  It is a beauty and will last a life time, but it costs $6.00 (maybe I can Jew it down to $5.50) I’d rather get something nice for George and scrimp on other things.  None of the cheaper ones are any good.   You tell me honestly what you think, I won’t get it till I hear from you, and of course not then if you think it unwise.

S. asked me the other day what I wanted for X mas.  Course I didn’t tell him!  ‘Spose I’ll have to give him some little trinket.

Your own devoted

Pearl

Friday. Dec. 12, ‘24

Dearest Mama;

Your letter with Mrs. Hughes’ came, and her proposition looks quite good, doesn’t it?  She seems anxious for you to come, and we could see each other, often, I think you would enjoy spending a time in Milwaukee too.  There are so many things to see – and Kate is so nice!

I got the bill book, and it cost $6.00!!!  But you must save on me.  See?  Justine’s dress will cost $15 if I get it.  I don’t feel as though I need a dress, but here is what I’m going to do.  I’ll bring it home with me Friday, and then mail it to Justine if we decide not to keep it.  It has very straight lines and you may not like it.  We’ll see when the time comes.

Mr. Allen has given me addresses of magazines to which he wants me to send my poetry.  He says even though I may not find a sale for it, it is well to get the editors acquainted with my name.

I don’t believe I can get home before Friday night, but if I can I’ll let you know.  I thinkI’ll have an exam Fri. P.M.

Wish you were to be here Sunday.  Can’t you possibly come?  Mr. Dawes Ripon trustee and cousin to the vice president is to speak.  This the [sic] vesper service of the year.  And the cantata is beautiful!  I’ll go down to the train tomorrow P.M. anyway in case you might change your mind.

My term topics are all done!!!  All that is left is the cantata and preparation and writing of exams.

I love my mama so much,

Pearl.

Mon.
Dec. 15, 1924

Dearest Mama;

It is just as well that you didn’t come as far as Mr. Dawes’ speech was concerned – it was punk!  However everyone said the cantata was beautiful, and I so wish you could have heard it.

Yesterday was a most busy day.  The A.X.A. initiated 3 new members early in the morning and had a sorority breakfast afterward.  Then I sang in the choir at church and at Vespers.  In the evening, the cantata, followed by a Bartlett Christmas party.  We had drawn names for presents and I got a box of lovely face powder.  After the party was over, we all went out singing carols at the various dormitories and faculty-members homes.  It was lots of fun and nearly everyone seemed to appreciate it.

The Scribblers came out Saturday, and I spent the P.M. addressing them to H.S.’s of Wis.  Seven of us worked.  I’ll send you one.

No one called for the apron you send for the Y.W. bazaar, so I kept it, and we can give it to someone else.  I bought two pretty articles.  One was a pink linen handkerchief with tatting around the edge for only 25 c. (we can give that to Ethel) The other was a beautiful pin cushion that looked something like this: (picture of item).  We can make others like it.  We might give this to Gladys.  One of the girls bought a pattern of a cute rag doll which I’m going to copy off as a possibility for Beverly.  I got some cloth to make little candy dolls for youngsters.  (Like Gwen made me – you know.)

I’m coming home Friday night.  Whenever!!  Presume G. will meet me, so don’t make other plans.  It seems too good to be trust that I’ll be home 16 whole days.

So sorry about Dewey!  Fate seems to be against him, but I have an institution that he’s going to make good sometime.  Please PLEASE don’t worry about it.  It doesn’t do a bit of good and only makes you less able to stand up under things.  If you never get the $2 back (I believe you will) you’ll have [sic] very good excuse for not loaning any more to that party.

I’ll be so glad to get home.

Lovingly

Pearl

 

Letters transcribed by Parissa DJangi and Bryan Schneider

Pearl Dopp Letters, 1925

Wed. A.M.

Jan. 5 – ’25

My dear Mama,

Your loving daughter made the honor roll after all with an average of 93.2.  The average of the school is 82.8.  There were only 17 of the 420 who were on!  Justine had the honor, too, and has to close our window every morning because of it.  (We had a bet about it, you know)

I’m anxious to know more about Evelyn.  Let me know whatever you hear.

I tho’t perhaps we’d have Vespers this Sunday, but I guess we won’t.  Perhaps it will be a week from Sunday.  Miss Evans sent word that I should come to choir practice tomorrow night to practice a solo part for the anthem for Vespers.  She is going to make up two or three lessons which I missed last quarter, and is going to train me in my Spanish solo; so you see I’ll be getting quite a bit of music even though I’m not taking lessons.

No, I don’t believe I’ll come home this week-end even if you don’t come, for I’ll be seeing you very soon anyway.

Don understands my situation and is helping me out by “having something planned” permanently whenever I need it as an excuse for S., see?  I can’t bear to hurt Stuart because he is a splendid fellow and has been very fine to me, but if it must be, perhaps it will be easier to break by degrees than suddenly.  I don’t know I’m sure.  What do you think!?  I’m not at all anxious to do it.  Justine says I want to “have my cake and eat it, too.”

I had to have my suede oxfords tapped.  It cost 90 cents but it is a fine job.

Marian saw my grey gloves and would like to send for some like them for her mother.  If you are coming this week, will you bring the catalog please, and if you are not could you send it?

I’m resigning from the Y.W. cabinet.  I never went to the meeting anyway, and it wasn’t fair to hold down the manager preventing anyone else from having it!

Let me know when you are coming to Ripon so I can meet you.  There isn’t anything on this week-end that I know of unless it be basketball games.

I rec’d a letter from Ignaty yesterday (she has been very busy and so couldn’t write) and one from Mildred Hotchkins who is to be in Ripon over the week-end of the 23rd.  Margaret Trimbell is here on a visit – married!!  She didn’t bring her husband, so I can’t say whether or not I approve.  Margaret is as unusual as ever.

Play practice has begun, and we’ll be very busy until after the 17th of Feb!

The meals at the Commons are really good. – much better than when I left.

How does your coat look?  If it looks well, wear it all the time while it is in style, and if it doesn’t wear it for common and get a new one in the January sales.  It was just a year ago that I got mine.

Help May if she need it.

I guess I’ll take this letter up town, for you’ll probably get the afternoon mail from the O.E.S. hall this P.M.

Much love always,

Pearl.

Wed A.M.

Jan 6, ’25

Dearest Momsie;

Probably you stayed up town last night and are ready for the O.E.S. work now.  I hope you have a nice time and that everything goes off smoothly.

Once more Dear Dr. Mutch has wiggled me through a difficult and saved me from taking education, and I’m taking both dramaturgy and composition.  It will work out splendidly, I’m sure.  If I don’t teach I surely won’t need it and if I do Dr. Mutch has a scheme whereby I can “get by”.  Of course I’m only free for this quarter.  I’ll have to take it next quarter.  In place of music I’m taking a 1 hour course in education which will be very interesting along the line of research work.  I’ll send a schedule and details later.

Yesterday P.M., Don gave me my first skiing lesson, we were out all the P.M. and had lots of fun.  I took about 17 ungraceful tumbles, but didn’t get hurt because of the soft snow.  Skiing is great sport.  We’re going again Saturday I’m so anxious.  I’m sure you’r [sic] glad Don is teaching me.

Yes, S. was on the train and carried part of my luggage to the hall.

I have to get the Bible class (the whole of it) started tomorrow morning for Dr. Evans won’t be here.

Everything will be running smoothly in a day or so.

The new post office is in running order.

Don’t work too hard.

Hastily + lovingly,

Pearl

Sunday 1/11/’25

Dear George;

If one of the girls had not gone after the mail last night, I wouldn’t have gotten your letter until tomorrow.  As it is, I’m using my Sunday leisure to answer it, fearing the first part of the week.  Besides, it is somewhat of a habit to talk to you on Sunday.

I enjoyed such a quiet contentment during Christmas vacation that I didn’t exactly want to come back to this high strung life.  But here I am.  Often I realize during a lecture that I haven’t heard a word the prof. has been saying.  Day dreams are the most fatal of all dreams.

My schedule for this quarter is the same as last except for the elimination of music on Mon. + Thur. And teaching on Mon. evenings, and the addition for a 4:15 class on Wednesdays.  I’m earning a little money this quarter (35 c. pert hour) by correcting themes for the composition department.  I won’t get more than one batch a week, and not that unless I have plenty of time.  It will be interesting work, and quite a new experience to earn my own salt.  I have felt like a parasite for so many years!

The Commons isn’t half bad.  There is a very nice group at our table, we save a lot of time, and the meals are much better than they were when I left.  There is more of the college atmosphere, too.

Wheeeeee!  Justine got on the honor roll and as a penalty has to close the windows every morning this quarter!!  It was a bet between us – I knew she would get on, and she knew she wouldn’t –.  She is saying without grumble saying, “It’s worth it!”

The Rowell Club, a literary organization, had a twelvth [sic] Night party last week, at which all the members representing in speech and action some historic or literary character.  It was the fun of the evening to guess whom the characters where.  I was Gunivere of Tennyson’s “Idylls of the King” and characterized her by wearing a white robe and crown and speaking her words, “It was my duty to have loved the highest.  It surely was my profit had I know.  It would have been my pleasure had I seen.  We needs must love the highest when we see it.”  Then a huge bake was out, and the persons receiving the piece containing the bean, pea, or clove were king, queen, and jester respectively for the evening. After the election of a cake-cutter for next year, the king issued a proclamation that the Christmas trees should be taken out on the campus and burned to mark the end of the Christmas season.  All this was patterned after an old English custom of celebrating the arrival of the wise men on the Twelvth [sic] Night.  It is to be a tradition of Rowell Club.

Saturday night, we girls went to see the movie, “Abraham Lincoln,” which was exceptionally good.  It was true to fact and absolutely clean.  Most movies sadly fail in those two respects.  Lincoln, Robert E. Lee, and U.S. Grant, especially, looked just like pictures we have seen of them.

Isn’t the weather wonderful!  I’m so glad you can still run cars!  Perhaps the worst of the winter is over.

I must close and get busy.

Faithfully,

Pearl.

P.S. Monday.  Your pictures just came, and I’m so pleased!!  Although I still like them both, I have a slight preference and am sending back the other.  Thank you!!!

Jan. 13, ’25

Dearest Mama,

Sunday, I wrote a lot of letters that I owed (to Sidnie, Nina, Lula, and George) and didn’t have time left to write you.  Hope you aren’t worried, because I’m O.K., sleeping well and feeling fine.

We girls went to see “Abraham Lincoln” Saturday evening.  It was splendid.

I went to C.E. Sunday evening because Mr. Tutunjian spoke of a contrast between the Christianity of the Orient and Occident, and he is always very good.  After that I went to the Forum discussion on the question, “Should there be a double or single standard of morality for men and women?”  It was interesting.

I got two of George’s pictures and am keeping the one I like first.

I’m wondering when you are coming.  I’ll wash out the few things that are soiled, then you can be free to come when it seems most convenient.

The drama class is to produce a play of Spanish life Feb. 17, in conjunction with the annual Spanish program.  I’m a minor character in the play, but have a solo in Spanish for the program.

I must rush off for class now, but will write again soon.

Lovingly,

Pearl.

Feb. 2 ’25

Dearest, dearest, Mama;

Yes, my henchmen carried my bag from the depot!  But maybe he’ll get disgusting after awhile, for Mrs. Plzak just invited Marian, Harold + me to a little luncheon Sunday P.M. + evening!

Be sure to let me know what Mrs. Holt’s condition is and what your plans are.  I’ll be anxiously waiting.

I feel fine, and upon looking back over the week-end find it to have been a very pleasant and profitable one.  You are such a dear to listen to my wild raving with patience and understanding.  You are the tonic that brings me back to earth and reality when I have been flying the heights or swimming the depths.  For all, I’m very grateful, and love you.

Your own

Pearl.

Feb. 5 ’25
Thur. P.M.

Darling Momsie;

I haven’t time to really write a letter, but a note will serve the purpose of telling you that I am well and love you.

