s or parallelograms or gardens or Plato or bridge--is
fundamentally and always interested in clothes.

It's the one touch of nature that makes the whole world kin. (That
isn't original. I got it out of one of Shakespeare's plays).

However, to resume. Do you want me to tell you a secret that I've
lately discovered? And will you promise not to think me vain? Then
listen:

I'm pretty.

I am, really. I'd be an awful idiot not to know it with three
looking-glasses in the room.

A Friend

PS. This is one of those wicked anonymous letters you read about in
novels.

20th December

Dear Daddy-Long-Legs,

I've just a moment, because I must attend two classes, pack a trunk and
a suit-case, and catch the four-o'clock train--but I couldn't go
without sending a word to let you know how much I appreciate my
Christmas box.

I love the furs and the necklace and the Liberty scarf and the gloves
and handkerchiefs and books and purse--and most of all I love you! But
Daddy, you have no business to spoil me this way. I'm only human--and
a girl at that. How can I keep my mind sternly fixed on a studious
career, when you deflect me with such worldly frivolities?

I have strong suspicions now as to which one of the John Grier Trustees
used to give the Christmas tree and the Sunday ice-cream. He was
nameless, but by his works I know him! You deserve to be happy for all
the good things you do.

Goodbye, and a very merry Christmas.

Yours always,
Judy

PS. I am sending a slight token, too. Do you think you would like her
if you knew her?

11th January

I meant to write to you from the city, Daddy, but New York is an
engrossing place.

I had an interesting--and illuminating--time, but I'm glad I don't
belong to such a family! I should truly rather have the John Grier
Home for a background. Whatever the drawbacks of my bringing up, there
was at least no pretence about it. I know now what people mean when
they say they are weighed down by Things. The material atmosphere of
that house was crushing; I didn't draw a deep breath until I was on an
express train coming back. All the furniture was carved and
upholstered and gorgeous; the people I met were beautifully dressed and
low-voiced