History from the Letter Collector:
"These letters were written by Ruth Merrick 1922. Back in 1998, when I was new to eBay, I missed being able to win the bulk of Ruth's letters, but over the years a few have trickled in from various stamp dealers. Her letters to her mother (Mary George (Seavey) Merrick) and brothers are full of humor and stories of campus life. Ruth's brothers Charles Llewellyn Merrick and (James) Harold Merrick were at Amherst College and she had frequent contact with them; another brother, Stuart Hallowell Merrick, was at Colgate University in Hamilton, NY. Two younger brothers, Richard Odell Merrick and Theodore Parker Merrick were still living in Wilbraham, Mass. and are mentioned less frequently. I haven't deciphered why her father, Charles Stuart Merrick, is never mentioned; according to genealogical resources online, he didn't die until 1934.
Ruth's roommates Margaret Farrington (freshman year, in 22-23 Pearsons) and Ruth "Holy" Holsten (sophomore year, in 6 Byron Smith; junior year, in 47 Pearsons; and senior year, in 20 Pearsons) are mentioned frequently. Other close friends are hometown friend Helen Porter and Gladys Morse. Ruth mentions the 1918 Spanish influenza quarantine at Mount Holyoke in several of the letters."
Source: https://mtholyoke.com/dalbino/letters/rmerrick.html
A Letter Written on Apr 15, 1916, from Ruth to her mother
Page 1; No envelope survives. Full contents of the letter.
214 Gould Hall,
E. Northfield, Mass,
Apr 15, 1916.
Dear mother:
I meant to have told you last week I could not take Botany. Seniors are not allowed to, so I put German I on my schedule and was immediately called up. Miss Ayer thought I had to have it for college and as the course here is changed to four years, one year wouldn't be accepted as a full years work, but when she saw I was just taking it because I wanted to she said it was all right but she thought it would make a pretty heavy schedule but I guess I shall survive.
I didn't get a chance to by [sic] hair elastics so when you send my yellow & white middies and sport skirt would you send me some? I also find I need one new under vest and some paper to write home on and envelopes. I wish you could make me another collar and cuff set to wear on the orange scotch gingham dress. I don't like the ones on it, do you? There I guess I've got to the end of the list of my woes.
How is Harold? I hope his sprain won't interfere with his debating. By the way when does his commencement take place. Is it a week or two weeks after ours? The girls want me to stay up here a week this summer with them in a cottage on the ridge.
The Seniors had their graduation pictures taken Monday. Betty wore Dot's waist Marion's skirt, my shoes, silk stockings and underclothes. "Some rig, yes?" The man posed some of them sitting in the window seat holding some flowers and with melaine [?] floating all around them. Shall I have mine taken that way? It's very artistic!
Did you know a German Spy had been arrested in Turner's Falls? Pretty near us, isn't it? I told you, I think, how Mr. Daley found out last year that the German prof at Hermon was a spy. He is in Germany now, a captain. Miss Thompson's neighbor is a German woman. She has a married sister in Germany. Last week she received a censored letter (the German people themselves don't know their letters are censored) in which she said she wished she would live to see someone would shoot the Kaiser and told of the suffering. The American-German couldn't read all she said about it, because it was supposed to be crossed out so no one could read it. On the back the censor wrote "your sister died at six o'clock this morning." Miss Thompson saw the letter so it's true. Tell Stuart. I think it's about time he lost his German sentiments.
Tomorrow night I am going to have luncheon at Weston with Beatrice, dear Charlottes roommate. What will happen next?!
I expect the arbutus will be well out next Sunday. Ask Miss Hubbard if she really meant it when she said she would come up. I wish she would. Harold can come as soon as he finishes his debate business. Don't back out of coming please! Other girls' folks do. I have lost five pounds. Horray! but I have 2 cold sores!
Lots of love,
Ruth.
When did you mail your letter? I got it Monday noon. R. M.
A Letter Written on Feb 18, 1917, from Ruth to her brother Charles
Envelope Postmarked Feb 19, 1917 9 am in East Northfield, Mass. Addressed to Mrs. Charles Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. page 1; Full contents of the letter.
214 Gould Hall,
E. Northfield,
Feb. 18, 1917.
Mon cher frère Charles:-
Today is a good day outside so I thought I would stay in and write to you - most honorable creature! I am extremely pleased that you like Latin. I see a future classic prof. in you.
I suppose you received a great many valentines. I am sorry I couldn't send any but by the time I had extracted the money from my church envelopes to purchase some they were all gone. I only had three myself - one from Margaret Chapin and two from Hermon - not from Bill however. He is quite passé now. He has inflamatory [sic] rheumatism, in the hospital. I had a grand time at the Junior Party Monday. I was dressed as a colonial dame. Ralph thought my costume was the best there. I think it was pretty good myself. My hair was a seventh wonder of the world. The Hermonites were here to dinner and if the girls didn't stare at us in the dining room!! They all wanted to know who everybody was. I never saw such rude actions.
We had several feet of snow and have had it 24° below zero this week but today is awfully hot and slushy. Can you still run the car? O! dear! I wish I could come home[.] Lots of the girls went this weekend but here I stick. Such is life! I wish something exciting would happen.
Am fearfully put out to think you don't like the affectionate ending I put on your letters. I hope you don't think I would regale anyone else with them. Betty says to tell you she loves you as well as ever.
Yours truly,
P.S. How's that? R.M.
A Postal Card Written on May 24, 1917, from Ruth to her mother
Front Postmarked May 25, 1917 9 am in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. (PO Box 16). The tail of the message is finished on the front of the card, but inscribed with the rest on the back:
"Thurs. 9. P.M. Dear Mother:- Am glad the notes were of help to you. Wish I could have sent note. about coming up. If you come up next Sunday you could only come in the afternoon and any way it's the Sun. before exams and is the only time I ever study on Sunday. But if you can't come the next Sunday come then. Betty and I are both anxious to have you come the next Sunday June 3 since it's baccalaureate and you could stay with us all day and we could go around with you for I could get permiss. fr. Mr. Dickerson O.K. None of Bettys [sic] folks can come and she wishes so you could come then since she knows you can't come Tuesday. You will have to come if the rest do because I couldn't see you all if the mater of the family wasn't along. Auntie would be all right too. I wish you both would come. I hope you'll wear your new suit & all look as "sweet" as possible cause I'm pretty well known so everyone will know who you are. You can leave W- at 7 A.M. and get back by 9:30 Gwen [?] says. Now be sure to let me know when, who, and how many are coming so I can get permission I am studying hard. Nothing like exams to inspire one. Don't forget to come, Love, Ruth. You can bring B's grad pres with you."
A Letter Written on Nov 7, 1918, from Ruth to her mother
Envelope Postmarked Nov 8, 1918 10am in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass.
11:30 P.M.
Nov. 7, 1918.