Your letter came this morning, and you are absolutely right.  There is nothing in this world worth worrying about.  If things could be benefited by it, that would be justification, but nothing ever is.  I’ve sworn off!

Stuart is respectfully keeping his distance which makes no drastic measure necessary.  Perhaps he senses the situation a bit and is on his guard.  I hope so!

There is Vespers this week and next week!!  I am to sing the 23rd psalm at the R.O.T.C Vespers this week.  Norman Angel a very note Englishman will speak on the Sunday George is here.  Won’t that be nice?

We planned our menu the other night for our party.  Justine has written to her sister to fry chicken for us.  (We’ll warm it up)  We’ll make salad + have mashed potatoes and tort if Mrs. H. will make it for us.  If you happen to go home, we’d like a glass of jell that would go well with chicken, and a few cookies.  However, if you won’t be at home then, don’t bother because we really don’t need them.  If you send it, give it to George to bring.

No, I don’t believe I ought to go to Milwaukee with you.  We’ll go sometime when the trip could be less hurried.

Your own,

Pearl

Mon. evening.
2/9/’25

Mama, dear,

I haven’t time for but a note, but that will tell you that I’m fine and am very busy with 6 weeks’ exams.

The play is postponed to Wed. 25, which may make some difference in your plans.  Of course, I’d love to have you here at that time, but don’t let that influence your wisest decision.

Stuart + I went for a walk Sat. P.M. and had an enjoyable visit.  Don + I went to S. Woods on our marshmallow roast Sat. evening in spite of the fog.  We built a fire in a natural fireplace at the foot of a rock cliff, and within its shelter we were warm.  Had a nice visit.

Sunday, Justine + I were invited to Hunold’s to a lovely dinner.  Woe is me!  I couldn’t eat very much because I was to sing in Vespers, but what I did eat was delicious.  Vespers went off very well although I was rather frightened.  The speaker, a Scotchwoman, Miss Frasier, was splendid.  She is Scotch by birth + Am. by adoption, and is now doing social service in Ellis Island for the W.C.T.U.  Her theme was “What it means to be an American.” I’ll tell you all about it when I see you.

After Vespers, Marian + Harold, Florence Mace + Willie Wenger + “John” + I went over to Plzak’s for the evening.  (Dorothy Dudly was shocked at my going out with three men in 2 days!)  We had a chicken supper, told stories, played stunts, and had a very enjoyable evening.

I’m so glad that Mrs. Holt doesn’t have to go to the hospital!  You’ll be writing soon of your plans.

I’ll write a note to Florence Dopp, I think.

Justine is studying “The Five Philosophies of Life” by Hyde and would like to have you send my copy with George.  It has a paper cover on it and I believe is on the parlor table.  If it isn’t, don’t trouble about it.  I would like “Madam Bovay” and “Madam Chrisantheme” of my new books, too.  Grace Michaels has some which I care more for and perhaps we’ll trade.  I want one of my boxes of X mas stationary, too.  I’m all out.  Perhaps George won’t have room to carry all this. — If not, leave some of it out.

I’ll be very busy this week with exams and play practice, but I’m feeling fine and everything is O.K.

Lovingly,

Pearl.

Feb. 17, ’25

Mama, dear,

I hope you had a [sic] enjoyable week-end.  Did you spend it at Owens’ or where?  George didn’t know.  He said he was going to ask you about your plans at L.A.S. but he heard Edwin say “What’s George talkin’ to Fannie for,” so he didn’t.  Anyway, I hope you had an enjoyable time.

I had a wonderful week-end Saturday night, George + I went to a movie, “Peter Pan,” the most beautiful I have ever seen.  Then we came back to the party, and altho I like to dance with a good dancer, we had an awfully good time.

Sunday noon we had a chicken dinner at the Grand View Hotel, and in a P.M. a splendid speech by Norman Angell at Vespers.  It was one of the strongest speeches I have ever heard in Ripon – so strong that I had difficulty in following his train of thought!  He spoke on democracy, as American politics runs it, with a biting irony.  I anxious [sic] to tell you all about it, but I haven’t time today.

After Vespers we went directly to the lower parlors to fix up the room and get supper.  The fellows helped us as part of their entertainment and I believe they enjoyed it.  The supper was delicious.  Punch left over from the informal was our cocktail, pears left over from the punch were our salad.  In addition we had mashed potatoes, cranberries, chicken, jelly (thanks for it and the cookies).  Mrs. Rw. Ingrahram gave us eight cup cakes!  Mrs. Hunold made tort (90 cents).  Adam (you’d think he was Irish instead of Scotch by his wit) was toast master and everyone had to make a speech.  Don + I played our instruments while the rest sang until 9:30.  It was a very enjoyable evening!

Monday morning I gave an exam.  To my religion class in Mr. Mutch’s absence, and had the rest of the morning free to visit with George.

He seemed to have a fine time.  Harold’s roommate was away over the week-end, so they had a nice room all to themselves.  All of them urged him to come to stay with them next time.  He likes them all and they all like him.  I think he’ll enjoy coming to Ripon more, now that he knows the fellows and really has a place to stay besides the hotel.

I taught Bible this morning and will Thur. also.  Dr. Evans is away.

We are having play practice nearly every night now, but it will all be over in another week.  Are you coming for it?  I wish you would!  Will you go to Milwaukee next week?  I’ll probably get a letter this morning about your plans.

Justine rec’d a telegram from friends out west that Billie has been seriously, if not fatally injured in an auto accident.  She’s very brave but of course, she’s quite broken up about it.

I have been and still am, very busy; but I’m not tired.  I slept late Sun morning and went to bed around 10.

Did you get my Valentine?  You didn’t mention it in your letter, and I wonder if anything has happened to it.  I mailed it Friday.

If you come Saturday we’d have a fine visit but unless you stayed until Thur. You wouldn’t see the lay.  Which would you rather do?  I’d love to have you stay as long as you’d be happy here.  I don’t know whether I can get away to come home this week-end or not but I ought to know by tomorrow.  I’ll write as soon as I find out.  Don’t let that interfere with your plans, tho:

I’m well and happy and hope you are, too.

Your loving,

Pearl

PS. I’m enclosing a Valentine I got from Stuart.  Laugh!!  I guess he tho’t he’d jar me into something!

Sat. 2/28/25

Mama, dear,

I’m glad you reached Milwaukee safely and I’m sure you are going to thoroughly enjoy your visit.  Don’t let any little worries spoil your good time.  You get away from Wild Rose so seldom that you must make the most of this chance to enjoy an outing.

I got a note from Jess E. this morning with a letter to you enclosed.  I’m sending both.  Strange that he didn’t like Dr. M. and Prexy, isn’t it?  Still, I can understand how hemight not.

Everything here is running along smoothly.  I don’t hear of any more mumps.  I’m just resting this week-end – obeying orders you see.  I obeyed orders further by refusing to teach English this week for Prof. Toussaint who is gone on a tour with the debating team.  I know you appreciate that.  If it had been a remunerative job, I might have taken it anyway, but I don’t believe it was, for when he asked me he suggested that it would be good practice for me!

I wish you could have stayed longer in Ripon but you must come for a longer time on your way back.  It is a huge relief to know that you are not at home alone, but are with “Aunt Date” whom you can’t help but love and enjoy.  It is best for me not to come to Milwaukee when the visit would of necessity be short.

Don’t forget that you have already given me my birthday present!

I got a National Catalog which has been lots of pretty things in it.  We can get some ideas for your gingham dress and my blue one.  I also have a pictorial review.

Have a good time.

Love

Pearl

Tue. P.M. Mar. 10 ‘25

 

Dearest Mama;

I was glad to get your letter this morning and to see the address on the envelope.  I am ashamed to admit that I have wracked my brain for days trying to recall Hughes’s Street – and all in vain.  Now that I have it, I may write.

I just called up the Le Roy to get the bus schedule.  They leave here at about 10:00 in the morning + 5:00 in the P.M., and arrive from Oshkosh just a few minutes before the [sic] leave for there.  How does this suit you?  I could leave here Fri. at 5:00, stay at Hughes’ over night, shop Saturday morning and come back to Ripon in the P.M. on the bus that gets here a little before 5:00.  You would stay here over Sunday, go to Berlin for as long as you wished and come back to Ripon before going home.  The connections are better that way; and, besides, I want you to be here as much as you can.  I’m so anxious to see you!!

Tonight is to [sic] college play.  I wish you were here to go, but as it is I’m going with the girls. (Stuart takes his F+A.M. degree Tue. night.)

By the way; he came over Saturday, and we reached something of an understanding, but we aren’t going together, at least for awhile.  I’ll tell you Friday.

Sunday evening services went off so well that we were asked to come back next quarter.  Don’t sermon was much better than I had hoped it might be.  Vera read very well.  I sang “In the Garden” with my guitar.  Sunday P.M., I sang in a quartet at the funeral of an old man in town.

Saturday evening, Dr. Goodrich invited a few of us girls over to her home for a little party.  We had a lovely time.

Friday night Henrietta, Vera + I went to Wild Rose with “Prexy” to hear his lecture.  We got there in time for the program to begin + came back right afterward.  The roads weren’t very good, but we enjoyed it.  I wish I could have seen you.  George wasn’t there either.  He had been drawing potatoes and got three working too late, and stayed home writing a letter to me when I was within 6 miles of him!!  “Tragedy!”?  Several people asked us to stay over night i.e: — Louise, Mrs. W.E. Jones, Rev. Ferris, but Dr. Evans wanted to come right back.  So did we.

Dr. Fisher sent my tablets.

I’m feeling fine.  I’m taking P.M. naps.

Your loving,

Pearl

P.S. If you’d rather, I’d come some other day, let me know.  I’ll just as soon cut classes.  I don’t believe we’ll have Vespers.

[POSTCARD] dated Mar. 18, 1925

Dearest Momsie;

You are probably at home by this time.  I’m so glad you had a good time in Berlin.

Everything here is O.K.  I had a very pleasant birthday although of course it would have been more pleasant if you could have been with me.

Coming home Friday night.

Pearl.

 

Sat A.M.
Apr. 4 ‘25

Dearest Momsie;

There’s but a minute in which to write you a note, but I’ll do it and take it to the train so you’ll know that I’m feeling fine and that everything is O.K. as usual.

I’m so glad the Holt’s are coming and that Mr. Jones is still alive. I’m glad to that you can be of service to them, for they are people who would appreciate it.

I’m going over to pay my bill now $151.50. How was my account? Don’t use your $100 if you can possibly help it. I might better pay a little interest here.

Adam + Justine, Vera + Don, Catherine Gibbs + Ethan, S. + I had supper in S. Woods last night and had a lovely time.  Stuart acts just as he always has, + I’m immensely releaved [sic].  I haven’t mentioned the late developments yet.

I’m going to the formal. I crossed off once and it made such a scene that I tho’t it was cheaper to go.  There were only 10 going and they were angry at the rest of us for being quitters, so we signed up again and now there are about 20 couples. I haven’t asked anyone to go yet. There’s no hurry, + I want to await developments.

Your lovingly,

Pearl

Tue. P.M.

4/28/25

Dear Mama,

No particular disgrace fell upon your hatless daughter yesterday morning on her return to Ripon, although she felt a wee bit conspicuous.  Stuart met the train and we are going for a little ride this evening.

He and Vera had their date Saturday night with a result that Vera developed quite an alarming case on him. If he responded with one on her, it would simplify my problem quite a bit – but he seems to have no intention of doing so. I don’t see how any man could resist Vera she is simply adorable! He told her that all the fellows who went to our formal took particular delight in reminding him that he wasn’t there.

I have just drowsed through an education lecture. Why do people have to listen to men like Huebner try to lecture?? Don’t be ashamed of me for nodding; he is used to lecturing to a class of sleeping beauties. If I didn’t have to sit in the front row, I’d take some work to class with me. Oh well, it is presumably worth it to be able to teach.

