Miriam Van Waters Papers. Reformatory for Women at Framingham, 1876-1970. Subseries 3. Student correspondence, 1936-1971, n.d. Correspondence: 1941-1957. A-71, folder 311. Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Mass.

July 7th 1957

Dear Dr. Van Waters

I am trying to write and I cant hardly see what I am doing. My legs are terrable I'm afraid they have both got to come off and it makes me most crazy thinking about it, Pray for me I cant hardly take a step.

You see we dont got the right kinds of food, there is more sent back then we eat

While the money lasted that you sent me I got what I wanted

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to eat, but every thing is very high in [this?] little store, you see their being a State Hospital they can give you anything and you have to eat wether you like it not, that is what ails my more than any thing else is not having a balanced diet.

I have not heard from Mrs Cameron since she went away Ill be very glad when she gets back.

I am sending you a picture of [?] two years ago when we had a big show the other one is [me?] as a Highland Lassie

(over)

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I will have to stop writing as Im getting tired but I want you to know how very much I thank you for the $5.00 it is so good of you God Bless you

Are you going on a vacation this summer.

Write as soon as you can and please excuse pencil.

Love Stella Leach

P.S. I hope you will be able to read this I know it is terrable writing

[Aug 5 1957]

Dear Dr Van Waters

What in the world have they been doing to Framingham, I have read every word that has been in the papers I was more than glad that did not blame you, that picture of you in the Boston Globe is a very nice one, but I cant imagin Miss OKeefe changing [s?] - in looks Im so sh is [sticking?] by you as [well?] as all the [? ?] of Framingham

I thought of you there in your office working but

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according to the papers you are still on leave of absence. I hope + pray you are much better then you was.

I am in awfle condition my legs are one running mass of ulsers, I dont know what time they are going to take my legs but I tell you awfle to think about I hope you will pray for me. I hope they wont have to take them off before Mrs Cameron comes home, she sent me a card and said she would be [? ? ?] the