Miriam Van Waters Papers. Reformatory for Women at Framingham, 1876-1970. Subseries 3. Student correspondence, 1936-1971, n.d. Correspondence: S, 1950-1957. A-71, folder 337. Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Mass.

Dear Doctor,

I am writing this because I want you to know that thought every little moment when I was in before the parole board you stood by me, and showed me you were for me all they way. I will never never let you down or hurt any other one by any foolish move. If there is anything bothering me or upsetting me, I will let you know or call my parole agent.

I know I have very much faith in you and I'm not agraid at all to go out this time.

There is one thing I would like to know if I can come up to Rangers some Saturday. Would you please let me know.

Thank you very much

Your little Bennie

62 West St Beverly Mass

Hello there Doctor, and Rangers,

I though I would drop you a line and let you know I'm very very happy and that I'm getting along fine. The home here and the family are wonderful to me Doctor, I kind of miss you though, but I shall be up to see you someday soon, as I've had permission which I can. You don't know how happy and wonderful things have turned out for me. Things which have showed me what's right and wrong. How are all the "Rangers" still going on hikes? I certainly miss them all you don't know how wonderful I thought you were nad how proud I was of you the day of the board, we certainly [fout?] up a battle didn't we? Well, for you I can only say if you weren't at my side, I don't think I would of made it Say hello to our President Fraces Marsten and Evelyn Farrell for me will you? I'm going to try and see you all before Christmas. If not I shall send a little something for the Rangers for Christmas. I've got a beautiful room, with the prettiest bed spread and lamp overhead, my own desk to write the cutest [beareave?] and a big big chair with a lamp to read a table beside my bed with a lamp. The man of the house Mr McKenna is going to get me a radio in my room for Christmas from teh family I think.

They really treat me like I'm a daughter or sister, and I can have anything I want. No place could be more like home than this. The baby here is sleeping so I though I'd write to you while I could. I went to the movies last Monday night and they drove me down and home.

I really want you to know Dorothy "Bennie" is quite content, and don't think you have to worry this time. I've quite made up my mind that "this is it" Well I've said enough about me now tell the Rangers I miss each and everyone and they shall all here from me through you Doctor for Christmas if I don't get up there before then.

God Bless All the Rangers and God Bless You, Dear Doctor

Your ever loving "student"

Dorothy Sarno

"Bennie"

December 8, 1950

Miss Dorothy Sarno

c/o Mrs. McKenna

62 West Street

Beverly, Massachusetts

Dear Dorothy:

Your letter to myself and the Rangers made us feel very happy.

I am sure you will be happy to know that Frances, our President, received the same good fortune you did, and is now gone out. I am counting on you both for a great success so that our girls can be encouraged. I am sure you know that.

Your room sounds so pretty and comfortable and homelike. If you have any troubles to endure, endure them bravely.

My little niece and nephew were always so fond of you, and they were both present when the Rangers read your letter, so they want to say, "Say hello to Benny."

God Bless you with a Merry Christmas and a Bright New Year.

Sincerely your friend,

Miriam Van Waters, Superintendent

MVW/hmo