Dearest mother:-
As you can see I am taking a sit up - to study physics for a mid term quiz tomorrow. My brain is in one whirl of forces, velocities, gravities etc. Why I am writing is to let you know about the quarantine[.] It was partially lifted today and we can have any one come & see us but we can't go out of South Hadley except tomorrow night when we go to the first of our concerts. So if you come up Sunday you can see me all right etc but I couldn't go to Amherst. Seems silly doesn't it? Harold wrote he was trying to get a pass to go home this week end but if he shouldn't I hope you'll come up. If any of the boys come I hope they'll wear their uniforms if they have them yet. If you do come will you please bring me another pair of blankets or else that gray comfortable I used to have on my bed. You see the house doesn't furnish any blankets and I've been cold for, you see, our room faces N.W. Also I would like the copper teakettle you spoke of and a collection of "eats" - fruit, sardines, jam - (a few pounds of plain crackers would be extremely acceptable & peanut butter) also pie oh you know!
As you've doubtless heard yesterday was our day for the United War drive. Mr. Fred Smith spoke in the A.M and gracious he made you feel like giving every cent you had or even hoped to have. I gave $5. trusting you would send me $5. for my W.SS. (I now posses[s] $.28) Then at night we had a big mass meeting. Our quota was $16,000.00 It was announced that we had raised only $13,00000 Then Miss Wooley [sic] got up and said perhaps some would add to their pledges, that she would - a $100. liberty bond. Then everyone began popping up - raising their pledges by $5, $10, $25, $50, $100 and in one girl's case up $500. Then the Freshies voted to give $250. as a class and that meant $10 apiece for us. Then Pierson [sic] voted to give more so that each girl added $1. more. Poor me! Harold had sent me $2. from the news which I was saving for Xmas presents - all gone now to the war. Well when we got thru we found we had gone over the top $30000. After that they auctioned off the posters. The lowest bids were $5. It seems strange to me that if the girls could give so much they would leave in the first place. I guess I could have given $7. all right but now I've got to get along and save up my $2. Margaret & I aren't going to get any candy, ice cream, or any thing we can possibly help. Aren't we noble? "Self-sacrificing thats me all over Mable." Have you ever read "Dere Mable"? You ought to - it's the best book out. I've read it twice.
This afternoon I was plugging away on physics when I heard whistles blowing. I hopped out and met Mr. Skinner (Skiners [sic] Satin) and he said Germany had accepted the terms of the armistice and fighting was stopped. I gave one howl and scooted back and told the girls. Some rumpus. Then the bells began to ring. All classes were dismissed and there was a big mass meeting and Miss Wooley [sic] spoke. We sang and then had a parade. It all seems to[o] good to be true. I heard three days ago all Kaiser Bill's luggage had arrived in Switzerland. I do hope they won't let him off easy - death is too good for him and for the Russian Empress too. Well there is still a big work left to do to rebuild France and to take care of our men during dismobilization. I never realized how important until recently.
Fri. A.M. just heard all the news yesterday was a fake. I do wish they wouldn't circulate such reports.
Well, I've studied physics and if I flunk I flunk. I got C+ in math - is passing so at least I am getting on in one subject. Have to get C in half my hours to get a degree. There's a girl here this year taking P.G. work because she didn't get credit enough for her degree when she graduated. Hope I won't. Today is the 81st anniversary of the founding of Mt. H. Seminary so chapel is going to be around Mary's grave. I'll bet we'll all freeze. All the faculty are coming out in cap and gown so I guess it will be impressive anyway. There goes chapel bell so I can't say any more but I hope I'll see you soon. Perhaps by next week I can come home. Live in hopes anyway.
Lots of love,
Ruth.
[A second letter in the envelope]
Dear Theodore:-
I guess you must have saved up your news for a long time for your letter was simply great. You don't know how I enjoyed it. I am so glad you are better and are beginning to "enjoy life again". Goodness but I wish I could see you.
Me, in tears: "Boo hoo I want to go home" You: "Hurray I'm well"
It is awful being in quarantine for so long. The only way out is for you to come up here, eh Mable?
This afternoon Gladys and her room mate were at a Senior meeting so Margaret and I trotted in and made them a nice pie bed each - oh so nicely. After the last bell rang there was a grand bang - and in they came! They tried to mop up the floor with us but they couldn't. They vow they'll get even but they can't. Yesterday I found some dandelions - so I picked a bunch and arranged them gracefully with dead grass and tied them up beautifully and put them on Gladys' desk. She found them and now they're in a vase fixed very elegantly, and artistically[.] The admiration of all who see them. "Generosity, that's me all over Mable"
I tried to type write some on one of the girls machines today and you should have seen the mess - but maybe sometime she'll let me use it to write to you on. I expect you would be delighted -
Me writing to you on typewriter. "D-e-a-r now where's T-?"
We are having indoor gym now and have great times. After exercise we have to take a shower[.] First the water is cold warm and then gets colder and colder and the girls shriek louder and louder. It sounds like a regular monkey house. We have to dash around wrapped in a wet sheet (the door of the shower) and we nearly freeze. It's fine tho - gives you a good chance to yell.
Me in gym. → Marching.
Write as soon as you can.
Yours till the ice cracks in the pond -
Ruth.
A Letter Written on Nov 7, 1918, from Ruth to her mother
envelope Postmarked Nov 8, 1918 10am in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Page 1; Full contents of letter.
Jan. 12, 1919.
Dear Harold:-
I trust you arrived at college safely and didn't miss any classes. I didn't either for the prof was ill. That made it nice.
Life has gone on in the same old way since you left this noble place. Altho I had a big Physics quiz Wednesday morning, I went to hear Mable Garrison sing Tues. night and sat up to study when I got back. She was simply splendid. Her program was varied and she gave some dandy encores[.] One was "Dixie" and I wish you could have heard her!
Friday night the Orpheus club was here. We had to turn out in evening gown etcetera. I managed to rip mine good and proper. My luck! At the end of the concert we sang some songs composed for the occasion and to our surprise they had some made up for us. One they lead to the time of "Smiles" was just great! I sat up until almost 2 A.M. studying that night for I had a math quiz Saturday right after breakfast. The old toad of a prof wouldn't change it till next week so I was bound I'd go any how. Last night we had a mock wedding. Margaret and I were in the comb orchestra. Honestly if you could have seen us you'd never have known us in this world. I had on long black earrings, an inch of powder and rouge, black around my eyes, a curl down the middle of my noble brow and a boudoir cap perched coyly on the top of my noodle. The rest of my costume consisted of pink and green striped pajamas rolled up to me knees, one yellow and one red stocking and bed room slippers about 3 sizes too big. Margaret was ditto. Some pair!
Last night we nearly froze, or at least I did, so I rose and came in here and sat on the hot radiator between 3 and four o'clock and read "Le Cid." I've cut French so much I'm way behind.
Did you know the quarantine is off between here and Amherst? Well, it is. We have pretty good skating here on upper lake. Ahem! Margaret and I find it almost impossible to put our skates on. Heaven knows we tried yesterday. She skates wonderfully. I was wondering and so was she and we both do now, whether you are too busy to come over some evening and if your worthy colleagues cared to come they would be welcome. I speak not for myself but in behalf of my colleagues. I mean, to condense, if you, and any of your friends also, wanted to come over and skate why come ahead. You see we thot you might like some companions in misery.
By the way have you heard from Clinton? I got a New Years gift from someone with a Ludlow post mark on it and it said inside from guess who - printed. I think it was his writing, it was just like it anyway. I'd hate to thank him for it if he didn't send them though.