Now, mama, don’t do too much heavy work!!! I don’t want you to. Leave the housecleaning for me to help with. I’m so sorry about your dress! Do you suppose you could have Mrs. Sage help you cut it, or can you wait until I come home again?

Your loving,

Pearl.

I have a chance to apply for a position in New Richmond about 15 or 20 miles from St. Paul, with a salary of about $1450. That is delightfully near Gladys.

Ripon

5/4/25

Mama dear,

It’ll begin a better tonight and plan on sending it after I get the mail tomorrow morning which may bring a letter from you.

The Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra will be here a week from tomorrow night and Iwant you to come!! –If you will, I’ll stay here this week-end and we’ll have our visit here instead of at home. Then, you see, it will only cost for the ticket as we won’t be out any R.R. fare. I’m sure George would like to come if he weren’t coming to go to Shiocton on the 15th.

I have just written a letter to Monroe, just out of the best H.S.’s in the state with an exceptional teacher! It may be 10 mos. school tho’, I don’t know. Positions are pretty scarce and it’s a comforting feeling to know that my life doesn’t depend on getting one. I’m going to try my luck, though.

Last night, the C.S.C. conducted services in Green Lake again. I had forgotten about it, so had to borrow a guitar. I sang some negro spirituals with their explanations “Steal Away,” and “Swing Low Sweet Chariot.” The audience seemed to enjoy them. Vera gave two splendid readings, and Mr. Winn gave the talk.

We had the most fun Saturday P.M. Stuart and I started out an hour before Marian and Harold, and Vera and Don to blaze a trail by tying white strings on fences for them to follow. We all congregated at the end of the “white trail” and had supper.

Marian is making big plans on our trip to Shiocton, and I hope nothing prevents George from going.

There will probably be a postscript to avoid tomorrow morning after the mail comes.

Goodnight,

Pearl xx

Tue. A.M.

A letter from G. says that he’s quite sure he can get away on the 15th, so he won’t want to come to the concert. But you come if you can. If you can come, it might be best for me not to come home this week-end altho [sic] there are lots of things that I could help you do after being at Bowen’s so long. Make the plans that seem best for you.

Lovingly,

Pearl.

Don’t work too hard at Bowen’s.

Fri. A.M.
May 1 ‘25

Mama, dear,

This has been a busy week.  Tuesday night Stuart took me to a show in Berlin.  It was a movie of “R”.  Do you remember the book?

Wednesday evening Henrietta + I, with an eye for helpful hints, went to see three 1 Act plays put on by the H.S. pupils.  I’m afraid I had my idea of what can be done with them set too high.  Oh well, it will be fun to see what I can get out of them in a dramatic line next year.

Last night the two Wescott girls came to their home town to give a vocal recital.  They have been away studying music for some time.  Their voices are splendid!  They are members of a talented family.  A brother, now in Europe, has just written the best novel of the year, so higher criticism says.  You remember, I told you about a call which S. + I made at their home some time ago.

Henrietta has invited me to “Fondy” over the week-end of May 24.  It is to be her birthday and she’s entertaining several of us girls at her home.  I told her I thought I could go.

Marian is planning on having us come home with her on the 15th, but if we go we’ll need to get back Sunday in time for Vespers.  It will surely be fun.

I finished the topic on moral Education on which I was working at home, and I’m going to begin another this P.M.

Thanks for sending the laundry, alto, I had enough to get along on without it.

How are you coming with your dress?  I wish I were there to help.

I do hope the people support the land.  It is one of the few community things Wild Rose has.

Lovingly + hastily

Your own

Pearl

Tue. A.M.
May 12 – ‘25

Dearest Mama;

I wrote a note to Mary this morning and sent off the New Richmond application.  This morning, Mr. Graham consulted me about a fine position in Weldon, Ill.  It is quite desirable except for the location – we probably wouldn’t want to go that far away.  However, I wrote to see about it.

The party was quite a success.  Everyone seemed to have a good time and to enjoy the eats.  I’m glad it’s over.  The apple blossoms kept fine.

The Glee Club concert isn’t until a week from Wednesday, so I can rest tomorrow night.

It rained here hard Saturday afternoon and evening.  I hope you have had some there by now.

Wish you were to be here for the concert tonight, but don’t forget that you must come to the play and any other time when you want to.

I must close now, but will write developments as they occur.

Lovingly,

Your own

Pearl

Monday evening,
May 18, 1925

Mama, dear,

We had such a pleasant week-end!! Saturday we chased away the rain and frost by singing and playing various instruments. Harold plays the violin quite well, and Marian’s fame goes without saying. Sunday morning we went to hear Rev. Conkle preach a very good sermon on “Jealousy.” He reminds me a bit of Abe Lincoln in his uncouthness and sincirity [sic]. In the P.M. we walked up the Wolf River to enjoy the scenery. Too bad Saturday wasn’t nice enough day to make a more extended trip possible. About 4:20, we started home and ate our dinner along the way. George seemed to have a very good time.

Stuart went home Friday night after receiving a long distance from his father who wanted him to help in the store Saturday. He brought the car back with him Sunday and would have called for me had I been home!!!!

This P.M. school was called off to witness an R.O.T.C. review which was an interesting glimpse of military tactics. After that, S. and I drove clear around Greek Lake. It was a beautiful drive.

Tonight Catherine Gibbs was initiated into Δ.Δ.Β.

We don’t go to Henrietta’s until Saturday noon which will give me all Friday afternoon and Saturday morning to work. My work, by the way, is coming along quite well.

The week-end of the 30th Stuart’s “frat” is having a house party at Green Lake and he expects me to go with him. I stalled off my answer until I could see George about it. He (G.) saw the situation clearly and is willing that I go. What do you think about it? The only reason that I hesitate is because I don’t like to have him spend so much money on me. However, I know he’d rather spend the money (even though he is Scotch) than to be embarassed [sic] by a refusal.

By the way, I heard from the R.C. scholarship. Due to the death of Dean Kent very recently, the Council is unable to issue scholarships this year. Mr. Kent had the funds in charge, and no one else has been found capable to continue his work. However, they hope to be on their feet again by next year. They kept my application and recommendations for consideration next year if I should still desire it. It is probably better that way until the future is more dear.

Thanks for sending my shoes and the little cakes which we ate on the road. George said over and over that he had never tasted such good cakes.

The date of the play isn’t set yet, but I’ll tell you when it is. Can’t you come down besides when you come for the play? I’ll come home if I can get away. I haven’t seen my mama for so long!

Lovingly,

Pearl.

Dear, by all means go to the Club conference. You don’t know how disappointed I’ll be if you don’t go!!!

P.S. again,

George seemed to feel quite well on the trip. I’ll write to him about taking care of himself.

Thur. A.M.
May 21, 1925

Dearest Mama,

I do hope you have gone to the Federated Club Conference! You ought to go and I wantyou to!

George said in his letter that you seemed to be working hard—perhaps too hard. Now I shall have to scold you. You know it doesn’t pay to overdo, and besides, there are very few things that won’t wait until I get home to help. I’m feeling unusually well this spring and will be able to do lots of things after school is out. Please don’t work so hard!

My term topics are coming along famously. Two are all done, and I’m to finish another tonight.

Two or three of Stuart’s friends are coming to look over Ripon this week-end, and Friday night we are going to take them on a weiner [sic] roast with some “B” girls I’ll pick out for them.

Henrietta’s folks are coming after us with the car Saturday noon and will bring us back Sunday afternoon. So there won’t be any R.R. fare. We are getting her a little gift for her birthday.

Last night the Girls’ Glee Club concert was very good.

I have been doing quite a bit of corresponding of late. Within two days I have written Nina, Dean Barber (who asked me to let him know about the fellowship), Mrs. Conkle, George, and you. Quite remarkable for me, isn’t it?

I surely hope you went to Waupaca. You seem to be whirring about enough to keep yourself occupied even though I’m not home. I’m glad you went to Wautoma, but don’t work too hard at the neighbors or at home.

Yours lovingly,

Pearl.

P.S. Your letter just received. Thanks for the pretty hanky. I’ll see when I get to Fondy what is best to do about Andersons.

Sat A.M.
5/23/25

Mama, dearest,

Your letter came this morning, and I’m so glad you went to the convention and had such a nice time!

I have two pair of white stockings and won’t need to have the others sent, as I’ll wash these out as they get soiled.

I’m going to Fondy thus noon and will probably look up Muriel. Henri says they live rather near Cotton St.

Had a nice time last night entertaining Stuart’s pals out at the lake. They seem to be good boys.

Oh dear! Another complication is successfully maneuvered. Stuart suggested taking me to Wild Rose the Sunday of the house party to see you. I didn’t dare let him come, and I didn’t see how I could tell him not to. Finally I told him that George wanted to some down once before commencement, and that if S. came to W.R. I’d have to let G. come here. (There isn’t any time for G. to come anyway, but it was an excuse.) I guess S. felt rather hurt, but it’s just as well for him to get prepared for a probably break-up at the close of school. I guess it will have to come, and after commencement would be a logical time for it—letting it be remembered as surely a college affair and nothing more. Altho [sic], I’m very fond of S. as a pal, I think I care more for G. Perhaps it is silly to let one’s feelings rule one’s judgment, but I don’t know how else it can be done.

I haven’t as yet thought of anything for Stuart’s commencement gift. It must be something he can keep as a tangible memory of our beautiful college companionship, and I don’t know what it can be. But something will come up, I presume.

Mildred Hotchkiss came Thur. morning for the week-end. I love to have her here, for she isn’t a bit of bother. Last night I found on my table a pretty plaid silk scarf with black and white, yellow and green coloring from Mildred. I was so surprised and pleased. I’m sending my old one home for you to wear, and you must wear it too.

I love you,

Pearl.

There is nothing in my laundry that I want back. I’m washing my own socks.

Ripon
May 25, 1925

Dearest friends,

This is the beginning of a brand new trip for our Robin, who for two days has had no messages in his pocket under his wings. It may not be hard to guess the reason—the messages are under quarantine for small pox. As soon as I finish this missive, I’m going over to Don’s window to have him dictate his contribution, and then our little Robin will start on its way to Gwen’s house.

Gwen, you must never, never allow the horrid thought to enter your head again—the thought of the possibility of our never being all four of us together again. A cold chill crawled up and down my vertebrae at the mere suggestion. Of course we will all of us meet again, perhaps not for some time, but we will meet and perhaps the joy of it will be the greater for the very postponing of it.

Perhaps the meeting will be next fall when Gwen comes back to Ripon. It will surely come then if I am at home. But plans for next year are as yet a very interesting gamble; and it may be, for ought any of us can tell, that Gwen’s prophecy about the Fiji islands will come true. I’m not particularly anxious for it to, however.

Yes, Don, life is a beautiful story. We four are rich in having enough inward and outward vision to realize it while we are living at its height. Far too many people wait until old age to contemplate youth. And here we are, youthful, but looking at youth with the eyes of youth! What have we done to deserve the joy of it? Isn’t it strange that we should all catch the vision at the same time? and have our eyes opened by the same dear marksman? Who said, “Cupid and love are blind”?

No, I didn’t get the fellowship Gwen. Dean Charles Foster Kent died a few weeks ago, and the council is left without a leader and without the funds of which he was to be the solicitor. The council has kept my application and letters of recommendation for consideration next year when it hopes to be back on its feet. If I want it next year will be as good a time as any to get it; but if I don’t, I won’t have lost that valuable time.

Last night I got back from a visit at Henrietta Groes’ home in Fondy. It was really a houseparty [sic], for four of us went from here, and relatives from Milwaukee arrived soon after we got there. It was all in celebration of Henrietta’s birthday. We had a very enjoyable week-end. Saturday afternoon we went out to “the ledge” a short way from town. It is a part of the limestone formation which extends in a high ridge around lake Winnebago and marked the shore line when, centuries ago, the lake was much larger than it is now. We found some shells for conclusive proof. It is a lovely place with rock piled on rock and path on path, with honeysuckles and pink trilliams [sic] between. We found a cave large enough to hold six of us at once. At the back of it is a small entrance into another, but, although it was solid limestone, we remembered Collins and didn’t venture through. If you’ll take me to the ridge someday this summer, George, I’ll show you the cave, and the shells and the flowers and lake Winnebago stretching out in the distance.

