[_Journal_]
_January, 1857_.--Had my first new silk dress from good little L. W.;
very fine; and I felt as if all the Hancocks and Quincys beheld me as I
went to two parties in it on New Year's eve.
A busy, happy month--taught, wrote, sewed, read aloud to the "little
mother," and went often to the theatre; heard good lectures; and
enjoyed my Parker evenings very much.
Father came to see me on his way home; little money; had had a good
time, and was asked to come again. Why don't rich people who enjoy his
talk pay for it? Philosophers are always poor, and too modest to pass
round their own hats.
Sent by him a good bundle to the poor Forlomites among the ten-foot
drifts in W.
_February_.--Ran home as a valentine on the 14th.
_March_.--Have several irons in the fire now, and try to keep 'em all
hot.
_April_.--May did a crayon head of mother with Mrs. Murdock; very good
likeness. All of us as proud as peacocks of our "little Raphael."
Heard Mrs. Butler read; very fine.
_May_.--Left the L.'s with my $33; glad to rest. May went home with
her picture, happy in her winter's work and success.
Father had three talks at W. F. Channing's. Good company--Emerson,
Mrs. Howe, and the rest.
Saw young Booth in Brutus, and liked him better than his father; went
about and rested after my labors; glad to be with Father, who enjoyed
Boston and friends.
Home on the 10th, passing Sunday at the Emersons'. I have done what I
planned--supported myself, written eight stories, taught four months,
earned a hundred dollars, and sent money home.