To Pearl

JERF wrote:
Pearl above all other Pearls,

I was allowed to go the DeVine hay pull on the strict condition that I sit on a rocker on the porch with a rug on my lap at all times. I could see very little of the high-spirited activity, but Cy Hughes and Ned Parker took turns chatting with me and bringing me all the lemonade I could drink. That was sweet. Anyhow, I have little to report other than that Maud Appleby’s sister has gotten engaged to a man from Clover Hill. Maud had plenty of airs about it, as you can well imagine.

I would love to come visit you—I will be there assuming my cough dies down a little bit. I have been meaning to come see you anyway, as there is a dress pattern I want to show you. And do not trouble yourself about my poor hair—I don’t think even you could get it to look any where near as pretty as your golden locks do in the new style.

Your friend eternally,
Clarissa


sewing pattern Clarissa hoped
to share with her friend Pearl

To Clarissa

DJ wrote:

Treasured Clarissa,

You can only imagine my disappointment when Mother forbade me to attend the hay pull at Frank DeVine's Father’s place. I told her I felt quite strong that day and was certain I wouldn't fatigue myself if I leaned on some boy’s arm. But you know her old-fashioned ideas about a woman being delicate. So inside I sat, all evening, while you and the rest of the set sang and chatted the evening away. How disappointing. Do tell me everything about it!

If your mother can spare you, come by this afternoon. Mother has promised me we could sip some of her currant wine at tea! I think she feels badly about suppressing my fun. She looked so awful about it, and when I reassured her that there would be plenty of October hay pulls for me in the future, she began to cry. Mother’s can be awfully queer sometimes.

Please come, do. If you manage to get away early, I’ll even style your hair in that fetching up-do you saw me wear at the ice cream social! (Don’t worry---we’ll comb it out before you leave for home. It wouldn't do to make your father angry. And I thought my mother was old fashioned!)

Your dedicated friend,
Pearl

Clarissa's father was apoplectic
when she indulged in frivolous
haberdashery.
PICTURED: Clarissa at five years old

To Pearl

JERF wrote:
Dearest Pearl,

What irony that you speak of my cheeks as pink, when I was remarking to one of my beaux that yours were as brilliant as June roses! I told him that if I did not know the sterling nature of your character I would say that you had indulged in spirits! Of course, I was quick to mention that you never had anything but an occasional medicinal cordial and maybe just a little laudanum to help you sleep.

And how becoming is your hair in the pompadour style! I don’t know how you get it so full. Do fill me in on your secret.

Yours always,
Clarissa


Pearl's pompadour

To Clarissa

DJ wrote:
Dear Clarissa,

Your puff sleeves were the envy of the entire ice cream social. Your cheeks looked absolutely brilliant tonight, and I know you don’t paint. What’s your secret?

I have to go. It’s laundry day, and I seem to be going through handkerchiefs at an alarming pace.

Your friend forever,
Pearl


Clarissa doesan't paint