A week ago, George and I visited the Conkles’ in Shiocton. George told the truth when he said that we had a good time.

Mildred Hotchkiss (do you remember her, Gwen?) has been staying with me since Thursday morning. She graduated two years ago and has been teaching in Stevens Point since. It seems so good to have old chums come back on visits! I hope my friends will feel the same next year!

I must run along to Don’s house now, or Robin won’t get started before dinner.

Yours,

Pearl.

Wed. 5/27/25

Mama, dear,

I think it’s getting through. The inspector was very favorably impressed with us, and all that we need now is Prexy’s O.K. which we hope to get when he returns next week. The trustees and deans are quite enthusiastic, and we Δ.Δ.Β. girls are so excited that we don’t see how we can keep it a secret for another whole week. Won’t the campus buz [sic] when it finds out the news?—“Bartlett, the dumping grounds, the last to form a sorority—the first to become national!!” It seems sort of a poetic justice after all the criticisms we have endured!

It will mean so much to us girls, too. The very strong national organization will keep us in touch with each other better than we ever could do by ourselves. Whenever any of us go to Chicago, or to the coast or anywhere else where there is a chapter we can write them and will be shown around and “sistered” during our stay. The Nat. officers are coming some week-end next fall to give the three degrees, and we seniors will all come back to be admitted as alumni members.

At least I have cumplied [sic] with your wishes and bought some new slippers. ($6.50) They are to be used at present for dress occasions on which satin pumps might be inappropriate. They are very pretty black patent leather with a narrow strip of tan across the vamp for style and a little black bow at the end of the strap. [Drawing of shoe]

They are very stylish and dressy, and I’ll wear them carefully so they’ll last a long time.

The math club picnic last night was lots of fun. We all went to Sandstone Camp for supper (weiners [sic], buns, salad, coffee, cake, ice cream, pickles) and after supper took launch trips around the lake.

No, dear mama, I won’t make any important decision until I see you again. Everything is running very, very smoothly now, and I want it to continue so until the close of school. I’m sure it will, too. Your advice and fellowship means so much! I’m anxious for the time to come when we can be together again.

The date of the play isn’t as yet announced. I’ll let you know as soon as it is.

Yours lovingly,

Pearl.

Friday A.M.
[June 1925]

Mama, dear:

When your letter came I was just getting ready to go out to Christenson’s to order some tulips for Decoration Day, but as you are ordering some I won’t need to. I wish I could be at home with you, dear, over the week-end, but of course that is impossible now. However my heart and its love are with you all the time, and soon we will be together for a long time. I wish this long absence could have been prevented, but I hope to see you very soon.

There are only two weeks of college left for me, but although I love Ripon, I don’t regret that it is over. I feel that I have exhausted the institution as far as growth is concerned, and it is time to try something else. Of course, the hard thing is the parting from the friends. But the sorority will unite most of us, at least until new friends present themselves in new fields.

You surely have been kept busy with one thing and another of late. I’m afraid you are getting tired. If so, please don’t do so much. You can’t afford to do so much, even to help the neighbors.

The bottle of “white wash” came through in good shape. We are going to the lake about 4:30 this afternoon, and I expect to have a very nice time. We are to have two nice cottages. The larger one will be occupied by the girls and chaperones who happen to be Mr. and Mrs. Groves. Isn’t that nice? I’m glad we aren’t to be at a hotel where we have to be on our best behavior and wear our best clothes all the time. Real camping is so much more fun! The different couples will take turns getting meals.

I must write a nice letter to George today so he won’t get blue about the week-end.

This is senior chapel week. That is, the seniors march and members of the class conduct the service. Thus far, debators [sic] have talked. I don’t know what will happen today.

My work us coming along fine.

Isn’t it strange why so many people are ill or dying this spring after such a moderate winter? I’m so sorry about Tosten Thompson, the little Georgeson girl, and the splendid Mr. Upton. I mean I’m sorry for those who are left behind, but they are probably happier than before. We don’t know in what state they are, but they must be living, for how could so superb a thing as the human soul cease to live?

I had a very fine letter from Frona yesterday. She is such a dear girl! I hope to see her again sometime. And so long as she lives in Milwaukee there’s a pretty good chance.

I must close now, but will write again soon.

Good by, dear mama, for this time.

Pearl.

P.S. I really don’t think I need long gloves, but if I must have them I prefer beaver (it would match my coat I imagine) or would pongee be best?

 

Tue P.M.
June Jan .2 – 1925

Dearest Mama.

Your letter just arrived, and I want to reassure you that I know nothing of the house party when I was home. I wasn’t invited until after I came back. You ought to know from experience that you hold all my confidence – then why should I keep from you so small a thing as a houseparty? I wrote you of it as soon as I was invited.

I did want to be at home last week-end, and my thoughts were with you all the time. The houseparty wasn’t a choice, but it seemed the only wise thing to do after I had spent much serious thought upon it. George was splendid about it, as I knew he would be. A letter from him this morning reassured me.

Would you like to have me come home this week-end? I would like to come if it seems reasonable to do so. Probably it isn’t, but if you want me, we’ll throw reason to the wind. You’ll have time to let me know. The Spanish Club picnic is to be on the lake steamer Saturday P.M. and evening, but no one is going whom I care anything about, so I don’t want to go.

The commencement play won’t be until the Friday before commencement – i.e. a week from Friday. Amy can bring you down for it and take the car back Saturday morning. I want you to stay over for the whole thing. Saturday will be class day with exercises in the afternoon, two out of door plays in the evening and the annual bond [sic] fire. Sunday is baccalaureate, and Monday commencement. George will probably come for commencement and you can get a ride back with him. I’ll probably have to come on the train with my trunk.
The invitations are here – twelve of them. Should I send them out now or after commencement? If now, to whom should I send them? It’s a problem.

No, I have enough tablets to last ‘till I get home.

I’m sorry you are letting the house cleaning worry you, for I am feeling fine and will be glad to help after I get home. Please don’t work so hard! I don’t want you to!

As far as the gloves are concerned – none of the girls are wearing long gloves this season. In fact most of them wear none of nay kind, even to church! Of course, I’ll wear my white kid ones for commencement.

By the way, I am class poet, and am to read my poem at the class day exercises. (It isn’t finished yet, but will be by then).

Yes, I had a very time on [sic] the house party and I’m sure it caused no harm, except that of beeing [sic] unable to come home. I [sic] surely has been a long, long time since I saw you, Mama dear but it won’t be much longer.

I haven’t a position as yet, but there are apt. to be a lot if superintendents around during the next two weeks. If I haven’t a job when school closes, I’ll join an agency if it seems best.

You will enjoy Mrs. Taylor’s visit. Just settle down and make the most of it without fussing about the work which can just as well be left for me to help with.

Have you been having the nice rain lately, too? I presume you need them in the sandcountry.

Write soon to your loving

Pearl

P.S. Sunday evening.

Alice Parmenter came to call and stayed for a lunch on left overs and cantaloupe. We talked shop, and I really got a lot of good suggestions from her. This evening we called on Dr. Goodrich, and had a delightful time of course. On the street we met Mr. Becker and Mr. Allen, who were very cordial. Mr. Allen isn’t going to N.Y after all but is staying in Ripon to write.

 

Letters transcribed by Parissa DJangi and Bryan Schneider

Letters After Graduation: 1925-26

Aug. 7—1925

 Camp Cleyhorn

First Presbyterian Church

Percy H. Nickless

Minister

Ponca City, Oklahoma

Miss Pearl Pierce

Wild Rose, Wisconsin.

My dear Miss Pierce:–

Our “phone” conversation yesterday was not very satisfactory.

We are seeking, in our Church, for a man or woman to have charge of the educational work of the church [ ]—young people’s organizations, etc. Also direction of the choir. Dr. Evans gave you such a splendid recommendation that I thought you might be interested.

Ponca City is of 15,000 pop a growing city, beautiful in many respects and a very fine lot of people. Our church is a new $100,000 building well equipped for our programs, with offices, studies, fences, pipe organ, gymn, etc.

If you are in anyway interested I should like very much to see you. My own car is in the shop at Brandon and I had a borrowed one which is not working any too well or I would come over. We shall be in the Stanley Cottage until Wednesday morning next then Brandon, Wis. until Aug. 27th.

With Regards,

Yours Cordially,

Percy H. Nickless

 August 11, 1925.

Miss Pearl Pierce,

Wild Rose, Wisconsin.

 

My dear Miss Pierce:

I have written immediately to Rev. Nickless.

I had previously talked with him for some length in reference to you and my letter strongly re-enforces the recommendation I have given him orally.

I hope the matter comes through all right. Both you and the church will be very happy in the type of work which he outlines. I would so much rather see you in this kind of work than in public school teaching, and I know you will succeed in it in a remarkably good way.

I shall follow this matter up if I am given any opportunity. I am

Yours very cordially,

Silas Evans

[Sept. 1925]

Monday evening.

Mama dear,

I’m writing another note to tell you that Mrs. Lothrop is here to stay until the 15th or there-about. I thought you’d be relieved to know that I’m not alone. Although I didn’t get lonesome, it’s of course more pleasant to have someone else in the house.

The first day of school was rather strenuous but enlightening. After I get used to it, it will be a snap. I wasn’t at all frightened today.

So far as I know now, I’ll be home Friday night.

Your loving

Pearl.

I’ll mail that at the depot.

[Sept. 1925]

Sunday 4:30.

Dearest mama,

I hope you weren’t too tired when you reached home last night and that the trip wasn’t too monotonous.

I just got home from Groves’ where I went to dinner from church. Wasn’t she dear to ask me? The day has been very pleasant. Didn’t get up until quite lake [sic]—did you expect me to do otherwise?—, cooked breakfast, called on Mrs. Lincoln who seems very nice, went to church and to Groves’ and back home. The new voice instructor sang in church and I think he will be a far better vocal instructor than the two I had. Of course, that is merely a first impression. Everyone was very cordial—even more than usual it seemed. I’m anxious for you to come and get to know them.

Teacher’s meeting took until nearly 6:30 last evening. I don’t have to teach history, and I’m so glad! I’m satisfied that I didn’t know it until I had studied modern Europe. I have five English classes—three of freshmen and two of juniors. School lasts from 8 in the morning until 3:15 P.M. Every morning I have a free period from 9 to 10 in which I may study or come home. I know several of the teachers, Coco Troutman, Harold Banville (Mildred H’s friend), Clem Lueck (Anna’s beau), Mrs. Hall, Miss Kommers (who used to eat at Hobbs’) and the others I’m sure will be quite as enjoyable.

Last evening I looked over my schedule, books and suggestions, and retired early. I must study tonight.

We have the P.M. off tomorrow, and I’ll have a good chance to get my Tuesday’s work well in hand.

Don’t work too hard this week. Leave the heavy things for me to help do Saturday.

Love,

Pearl.

Thur. 4/8/26

Dearest Mama,

I’m in a rush to get ready to go to Princeton with Mildred and Katherine who received first and second places again last night in the closest contest I ever saw. Grace Leathert got fourth, and I think she deserved more. We’re hoping some place will be brought back tonight. I’m going by car with the Oshkosh lady judge.

The program of the artists [sic] course next Tuesday is to have a famous harpist whom youmust hear. Harp music is lovely. You come and stay as long as you can.

I like the green. Send the bill. I insist on paying for it. You can fit it when you come down.

I’m surprised about Ethel Mar. He must be an unusual man to say the least. Yes, I hope she’ll be happy.

