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CENSORED

To: Name Dr. Miriam Van Waters Street And Number Box 99 City Framingham, State Mass.

REFORMATORY FOR WOMEN JUN 24 1939 FRAMINGHAM

BOX 1112 Joliet, Illinois June 17-1939 19

Dear Dr;

Your letter of June 11th arrived Tuesday evening. It was an unusually fine letter. I enjoyed reading it very much, and I want to thank you for such lengthy and detailed answers to my questions. You did a better job than was expected.

Vivian Prince is very interesting. I regret that she hasn't enough money to run her office in a big way. We will have to interest a few rich people. But How?

After getting your beautiful letter I cannot dismiss the question concerning your maple tree too briefly. First, I cannot recommend any certain spray solution because I don't know what is causing the leaves to curl. "Leaf curl," a disease, is usually prevented by an early spring dormant spray of sut lime sulpher or Burdeaux mixture. You could use either right now for that matter. However, they will discolor foliage. Insects will sometimes cause leaves to curl. Aphids caused our flowering crabs to curl. For this pest and any other sucking insect, excepting mealy bugs and red spiders, nicotine sulphate will do very well. spray soap should be used with nicotine. 1 3/4 ons. nicotine to 15 gallons of water. A stronger mixture may burn leaves. In fact I am sure it would. This may not be the answer you wanted, Doctor but it's the best I can do. It is possible to get bordeaux dying to match the color of the leaves. This is also true with "sulfer".

Once again you were right. Our double petunias did very well as the beginning. Of course ours were for pot plants, but I agree they all "stink" and I needn't be vulgar about it!

Betty, the other daughter, as you explained, causes me to think. She just is not interested in some of our ideas. Perhaps too she doesn't care. Either way it is alright and shouldn't be held against her.

Before I forget about it, I am a little embarrassed about your cirlulation circulation department. I have written, at times, what was intended for you alone. I told you to do what you thought was right, and I still say that. I knew you shared some of my letters with friends. Just keep on doing what you want, Doctor.

Do not mail currency-Money Orders and Checks accepted. Foodstuffs and Packages are not accepted at any time.

Visits every two weeks by relatives only.

you know that I understand your reasons. Anyone you trust alright with me.

Mr. Knight of Rockford did not win the election held June 6th.

Miss Rice came Friday the 16th. We had a wonderful visit. She was looking like a million dollars. We were unable to get extra time although there were few visitors. She may write to me she may be able to arrange matters as I will be permitted to write to her occasionally. She would even be satisfied with a letter every six months. I told her about my writing, and she is not expecting anything. She has lovely eyes. We certainly had a swell time, Doctor. I feel badly about her leaving, now that she has gone. She will stop at your big Social Service meeting. I hope you get to see her.

This time I am not going to ask many long-winded questions. I am ashamed to ask such a silly question, but I know you don't mind helping me out. Many times you have had a [berth?] on a train, the porter or someone hands the sleepy person a large paper bag. What is this bag supposed to be used for? Silly isn't it?

Naturally, you may not be able to come in November. I do hope you cannot sure that I won' come. I have so many things to talk over with you. There is a great deal to be said before you come. As we have a lot of time before November, it can be written later.

Saturday we almost roasted. The day was terribly hot and while in Chicago only forty miles away it was cold and bitter. Miss Rice missed the heat which was good.

Your brother can't be very lazy if he is going to build a log cabin. I only wish that I could go along and lend a heand. Then we could invite you to come and spend your vacation in it. You would probably need an unbrella!

Many times I wonder how you can manage to accomplish so many things. I think you are the busiest person I know, yet you never seem to be tired.

I am very glad my last two letters pleased you, Doctor. Yours were very good.

Why bother raising naturiums from seed when cuttings are quicker and better?

You always understand about my letters. I may not write July 2nd, but I am not sure that I won't. Your generosity causes me to want to give you every possible letter. Your reformation was the best thing that ever happened to me.

Nephew George is much too young to get married He is just a boy. When he is as old as we are, he will have some idea of what he really wants.

Give my regards to Sarah. How is Miss Kelly? - always yours, - Russell McWilliams 5661-E

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CENSORED 1

To: Name Dr. Miriam Van Waters Street And Number Box 99 City Framingham, State Mass.

BOX 1112 Joliet, Illinois August 6, 1939

REFORMATORY FOR WOMEN AUG 11 1939 FRAMIGNHAM

Dear Doctor;

This is Friday night. I had given up hope of getting your letter tonight, but the man made a mistake and came back with it. I was so glad to get it as I had been waiting since Tuesday. Of course you are very busy these days and I could easily understand your letter getting off sced schedule a few days.

