January 6.
I didn’t intend to neglect you so soon, my father confessor, but I have been so busy and so tired at night that I couldn’t keep my eyes open, and I want you to be as much of a credit to me in appearances as my own deeds are to be.
There has been nothing of vital importance to set down here this time. I had a long talk with Nell Sears today and I conjectured correctly about her being unhappy. She is engaged to Professor Kurtz, but he says it is impossible for him to marry her publicly, as long as he teaches in the University, for they would discharge him. That seems queer to me. I think I shall investigate the matter for my own satisfaction, for who knows, a Professor might propose to me sometime. He wants her to marry him quietly, and she doesn’t want to do it I wouldn’t if I were she. A society girl in her position would run a great risk, I think.