I wrote to dear M. Clark in church this A.M. I am wondering what she will say in answer. Usually her epistles are full of your praises. Ye gods, it is probably be [sic] the opposite this time!
That wrist watch is a perfect dandy and I can't thank you enough for it. It's too nice for such a nut as I. You ought not to have gotten it for me. It reminds me of how much you do for me and I never do anything nice for you. I wish I could.
Mon frère mon bout est très près de moi! [French: my brother, my butt is very ...] Exams begin a week from Thursday and I am scared pink, green, and purple as usual. What I know wouldn't cover a pin point. Gracious, but I'd hate to be sent home! It's awful to be a brainless creature like mule. [?]
I had a dandy letter from mother this week. I do wish she'd come up and spend a week end up here. Mrs White said she'd try to make her.
[...] Hale is home now, Payne wrote and Anna May is at Wellesley - I didn't know she started college this year.
I wrote down to Harry Hawes and they sent me a keep skate, I mean Kate skey, oh dear what I want to say is skate key. Honestly that was a natural slip of the pen.
Well, I guess I haven't anything more to say so I'll give your hourbrains (or I guess it doesn't take away to read this) a rest. Come over whenever you can, to skate or other wise. We can't go to movies yet but we can to theaters and hotels, isn't that hectic?
As ever your devoted sister
Ruth.
P.S. Am sending you a slight token of my esteem for you and your services in the post and hopes of those in the future. R.M.
P.P.S. Don't work too hard. Remember your advice to me. R.M.
A Letter Written on Dec 1, 1918, from Ruth to her brother Harold at Amherst College
envelope Postmarked Dec 2, 1918 12:30pm in South Hadley. Addressed to Mr. J. Harold Merrick at Amherst College.Page 1; Full contents of letter.
22 Parson's [sic]
Mt. Holyoke College.
Dear Harold:-
How art thou fair one? M. & I landed up here Friday night about eleven P.M. we took the 6.30 trolley in to Springfield but there yielded to temptation and went to Foxe's. What do you think we saw - Theda Bara in "Salome" - some picture! We were mighty glad we went altho we had to stand up all the way from S. to South H. Sat. A.M. we woke up just in time to get to class and the time, A.M. Omean, in time for church. No breakfast either time. We had our party tonight but 2 of the girls couldn't come so there were only 4 of us to eat the stuff for six. We had fruit cocktail, sandwiches, olives, pickles, tea, ice cream with almonds and hot fudge sauce (I made it & it was s-w-e-l-l-) and 2 kinds of cake. We couldn't eat half the stuff so we sent a lot of it around and are going to finish it up for breakfast tomorrow A.M. I feel quite peculiar tonight - I wonder why? I leave 2 lessons to get and a quiz for tomorrow and the last bell will ring in about 5 minut[e]s. Amen!
O mean the 7th
How about next week? Can you come over? I thot if you came over right off in the afternoon M. & you & I could go down to meet Clinton and go to the theatre etcetera and come back up to the Inn to dinner and maybe in the evening go down to S.A.H. or something[.] Write and let me know P.D.Q. right off when you get this so I can let Clinton know etc. Don't forget. Do it Monday so I'll hear Monday night. I've got squellched [sic] 2 times tonight for making a noise. I see where yours truly gets raked over the coals by Coll. house committee.
As ever,
Ruth.
Sunday Eve.
A Letter Written on Jan 19, 1919, from Ruth to her mother
Envelope Postmarked Jan 20, 1919 12:30pm in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Page 1; Full contents of letter.
Jan. 19, 1919.
Dearest mother;
Another week gone and exams are most upon us! The only 2 I am afraid of are Physics and Trig. I have P- Thurs. A.M, English Fri and Trig Sat. Quite a little programme, n'est-ce pas? Anyhow, the worst are over first.
I think you are a peach to let me go to Northfield. I have written to Miss Moody but havn't [sic] heard yet whether I can or not, if not I'll come trotting home. I have $1.27 now and an algebra and Latin - Plautus - to set besides my trip to the Sem. O! yes, and I'll have to get some note books for physics for next term and latin too, so you see some funds would be welcom. I think it's funny the carfare to S- is so much for its [sic] 1/2 hr. fr. here to A- and only 10¢ tho it would be more but I get a bunch of ten tickets for 50¢ - grand idea!
I must tell you what Margaret and I did yesterday. I wanted to go down to A- to get my glasses tightened. The rims had loosened and the nose piece but I decided I'd wait until I had something more to do. Well, at luncheon one of the girls told me that a good stock company was going to play "Nothing but the Truth" at H- As you probably know that play was extremely famous in N.Y. last Spring so I told Gladys and Margaret after lunch. We had 5 minutes to get the trolley. G. had on a middy and a skirt and Margaret her Petes Tom. Luckily I had on my plaid skirt - off we saild but G- got sick and had to come back. Finally we got down there. The jeweller fixed my glasses and made my watch bracelet smaller and never charged me $00.1 (1¢)! I nearly flopped. Then we scuttled for the Theater. We waited in line an age but finally got seats in the 2nd gallery for which we paid the great sum of 15 cents! Honestly the play was great. It was about a man who bet $10000. he could tell the absolute truth for 24 hours. Margaret and I laughed until we wept.
Latter [sic] they are going to give "Daddy Longlegs" and we hope we can go down. On our way back we got an apple pie a piece of which we ate on the street while waiting for the trolley. The rest we gave to G- and her roommate for they had us in to breakfast this A.M and then we finished it up. We did have a grand time yesterday and it cheered us up for exams. You don't care do you?
After supper I took Gladys and Rachel skating. I've been quite a lot and am really getting so I can go a little. One of the young men of the village has been condescending enough to take me once or twice and it helped me a lot for he is a fine skater. I wish Harold would come over. I asked him but he didn't say he would. I am afraid it will all go. Tisn't very good anyhow.
Margaret & I never went to the masquerade after all but I went to my downy bed instead. Would you please send me some Minards linament [sic] next time you send me anything? Also some corn cure. I've got an awfully sore one right under my little toe. Also please send that hand woven linnen [sic] for the table and that for the curtains - the curtains are a yard long and 1 1/4 yds wide (that is full enough to allow of gathers) I'll hemstitch them and the table cover if youd [sic] make the heading for the curtains - the rod isn't very wide 1/2 inch space for it will be enough. (Don't forget the jersey and trousers), also a coat hanger please and that's all unless you had some spare raisin bread, doughnuts, pie, or cakes etc. We havn't [sic] had any cake yet, only gingerbread not done in the middle. I don't see why we can't when they can get sugar now, do you? Margaret's mother sent her some nut bread for breakfast last night but we ate it for supper. Oh I forgot to bring any sardines back with me so - - - -
As I told you the box came O.K. I am tickled to a peanut with everything, Lots of the girls have complimented me on my "good-looking skirt." Gladys says she's going to steal it. My furs are just right. The muff isn't too bit at all. Thank you lots and lots for them all, and auntie too.
Helen Porter and her roommate have been moved into Pearson's. They have singles on the fourth floor. Isn't that great?
