p.

[Elizabeth Blackwell
Phil. Pa. Nov 6th 47
23 Ans A.Q.T.P May 8th 48]

Philadelphia Oct 29th 1847.

My dear Miss Parsons

Mr Kay brought me your letter addressed
to the Women of the Union of Associationists, as unfortunately I am
the sole representative of womankind in the associative movement
of Philadelphia. Your first letter remained unanswered
because we had reason to hope, that some ladies who seemed interested
in the cause, would join the movement, and so form the body,
to which strictly speaking your letter was addressed, but we are
disappointed in the expectation, and I will therefore answer your
letter in informal friendship.

Of my unbounded sympathy in your
views and plans, I can most cordially assure you. Association
is to me, the great hope of the world, the realization of those vague
aspirational & grand prophetic visions, which in all ages, have reflected
on mankind, beams of the coming day. To labor successfully
in hastening the time of universal freedom & harmony, I
my highest ambition, & I have devoted my life to this work.

The path I have chosen, is a singular one, & may perhaps interest
you, as the strong desire to labor for the cause of Universal Unity
is the spring of my action, which though unusual, will I hope
promote our great object. In striving to open the Profession
of Medicine to women, I hope to render our sex, a true service.

We are now cramped on every side; crowded into a few occupations,
with no scope for varied talent, or the acquisition of wealth