Miriam Van Waters Papers. Reformatory for Women at Framingham, 1876-1970. Subseries 3. Student correspondence, 1936-1971, n.d. Correspondence: L, 1947-1950. A-71, folder 310. Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Mass.

May 4, -48

Miss Mariam Van Waters.

Dear Dr;

I am writing to you in regards to Mrs La Varch. I am Mrs Gitano. the landlady where Mrs La Varch lives.

I feel that I should write to you. and let you know how Mrs La Varch is feeling. she comes to my room and we have alot of nice little talks. I do everything I can to cheer her up, but for the last few days she has stayed by herself. and when she did come in, I knew something was on her mind. So yesterday I asked her to tell me what was bothering her. At first she did'nt want to talk about it, said she would have a talk with me in the morning. So she came in this morning and opened up her heart to me, she said Mrs Gitano I have a very dear freind and she thinks I

2. should go to a hospital. I am heart sick over it. why I asked, because if I have to go to the hospital my time will be short. because I love my husband to much to leave him. I know my time is short and I want to be with Duke. this is Mr La Varch, All I ask for is my rent to keep a roof over my head. my husband can take care of me as far as food is concern. nobody knows but myself how hard he is trying to find work.

I do know Mr La Varch is very kind to his wife. he waits on her all the time.

Is'nt there some way her rent can be payed. if this was my place I would give her her room rent free. but as it is I am only the house keeper. I will do everything I can to help her. I have nothing, but what I can do for her I will do gladly. Please can't we find away so she can stay with her husband, it makes me feel so bad to see her the way she is. It is'nt helping her.

3 you know and I know she should never have anything to nerve her up. last night when we were talking. she was shaking all over, we can't have that. and we can't take something away from he she loves so dearly. Oh I hope and pray you can find a way she and her husband can stay here together. You are her only hope. I beg of you Mrs Van Water. try and help her.

Yours Truly, Mrs Edith M. Gitano

Boston, Mass June 20 - 1948

REFORMATORY FOR WOMEN JUN 2 1948 FRAMINGHAM

my dear Family! It has just [dawned?] on me the reason I have to not heard from you, no doubt because yo have been waiting to hear from me. Well, first of all let me say, you are always in my thoughts and prayers. Mrs. Ripley was here to-day and I explained the reason I had not heard from you. My thoughts and prayers are especially with you at this time. may God bless and keep you strong, and in good health. Please answer me very soon. (over)

THE HOLLISTON MILLS INC. Manufacturers of Bookbinding Fabrics

2" I know you are awfully busy right now, so if you do not have the time please ask Miss Mahoney to write for you.

Charles is picking up a job here and there, he is doing the very best he can in every way, no doubt you are very busy but please answer me and let me know how soon you can complete those arrangements.

I won't try to write a long letter now. Hoping to hear from you very soon,

your family, Ruth La Vache.

AM 6/22/48

Is she in the same place? M.V W

ans- 6/22/47 Our files --

Yes