Miriam Van Waters Papers. Reformatory for Women at Framingham, 1876-1970. Subseries 3. Student correspondence, 1936-1971, n.d. Correspondence: Co-Cz, 1935-1971. A-71, folder 279. Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge,

December 28, 1954

Dr. Van Waters:

It appears that for the sake of harmony, it is advisable for me to withdraw from the choir. Miss Gladding called me yesterday, and her talk with me made it quite clear that for the greater good, I should take this step. I have further decided that I shall withdraw from all extra-curricular activities, and then there can be no discussion. I do feel very badly about giving up literary group, and am most distressed about giving up the duties of sacristan. I have felt most honored by this privilege.

I have tried, in my small way, to be of service to the institution whenever and wherever I could, but it seems that I am de trop, and I know of only this way to stop misinterpretation and gossip. Perhaps my recent XRays can serve as a reason for this decision, at least for the public.

Again, it seems that I am letting you down. It is a greater sorrow to me than you can know.

Regretfully,

Dorothy S. Cushing

[note at bottom of page: I got her all straightened out. She is back in everything now and a valued Secy of Literary group.

Dorothy had written a wonderful Christmas Message - on the Unlocking. Read at assembly.

Then choir trouble

March 21, 1955

Dear Doctor:

I deliberately neglected telling you in person how grateful I am for your fine attitude about Ruth. She, of course, told me. I'm not as dumb as I look, - I'm dumber - and I know what you must be up against in retaining her, but it seems to me that if F of F is anything more than a fine sounding organization, this would be the very time that this temporary sinking into quicksand should be by-passed. God knows what would happen if it were otherwise. I know what has happened to me because the courst didn't see fit to take into consideration how well I had done and to treat my backsliding as temporary.

I think far more has been accomplished by your attitude constructively speaking than the so-called "good lesson." I do hope that her psychosomatic laryngitis is cleared up before it becomes fixed.

Again, deep thanks. This is the kind of thing that eventually ends in true rehabilitation.

I wish I could have been Your

B. M.

From Dorothy Cushing re Ruth Mason and being retained by Fr. of Fr.

[n.d.]

Schuman Hienk

Mrs. Van Waters

Could you please send me a book on Schuman Hienk.

I could not find anything in the library.

Thank You

Virginia Cushman

Mrs. Van Waters