The kids have been having a great time this week. They want to know what kind of an Easter rabbit brings diamond instead of eggs, if they can come to the wedding , what hisname is, if it will cut glass, what “engagement” means, and so on. One remarked aloud in class, “Gee! I’ll bet he’s happy!” Another wondered which one it was! It’s all a picnic.

Can’t take time to write more now. Don’t pitch into the work too hard. It doesn’t pay.

I love my mama,

Pearl.

Sunday P.M. 4/11/26

Dearest Mama,

I wonder what you are doing today. I hope your [sic] not at home all alone—I don’t like to think of you there alone. Perhaps you had some plans for today so long as you didn’t come down. It would have been nice for you to come and stay until after the concert Tuesday night making your trip to the city Monday or Tuesday. I think you have better go to the city, don’t you? There are several things you want to get—most particularly a coat.

I took my first voice lesson yesterday with Mr. Chamberlain—a very splendid teacher. It’s going to be lots of fun and very beneficial. Technically there is to be half an hour a week for 25 dollars, but yesterday I went at 4:30 and stayed until 6:00. His pupils say that lessons are always like that. Mr. Chamberlain, himself, is an unusually interesting man. He said, after I had sung a few songs, “Of course, it is a beautiful voice and of course it has many faults!” It’s going to be a real recreation for me, and I feel that I’m going to learn more than I did with Miss Armstrong and Miss Evans together. Usually the lessons will come on Tuesday at 4:15.

Yesterday I went for a walk with Henrietta and Ruth Bity. They had taken out rebates and were cooking their own supper and asked me to eat with them, which I did with much enjoyment. We may plan to eat together week-ends when I’m here alone.

I asked Henrietta to eat dinner with me today at the Grand View. We had chicken. Everything was delicious. The eating expenses for the week end just broke down even with what I should have paid had I stayed at Leitg’s, but I did a lot of things I enjoyed and wanted to do. Henrietta, I think, was pleased to be asked. I think I’ll do the same thing with Marie Baumgartner some week-end, only not so elaborate.

Yesterday I paid my bills and bought some rose taffeta for my hat which I hope will be pretty. I haven’t had time to make it yet.

Mildred was pretty thoroughly disappointed at not getting a better place at the League contest. It was quite a come down. She did well, too. Katherine is the only one who can’t go on the other higher ones, now. She may not be able to get beyond the sub-district contest at New London which will be held in two or three weeks, I don’t know. Probably I’ll have to go with her and the boy representative. Quite a few from Ripon went to the Princeton contest. I went in a car with the boy speakers, Mrs. Wescott and an Oshkosh lady judge.

Does any one seem to know about my ring at home? George said he guessed Mrs. Patterson didn’t see it for he hadn’t heard about it. The only reason why I don’t want them to find out until I get home again is so that I can have the fun of showing it to “Auntie Angie,” and hear her gush! I can’t think of anything that would be more fun.

This is to be another busy week. Tuesday of course is the harpist concert, Wednesday the annual junior class play, Thursday the Parent-Teachers meeting, and Friday I hope—home. Friday in a whole after noon assembly my juniors are putting on two one-act plays which I’m busy coaching. So you see, that’s the way it goes.

You must come to hear the harpist! Can’t you stay over to hear the junior class play. [sic] Of course, you’ll want to arrange your trip with Mrs. Holt if she plans on coming too, but stay as long as you possibly can.

Do you think I better try to come home Friday? I want to, but I don’t imagine Mr. Rock enjoys having me rush in twenty-five minutes late. Is there any way of getting back, do you suppose? The Hoods are undoubtedly horrid. We’ll talk about it when you come down.

Yes, it is a shame that Dave Ch[ ] became town chairman, but you are right in saying we must rise above it. I suppose such things don’t count in the real summing up.

I feel fine physically and hope you are rested somewhat or wholly. Please don’t overdo or stay out there when you’re lonesome. Come down here any time for a good visit.

Mrs. Inghram called up to ask me to lead C.E. tonight. I refused and got Dorothy Dudley to do it. She’s delighted and I have neither time nor inclination.

Bye, dearest of mothers,

Pearl.

P.S. The Argus is still coming here.

P.S. I have a box, 362

 

Wednesday evening

4/28/26

Mama dear,

Wasn’t that a silly thing I did last night to trot all the way to the depot with a blank card I had addressed to Vera instead of the one I had written to you? Oh well, it doesn’t matter in particular I guess.

Tell me exactly how you feel. Did cooking for and working at the supper tire you a lot? I’m afraid it did. I’d give a lot if you’d only let things go until you get rested up. There’s no rush about things, and anyway you can get them done all the quicker when you feel better.

It must be a relief to have the quilts tied. That is worth what it cost and then some.

Margarite Engel saw my dress and said, “There wasn’t a prettier one at the prom.” I can’t be sorry I got this one, even though it’s impractical and pink. It ought to make a hit at formal and H.S. prom. I haven’t mentioned the latter to George yet. It is perhaps wise to feed such things to him gradually!

No, I haven’t wanted my winter coat. I’m glad it’s home. I wonder if it’s worn at the bottom so it can’t be turned down next winter if coats are longer.

E.E said she noticed my ring in Oshkosh Saturday, and I wouldn’t be at all surprised if she connected it with the dress. However I put her at ease with my ever ready argument of having signed the contract. She saw her mother Sunday and probably told her in spite of the fact that she said she hadn’t. Is there any more dependable newspaper?!

Broadcasting was fun. E.E. sent in a phone request for me to sing “The Perfect Day” which I did, dedicating it to her. Another C.S. team was in Red Granite listening in and phones a request for “In the Garden” which I did not sing because my voice was pretty tired and I couldn’t have done it justice. The unseen audience idea was interesting and rather thrilling. The quartet numbers went off quite well.

Solomon Levinson, our state treasurer, spoke in the H.S. auditorium yesterday. He’s extremely interesting, telling of his experiences and difficulties—just the thing H.S. pupils should hear to prove what can be accomplished by sheer determination. He’s decidedly a Jew, but certainly is a man to be admired.

I’ll go by St. Paul train to Waupun Fri. and from there by bus to Madison arriving at 8:15. I’ll come back Sunday by bus thru Fondy, getting here at 5:30. It will be an enjoyable trip, but I’d just as soon come home.

The package was another nice complimentary book. I had imagined all sorts of things from flowers to “bombs.”

Thank you so much, mama dear for making my kimono. I’m afraid you took too much pains. I don’t want you to sew another stitch for me for a long time.

I’m feeling fine.

Nighty,

Pearl

Friday 4/30/26

Dearest of Mothers,

You don’t know how much I like the pajamas and the kimono. If you were here I’d give you a great big hug, but as it is I can only tell you “I love you more’n a bushel,” as I used to when a youngster. That doesn’t pay you though for serving way into the night when you should be asleep after a hard day’s work. Although I think the P.J.’s are just as pretty as they can be, I ought to scold you for making them after you had done so many other things. I really mean it when I tell you that you mustn’t sew another but for me for a long, long time. I’m sure I shan’t need it.

Yes, your bag is here and also your la valiere. I’ll bring both when I come home. Wish I could be with you this week-end but I think it’s best to go now and be free later. Miss Carol and Miss Deistler are going to Madison this P.M. too, so I’ll have company there.

I’m glad Mrs. Clark is home. You’ll enjoy being with her a lot. Now that I have clothes enough to last ten years, you’ll have more time to spend with your friends!

I’m going by Waupun. It is quicker and less expensive. The St. Paul leaves here at 4:20 and the bus leaves Waupun about 5:30. Good connections. There isn’t time to write more now. Try to have a pleasant week-end, and thank you—oh, so much, for everything.

Lovingly,

Pearl.

P.S. I wrote a letter to E. Towne.

Sunday evening.
5/2/26

Dearest Mama,

What kind of a day has this been for you? I wish I could have been with you.

The pajamas are just right. I like them a lot. They were so unexpected! The kimono is lovely. The lunch, I ate on the way to Madison. You are too good to me!! Thanks         for fixing my yellow and lavender dress which can be worn a lot now.

The Madison trip was thoroughly enjoyable. Friday evening Vera and I went to a movie production of “Moby Dick,” Herman Melville’s famous novel of a white whale. John Barrymore, about the only real actor who plays in the movie, was the chief character. It was powerfully don, the story of men who almost lost their reason in a mad determination to kill Moby Dick the white whale who was the terror of the seas and had caused the death of hundreds of men seeking to kill him.

Saturday morning we went to see “Little Italy,” the slum section of Madison which is populated almost entirely by poverty stricken, illiterate negroes and Italians. The streets were full of dirty little urchins who already have an instinctive antagonism toward anyone white and well-dressed. Perhaps it is a just feeling of antagonism arising from enforced isolation.

In the P.M., six of us: Clarence and Vera, Clarence’s room mate—Mr. MacFerson and his friend Miss Erikson, and Elliot—Vera’s brother—and I kicked hicked [sic] around Lake Mendota to picnic point almost directing across from the capital. There we had supper and a delightful time, staying until the capital dome lit up and gleamed across the water. It was a most beautiful sight. Elliot is all Vera says he is, a very attractive boy with big possibilities. Clarence reminded me a lot of Stuart except that Stuart is bigger and more polished.

It rained this morning, so we didn’t get the things we had planned done. It was just as enjoyable as I thought it would be.

If things had been different it would have been ideal to go to Madison after two years of Ripon. I rather wore out Ripon after two years of it. But so long as I’m going  to marry George, I’m glad I haven’t any more sophistication. Vera describes the two places, “Madison has a majestic beauty and Ripon has a dear intimate beauty,” and I guess she hit it.

Probably George will come down Friday afternoon and we’ll drive home sometime during the night. Don’t stay awake for me. I’ll creep in and lock the doors as quietly as I can, and we’ll have our visit in the morning. I’ll let you know definitely about George’s suit, etc. as soon as I hear.

I must go to bed now altho [sic] I don’t feel a bit tired. Thank you for being so wonderful to me, dearest Mama. I love you hard.

Pearl.

 

P.S. I wrote Gladys.

 

[May 12,1926]
Tue. P.M.

Dearest Mama,

I made a mistake on the date to which the Artist Course is postponed. Instead of the 15th, it it [sic] Tuesday the 25th. Too bad to cause so much confusion. Come down for over Sunday anyway if you can and care to.

Mrs. Bintiff has gone to the music convention in Sheboygan and Marian Conkle and I are staying in her house nights taking care of the canary while she is gone. The house is all heated and it’s fun to stay there. Marian didn’t like to stay alone.

Love,

Pearl.

We’ll be at Mrs. Bintiff’s tonight and tomorrow night. Stayed after card party last night. Wonderful bed!

Monday P.M.

5/17/26

Mama, dear,

The A.A.U.W. reception in Oshkosh was a nice affair. Ripon, Fond du Lac and Appleton chapters were entertained. For entertainment there were a 1-act play, piano and harp solos, and an old fashioned dance beautifully done by two girls in colonial costume. For refreshment, there were chicken salad, hot rolls, fruit jello, coffee, and angel’s food cake. Miss Maloney, who teaches history and English here, came by way of Ripon to take me. She lives in Fondy.

Saturday evening some of the Bartlett girls and I went to the movie production of Mary Roberts Rhinehart’s play, “The Bat.” Oh, it was spooky!

Yesterday I slept until noon—rather rested until noon, went up town to dinner, and to supper at Bartlett with Henri., Bity, Charli and Nettie. Miss Carrol called up after dinner and asked me to go riding with her and the Prestons, which I readily accepted. We drove to Berlin, Neshkoro, Princeton, Green Lake and back to Ripon. Oh, how I wanted to beg them to take me on to Wild Rose! But I refrained and came back to Ripon without seeing my mama or my beau!

Saturday morning Justine came over. We went out to dinner and had a good visit.

I let Muriel A. know that I knew she had told. She would have tried to deny it if I hadn’t known the details. As it was, her only explanation was, “One of your pupils told me.” I replied, “My pupils know nothing of my affairs.” No, she isn’t offended. I think it may teach her a lesson, for I have noticed often that she is always telling things for facts which are only rumors.

