(seq. 17)

spring vacation did not in the least dispel. I havea pleasant school of 20 scholars, but I have to manufacture the interest duty compels me to exhibit. I am anxious they should learm, but feel almost to shrink from the tast, energy & something to stimulate is wanting. But I expect the long summer vacation spent with my dearest & truest friends will give me new life & fresh courage to presever in the arduous path of duty. Do not think me unhappy with my fate, no not so. I am only a little tired & a good eal lazy, that is all. Margaret now things of going west with me and I guess she will not give it up again.

Writing letters does not afford any satisfaction. I want something more real to feast upon. I am out of sorts with the whole world. I want a new $5.00 fancy hat, $15.00 pin, $20.000 Manlitta dresses, shows, gloves, pocket-hankerchiefs & yes, oh yes, a nice fur. Every one of which I am resolved to deny myself. I am going to have my straw bleached & trimmed with my old ribbon, my blue lawn dress I have had made over which is as handsome as when new. The black braise is being made, which will be as nice as new, is very much worn & for the rest I am determined to banish even the desire.

H. had just had a letter from D.D. He continues pleased with his situation. I hope they are suited with him.