Mrs. Alfred D. Campbell informed me, this morning, that you were in want of a governess for your two little girls, and she recommended me to apply for the situation at once, thinking that I might perhaps suit you. My experience in teaching has been gained at home; for the last two years I have undertaken the sole tuition of my younger sisters. I may say that I have been well educated, and am quite capable of instructing young ladies up to the age of fourteen. Mrs. Campbell has known my family for many years, and authorizes me to say that, should you wish her to write respecting my qualifications and fitness for the post of governess in your house, she will be happy to do so.
Hoping to hear favorably in reference to the matter,
I remain,
Yours very respectfully,
Gertrude Leland.
145. Asking a Lady Concerning an Applicant for the Position of Governess.
B——, June 28, 19—.
Dear Mrs. Campbell:—
You had the kindness of mentioning to Miss Leland that I was on the lookout for a governess for my little girls. I understand, from a letter I just received from this young lady, that she has not hitherto filled a similar situation, but this I should not consider a drawback if her qualifications were satisfactory. Would you say she was thoroughly well educated? Can she teach French and German to beginners, and has she a good knowledge of music? Is she both amiable and conscientious? She says you have known her family for some years, so no doubt will be able to satisfy me on all these points. As regards the question of salary, I propose giving my governess $500 a year. Will you kindly mention this to her, and if your answer is such as I expect, I shall have no hesitation in engaging her at once. I have had a great many applications for this situation, but I think it such an advantage to obtain a governess personally recommended by a friend; therefore I am so much obliged to you for advising Miss Leland to write to me.
With kind remembrances to you and Mr. Campbell, believe me, as ever,
Very truly yours,
Marcella Tyler Porter.