“The governors granted all the things I asked for, in the way of salaries, house expenses, etc. Mr. Robins was not kept waiting, and got away when he had explained to Miss E. the ventilation matter.
“At the last meeting, he was kept two hours, and then not summoned. It made me quite fidgety and uncomfortable. I think his patience is almost exhausted. What a good friend he is!
“I wrote a note to the chairman for yesterday’s meeting, offering—(1) on condition of not letting the Upper School be ‘put in abeyance,’ (2) of raising the fees, and (3) of adding the sum so obtained to the rent saved by the buildings (about £800 per annum)—to pay another sum of £800 per annum towards the building fund, during my working life, or so long as necessary. This note was read in my absence.
“I must, as Alfred says, be allowed ‘to endow my own child.’ I also wrote to Mr. Lee, making the same offer. I tell you, as you would have heard it had you been able to be present.
“My very dear Annie, if only some of my cares would save you from yours, how thankful I should be.
“May God bless and strengthen you.
“Ever yours lovingly,
“Arnie.”
“Feb. 18, 1877.
“The answer from the Charity Commissioners is expected next week. I should think it will be favourable.