An anxious time, I nursed, did housework, and wrote a story a month
through the summer.

Dr. Bellows and Father had Sunday eve conversations.

_October_.--Pleasant letters from father, who went on a tour to New
York, Philadelphia, and Boston.

Made plans to go to Boston for the winter, as there is nothing to do
here, and there I can support myself and help the family. C. offers
$10 a month, and perhaps more. L. W., M. S., and others, have plenty
of sewing; the play may come out, and Mrs. R. will give me a sky-parlor
for $3 a week, with fire and board. I sew for her also.

If I can get A. L. to governess I shall be all right.

I was born with a boy's spirit under my bib and tucker. I _can't wait_
when I _can work_, so I took my little talent in my hand and forced the
world again, braver than before and wiser for my failures.

[Jo in N. Y.--L. M. A.]

I don't often pray in words; but when I set out that day with all my
worldly goods in the little old trunk, my own earnings ($25) in my
pocket, and much hope and resolution in my soul, my heart was very
full, and I said to the Lord, "Help us all, and keep us for one
another," as I never said it before, while I looked back at the dear
faces watching me, so full of love and hope and faith.