Miriam Van Waters Papers. Reformatory for Women at Framingham, 1876-1970. Subseries 3. Student correspondence, 1936-1971, n.d. Correspondence: L, 1947-1950. A-71, folder 310. Schlesinger Library, Radcliffe Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, Mass.

Ruth La Vache File

Feb. 8. 1947 227 Beacon St. Boston---

Dear Dr. Van Waters:-

I have your letter of Feb. 3--- It is true that I had not seen Ruth for some weeks--- but on the 4" I had a long time with her--- She said it was a miracle -- her freedom from pain---

I [sued?] her requests --- and am writingbut it will be some time before I can see her---

I had Mildred

Scully the other day for lunchto let her talk and to offer no advice --- at the end I did not altogether keep my resolution---

About Ruth's future -- will it not have to wait?

And the next time I come to Framingham perhaps Imay see [you?]---

As a matter of fact knowing Ruth has for me been a wonderful experience --

Very sincerely yours Ida S. Ripley

3/7/47

AM. our files

My dear Family:

Well, after all I got the job last night when I called at 730 she said she had thought over all the people she'd interviewed during the day and decided they liked me best. oh, I'm so happy I'm in a daze. (More so than usual) I might add. But don't you think it's wonderful?

I have whole week to get ready until next Thursday. Thanks! my dear dear, kind wise family for allowing me this God-given chance to prove to you, myself, and others that I can go out and live like other people.

There's so many things I want to say, but as usual, can't find the words, but I know you under stand all I'm trying to say.

I'll see you then we'll talk it all over-

Ruth La Vache.

March 21, 1947

My dear dear Family:-

or dare I use the sacred word Family?

Please please forgive me for what I've done.

Beleive me, I am the most miserable creature alive, I did not enjoy one minute of the time I was away.

I tried repeatedly Tuesday night to get you on the 'phone. of course I could have talked to Miss O'Keffe but I didn't want her to

2" to know. In the excitement Tuesday I forgot to leave the note at the switchboard saying I was to be back at five P.M.

So when I got down town I foolishly got to thinking of how nice it would be to go to Boston.

Mr. La Vache's room is four flights up, the nearest 'phone a block away, I kept going up and down trying to ring you until eleven O'clock.

I had to give up & go to bed. I didn't go any where only to eat.

3". Wednesday I rested in bed all day. I know you are very angry at me (and justly so) I saw Dr. Howe yesterday, and my talk with him was anything but encouraging.

He cut a big hunk out of my side and sent it right down to the lab. at the Framingham Union.

I'm so very miserable and discouraged. He isn't at all satisfied with my side, and gives me no hope whatever. Well, all I can say is, I'm sorry from the bottom of my heart I've suffered for it, and if