Rochester, NY
Dear Friends of Goucher,
I think I must have missed the last R.R. entirely, so am a little disappointed that I received this one at the beginning of its journey. There are still so many about whom I would like to hear, but I was glad to have news of those who have already written.
I'll see if I can squeeze my own news into the allotted two pages. When did I write last? I have no idea! It was after I spent a year abroad with my two children, I believe. I was sitting on 'top of the world' then, so to speak and the future seemed very bright and easy. Since then the depression has hit hard and in order to help my 2 children through college I have now taught 5 yrs! In the high school here - French, German and Spanish. I did all my Master's work at the University here, but when I had all my credits and only my thesis to write, a sudden need for Spanish drove at the School, so I prepared myself for it quickly and that left me no time for my M.A. work.

My daughter went to the University here for 2 yrs and then we sent her abroad to study French for a year. On the steamer she met her 'fate', my very charming, young son-in-law, and was married the following summer while still abroad. The young couple lived in Cleveland for 2 yrs, and I am proud to state that *** was ambitious enough to finish college and get her degree at Western Reserve University. Since last fall they live here in Rochester and in August I, too, shall join the list of grandmothers.

My son, Dick, graduated from High School in Jan. and received an appointment to West Point for which he first took his examinations. He is, however, afraid he failed his phys. Examination on account of not quite perfect eyesight. We have not had definitive word. If he is not accepted, he will go to the University of Rochester and secretly, at the bottom of my heart, I shall be relieved and happy. I am such an out and out pacifist that to give my only son up to this training for war, was a bitter pill to swallow.

My life, at present, runs along smoothly and quietly, as it is apt to do when one is very busy. My home, my school work, a few friends, and many books - these keep me busy and occupied. My mother used to call me an oyster when I refused to go to parties. I fear I am retiring more and more into my shell, but why not, when there are already too many minding everybody's business - and making such a mess of it and if one's own shell is all rainbow colored on the inside? I don't like politics - as such *** though I have keen admiration for the leaders of to-day who refuse to walk along the beaten track. And - woe is me!- I don't like contract-bridge!

We usually like to tell about our children and 'grandchildren'. Let me speak of my mother! She is 87 yrs. old and still enjoying life, traveling about, here and in Europe. When she was 80, she began to spend her winters in Italy and started learning Italian and mastered it. She already knew French, German, English, and Spanish. She is spending this summer with me, returning to Europe in Sept. Not only my friends, but my daughter's and son's friends adore her. Her keen sense of humor and deep interest in all that is going on in the world make her good company. She is especially interested in young students of languages and loves to help them just for the pleasure. So old age can be splendid and useful. May you all reach one like it! To this I add many other wishes for your happiness and contentment in the years to come.

Sincerely,

P.S. A very serious illness of my husband made me forget this letter in my desk! In the mean time, my son has entered West Point. I wish I could say 'I am happy.'

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