I didn't know you could swim. Why doesn't somebody tell me these things!

Sure was a bad hail storm you had. We needn't worry about your cat nip bed now. You take too much for granted, Docctor. The tobacco dust would not harm your - - cats. merely a good repellent. One doesn't poison cats or dogs.

Thanks very much for Miss Rices' letter. So you did find out what prompted the paper bag on the pullman question! She has written quite often, nice lettters and picture cards of where she was vacationing in Maine - a delightful correspondent. I shall try to write to her August 20th. She will be here next month and certainly deserves a letter, but how will I get it all on one piece of paper? This means you will have to wait a month before hearing from me and if you think half as much of my letters as I do of yours it will seem a very long time. I realize just how busy you are Doctor and also how you undoubtedly hold up other work at times so I can have a letter. I appreciate it more than I can say, Doctor.

Today I weighed at the gym and to my amazement found I have lost nine pounds I have played no strenuous games to speak of. I do have a tough time getting fat! I'll put it on again when the weather becomes cooler.

Did you think to tell Miss Rice not to think about my birthday. The chances are that whatever she might send would be returned with a curt "not permitted."

I am awfully sorry about Mrs. Thompson's daughter "[Puss?]." I hope everything comes out alright. Now there is a girl who is really having a hard time of it.

Do not mail currency-Money Orders and Checks Accepted. Foodstuffs and Packages are not accepted at any time.

Visits every two weeks by relatives only.

So George found time to write to his "old aunt." I got a kick out of that. Your letters are those of a young person as is your conversation. You'll never tell I guess?

You have a large class at Columbia I'll admit, but I want to hear about you.

Just who does that policeman think he is anyway? Calling you Miriam! One would think he was a long lost cousin or something. What did your brother Ralph think?

I told Patsy to remember her condition and a few minutes later she was leaning over the edge of the fish pool trying to scoop out a fish with her paw: a large red one came very close and she tried to lap him up with her tongue. The fish swam lazily around just out of reach causing her to become excited, so excited in fact that she forgot she was a lady and plunged headlong into the pool to catch the elusive tidbit Her waistline is not much like the treasury about which you have inquired.

You are a very good friend to plan on speaking to our Governor about me. I have an idea some of my other friends are afraid of him, but to us he is just another person who may see things differently now. (This is Saturday night. I have quite a lot to write so please excuse the small writing and [poragraphing?]) I would suggest you visit me first to refresh your membory, and after we go over the case together, you will be better able to present our argument. After talking to Miss Binford and Judge Holly, you can decide for yourself whether or not they accompany you on your mission.I suggested their going for this reason: Miss Binford knows him personally and that should make for a more friendly atmosphere. Judge H. will add prestage and well being and honest. Together they represent two of this states most outstanding citizens. Last but far from least, (who said save the best until the last?) you will be there to do the talking: to convince him, if it be possible, that he should commute my sentence to a term of twenty-five years. With this reduction I would be eligible for probation six months frmo now. Of course we will be thankful for even lesser consideration and not horribly disappointed if he does nothing at lal. I like to hope for the best, Doctor but I have learned not to build too many dream castles.

Here is Miss Rice again. I have her smeared all over this paper. The girl just wont stay in one paragraph like a good girl. After all I can't be expected to limit such a nice person to one paragraph. She had my letter all the time and not once did she mention it in her letters. What gets me is that I remember what I said in that letter, and I said plenty. - I am feeling very fit Doctor in spite of a few pounds loss in weight. Our flowers are very beautiful this year. Next winter demands that Mr. Mandino grow you some Rubrum lilies for your center dishes. My best wishes and love to you. Always yours, Russell McWilliams 5661-E

[written at the top of the letter] P.S. This year instead of playing handball which is not good for me, I have been pitching horseshoes. If your standards are very high we shall call it barn yard golf.

ans 31 st Woods [Lake?]