A letter from the national treasurer of the AXA reminds me that I have been elected national expansion secretary. I’m going to write for details. In case I accept, could my mama cook for my hubby once in a while, while I’m galavanting [sic] around on business? Justine doesn’t know my plans but she said if I married it would be a nice broadening, relieving avocation. What do you think, my dear?

I took advantage of another Mattice Foster coupon. I’m sending the picture and will bring the prize itself Friday night. Really, it is very useful and not bad looking for everyday.

I purchased some pink garters which I shall save for state occasions. Two linen glass towels, in addition, made my bill the necessary $1.00 plus a few cents.

Did you have a nice week-end? I did so want to come home! Did the flowers keep well? I remember your fondness for trilliums.

Tuesday night is A.A.U.W. Thursday night, the freshman have asked me to a picnic at Green Lake. Friday night, the prom—and home afterward, which is most important. Don’t sit up for me. I don’t know what time we’ll get home.

Mrs. Simons just came up. I said, “I’m writing to Mama. Is there anything you want to say?” She said, “Tell her hello, that you’re a good girl and that you’re booking real well.” I do feel lots better than two weeks ago.

Lovingly,

Pearl.

Wednesday, June 2, 1926

Mama, dear,

No one could be a more wonderful mother than you. If I’m not a disgrace it’s due to the influence of you and Papa and not the heritage which I have in common with some of my sisters. Oh, I love you so! I understand more of your situation than you can possibly realize when because of the fact that I have expressed it so seldom. Your loneliness, your problems, your bravery in both and in your unselfish desire to give me the trial of my wings to a new home are all in my mind a great deal of the time. Mama dear, the one thing which proves to me more than anything else that I should marry George, is the fact that I never felt Papa’s death except as a daughter until I loved George. Now, in addition to that loss, I realize something of how you feel. Because it was hard to say, I never told you before. Perhaps it isn’t clear even now, but if it isn’t I’ll try to say it differently when you come to Ripon. Try not to be blue about my marrying, because my home will always be your home just as yours has been mine. We both want you all you will stay. We’ll see each other more than during the past few years, because even when you’re not in the same house you’ll be very near. I wonder if I can ever make up to you for your sacrifices for me. I’m going to try.

The ΘΥ mother’s degree will be given Sunday morning at eight o’clock. It would please me a lot if you will take it. There will be no cost except for the pin, $7.00, and I want to give you that. In the evening there will be a mothers banquet with the daughters at Sherwood Forest Hotel. You’ll want to go to Baccalaureate, too, so Sunday will be as full as we want it to be. I don’t know whether you should come by car or by train. I’ll see how much of my “stuff” I can send home this week-end. Do you care which you do?

Last night I dreamed of Papa. It was Christmas time and I was feeling badly because he had given me so much more than I had given him. Of course, the dream has its interpretation.

I’ll write again soon, but must close now as we are entertaining the club at LeRoy. It doesn’t cost but very little more, and there’s no work!

I love my mama,

Pearl.

Wild Rose, Wis. June 3, 1926

My dear Girlie:–

I have just had my breakfast as the train is whistling up in the hills—so you see I have a fairly early start on the day and hope I got some thing done. The first thing is to write my precious girlie a few lines so she may receive it this P.M. if she gets the mail. We had out 164 supper yesterday. Effie was on this Com. too– of course she couldn’t wait for [ ] to show. [ ] her up here of the room hours and she went with me—then came home with me and  [ ] came for her about 9-30. We had quite a [ ]. Don’t know how much we made as Mrs. Duler [ ] collected this [ ] and walked off which [] telling the Com—but it cost us nearly $3.00 cash and I’ve no idea we took in much more than half that amount. Mrs. Clark was ill and could not come. She walked up to the cemetery Sat. and dragged her [ ] and a lot of other stuff and over did and had been “[]” since I feel guilty that we didn’t go and take her yet. I don’t really see I was wholly up to us. She should have asked us [ ]. We [ ]  corn bread and butter, pickles, Lemon filling caks and coffee. All were good. Now they are going to serve a 259 supper each month.  [ ] I’ve put about $5.00 []  L.A.S. since I came here from Ripon. But I suppose they think that the only way I raise Mrs, Ferris’ salary. I head that Barbara was not so well. They say [] she has a [] in her side and they think she is too weak to have an operation. The Joneses took her mother down to see her yesterday P.M. I guess she won’t get well and what an awful thing it will be if she doesn’t. I went to [ ] class Play with Ida Tues. evening. I saw [] a suitor he enquired after you—said they were pretty hard but Mrs. Dorling told me that she’d heard he was to be married June 1st but a [ ] and everything in readiness and the girl died. And that he was completely broken up and was going to stay [ ] . I’ll hear more about it later but Mrs. D.’s information came from one of her neighbors [ ] Robertses. Well it seems as [] the family had more than was coming to them of sorrow and [] sure. I did [] Club as I though I could not spend the time as I had to give up all of Saturday for the supper. I heard all the “Dopp” members were [] but very few of the other members present. Did [ ] gone for Mrs. D. If they hadn’t been coming of course but I found they were so [ ] it up. Ethel is [ ] next [ ] if I go “camping” I won’t be here then. I do hope you are having a good week and not getting too tired. I am so anxious for you to finish up without being all worn out. If there is any thing you want me to go for you let me know. Don’t think I’ll think it’s a burden for I won’t. All I have to live for is to help you [ ] as well be in our [ ] I don’t know what I’d do if I didn’t have you. And I’m trying to feel that you’ll always be as much mine as ever even if you find yourself with the care and protection of me when I  [] will appreciate and love you all you deserve. I [] and feel I have [] and not [] and I’m sure I can conduct myself in a [] that I shall not be too great a nuisance. I hope that at least  and that he of service for the time that is meant [] here. [] dear get any thing and every thing you need and want in Fon du Lac [sic] and I’ll be glad to pay for anything don’t []. Be sure to get a pretty coat. I [ ]

I love you

Mama.

Friday June 4, ‘26

Dearest Mama,

Your lovely letter came yesterday. You didn’t say anything about your dress. What did Blanche think about buttons? Do you want me to get some? You are planning on taking the mother’s degree in Theta Upsilon, aren’t you. [sic] The other girls’ mothers are, including Mrs. Conkle and Mrs. Krals. Marian is to arrange the seating at the banquest, and she wants you and her, mother to sit together. Won’t that be nice? Plan on coming Saturday sometime. The wonderful pageant which Mr. Boody has written and directed will be staged both Friday and Saturday evenings. You must see it.

Yes, isn’t the Roberts family hit hard! When I went to the P.O. yesterday, Lowell came in saying that Mary was outside in the car. He had taken her to see Barbara, whom he said couldn’t get well. There was nothing I could say to her, but I went anyway. I believe the situation at home is the only thing which is preventing Mary and Lowell from being married. Now it’s worse than ever.

I’m sorry about Mrs. Clark, but we told her to call up if she wanted to be taken to the cemetery any time.

The bridge luncheon at the LeRoy was quite a nice affair. There wasn’t a tap of work to it and it didn’t cost any more than when Margarete and I served alone and labored for days.

Monday evening I went to a movie on the Einstein theory of relativity. Now, I feel quite wise.

I’m very busy making out reports, giving finals and correcting papers, but at the time next week it will all be over. Teaching is an experience. I would hate to miss. Besides, I’m afraid I couldn’t have been content until I had a taste of it. It’s hard to leave it even now I’m feeling really exceptionally well, considering the strenuous year; but I know I’ll be more healthy than I have ever been after I quite the school routine.

You might send a white cold cream cloth or two and a few tablets with George. Thanks.Please don’t fuss about a lunch. Clam chowder would be delicious, but other than that don’t send anything.

Have a nice week-end. Try to get rested. Now is your chance to go to church.

I’ll get a large box from town to pack me goods in so you won’t need to touch it until I get home. Just set it away. There’s nothing that will need attention.

Yours ever and always,

Pearl.

Sunday June 6, ‘26

Mama dear,

The picnic dinner you sent was delicious. There was enough left for supper, too. But you shouldn’t have sent so much. It must have taken you all day to get it ready, and you’re so lousy, too! You’re the most wonderful mother alive!!!

I bought a gray coat after all at Gruenheck’s. It is beautiful quality. On each side rather low are two inverted pleats and from the top of them running up under the arm is a strip of very rich braid in gray and gold. The collar is covered with gray squirrel. It fits as tho’ it were made for me. I hope you’ll like it. I got it at half price. It was $69.50 and I paid $34.75. It’s a very pretty coat.

George bought me a handsome bag having a hand tooled design and a hand laced edge and handles. It is leather lines. The shape is one that will always be good. It holds a lot. The corners are square but it is quite a little the size of my old brown one. I guess it’s a little deeper.

I bought a bed lamp dollie for a dollar. Just couldn’t resist her! Isn’t she pretty?

Grace Michaels has my job, and it’s pretty well noised around that it’s maybe my job. Of course very few know Mr. Rock, Grace and Harriet Herman, the secretary. Oh well, it’s almost the end of the year, so I don’t mind.

We went out to Sandstone today. Everything looks better than I expected, although it is all very rustic. The cottage we are to occupy has a fireplace, which solves the cooking problem in case of rain and the heating problem in case of cold. They will furnish blankets, dishes, silver and whatever kitchen utinsels [sic] we are unable to bring. That means that all we need to take is narrow sheets and pillows, and perhaps a butcher knife and spider. I forgot to take the spider out of the car. Isn’t that too bad? Marian has one, but we may need another. It’s a relief to know we won’t have to take bedding and dishes. The people who are caretakers are very nice.

Probably you’d better come by car to make sure that there’s enough room to take my things home, i.e., of course, if you’d just as soon. If you would the least bit rather not bother with a car, I can pack a box just as well as not and mail it home. If you come by car, come as early Saturday as you. I think you’ll enjoy commencement. Lots of the girls’ mothers will be here for you to meet and enjoy. Besides, the exercises will be quite elaborate, as this is the 75th anniversary you know.

Adam has a chance to drive Miss Dunham’s car east, which means that his folks will go back on the train and he and Justine can come to our house party. Hurrah! Nothing can be monotonous with them there.

I love my Moms,

Pearl.

Thanks you so much for the lunch and everything. I’m anxious to see you. Glad your dress turned out well. I’ll keep your mush bag here for you. Thanks for letting me use it

Marian, Justine, and I planned our meals yesterday. You aren’t to bring anything. You see a cake wouldn’t keep from Sat. Marian’s mother is bringing cookies, but we’re deducting that from Marian’s expenses. We don’t want sweets anyway. We’re having to have very plain food.

 

Letters transcribed by Parissa DJangi and Bryan Schneider

Undated Letters

To George

Thur. P.M.

Dear George,

Your letter yesterday morning was a pleasant surprise.  I hadn’t expected one quite so soon.

Last night you had your “debut” initiating O.E.S. candidate.  I’m sure you were a credit to the order and I wish I might have been one of the on lookers.  I haven’t heard anything the Ripon installation, but perhaps it had already occurred before school began.  My diary tells me that in two former years it came the first Friday in January.  I wish it would be in a couple of weeks – then you might be able to come.

Once more, dear Dr. Mutch has slipped me past a difficulty.  You know I didn’t want to take education under professor “Chloroform” (Heubner), but I couldn’t see any way out of it.  I told Dr. Mutch about it and he said, “Nine chances out of ten you won’t need it.  You might get a scholarship or get married.”  (I laughed up my clever)  “And if you don’t, perhaps the H.S. where you teach won’t require it.  Don’t take it this quarter, you can’t take it next quarter because it isn’t offered, and you can’t take it under Mr. Huebner next summer because he won’t be here.  If you have to have it when the time comes, I’ll give it to you!”  All the time his eyes were twinkling.  If he give me the course next summer I’ll probably read a book, tell him what’s in it and get credit for the course.  That’s one way of getting out of something that would never do me any good!

