Miriam Van Waters Papers. Reformatory for Women at Framingham, 1876-1970. Subseries 3. Student correspondence, 1936-1971, n.d. Correspondence: B, 1943-1944. A-71, folder 274. Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Mass.

[29 August 1944]

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and look at her. I may be letting my heart and my faith in God over-rule common sense and practicality in regard to George and his responsibility, but I feel I am doing what is best. Any way it is done it would have to go to court and it would hurt him, myself and Beverly more than any good it could accomplish. It could not give her his name and that is all I want for her. If I antagonize him now I would ruin any

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any chance of a future reconciliation if his present marriage doesn't last - which I doubt if it will. I still love hime and will always I guess no matter what he has done to me. I only want Beverly to have her chance in life.

I got a letter from {Doctor} V.W. just as she left for Maine. She did not tell me anything about the Northfield job but gave me the lady's

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address to write to her. In view of my present condition I think it would be best to give it to Beverly Hammond who she had in mind at first. I would not want some on else to loose the opportunity because of me.

I will enclose a note in this to my land-lady to go and get the things. If you can arrange it it would be wonderful. If not I will have to come down before I start on

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this new job - if I am able to start on it! You can send them C.O.D. Railway Express or any way convenient for you. I will call you and plan to see you before I come down if other plans do not work out re. the baggage in the meantime. - Thanks loads for the stamps.

Wasn't Tobey's marriage quite a surprise! She got a wonderful fellow I assure you. Only hope she is fair with him and tells him the truth. I went to the wedding - some hectic affair. Knew [?] 2 wks! Just out on 2 dates and then wedding bells. They are both very happy! write soon - Love - Barbara

September 5, 1944.

Social Service Index, 43 Hawkins St., Boston, Mass.

Gentlemen:

We are interested in securing any information you have about Ernie Phillips, Peck Road, Pittsfield.

One of our students is considering becoming a housekeeper for him, and we would like to know whether he has a record or a reputation. Thank you for your courtesy.

Very truly yours,

Superintendent.

MVW/K

C 9/25

9/20/44

Dear Miss Kelley:

How are you now that the cool days are here? Did you and {Doctor} Van Waters get my letters to you both?

I haven't a great deal to tell you this time. Beverly is still in the hospital. She may have a heart condition but they aren't sure - too little yet to say. But she is gaining weight steadily and is as cute as can be. She weights 7'2" now.