1896, fall Helen on choice of college, CWC 74-76 - part 1 of 2

During these years Chesnutt’s business affairs were flourishing. His office was getting the cream of the court-reporting cases in Cleveland. He was an indefatigable worker and put into his business the artistry and enthusiasm that he longed to put into the literary effort. But his family had to be supported and educated and business came first. As his income increased the Chesnutts were able to indulge in more pleasures. Among these traveling held the chief place. Susan’s travels at first consisted of trips to visit her sister Jane Tyson, who had moved to Washington shortly after Susan came to Cleveland, and to Fayetteville to visit her mother. Charles sought wider fields and travels extensively over the United States, …show more content…
I am quite willing to see you properly started off, and have you keep up with the fair average standard of the place. Of course, you cannot compete in expenditures with the daughters of the rich, of whom I suppose are at least a few there. The expense account you send me is not bad; I shall expect you to keep up the custom.
… I send you herewith P.O. order for $15.00 to get the gymnasium suits; you might as well get them early. If you will find out the cost of sittings in the Episcopal church, I will send the money along to hold up the church’s “protecting and sheltering arms.” I might have attended to these things when I was there, but it is just as well for you to learn to transact your own business. These letters are to you and Helen jointly; be good girls, be economical; remember that you are there not only to have fun but to study and prepare yourselves for your future usefulness. My regards to Miss King and her mother. Your mother, Dottie and Ned send love. I do not need to say let me hear from you often