Justine and I just return from making two afternoon calls on professors wives – Mrs. Groves and Mrs. Woodman.  It is expected of senior girls you know.  I dreaded it a little but found the ladies so informal and cordial that the task became a pleasure.

Don gave me my first lesson in skiing Tuesday afternoon, and I took Seventeen ungraceful tumbles, but it was great sport.  Don spent a week in Racine on the way back to Ripon and explained with a huge sigh, “don’t know why, but it gets a little harder every time to leave that place!”  He kicked the snow with his foot like a seventeen year old boy.  Gwen is well.  They received our Robin, but he didn’t say when it was coming back our way.

I truly didn’t expect you to come over Monday night because I know you would be tired after such a heavy day, and I was pleased that you would really trust me to understand the situation.  I hope you feel no ill-effects from over-exertion.  Don’t work too hard even though you [sic] hired man did “beat it.”

I hope everything at your house is in shipshape and that the grip is a thing of the past.

Your

Pearl.

To her parents

Dearest Moms and Pops,

I’m so pleased that you are spending Saturday and Sunday at the Dells and I certainly hope that the weather there is not as warm and sultry as it if here. I know you’ll both thoroughly enjoy the scenery and the outing. I’m glad Mrs. Coon and Mrs. Clark can go with you. Write all about your trip.

I’m waiting for definate [sic] news about your coming to the play, so I can get tickets. You just have to come! and you must stay just as long as you can. I won’t have any studying to do over the next week-end, so I can spend all my time with you folks. I’m so anxious for you to come!

Mary R. came Friday night and stayed until this noon. (I was very glad she could spend the time with me, although it did break into my plans quite a bit. However, I’ll get along all right, for my one-act play is all done and my resume about half completed. It will come out all right—things always do.

Nordica Busian is visiting in Ripon for a week or two. She looks very well and seems to be feeling well, but she can’t teach for a year or so because of her eyes which are still rather weak. She was very sick I guess. It must have been a great hardship for such a girl, usually so healthy, to have to stay in a hospital for six weeks. We heard she was in town, so Mary and I went to call on her yesterday afternoon. She was over here for a while this afternoon.

Mary had a date last night with Lowell Watson, so Stuart and I went to the show. It was quite an experience for both of us, for I haven’t seen one in ever so long and he hasn’t been to a “movie” for a year. It was quite good, but I don’t care for them especially. I can’t understand why good literature can’t be staged at a profit to the manager just as well as that melodramatic rot.

Marian Conkle and I are beginning to the “The Syrian Christ” aloud during our spare moments. It is a splendid book, very highly graded as literature and quality. It seems to be the explaination [sic] given by a Syrian man, born and reared at the home of Christ, of the things in the Bible which people who do not know the Syrian customs can not understand.

We had a purely musical program in C.E. tonight and it was splendid with a fine crowd to hear it. I imagine the rain prevented some from coming.

I was voted into the Alpha Chi Alpha one day last week, and I imagine there will be initiation soon.

Mr. Allen is preparing to go to Europe for the summer, so we won’t have our last class in advanced composition. I don’t have Bible this week, because Prexy is giving lectures to only those who are below car and have to take an examination. It is a relief not to have to teach any more.

I must close now, and get to my resume again.

Hoping to see you very soon,

Pearl.

The Crimson comes out tomorrow—am anxious to see them.

When you come will you bring my box of paints and my brushes please? I want to make a little picture for Stell’s graduation.

I got an invitation from Dorothy Smith. Shall I get her something or are you getting something from us all?

 

Saturday night.

Dearest folks in all the world,

I’m so, so, sorry that you can’t come to spend tomorrow with me, but hope to see you soon anyway. You know the informal is next Fri. night so I can’t come home then, but hope to come home the next week.

I’m glad you rec’d the flowers O.K., and that you like them.

Don’t wait for my laundry this week. I have been out to the woods with the girls today and haven’t had time to mail it. There isn’t much need and I don’t need it at all. My white dress doesn’t need washing at all.

I’ll write a letter tomorrow.

Love always,

Pearl.

Dearest, dearest folks,

What do you ‘spose!!? Mr. Tutunjian asked me tonight after C.E. to go on the League house party over next week-end! (The League is composed of the college men who don’t live in dorms.) Each man who does takes a lady with him. I think it will be at one of the hotels. Of course, it will be well chaperones. Won’t it be a fine chance to have a last visit with Jian! I had been feeling quite badly to think that this busy college life was keeping me from ever seeing one of the finest men I have ever known. Don’t you think it’s alright for me to go? There are several other very nice girls from the house who are going and whom I can be with most of the time. But be sure to let me know what you think about it.

Instead of taking the ten mile hike out to the old distillery yesterdaym I went with Stell and Jo (who are the tennis champions at Ripon) to Lawrence for the tournament. We went in a hired car, and had a very nice time, but the rain came and prevented the finishing of the game which was a disappointment for our girls had the lead. It stormed dreadfully all the way home, but the car was tight and we didn’t get wet.

The informal was a splendid success. It was so decidedly informal that everyone had a wonderfully good time. We had refreshments down stairs in the club rooms consisting of cookies and colored ice cream moulded [sic] in the shape of flowers and fruit. It was very pretty. The decorations, though simple, were beautiful. The banister of the stairway was wound in pink and white, our colors, and the parlors had crepe paper streamers running in a canopy effect from the light in the center of the rooms. We had “confetti” and threw it around on everyone. All of the men hated to go home when the time came to go. For fifteen minutes we had “open house” when everyone took a look at all the rooms. For once, Bartlett was spick and span.

Did I tell you that Mr. Hamley took the Christian Service Club out to a bluff from which we could get a good bird’s eye view of Green Lake last Thursday after school? He pointed out all of the interesting points in the history of the Winnebago Indians which he had known personally all his life. You know, he had been a missionary among the Indians for years. The talk was very interesting and instructive. We had a nice time too.

This week Tuesday, I go to Rosendale, and one Friday to Greek Lake—that is, of course, if you want me to. Those are the only two extra things that I know of for this week.

Today, I have been spending restfully and I feel fine tonight. I’m not overdoing. I haven’t gone anywhere except to C.E. By the way, the C.E. wants me to be one of five delegates to go to the summer C.E. conferences at Green Lake at the Bible Institute for the 2nd week in July. The society and church will pay 60% of our expenses which are ten dollars besides car fare. What do you think of that? Is it going to be during the busy time at home? If it is, I won’t go.

You asked me how I told Donald C. that I wouldn’t go with him on Decoration Day. I simply told him that I had been going with another young man and that he expected me to go with him. D. said, “Alright, I’ll get someone else.” Ha! I wonder if he will. I had hoped that this would be the end of his foolishness, but he grins at me just as much as ever. I see Stuart about once in two weeks, but that offered the only possible excuse.

I can’t write any more now, because it is getting late.

Good night.

Love and kisses,  xxxxxxxxx

Pearl

P.S. I’m so sorry I didn’t get time to mail my laundry, but I’ve been so rushed! I don’t want you to send back any of those clothes for I won’t need them and I’ll just have to take them again. Don’t make an extra wash for them.

P.S. again.

We stopped in Oshkosh to supper on the way home last night and Gorgon Dopp walked into the “restaurant” and saw me and came over to speak to me. He was in a hurry, for he was working somewhere up town and had only come in for lunch and had to go right back to work. He is looking well.

I finished my term paper in history today. One more job off my hands.

Bartlett, Ripon, Wis.
Sun. P.M.

Dearest folks,

I went to Sunday school this morning, and Mr. Graham gave a very interesting talk as usual. He always asks if there are any questions to be askes before he begins his lecture. This morning there were two, “How do we know if our life is a success” and “are we sinners when we are tempted.” He talked nearly half a [sic] hour on each of them. I never saw a person who could talk without preparation in such a manner as he does. Beautiful thoughts seem to flow out of his mouth one after the other on any subject one could mention. He invites us to come to him during the week if we need help along any line. If there is ever a time when there is not time to get advice from home about something important I feel sure he would be glad to give it to me.

Mrs. Rev. Wilson of the Congo church was just in to call. She is a wonderful woman, and all the girls adore her. She is the Bartlett house mother. (Mose stayed with them, you remember). I told you that I had joined the C.T.G. Mrs. Wilson is the head of it although only a few college girls belong. At each meeting there are interesting talks given by different girls. The time when I joined it met in the church basement, but hereafter it will be in the homes of the town girls who are members. In that way, I’ll get into the nicest homes of Ripon. I think it meets once a month. We pledge our dues which go to missionary work. I’ll probably give $1.00. Is that alright?

There was a football game here yesterday between Northwestern “U” and Ripon College. It wasn’t so very interesting for me because I don’t understand the game, it rained and the score was 28 to 0 in favor of Ripon which was rather too one sided for enthusiasm. It seems cruel the way the boys get hurt all because of fun and college loyalty. There were no serious accidents yesterday.

I am coming home next week end if I possible can, and if there are coats in by that time. I’m sure I can arrange to take my lab at some other time so that I can come Friday night. I hope I can come as I love my mamma and papa and home so well! I am very, very busy all the time, so I don’t get time to get homesick, and I imagine with grandpa in his present condition, you are too busy to get lonesome for me. I hope he is causing you less worry and trouble now. I am so sorry, and I wish so much that I could help.

I have been so busy that I haven’t written to a soul this week except you. I owe quite a lot of letters as usual. Everyone is good to write. I have been very few days without any mail, I read a lovly [sic], long letter from Mrs. Darling. If you happen to talk to her, thank her for it and tell her I’ll write as soon as I get time.

Thank you for the apples, laundry bag, shades, candy and everything, especially letters. You needn’t send me a box as I don’t’ care to eat between meals, and the food at the Commons is good. I usually have fruit in my room.

Mary, Verna Taylor and I made fudge last night in our kitchen. We put salted peanuts in it and it was delicious. I wish you could have had some of it. We made cocoa too, from the surplus milk and chocolate. It only cost us 15 c. a piece.

I have joined C.E., not as a charter member, but only as one so long as I got to college here. I suppose I shall go tonight. It lasts from 6:30 to 7:30. The meetings are usually good. A different member leads each time, so I fear it will be my fate sometime to do likewise.

Oh, yes, I almost forget to tell you. I got a 93 in [sic] my first Latin examination. Wasn’t that wonderful? I felt like sending you a telegram if it wouldn’t have cost too much. I’m sure I’ll like it better after I get more used to it. That standing made me feel pretty good anyway.

The first number of the Artists Lecture Course is Wed. night. I have my season ticket which the college students get for $5 (it is included in the college bill) and $10 for others. It is considered a part of the college education. I’m sure it will be worth while. I hope you can come to hear Freda Hempel.

I have two themes to write for tomorrow so must close.

Lovingly yours

Pearl

 

Dearest folk;

Just a note before supper. –

I like the way you are planning my dress. It aught to be very pretty. Be sure to make the waist long, and the shirt not very long because the other girls’ dresses won’t be very long. If it is possible, you might turn it in at the top to save the material. If most of the gathers were on the sides of the skirt, it would have more the appearance of over-drapes. I believe the skirt is quite full + will gather well. What are you going to put under the silver in the waist? or doesn’t it need any? I am going to take George Burgan, a very bright fellow who does not dance. He was one who went to Yellowstone this summer + came back part way by canoe. He hiked to Wild Rose once with Henry Jones several years ago. I have sent him a formal invitation + have rec’d his acceptance.

I sleep quite well now + am drinking egg nog between meals – I bring it ready made each morning from the commons. A medical missionary, Miss Harriet Davies, of Oshkosh was here to speak to + council the Y.W., + told me to do it by all means. No, the work is not hard for me. I am able to concentrate to quite a great degree now which enables me to get my lessons in about ½ time.

