University of Virginia Library

CHAPTER 1

Chicago

My Dear Mother:

Do you think this is truly your "little girl" who is on her way to Europe? I feel like Cinderella doubtless felt when she entered the coach, "mighty queer and somewhat unbelievin'."

I shall send a letter from the cities we visit and I promise to "do my best" to let you know if the reality equals the dream. As I do not remember to have included Chicago in my dreams, I shall pass her by.

We have decided to go by way of Niagara Falls and the St. Lawrence river to Quebec and there board the express. As we go the extreme northern route it will be cold; I am shivering in anticipation, think how glorious to freeze in warm sunshiny June.

Mother, how did we ever make our way in those awful streets? Is it possible that we, unassisted by man, actually found life enjoyable there? I am helpless. Ed pokes much fun at me but I care not, I cling to him! He declares I am "truly savage" hence my dislike to this hustling city.

This afternoon was spent shopping. As we were preparing to return to the hotel we saw a man struck by an auto. Of course we remained to see the "after doin's." Fortunately the man was very slightly injured but what a spectacle of abject fright he presented! I was disgusted, you expect a woman to do the "fainting Araminta" part, but a man should brace up.

I shall send this tonight as tomorrow we are off. I do not think I shall pine to return here, I like my ease too well. I like to make haste slowly.

It is good to know that in your dear heart, absence cannot dim the fire of love.

Lovingly,

C.