like a new being, for double my former strength has come to me, and I
fear no one in the whole world. After I had sent my last letter I
regretted it so that I almost became ill. And now you shall hear what
the result of this was. The superintendent took me aside and asked
what was the matter with me; he fancied I was studying too hard. Then
he told me that when my year was out I might remain here one more,
without expense. I could help him with sundry things, and he would
teach me more. Then I thought that work was the only thing I had to
rely on, and I thanked him very much; and I do not yet repent it,
although now I long for you, for the longer I stay here the better
right I shall have to ask for you one day. How happy I am now! I work
like three people, and never will I be behind-hand in any work! But
you must have a book that I am reading, for there is much in it about
love. I read in it in the evening when the others are sleeping, and
then I read your letter over again. Have you thought about our
meeting? I think of it so often, and you, too, must try and find out
how delightful it will be. I am truly happy that I have toiled and
studied so much, although it was hard before; for now I can say what I
please to you, and smile over it in my heart.
I shall give you many books to read, that you may see how much
tribulation they have borne who have truly loved each other, and that
they would rather die of grief than forsake each other. And that is
what we would do, and do it with the greatest joy. True, it will be
nearly two years before we see each other, and still longer before we
get each other; but with every day that passes there is one day less to
wait; we must think of this while we are working.
My next letter shall be about many things; but this evening I have
no more paper, and the others are asleep. Now I will go to bed and
think of you, and I will do so until I fall asleep.
Your friend,