I knew Clinton had gone back to W- for he wrote me that the "lure of books was too great for him to resist." He sent me a most striking collection of blotters - one for each month with a calendar on it, with the gentle hint that I use them, for the last letter I wrote wasn't properly blotted. I am so glad he's gone back and do hope he'll improve his English. He says he's coming down some week end. Don't know what I'll ever do with him.
Goodness, choir takes about all our Sunday afternoons (vesper) we got thru dinner a little after 2 and at half past three go over to Chapel to reherse [sic] until vespers and don't get back until after six. This is a hard life! We had a splendid sermon this A.M. by Bishop Davis on "The Light of Christianity." As he's just back from Europe he was all the more interesting. Miss Wooley spoke in Vespers on "T.R." I can't realize he is dead. Oh by the way did I leave the envelope chinese house that Alice crocheted the top to? I can't find it up here anywhere.
Well, it's getting late and I have a pile of studying to do. What little time I did have this P.M. girls were in here to have me read plans [?] or somebody's handwriting. I have more fun than a circus doing it but there is such a thing as overdoing it. A bunch were in here with about 10 letters apiece. I was thankful rehersal [sic] called me. Don't forget me during exams for I really am worried over Trig.
Loads of love,
Ruth.
A Postal Card Written around Feb 24, 1919, from Ruth to her mother
Front Postmarked Feb 24, 1919 5:30pm in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Back
"10:30. Dear Mother:- Got here O.K - sent case Dictionary and all. Forgot to mail H's letter but did the pkg. Will mail the letter from here. Tell Charlie Margaret was quite pleased with his contribution to our mansion. We are having some kind of weather up here - windy & slushy. I guess I got off without forgetting anything. Don't forget you're going to hear Galli Curci Mar. 21 will you? Love, Ruth."
A Postal Card Written on Mar 5, 1919, from Ruth to her mother
Front Postmarked Mar 5, 1919 12:30pm in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Back
"Mar 5. Dear Mother:- I will send a geom. [?] today that has solid in it. When you send my box will you send the tooth brush that is on the table in my room? Mine here split in two. Had a letter from Elsie Ayard [?] and she sent her love to you and auntie. Havn't [sic] heard a word from Harold & he didn't come over to hear Mme Breshkovsky. I sent his pencil over with the candy yesterday. Hope all the sick ones are better. Take good care of yourself. Love, Ruth."
A Postal Card Written around Apr 4, 1919, from Ruth to her mother
Front Postmarked Apr 5, 1919 7am in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Back
"8 P.M. Dear Mother:- Got back safely. Havn't [sic] heard a word about my being late as yet. Such is life. When you send my duds will you send a collar I started to embroider, which is in the sitting room closet on the self below the medicine one? Don't let H- forget to bring me his bag. Hope Charlie can fix the tire all right. I met Alfred at Helene's but he soaked me 35. We got to the station at 8:20 so I just made the trolley. We have to make out our schedules. I've decided to take Pscyie. [sic] Margaret says to thank you for the cake She is deeply grateful. Have a big math quiz Sat. A.M. Love, Ruth."
Letter Written on Apr 6, 1919, from Ruth to her mother
Envelope Postmarked Apr 7, 1919 7am in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Page 1; Full contents of letter.
Mt. Holyoke College, April 6, 1919.
Dear Mother:-
I didn't go to Hamp after all, for Gladys changed her mind and didn't go. I doubt if I'll go over at all, now.
Harold stopped off an hour on his way back and told me about the marvelous church meeting. I had to smile.
I've had quite a busy time of it this week. Mrs. Worman sent me a huge box for Dorothea's birthday, 2 chickens, salad, bread, a whole sheet of Devil's food (a kind of cake) nuts, candy, etc. We got everything ready before D. came down here. I thot, too when she came in she wasn't wildly excited and I found out she'd seen the package over in the office and had had her suspicions. We had a great old time. She and I are going to finish up the remains tonight. Here she is so I must go now. Farewell till later -!
Margaret has been gone all the evening up with her beloved Charlotte. Helen Porter was down to see me part of the time and now I'm in with Gladys & Rachel. I am getting worried about who I'll room with next year. Helen and Betty are going to room together and I haven't the least idea who I can find, that I like, I mean. Such is life!
I meant to have told you what Mrs. Worman sent me Saturday - the cutest blue fudge apron. I just love it! Wasn't she nice to do it, too?
Thursday night I went to a French lecture (in French) on Rheims [?] by a blind French officer. I couldn't stay to all of it but anyway I couldn't understand very well.
Today we had a preacher from cap dix. He was talking about his best friend tonight in vespers and said "when we were studying somebody or other's "Republic" at Wilbraham, as boys." I nearly popped right out of my seat. Mrs. Newhall and Nina were up here and I saw them with him later. I don't know what his name is but I wonder if he's been down there on this trip.
Do you want me to come home next Sunday? I can all right - leave here at eleven o'clock and get that blouse pattern on my way home if you'll give me the number and since the auto is running I could come back Mon. A.M. all right. If I do shall I get some plaited collar and cuffs for the linnen [sic] dress?
Last night was the Senior-Soph. reception and one of the Juniors and I went down to look on. It was an awfully pretty sight - all the girls in evening gown. During one of the dances the Sophs had colored balloons dropped down on the dancers. The effect was simply stunning. I had a dandy time down there. Tuesday night we go down to hear Ninx Rosen. Mr. Hammond seems to think he is marvelous. Funny, one doesn't hear much about him isn't it?
Today we sang for an [audience?] "There ye Jerusalem" from "Gallia." I just love it.
I got a bottle of cutex the other day and tried it today. I think it's fine. I am quite encouraged to have decent looking nails. If only they were bigger than a pin head.
Had an English conference Thursday and, altho the Griffin says I've improved a lot (she liked my spider story) she gave me back that marvelous book review I wrote when I was home to do over again. I didn't dare to tell her my writing was the opinion of Long and all those big [bugs?] for she didn't agree at all. Such is life!
I've read the last 2 installments of the "Messenger" and Greta is found to be a spy and slipped quietly back to Germany with no publicity. However she comes back as a Belgian refugee and tells Nan, who knows nothing about the spy business that Napin will tell her (Nan) that she (G) is a spy but he is only jealous. So Nan takes her to America on the same ship which Napin is on as a recruiting officer. Julian meanwhile under the influence of G has become pro-German and spreads german propoganda every where. Napin tries to tell Nan about G but she wont beleive [sic] him. (To be continued) I'll tell you how it comes out.
Now be sure to let me know about coming home right off.
We're having right warm weather now. I guess Spring is really here. Hope so anyway.
Lots of love,
A Letter Written on Feb 3, 1920, from Ruth to her brother Richard
Envelope Postmarked Feb 3, 1920 5:30pm in South Hadley. Addressed to Mr. Richard O. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Page 1; Full contents of letter.
Mt. Holyoke College
S. Hadley Mass.
Feb. 3, 1920.
Dear Richard:-
Happy birthday and many of them! [Richard was turning 15 years old in 1920.] Wish I could be there to say it but I'll be taking a Psychie exam instead. I wish I had something nice to send you but I havn't [sic] been able to get to town. You and I will have a private celebration of our own later. I inclosed the snap shots for you. [no longer with the letter] Let me know if you'd like some more. I think they are great. How did you like those of the Retty? [?]
