1. I can safely say all the stories and articles in the “G. O. P.” are the best to be had. In truth one puts down the “G. O. P.” with better feelings and higher aspirations than when one took it up. Years ago my father found me reading a paper that he did not think fit for a girl to read, so he promised to buy me a magazine if I would read only such books as he provided. I promised, and he set about getting me suitable reading. As a result, he was shown the “G. O. P.,” and brought it home to me, and for twenty years I have been a reader of the “G. O. P.,” and hope to be for as long as I live, for I do not think I could get a better.
2. May I suggest another competition to you? You have already had one for girls who work with head and hands—will you not also have one for those who are preparing to work with head or hands? I am sure there would be many interesting pictures of student life at our colleges among the papers sent in. I feel that the “G. O. P.” decided my life for me. In April, 1881, when I was eight years old, we bought the number for the month. There was an article in it on the North London Collegiate School; it mentioned the pupils who were graduates—some were doctors or medical students. I said I would be one too; the idea stayed with me. At last the way was opened for me, though it is harder than I thought.
3. May I hope you will read this as a friendly letter from American girls who do not wish the pleasure they have received from your paper to remain unexpressed.
4. I am very proud to be able to say I commenced taking in the “G. O. P.” on the 2nd October, 1880, being the beginning number of the second volume, and ever since I have taken the greatest interest in it. When I got married, one of the first pieces of furniture we bought was a book-case to put my favourite books in; I often take one of the old volumes down for information—I appreciate them more every day for the kind and practical help they give.
[OUR PUZZLE POEM REPORT: AN ACCIDENTAL CYCLE III.]
SOLUTION.
An Accidental Cycle III.
5. Lamp Explosions.