CENSORED 3

To: Name Dr. Miriam Van Waters Street And Number Box 99 City Framingham, State Mass

REFORMATORY FOR WOMEN AUG 26 1939 FRAMIGHAM

BOX 1112 Joliet, Illinois August 20, 1939

Dear Doctor;

This letter was intended for Miss Rice, but so much good has come from you this last week that am unable to wait two whole weeks before writing to you. First came a card from Miss Rice, followed by a very nice birthday letter from Miss Gladding; then your letter and check arrived with the book "The Plant Doctor" bringing up the rear. The check found the treasury registering .2 [cents symbol]. The treasury will be in good condition for a long time. The book pleased me very much indeed. Already I have discovered what killed a fine blue spruce. I have a hard time putting the book away at night: there are so many interesting things to discover.

today "Friday" I was permitted to read your letter to Prof. Fitzgibbons. and given the outline of courses offered by Columbia U. and told to look them over carefully. After studying the list I know that there is nothing on it for me. Your being so willing to help me pleased me very much, Doctor. I think you are the friend that person has only one of in a lifetime. Thanks very much for everything: I am sorry I couldn't use what they had to offer, but I can and always will remember what your good intentions were. You will probably hear from Professor Fitzgibbons later in the week.

I liked he way you speak of seeing Gov. Horner without fear. I have considered it from every angle and I am sure no harm can result. There is a remote possibility that our two Chicago friends will be afriad to back you up when the time comes. I know very well that changing times and conditions have way of changing people.

Swimming is good exercise. I had supposed you didn't know how to swim. I did a great deal of it and had loads of fun. Like you, I was not an exceptional swimmer: msot of all I liked to dive from a spring board. I'll never forget the time a goofy-looking fat man dared me to follow him off the top of a high railroad trestle. I thought he was bluffing, trying to impress his girl friend, and accepted his challenge. The water seemed a mile below as we stood on the girder. Without hestitating he jumped. I was afraid to follow him

Do not mail currency-Money Orders and Checks accepted. Foodstuffs and Packages are not accepted at any time.

Visits every two weeks by relatives only.

but managed to work up enough couragge to keep my end of the bargain. I almost exploded when I struck the water. That fat man certainly did everything but ruin me.

Since my last letter I have been playing a little hand ball each day weather permitting and am feeling better as a result. Usually we play the best three out of five games. Perhaps I can manage to reach the goal you set. I shall weigh again just before your visit.

Thanks for Miss Gladding's letter. She said that you suggested she write - or rather that I might like to have another letter. She writes a good letter. Told me about the children her work. She also sid some nice things about you. On the card Miss Rice sent was a picture of a baker with a chin where his nose should be who made faces when shaken. I simply must write to her next time. She was a good friend when she was here. She visited me when she could have spent that half-day doing other things.

No one else has written other than those I have mentioned.

when you visit me should we take a chance on the visiting room? We could have two hours. Of course if the room was crowded you would have difficulty in hearing. On the other hand, there may be only a few scattered visits and then we could really have a fine visit with no suffling of feet, changing positions, or pulled of a watch every three minutes - all for a purpose.

Is Mr. [Heff?] Keefe related to the young deputy?

These birthday have good and bad points, Doctor. The attention a person gets from a true friend is very pleasant. Then I realize I am twenty-five and haven't started in life as yet. About all we can do is to keep trying to do something to remedy the situation. If we keep fighting, hoping, and trusting something is sure to come our way. Maybe it will come this year as you said. We'll never know until we try. I can't understand why Miss B. is reluctant about talking to the only person who can help. He may be offended if he likes. He can't harm us because he won't be re-elected to anyway. He is well paid to look after such thing and we are asking him to do only that which we honestly believe to be right. So why should he be angered by our request?

This is Sunday 4-45 A.Am. and we are having a heavy fog. I must wash some clothes today.

I found a new cutworm yesterdy and am anxious to look him up in the book. The trees were sprayed immediately and that should finish the worms on the Chinese elms. I send my best regards to our friends at Framingham and my love to you.

Always yours, Russell McWilliams 5661-E

P. J. Fitzgibbon Supt. of Education

Joseph R. Ragen Warden

Russell's file -give me Oct 1st please-

REFORMATORY FOR WOMEN AUG 25 1939 FRAMINGHAM

ILLINOIS STATE PENITENTIARY EDUCATIONAL DEPARTMENT JOILET August 23, 1939

Miss Miriam Van Waters Superintendent Reformatory for Women Framigham, Massachusetts

Dear Miss Van Waters:

I inquired about the book which you sent to Russell McWilliams and found that it was delivered to him the day before your letter arrived. As you mentioned in your letter, the book was not sent in my care. It was, however, delivered to him immediately and he was greatly pleased with it.

I have taken the matter of correspondence courses up with him and, after carefully considering the courses that are offered in the pamphlet which you sent, Russell feels that there is nothing available that would benefit him. I am inclined to agree with him in this regard. He wishes me to thank you for your kindness in making this offer.

If you find it possible to visit this institution when you come to Chicago next month, or at any other time, I shall be pleased to see you.