Chem exam is over, and it was the worst exam I ever took - 7 questions and I could not do 2 at all. Hope I didn't flunk - I have studied so hard this last week I am pretty nearly studied out to tell the truth. This p.m. Zoo is my delight -
me any hour.
These crazy girls living around here are raising the roof in here. One of them got some cold tongue and cookies from home and as we've been having hash straight for 4 days Sunday included, we fell to it. Our room is a mess of crumbs.
Ruth and I have started a garden today - we bought 2 chinese litly [sic] bulbs and set them out in a dish of pebels [sic] this noon.
How goes it with Edith and Susie? Much excitement? You might squander a letter or two on me you know.
Will you ask mother if she wants me to get her some sugar - I can get some for 23¢.
One snow up here has gone a lot today. I'm hoping for some skating. Is there any home? If there is I'll send you mine so let me know. I doubt if we have any at all so you can have them.
Be good now even if you have grown ancient -
With love,
Ruth.
A Postal Card Written on Oct 6, 1920[?], from Ruth to her mother
Front Postmarked Oct 7, 192- 3pm in West Haven, Conn. Addressed to Mrs. C. S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Back:
"Wed. Coming home Friday in first train I can get after 2 o'clock. Havn't [sic] a time table. Tell Richard to meet me if he can. Yesterday they decided we could have Columbus Day. Hope Maurine and Hal aren't coming. Will tel[l] Theodore Ruth."
A Letter Written on Nov 29, 1920, from Ruth to her mother
Envelope Postmarked Nov 30, 1920 7am in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Back flap sealed with pegasus seal and wax. Page 1; Full contents of letter.
Mt. Holyoke College
S. Hadley Mass.
Nov. 29, 1920.
Dearest mother:-
As you doubtless know I arrived upon the scene of action safely and after an enjoyable evening. Our supper party the next night came off beautifully the cream was simply marvelous. Ruth had never seen such thick cream in her life - I had to dig it out of the bottle it was so thick and it whipped beautifully -
We had a nice breakfast the next A.M. Flitty produced the eggs and we boned [?] Norah for the toast. I cut church and read More's Utopia. Of all stupid book's [sic] - I think that takes the cake -
Gladyse [sic] Morse came to see me while I was down pounding the type writer for Sammie Sat. P.M so I missed seeing An but she left a note - Just my luck!
Lewies [sic] Thanksgiving box came Saturday late so she invited us to a feast Sunday night. About six Ruth and I ambeled [sic] down. We walked in the door when one of the Seniors nabbed us and demanded if we lived there. It seems the house was on fire and everyone was packing up. The fire wasn't located but you could smell it sure 'nuff. We came back a couple of hours later and saw no fire. It was between the basement a[nd] first floor partitions. It seems a brick had fallen out of the stove bottom. However all is O.K. now but we missed out on the feed.
The crowd is giving Dot[...] a shower next Fri Sat night and I want to know if you would send me one of those doilies I bought for Biddy's hope chest but never gave her. Please be sure it gets here on time - Also if you have a chance I do wish you'd get Ruth and I 2 lbs of that 15 cent cocoa. We are all out and its [sic] ever so much more than that up here. Also would you ask Hal to ship up that Lord Jeff before he goes? Of course I had to forget it and I want it very. much. Ask him if he has heard about Amherst's row with Smith over what was said in the Lord Jeff. Quite exciting!
You remember Betty Schroeder you met Freshman year? She graduated last year but was back over the week end and enquired for you and wished to be remembered to you. She's teaching in Cushing Academy.
I am going to be giddy for 3/4 of an hour tonight and try to learn to play penochle (?) a card game -
Must stop. now. Wrote to Eliz Horne yesterday and told her to be sure to have Harold see Mecca or Afagar. Wonderful shows -
Much love,
Ruth.
A Letter Written on Dec 5, 1920, from Ruth to her mother
Envelope Postmarked Dec 6, 1920 7am in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Back flap sealed with pegasus seal and wax. Page 1; Full contents of letter.
Mt. Holyoke College
Dec 5, 1920.
Carissima Mater:-
Thanks just heaps for sending the stuff I asked for. The doily & Lord Jeff got here Friday afternoon O.K. It was a shame for you to have gone to all that bother for at the last moment our heroine departed home, sick so I guess I'll have Anne to make her something before the thing comes off so will give the 2 doilies to Biddy for a wedding present as I originally planned. Talk about weddings - I got an invitation to Norma's Dec. 15. It is to be a big church wedding and I'd like to go but of course I cant [sic] but I must send her a wedding present and as I dont [sic] see any chance of my getting away to get it I wonder if you can for I'd like to have her have it before her wedding since I cant [sic] come. I had thot of getting her either one of those black chinese vases with flowers on it (at the Jap store on Worthington St price $2 or $3) Or else some peice [sic] of silver. I enclose my card to put in it.
I thot perhaps if you weren't going in Hal could get it and have it sent - I dont [sic] know how expensive cut glass is - perhaps that would be O.K. You do as you think best and I'll do the rest.
The cocoa came in great shape and I am deeply grateful.
This week I've been boning my noodle off. Besides my special topic on Army Tests I've had to make up Zoo lab and have done 13 hours for Sammie. All yesterday afternoon I spent studying bones in Zoo lab for a quiz tomorrow P.M. and last night I worked correcting Army tests for Psychie. I've spent all my time today, except when eating, on a paper for Bible. It's finished now but is the dumbest thing I ever wrote but I can't seem to do any better. Hilly had a breakfast party this A.M and we had some of your blackberry jam at it and the girls were just crazy over it and the six of us ate the whole jar of it up.
We had a great time this week for we had some beaus which weren't fresh - result = pearsonitis. I doped up with sodamints but still have a headache. Great life!
Tues. A.M. Sammie is going to take 6 of us down to visit a class of feeble minded children and then we have a big quiz in Psychie when we get back - Wednesday I leave to read back Lit and then I guess the worst of my woes will be over. O dear! a filling just came out of one of my pearly teeth - I see my doom!
Three weeks from today and Xmas will be over! If anyone wants to know what I want its [sic] a pair of black kid gloves, another volume of Noyes' Poems or a collection of best of's or another volume of Ibsen's plays, a pair of mahogany candlesticks, any kind of brass desk stuff to go with the calendar Charlie gave me and so forth. Do you have any idea what Richard, & Theodore want? Guess I'll get Harold some books - I hate to get people things they dont [sic] want even if they do need them. I'll have to do all my shopping
Dec. 21 the day we go home.
Have you any Xmas cards bot yet? I havn't [sic a one - must get some -
Wish me luck in my Zoo quiz. I cant [sic] flunk this one. If my head doesn't ache I guess I'll get on - P.D.Q.
Reservoir,
Ruth.
A Postal Card Written on Jan 4, 1921[?], from Ruth to her mother
front Postmarked Jan 4 4pm in West Haven, Conn. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. back:
"Monday - must hustle over to my beloved (?!) office hours having survived the A.M. classes - Had a marvelous time at Holy's. [sic] She had a bridge party for me in the P.M and took me to see Geo. Arliss in "Old English." Perfectly splendid. Went to see Elma and Mrs C. Sun. A.M. Both have been ill but are fine now. Feeling O.K. myself and have been laying out my young idiots in grand style! More power to me!! Love, Ruth."