I’m afraid I can’t come home before we go to Oshkosh, because my “incomplete” must be made up along with my history. I want to come always, but am afraid I can’t now. After I get everything made up I’ll feel like coming home every week-end.

I can’t write more now, must hurry to buy silver-c before supper + mail it.

Your lovingly,

Pearl.

 

To her mother

Darling Momsie;

This has been lovely week-end – and I haven’t overdone a bit.  Saturday night Marian and Harold, Gwen and Don, and Stuart and I took our supper in South Woods, and this afternoon we spent in Mitchell’s glen.  He took the car both places. The woods and glen are simply beautiful in their green spring cloak!  The glen is always spoiled for me by seeing how mean that woman is to poor Mr. Mitchell.  He is about the same only more hurt looking. I mentioned it at supper tonight and Mrs. Hobbs said that the daughter has always been very cruel and that she has been in sanitariums several times.

Dr. Mutch + Mr. Huebner told me they weren’t going to report my incomplete for roll call.  Aren’t they wonderful! I made up the last of my Spanish this morning, so I may not be on the list at all. If I am, I don’t mind in the least. It isn’t even worth considering.

I go to meals now and it doesn’t tire me in the least. I’m going to see if my tonio [sic] has come tomorrow.

We cleaned the cupboard yesterday and the room is once more a place to study instead of a combination kitchen and dining room. It seems good.

I’m sorry I couldn’t write a letter during the week, and that there won’t be much more than cards this week, for I’ll be very busy. So long as you know I love you and am not doing it out of neglect it will be alright I know.

Your own

Pearl.

 

Dearest Mama,

Your letter is received + I’m disappointed that you aren’t coming to the harpist. I think you’d enjoy it. Mrs. Simons is glad to go. Yes, your plan for the week-end is fine, although Mr. Rock had given me permission to be late to class Monday morning, it’s probably best your way.  Then I’ll bring the car home the next Friday instead of going to Madison.  You see the sub-district contest will be the 23rd and I may have to go. (It won’t be at New London after all.) With the uncertainty of it I’d better postpone the Madison trip to a more certain time.  I may be able to get out of going to the contest. If I can’t I’ll drive some Saturday morning.

Try not to worry over things at home any more than you can help. It will all turn out al right in time. I’m sure. My advice is – sell the potatoes!  It’s a wonderful price and you can’t afford to worry about them another minute. There are too many other things to occupy your mind. Tell Uncle Franks to go to the dickens about seed. You don’t have to bother about it. Let them get it as they can. By this time you have heard from Otto. If he doesn’t want the land perhaps it’s just as well to let it rest as Uncle H.P. suggests. Don’t try to drive too firm a bargain with Otto, they are so good to us.

Call the Sorensons if you haven’t heard from them, or write them to find out what they’re going to do.

Wish I were home or you were here so we could talk it over together. It’s unsatisfactory to write about it. But don’t worry you know it doesn’t do any good, and you have enough so that every cent doesn’t have to be laboriously accounted for, I’m disappointed not to see you tomorrow, but I’ll come home Friday + see you then.

Lovingly + hastily,

Pearl.

Mon. Evening,

So sorry about Mrs. Clark.

Mon. evening.

Dear Mama mine,

Isn’t it wonderful that we have such perfect weather. I’m so glad that I was home during the bad weather.

The catalog came. Thank you! There is a sale down town on satin slippers, and I’m going down to look them over. If there is a big enough reduction, I presume it would be wise to get them here. If not, I’ll send to the National. I don’t like to spend money for slippers now, but my old ones aren’t safe to wear to a party. I’ll try to get something practical.

Saturday P.M., I went skiing for a little while with Stuart. It was lots of fun. I’m getting a little more skill, so I didn’t take so many tumbles. Don was over for the evening and we had a great old visit.

I went to church to sing in the choir Sunday morning, and to C.E. to hear Mrs. Graham read in the evening. I was at Anna’s a few minutes in the morning, too.

Today, I had a music lesson to get ready for my Vespers song, and I have another Thursday.

George is O.K., but didn’t write because he was busy.

Saturday P.M., Justine + I went down to have our Senior pictures taken. Do you think I better order any?

I’ll be very glad to have you come for the play although I haven’t an important part.

Mildred H. is coming to Bartlett for the week-end, and will probably stay in my room, but I won’t need to take her out to meals because our table at the Commons is full.

I hope you’ll have a good time out at Dopp’s. I’m sure you will. It would be very nice for you to got to Pine River for a few days, too. Is Addie there this winter?

You might send me a few tablets. Mine are nearly gone, and I might need them before I get home.

I’m very busy all the time, but don’t seem to get much done that amounts to much.

Hastily,

Pearl.
P.S. I sent Mrs. H’s letter to George.

P.S. Muriel came back today. She has been having a felon on her finger.

P.S. #3. I held up this letter until I could get my proofs. I can’t decide which I like the better, can you? The photographer likes 1 and 3 the best. I’m allowed 12 of each negative without extra charges. If I order less than a dozen of more than 1 there will be 25 c. extra charges. I took this chance to have the application pictures taken in case I need them (Cap + gown pictures aren’t acceptable.) but I don’t’ have to have any developed now if I don’t want to. What do you think ?

Fri. A.M.

My darling mama;

Your letter is received and I think someone will meet the train. A letter which I received said, “I’ll see you and Gwen + Don Friday.” If he shouldn’t be there, I’ll get the bus to bring us out.

Marian and the others can’t come, so don’t make any preparation for them. Marian Cole has had a little difficulty with her friend Mrs. Rasmussen, so the trip is called off.

I hope the weather clears up, but we are bringing enough music and reading to have a nice time anyway.

Lovingly + hastily your own

Pearl

 

Dearest Mama,

Your letter just came and as always I was glad to get it.

Hope you enjoyed Study Club yesterday, and I’m glad you carried your mesh bag. I got it for you to use, and it might not be pleased if you don’t do it.

The concert last night was marvelous as I expected it would be but really, it was for the most part too classical to be thoroughly enjoyable.

Tonight, Henrietta and Dorothy are giving a spread to which Justine and I are invited.

I’m all rested up after taking an hour’s nap every day. It makes a world of difference.

Now don’t work too hard cleaning house, because it can just as well be postponed until I can help you. And you know I really enjoy that kind of work. By all means let George pound the carpets—it is too heavy work for you, and you might better put up with him than to try to do it yourself.

I hope the week-end is nice, but if it isn’t we’ll have a good time with all the music and reading we can do. Vespers isn’t until 4 o’clock so we won’t have to hurry back. Oh yes—if my old girdle is handy, you might send it along in my laundry box. I happened to think o fit yesterday and wondered how it would feel to wear it. I’m a little tired of round garters.

I don’t suppose I’ll have time to write on Sunday, but I may write a note before we leave for Shiocton.

Your own,

Pearl.

P.S. No, Stuart didn’t have any place to put the apple blossoms, so I didn’t give him any.

Friday.

Dearest Mama,

Wheeee! I’m going to the military ball—one of the biggest affairs of the year, with John Liska, a new student. I got the date thru his sister Mrs. Plazak who lives in town and whom I know and like very much. The boy is a frosh who just entered college on a $4,000 scholarship for writing the best essay on “better roads” of any H.S. student in the U.S. and provinces! He is a very nice boy, and my going to the “Hop” with him is wholly harmless. Grace Michaels has a new party dress and is giving me her last year’s one to wear. I’m sorry, now, that we hadn’t made mine; but I’ll do something for Grace sometime in return. The dress is very pretty and I’m anticipating a wonderful time. It is the first all-college ball I ever attended.

I hope you are having a good time out at Dopps. A letter from George said, “Maybe your mother will come to our house, too.” Wouldn’t that be nice? I’m in a big hurry, for there’s lots to do before tonight.

Love,

Pearl.

P.S. Mrs. Higby, the new patroness of Delta Delta Beta is entertaining us at tea tomorrow P.M.

Tomorrow night, Marian, Justine, and I are entertaining Harold, Adam, and Don in the lower parlors at a little party.

P.S. I had to buy some satin slippers.—On sale, they cost $4.85 and are very pretty.

 

Mama, dear,

The party was wonderful! Mr. Liska is very nice even tho he is just a boy. Here is his picture cut out of yesterday’s Sunday paper. He is a splendid dancer, the music was fine, the decorations and lighting effects were lovely and all the girls looked so sweet and pretty in their formal gowns! I’ll describe the whole thing in detail when I see you.

Mrs. Higby, Δ.Δ.Β.’s new patroness entertained the sorority at tea Sat. P.M. in her magnificent home.

Harold Rafoth and Adam Aichison had birthdays this week and Justine and Marian asked Don and me to join them in a party in B. basement Saturday night. Had a good time.

I didn’t step outside the hall yesterday except for meals—I worked so hard!

It was fine of George to take you to “Abe” wasn’t it! I’m so glad you could see it and that you’re having a good time at Dopp’s. Don’t hurry home! I’m in no hurry for the tablets.

I love you,
Pearl.

Keep the picture and papers for me.

Monday evening

Mama dear,

I’m writing another note to tell you that Mrs. Lothrop is here to stay until the 15th or there about. I thought you’d be relieved to know that I’m not alone. Although I didn’t get lonesome, it’s of course more pleasant to have someone else in the house.

The first day of school was rather strenuous but enlightening. After I get used to it, it will be a snap. I wasn’t at all frightened today.

So far as I know now I’ll be home Friday night.

Your loving,

Pearl.

I’ll mail that at the depot.

 

Letters transcribed by Parissa DJangi and Bryan Schneider

Speeches and Writings

Chapel Speech for Ruth Van Kirk Fund.

 

The Ruth Van Kirk fund is one which is raised every year by the Ripon Y.W. + Y.M. + the Congo. Church to support Miss Van Kirk who went from Ripon college to China as a missionary.

Ruth Van Kirk is doing a wonderful work in China by teaching in a school for girls and by helping the people in the famine districts.  The Chinese girls need education, for it is only through education that China can become the progressive nation that she aught to be.  These girls could not have education if it was not for the money sent over from America.

During one of the famines, Miss Van Kirk took under her protection 100 girls who would probably have starved if she had not cared from them.  Homes and orphanages do their best, but they do not have enough funds to care for them all, so consequently, many of them die of starvation.  It would shake us from our thoughtless run of comparative ease if we could see one of those starving children with faces white as death, eyes staring form their heads and fingers as so thin that they resemble claws.  We spend money for many foolish things in college.  Do you realize that $10 spent foolishly would feed 13 starving children for one month?  Think of spending $10 to usher in a good time by dancing on the bones of 13 starved children!

Miss Van Kirk says in one of her letters that there are a great many homes where leaves are all they have to eat.  She says that she has not seen a single home where they were not eating either the leaves of poplar trees or weeds along with a little grain.  Al of the elm trees are stripped of all the outer bark to the place of branching.  How long could you or I live on the bark and leaves of trees?

Ruth Van Kirk is doing all she possibly can to help the Chinese to receive an education and to relieve the suffering from famine.  She can do nothing without money.  She is looking to us of Ripon college to help her.  We must answer the challenge!  We must keep the standard of our alma mater high by subscribing liberally to her great cause.

Pearl Pierce

[Poem by Pearl Pierce Dopp]

The sun is just rising on the morning of another day,

the first day of a new year.

What can I wish that this day, this year,

may bring to me?

A few friends who understand me, and yet

remain my friends;

A work to do which has a real value,

without which the world would feel the poorer;

A return from such work small enough

not to tax unduly anyone who pays;

A mind unafraid to travel, even

though the trail be not blazed;

An understanding heart;

A sight of the eternal hills and resting

sea, and of something beautiful

the hand of man has made;

A sense of humor and the power

to laugh;

A little leisure with nothing to do;

A few moments of quiet, silent

meditation.  The sense of the presence

of God;

And the patience to wait for the

coming of these things, with the

wisdom to know them when

they do.

 

Transcribed by Parissa DJangi and Bryan Schneider