Very sincerely yours, Joseph E. Ragen, Warden [signed] P. J. Fitzgibbon P. J. Fitzgibbon Supt. of Education

PJF: rw

CENSORED 3

To: Name Dr. Miriam Van Waters Street & Number Box 99 City Framingham, State Mass.

REFORMATORY FOR WOMEN SEP 20 1939 FRAMINGHAM

BOX 1112 Joliet, Illinois September 17, 1939

Dear Dr. Van Waters:

Your two letters from the wilds of Colorado were very good reading. Through your descriptions and stories I too have something of a vacation. You may come home feeling so strong and healthy that we may not be able to manage you. I am glad you had a chance to relax from your work for awhile.

Last letter day as I told you, I wrote to Miss Rice who recieved it in one week's time and wrote me a very nice letter in return. I shall be well pleased when she is back in Chicago and visiting me once more.

It is high time I am beginning to think of writing home. Tonight a letter came from hom. Mary Bell wrote that she almost had a bad auto accident. My other sister Fay was in an accident and painfully injured. wasn't examined by a doctor. She suffers when lying down most of all. My Aunt Mary Bates died last Saturday and was or is to be bured at Exline, Iowa, near my mother. They were sister. and Aunt Mary was always good to us when we were kids. Mary Bell has lost the diamond ring Dad gave her and she dreads telling him about it. I think this just about covers the news from home for this time at least.

Somehow, Doctor, I don't believe your sister + her children in England are in any immediate danger. No one wants to be the first to drop bombs on any one of the three big cities. Of course no one knows the plans for tomorrow.

I heard Mr. Chamberlain made a speech, pounded the desk with his fist, and declared that England would fight Germany until the last Frenchman was stone dead. Tell that to Miss Rice, will you? She is all for England + France. My sympathies are with them too, and I fear they will need sympathy before things are settled in Europe. The world would go to the dogs in a hurry if the three dictators should come out on top. In the meantime let's not worry about it.

Do not mail currency-Money Orders and Checks accepted. Foodstuffs and Packages are not accepted at any time.

Visits every two weeks by relatives only.

This is a little early to send my birthday greetings for October 4th, but as I don't write again untill after that date, I better get mine in early. I am sending a card with this letter, hoping that you will get it. That is all I can send - I am sorry.

No need in talking about our case in this letter; time enough for that when you visit me. We can talk about the visit tho. The visiting room is always jammed on Saturdays and is difficult to hear what one is saying. Any other day usually gives a better visit, + out of state visitors recieve two hour visits.

Patsy has five puppies. After she had read your letter to them (some dog) in which you mentioned the eight acre farm, they wanted to move there at once.

You ask what I think of Nature and out-of-doors. You and I share the same ideas as to the out-of-doors. I like to go driving in the rain, or sleeping in a tent out in the woods along some river and listening to the rain come pounding down is equally pleasant. The lightning is all right so long as it doesn't start cracking around my ears. I spent many nights camping out when I was outside. Once we fished all night and in the morning we were covered from head to foot with foul smelling blue swamp mud. We were dressed like bums and bare footed with rolled up trouser legs. Our legs were caked with this blue mud - we looked awful. When we were passing through the Rockford business district I stalled the motor of the protesting ford roadster, and my friend had t get out in front of all those people and crank it. What a laugh I had!

For Christmas you sent me The "Garden Dictionary" by Norman Taylor, and I think it is about the best one of its kind. A wonderful source of information.

This is Sunday morning and everything is under control, except the birthday card. I was unable to get one. Perhaps I can send one OCtober first.

The flowers are going to seed but in the houses the Mums + Poms are growing big and strong. They start blooming about the first of October. A great deal of money can be made on them selling at an average of $4.00 per dozen wholesale. I would want tot do a little retail business because the rewards are more attractive. If every thing comes our way next month it would still be quite some time before I could have a greenhouse. Let's hope we get some encouragement. Do you think I should get permission and write to Miss Binford and Judge Holly to sort of prepare them for it? or would you rather wait and take care of them personally? Always yours, Russell McWilliams 5661-E

Russell McWilliams File

REFORMATORY FOR WOMEN OCT 2-1939

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Department State House, Boston

Leverett Saltonstall Governor

September 30, 1939

Miss Miriam Van Waters Superintendent State Reformatory Framingham, Massachusetts

Dear Miss Van Waters:

His Excellecy, the Governor, has requested me to send you the enclosed letter of introduction to Governor Hornor of Illinois.

Yours truly. [signed] J. Robert Ayers Assistant Secretary to the Governor

JRA:LG Enc.