A Postal Card Written on Jan 10, 1921, from Ruth to her mother Front Postmarked Jan 10, 1921 5:30pm in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Back:
"Monday, M. / Dear Mother:- Got back O.K. but the gang in Spring[field] and we went to a screamingly funny movie - not in the peanut gallery - unusual fate. Has Hal his keys yet? Elma thinks it queer he hadnt rec'd them when I left for she sent them Sun. Great hunting season in our room. Ruth's hopes for a fur coat are materializing for we've caught 2 mice so far - must go to lab now - tell auntie I wore the waist Sun. & its O.K. / as ever Ruth."
A Letter Written on Mar 6, 1921, from Ruth to her mother
Envelope Postmarked Mar 7, 1921 7am in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Back flap sealed with pegasus seal and wax. Inscription on rear flap: "1848 Cass and Taylor, - Filmore / 1852 Scott and Pierce - / 1856" (US presidential election candidates) Page 1; Full contents of letter:
Mt. Holyoke College March 6, 1921.
Dear mother:-
I'm sorry my writing is so worse but it's mainly the fault of my pen - some day I'm going to get a new one. It scratches so I write as fast as I can so I wont [sic] have to stand the squeaking - it drives me wild! I'm getting so I cant [sic] even read my own lecture notes.
Hasn't this been a queer day? With my usual bean ache I've stayed at home and read lit - We have a quiz announced for March 18. Saturday I have one in Modern Phil. I am going to do my darndest to get a decent mark. I got an A in a big bible paper the other day. The prof had written across the bottom that it was a splendid paper written in a scholarly fashion - Why cant [sic] I get decent marks in subjects I care about like Zoo. Such is life!
I was so sorry to hear about the Hicks - If I were they I'd give up missionarying P.D.Q. and trot right back to America -
I went to hear Sir Philip Gibbs Friday night and he was wonderful I never listened to such a fascinating speaker. He just compelled attention - I wish I'd gotten tickets for Stuart and Charlie. Hal should have come up. Is he in Spring now? Tell him to come up soon & rake up a man for me.
Thursday night was the Elskund [?] Trio about whom I enclose a clipping. [no longer with the letter] Their program was too monotonous for me but they certainly did play wonderfully.
I didn't go to the dance and concert last night but I understand it was a great success.
Of course I wouldn't ask A. Lyman for Prom. I wouldn't rob the cradel for such an event. I do wish I knew someone to ask, however I'm just about decided not to go anyway - One gets awfully dragged out. Besides I've got to get a senior gown, a desk, and another chair for next year - so I'll be trotting home I guess for I wont [sic] stay up here.
What's the matter with Charlie? Guess I'll ask him over for next Sat. night.
Love,
Ruth -
P.S. Lots more Juniors have cut their hair. I do wish you'd let me. Please tell Hal Elma is in the Infirmary - R.M.
Please thank Hal for the "Lord Jeff" It is much appreciated[.] He owes me a letter[.] Tell him to write once in a while -
A Letter Written on Mar 20, 1921, from Ruth to her mother Envelope Postmarked Mar 20, 1921 4:30pm in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Page 1; Full contents of letter.
Mt. Holyoke College March 20, 1921
Dear mother:-
Well I'm alive but thats [sic] about all - yesterday or Friday I guess it was. I got a letter from Charlie asking me to go up Tobey to the sugar camp. Dick, Laura, Winn and Dolores were to go too. I cant [sic] say I was enthusiastic but then I thot youd [sic] think I ought to go so I said I would. Well, we were to take the one oclock car and Charlie was to meet us sans fail. We went with no luncheon and got over there but no Charlie[.] We finally met Homer (Dick) and went around to Mrs. Smith's & he wasn't there. Then we went down to Stockbridge Hall[.] I finally called up and Charlie was at Mrs S's. I told him to make the 2:30 for Sunderland and we'd meet him and he said he "wasn't ready" so I said I'd wait at Stockbridge. The others wouldn't go with out me and we all waited[.] At 3:30 there were no signs of him so we resolved to get on the trolley and go as far as it would - and then walk. It proved to go only a mile. Charlie got into the trolley having been over to Sunderland once - He had gotten an auto ride & caught up with the trolly [sic] found we weren't on it and came back on a motor cycle. It turned out he'd been fooling around in chem lab all the time. Wasn't that maddening!! We had to walk all the way to Sunderland and then we climbed Mt. Tobey to boot. Consequently I am stiff, lame, sore, and blistered today. We roasted steak up on the Mt. and had a fine time but we couldn't stay long, it was so late.
Charlie sent me some of the maple cream candy last week, it certainly was delicious - I am going to send some scalloped cakes I got to aunt Sue. I thot she'd like them -
I didn't hear from Mrs. Smith so I wrote to Charlie. It seems they thot we were in quarantine and anyway they couldn't come over[.] Lucky they couldn't for your cake hasn't come yet altho Dolores and Ruth's have and are all consumed. It may come up to the Village P.O. tonight so I'll go up and see anyhow.
I suppose Harold has told you about Payne. I am going to write Anna May today to find out how she is -
Debates were last night. We won here at home from Radcliffe but lost at Smith - They rang the bells at about 10:30 and I guess the villagers thot the college was burning up so they started all the church and school bells. Some excitement for a time.
I don't know just when I'll get home - Vacation has been set ahead a day. H- said something about going to the Glee club that night as probably he's told you and Friday I have to go back in to the dentists. Great life!
With love,
Ruth.
A Letter Written on Oct 8, 1921, from Ruth's classmate Elma Clark to Ruth's mother Envelope Postmarked Oct 8, 1921 12:30pm in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Page 1; Full contents of letter.
Mount Holyoke College South Hadley, Mass.
October 8, 1921
My dear Mrs. Merrick:
This week tempus has fugit-ed along at such a rate that it has almost escaped my notice; perhaps it's because we are a bit more settled and have begun to work a little. However, with this free Saturday schedule, it seems as tho holidays come quite often. Yesterday afternoon it was so lovely and we felt we should celebrate the rest of Founder's Day in some way, so one of the girls and I started to walk to Amherst. Fortunately for us, the daughter of a trustee picked us up right at the top of the Notch, and took us most of the way to Amherst, where we walked miles farther, looking up a girl who was here last year. Last night the Boston Orchestral Players gave us a concert that I enjoyed very much - because they played some familiar things and others that an ordinary person like me could understand.
Of course you know that my cold has been getting better right along. I'm sorry to have been in such an unlovely state while I was at your house. But that didn't prevent me from having a good time - I always do, you know, and it was especially pleasant to be there with Harold, sort of by the way of removing the curse of one well-remembered week and in the early summer when we didn't appear to be quite so congenial. I ought not to mention it, or admit that I remember it, for it's one of the things that's best forgotten. What I wanted to tell you is not this, but that I did enjoy being in Wilbraham again, and you are just dear to make me always so welcome.
Affectionately,
A Letter Written on Nov 2, 1921, from Ruth's classmate Elma Clark to Ruth's mother Envelope Postmarked Nov 3, 1921 7am in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Page 1; Full contents of letter.
