Miriam Van Waters Papers. Reformatory for Women at Framingham, 1876-1970. Subseries 3. Student correspondence, 1936-1971, n.d. Correspondence: D, 1942-1944. A-71, folder 293. Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Mass.

to any plan she may suggest or has suggested in her talk with you. To date - I have had no reply - but it is early yet and she is always so busy I know.

To agree - is far from easy for me - but what is? I know now - it is the only way. The past months have taught me that. I am starting to feel somewhat stronger - it is giving me hope. If arrangements are completed - I can go to F. anytime via train. Thank you + Love Lucille

4-5-43 (Do write always)

REFORMATORY FOR WOMEN JUN 23 1942 FRAMINGHAM [stamp]

Thursday

Dear Dctor Van Waters:

It has been so long since I had a chance to talk to you and I do want you to knw about last night.

I did try to make Assembly but was too late : and did not care of course to do w them. Would like to have heard and seen Mrs. Thompson - because I realize how deeply she loves it here. There will be a next time I hope. Too bad you didn't have a S? mo[?] play to put on for her. - so she could carry away with her a

[23 June 1942] 2

new thought.

The old test was not satisfactory yesterday. Had always hoped I was put together as other human beings, but he could not get in to my trachea with the tube. They are to try again to-morrow. I told the othonlogist that I shall be completely recovered when the tests are finished. They are to repeat the test Friday.

There are several possages in John Browns Body" I want to have you know. They are beautiful. However it is a book that one must [?] in the mood to appreciate. I have spent some

[23 JUne 1942] 3

happy hours with it since well - since I gave in - that describes it best.

I am working on that poem (Hands.) - believe I shall create something beautiful out of it. These poets that dash off a poem I envy - For me - it means periodic scrubbing - thinking and rejecting . Did enjoy Literary group[?] [than?] and Thank you.

My position is such here, that I am concerned - after all I had no right to come back - their is no claim: Do not misunderstand - everyone has been grand to me here - and I know all

[23 June 1942] 4

these tests cost money - yet sometimes I hav ethe feeling I should not be here. After all, you gave me a good send-off and now I have stumbled into the pit again. -- But we rise again:

Hilltop will be cold this week - and realy I would not change places with you - as I am nice and warm and comfortable here . However be careful - the old cold bugsare stalking about looking for a place to park.

Hope you have pleasant day with Mrs Thompson - Ever Lucille.