South Hadley - Nov. 2, 1921
Dear Mrs. Merrick:
I must tell you what a good letter I had yesterday from Professor MacGregory. I sent him some pictures that he asked for, and so I was favored with a letter. He said Stuart was working most of the time, and perhaps wasn't playing enough; and of himself he spoke as tho he was rather discouraged about trying to do his college work. I do hope he's not going to have any more trouble with his back.
Wilbraham is beginning to seem like a second home, I go there so often, and I hardly know how to express my appreciation for the many times you've made me welcome during the past year. But I do appreciate it, and surely you must know that I always enjoy coming. I seem not to have been in good condition recently, but I hope the last signs of this cold will soon go; at any rate it's not causing me any unusual inconvenience.
Very sincerely yours,
A Letter Written on Nov 15, 1921, from Ruth to her mother Envelope Postmarked Nov 15, 1921 5:30pm in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Page 1; Full contents of letter.
Tuesday noon
Dear mother:-
Thank you just heaps and loads for your picture. It is simply wonderful. I think its [sic] the best photograph I've ever seen & so do Holy and Elma. Holy says it looks just as if you were going to speak to us. I'm going to have it framed right off.
I suppose Charlie told you all about our eventful jaunt. Anyhow we had a good time in the main even if Amherst did get walked over.
I had a fine letter from Stuart the other day. I sent him some canday [sic] yesterday. Elma told me today Harold has taken off his cast & is only wearing bandages when the Dr. told him to keep on the cast and when he took it off to wear some stud & batten contraption - you'd better write & blow him up sky high.
I've invited Mina Thomas Buchannan over to a supper party Friday (in return for her having Charlie & I over, also she told me she'd like to come over here) and I wonder if you could send me some celery, a can of tuna, if you have one to spare or else I can get one here, enough coffee for 6 and lump sugar if you have it. If you have any of that mayonnaise around I wouldn't refuse it but on the other hand dont [sic] make any for I can get it just as well. If you have a pie you dont [sic] want I think we could make off with it. If you send the stuff Thursday noon I will get it all right by Fri. night. If you see my woolen gloves around just stick them in please -
Its [sic] time to go to lab now, have a big botany quiz tomorrow -
Love,
Ruth.
A Letter Written on Nov 20, 1921, from Ruth's brother Stuart to Ruth Envelope Postmarked Nov 21, 1921 10am in Hamilton, NY. Addressed to Miss Ruth Merrick at Mount Holyoke College. Page 1; Full contents of letter.
November 20, Sunday.
Dear Ruth,
I received the fudge you sent me about a week ago. Ma sent me a picture of her. I suppose she sent you one. You wrote in a letter a while ago about sending a picture of yourself in Senior gown. Have you had your picture taken in it yet? I didn't want to write you a letter because I haven't got anything to say, but as I had no postcard and the day being Sunday so that I couldn't go and purchase one, I am now compelled to do so in virtue of the fact that I must thank you for the candy. You havent [sic] sent me any skeletons of short stories as yet. I wrote to Charlie about two weeks ago, but I have not heard from them at all.
I am going to eat my Thanksgiving Dinner with Uncle Frank. I hope you'll have a good time at home. Colgate got beat again, - by Brown, 7-0. Williams certainly did whallop Wesleyan.
Some little boys caught the little skunk that was wont to abide under Uncle Franks [sic] back porch and ruthlessly slew it. His body may be mouldrin' neath the ground but at least his 'soul' goes marching on. Such a strong little soul it had! You see our house is almost in the heart of Hamilton's business section. Not far from us is the back end of Hamilton Hotel where the skunks live on the doo garbage and sit under the stairs with the cats. This one got too ambitious and set forth by himself to set up a kingdom of its his own. But this skunk soon went a sinning, he forsook his true god which had ever smiled upon him, and set up his tabernacle unto fat Baal, of goodly countenance, yet of fickle intention. Soon Baal tired himself of the faithful devotion sent up by this Skunk and insidiously allied himself with the Imps, for he had set his face again[s]t the Skunk. Yea verily he sought favor among the Imps and did shewed he 25 sheckles in silver that they might make way with The Skunk.
Chapter II. Now it came to pass that as the Skunk rose from meat at his father's table, a gush of blood flowed forth from the food. It might have been pickle-juice, yet the old Skunks held consultation 'mongst themselves for surely did it not show the wrath of Allah? But the Small Skunk went off on his business. As he drew nigh unto to fence having crawled out from under the lumber pile, a small Boid addressed him. "Small Skunk, beware thou of the snare and the pitfall!" But the small skunk took it not kindly the woids of the boid for he was big within himself but he took himself about and looked upon the small boid "Who art thou that thou would'st speak to the king's son? Go thy way, in piece [sic] ere my wrath is kindled against thee."
So the Small Boid took up his bed and walked while the Small Skunk journeyed forth far across the lawn. But as he entered the door of his tabernacle, fell he into the snare of the Imps. Soon came forth Jabel Abner and plunged (smote) his jacknife under the fifth rib of the Small Skunk. - - But when the Old Skunk was heard of these things, he was he filled with grief and threw himself upon the floor smiting it with his greasy paw. "O Absalom my son my son, wouldst I have croaked for thee" and saying these words he sent forth the essence of his soul, that his presence be known for blocks around.
I have managed to fill out a sheet of paper so I will bring my letter to a close. I hated to send an empty page to you so I found myself compelled to amplify a detail!
Goodby
Stuart.
If you want a good short story - "They" by Kipling.
A Letter Written on Dec 4, 1921, from Ruth to her mother Envelope Postmarked Dec 5, 1921 7am in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Page 1; Full contents of letter.
Mount Holyoke College -
Dec 4, 1921.
Dear mother:-
I would have written to you before of my safe arrival but I've been very busy. I was sick for a couple of days but am O.K. now. I really think I am a bit thinner. [?] You needn't worry any more about my cutting my hair. I decided to do it yesterday or not at all & I didn't do it - saved my money for Xmas instead. Speaking of Xmas - I finished Marie's towel and sent it today, have Aunt Jennie's scarf nearly half done and the sick scarf for one of the boys all done except for fringe. Hows that!?! If by any chance the boy[s] want to know what I want for Xmas - I'd like brass corners for my blotter to go with the desk set, or a brass letter opener, mahogany, brass or silver (!) candlesticks, books (preferably a vol. of Maeterlink's, Galsworthy's, Ibsen's, Björnsens or Barker, or Mackays, Barries, plays or a combined vol. or something of the sort - or a pretty dish vase or anything that would be nice for my apartment. Dot gave me another picture for it tonight. You see I really but truly am serious about it. Just because I am never going to get married is no reason why I cant [sic] have things for my home is it? If they felt inclined to present me with some madiera [sic] I should not weep (Autaki has it most reasonably - small pieces you know for $1. or $1.25) Now these are only suggestions but they might help.
I've made a regular day of it today - washed and mended 7 pairs of stockings, pressed, studied, made fudge for some freshman, studied, went to vespers and a supper party - The music at Vespers was wonderful - Mr. Hammond played March of the Magi and Halige [sic] Nacht among other peices. [sic] I could listen to him play forever I do believe. He was accompanied in some selections with the harp.
I had a letter from Aunt Jennie telling me about coming out there the 27th for the rest of vacation. I think I'll make me a new dress before going out - a crepe one peice [sic] dress and maybe make that blue serge suit into one of those lose [sic] one peice [sic] dresses, dont [sic] you think it could be done easily?
Gladys Morse was at college a week ago Saturday but didn't come to see me but called me up later from Holyoke. I am peeved so I certainly shall not write to her.
When I was ill the girls were lovely to me. I was showered with, fruit, jelley, [sic] and Campbell soups by various freshmen. Five of them escorted me to Vespers to-night - They certainly do appreciate every little help you give them in lessons or anything - We do have nice freshmen here at Pearsons. Havn't [sic] seem [sic] Margaret lately but trust her to get on by herself!
Lots of love,
Ruth.
Have a quiz Thurs on Hegel, Schopenhauer & Spencer! Pray for me! R.M.
Page 1- A second letter addressed to Ruth's brother Theodore is included in the same envelope. Full contents of letter.
Dear Theodore:-
It seems to me you honored me with an epistle quite awhile ago! Not I take my fountain pen in hand to dedicate these few unworthy lines to you. I am doubly honored in the privilege of so doing!
Well, pilldora mia, how goeth the academic? Any A's yet? I havn't [sic] seen any rolling my way tho I did manage to pull an 85 in an Economics quiz which is remarkable for yours truly -
Yesterday morning a truly great event took place - my noble pling [?] was photographed in several different poses. I expect they will be works of art and triumphs of photography to say the least! Wait till you see them - Amen!
Did you have an ice storm Sunday night It was quite bad up here. Monday morning the wires came down and branches and tops of trees kept breaking off with a loud snap. We ran as tight as we could go to classes for fear of breaking our noodles -
Mrs. Gaylord just came to call. Tell mother her daughter Rebecca is married and her son William had to give up his bank position & go live up in the hills on account of being gassed in France. They hope he will get well.
Sophie Eastman is out of the asylum in Hamp and now living in North Amherst as happy as can be -
The clock has tolled nine bells and I have a pile of studying to do so reservoir - Be good till I get home (two weeks from Tuesday) I'll bring home my skates so if there is any skating we can take a toot - How did you finally come out in your mellon deal? A mellonaire yet? Aha fair one -
As ever devotedly,
Ruth.
A Letter Written on Dec 13, 1921, from Ruth to her mother Envelope Postmarked Dec 14, 1921 12:30pm in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Back flap sealed with pegasus seal and wax. Page 1; Full contents of letter.
Tuesday night -
Dec 13, 1921.
Dear mother:-
Sunday was a busy day for me as usual. I didn't do much of anything except study for an Algae quiz which I had Mon. A.M. Thurs. finishes my woes in a big Ec. quiz. I am sitting up studying for it now supposedly. I got B+ in my Philosophy quiz of last Thursday. As soon as quizzes are over I shan't study any more till after Christmas.
Last night I went over with Louise and Charlie to the Masquer's Plays. Mrs. Mowry (our matron) chaperoned us. She's lovely - The plays were fine and we enjoyed them immensely. Didn't see that with [?] Harold. Charlie says H- is going to spend his vacation including Xmas day (at Elma's) away in Hartford, N.Y. and Amherst. They go home Sat they said, I go Tuesday as you know. Does the jitney go out at 5:30 or 6 now? I can go out in that all right. I have quite a bit of shopping to do tho I did some in Holyoke Sat. (and went to see the Sheik which was exceptionally good.)
I am so glad Theodore is going out to Aunt Jennie's too. I'll bet he enjoys every second. As for myself if I can do anything but study and write papers and forget I've got to land a job I'll be happy.
Seems to me there's a good deal of illness in the old town. There is here too of one sort or another. I've to write yet to two of the girls over at the Infirmary.
I'll be sending a box of duds home the last of the week and would like to have you take them out and hang them up.
Havn't [sic] got my proofs yet from Whites. I've about given up hope of ever seeing them. I know they wont [sic] be any good. Wish I didn't have to have them taken for it certainly does give one a queer turn to look at oneself and realize how peculiar looking one is I must admit.
Well, I must get busy and bone some more -
With love,
Ruth.
P.S. Holy & I appreciated the clipping also Dolores & Effie but as none of us ever wear corsets it didn't upset us in the least. Holy sends her love to you and Auntie.
P.P.S. If you havnt [sic] the voile for that foulard yet ship me a sample & I'll get it Tuesday and anything else you want if you'll tell me -
A Postal Card Written around Dec 27, 1921, from Ruth to her mother Front Postmarked Dec 27, 1921 7pm in Amsterdam, NY. Addressed to Mrs. C. S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Back:
"Dear Mother:- Got here safely. Had a fine trip. "Uncle" met us with a sporty taxi and we got up here in no time. We didn't have to change or anything. Will write soon. Ask Stuart what time he comes here he's a time table. All are well here. Grandma Cal seems fine. Love, Ruth."
An Undated Letter, from Ruth to her mother Envelope Postmarked A- 7am in South Hadley. Addressed to Mrs. Charles S. Merrick, Wilbraham, Mass. Page 1; Full contents of letter.
Sunday night.
Dear mother:-
This has been a busy week end. I certainly have had a fine time with Mabel up here. All the girls liked her ever so much. I (and M.) met An in Holyoke and thot we were going to see the original co. in "Daddy Long Legs" but it wasn't 'till next week so we went to the movie, had dinner at a restaurant and came home and danced down at S.A.H. This A.M. one of the girls gave An a breakfast party, this noon I went down to the Inn with her and had a delicious chicken dinner and tonight another party - Dorothea gave a supper party in Mabel's honor. Harold came over tonight and went to the resurrection and really approved of it for a wonder. He is quite disturbed because you havn't [sic] said whether you were coming up or not and he has the room reserved. I told him not to worry, that you were all right.
We've had a gorgeous time this week - we had some meat that had seen it's [sic] best days and as a result all but 5 in the hall were quite sick. Unfortunately I was not one of the five and spent all Tuesday in bed and part of the next. The M.D. came up and gave me a dose of stuff and I am perfectly O.K. now.
My beloved Dr. Temple has had a nervous collapse and left so I have Miss Devrellelle [sic] (the one who paints her noble plupog [?]) but I can understand her after a fashion.
I had to get another new English book yesterday. We have to get a lot and then only use them a little - it makes me tired. Also I have to send $2. to Northfield. It seems every member of our class has to pay it for our class donation. What next, I ask you?
Mabel told me Alfredda had asked Mildred C's hand in marriage but had been refused. Sad, n'est-ce pas? Perhaps there's hopes for me. I also heard he was building a new jitney.
I havn't [sic] heard about my late return yet. I guess your telephoning saved the day all right and I won't lose my privileges. I am awfully tired and sleepy and it's most eleven oclock [sic] so good night.
Lots of love,
Ruth.
P.S. If you get a chance to get me a pair of white buckskins I wish you would for we have to wear white boot gear a lot of [sic] class things & I don't like to spoil my kid pumps. R.M.
P.P.S. If you send to the National for them please get some hair nets
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