October

Friday. October 1

Joy! Oh rapture! Jean is back again and Ix sits in her place. Went riding this p.m. after school with Kit and Miss Gantt. Jean is going to stay all night with me. Jean had a nice little chat with Mr. Fehn. Didn’t go home from school this noon.

2

Today Sadie, Mamma and I went out to Tommy Nolan’s for a picnic supper. I found five violets. Jean stayed all night with me last night. We went to bed quite early (in the morning). Am rather sleepy today.

3

Sadie, Ma and I went out to Mosher’s. We ate 5 apples. Am nearly dead as a result. Haven’t seen Miss Gantt or Jean since Friday. Read “Marriage of Mrs. Merlin’ today. Nothing much doing.

4

Stayed at the school house and worked this noon. Went down to Jeans after school. Bum lesson in Caesar today. Nothing much going on. Am pretty tired and rather nervous (‘Nough said). Must get to work tho’ at prose composition.

5

Sadie and Mamma went out to Mosher’s after apples. I stayed home and got supper. Nothing much doing today. Am awfully tired. Wish Jean would come down tonight.

6

Was over to Frenches for supper this evening and she helped me with my Latin. Went to the Lecture Course. It was pretty good. Am nearly dead. (Wuw – i – sus – huh – I – weuw – a – sus -).

7

Miss Gantt got after me today in school. Rode on my wheel for a couple of hours this p.m. Was over to Blanche’s a few minutes. Then was down at Wallace’s. Jean got off her base and just talked awful.

8
Rode a couple of miles on my wheel. Was over to Blanche’s again tonight. Review in Caesar today. I am tired of school all ready and only four weeks gone. Nothing doing.

9

Worked steady until 2:00. Jean was down this p.m. and we went to the show. It was perfectly punk. Am down at Wallace’s now. Guess Miss Gantt is going to stay all night too. She read me a grand old lecture about not staying at school.

10

Stayed all night with Jean last night. We didn’t go to bed until 11:00. Miss Gantt was there too and we stayed up and read. Stayed home all day long. Raining out now. Made candy etc.

11

It’s fearfully cold out today. We had our first snow, the earliest in the season we have had for twenty years. Walked home with Cad. Studied at school until 6:00. Am nearly dead. Nothing much doing. Papa is at Huron.

12

Had to stay for Caesar today. Mr. Fehn has not returned our geometry papers yet. I have given up all hope of ever getting them again. Studied at school until 5:30 this p.m. to make up for going home this noon.

13

Studied until 11:00 and s’pose I’ll have to get my Caesar too. I am so sleepy I can hardly stay awake, But I certainly must study my Caesar or Miss Gantt will scalp me. Saw Margaret Dyer. Stayed at school until 5:45.

14

Was out riding a little while with Miss G, Kit and Sadie. Miss G called me down in school today something about being underhand. Made me good and huffy cause I hadn’t done a blooming thing. She made up for if after school. Went tick tacking th’o.

15

Miss Gantt and Kit went for a little drive. Was down to the depot with Miss Gantt and Ma, Papa didn’t come on the first train. Jean and Grace K. were down this evening. Went ticktacking(sic) a little.

16

Have worked awfully hard all day. Haven’t seen Jean at all. Hitched up and ran a few errands for Mamma. Papa and she have gone to Aberdeen for a few days. Was over to Frenches and got my Caesar. Blanche is going to stay all night.

17

Haven’t seen Sadie since breakfast. Guess it’s a good ridance(sic). Miss French and I went out to the Industrial School and then Maud and Alice went riding. Wish Jean would come down.

18

Test in History this a.m. Failed as usual in Caesar and geometry recitation. Jean and Grace Homer were down for supper. Wanted Jean to stay all night but she couldn’t so asked Myrtle H. We went to the show and then out ticktacking. No fun th’o. Studied until 11:30.

19

Mamma and Papa came home today. We haven’t got our geometry papers back yet! I never saw such a slow man in all my life as Mr. Fehn. He makes me tired so he does.

20

Actually made a recitation in geometry today. Guess Fehn nearly fell over. Was over to Kit’s last night. Got home and Mamma was sick. Sat up with her until 2 o’clock. I am nearly dead tonight.

21

We had a test in Caesar and I will get a fierce grade because we had to draw a map. Makes me tired so it does. I am tired enough anyway.

22

Nothing much doing today. Got 90 in my History test. Had a test in Lit. this morning. Went down to woods after milk and just got soaked. It’s raining hard out yet. Stayed at school this noon.

23

Worked until 5:00 this day. Nell and Mr. Hasson are going to be here for supper. I am going to stay all night with Jean tonight. Washed the dog and cat this p.m. Haven’t seen Miss Gantt all day long. Heard from Nell.

24

Jean and I went to sleep early last night, about midnight I guess. Went riding a while this p.m. and then down to Wallace’s to see if she could go to, but she couldn’t. Sat by Miss Gantt tonight in church. She put her arm around me.

25

School again today. Got 96 in my Literature test. Didn’t come home from school this noon and so am rather tired. Feel kind of lonesome too. Haven’t seen much of Jean, as she is playing basketball all the time or else having interviews with Fehn, Cad or Hazel.

26

Test in geometry today. S’pose I’ll get an awful grade, as Mr. Fehn says he marks according to the way in which it appeals to him. Makes me tired. Was over to Kits a little while. Miss Gantt, Jean and I went driving.

27

Got 0 in geometry. I would like to slap Mr. Fehn’s face. Nothing else could give me so much pleasure. Oh, the dirty, unfair, wheep, I’d like to give him a piece of my mind if I didn’t need it all myself. I certainly won’t sass now.

28

Went down to Wallace’s to look up something in her grammar. Walked up town with Hazel. Then we went for quite a stroll. Stopped at May’s a few minutes. She said I passed in Music. Am awfully glad.

29

Got 99 ½ in Music test. Papa went to Soo Falls this evening. Was down to the depot. Saw Miss Gantt and Mrs. W. and Jean. Had quite a talk with Mr. Fehn in the drug store. Heard from Miss Sweet. Was down to Jean’s a few minutes.

30

Oh such a time as we have had tonight. Worked this p.m. until 4:00. Went out to Vinson’s. We six girls went up to Miss Gantt’s room and made fudge and marshmallows. The bed came down with Myrtle. All the pictures of Miss McAllister made me feel rather lonesome, th’o. Miss G. and I lay on the bed and she held me so close, just once. Stayed until 10:30.

31

Was sitting out on the porch when Miss G. came along and so I went to church with her. Was out walking awhile. It’s raining out now. Am dreadfully tired.

September

Wednesday. September 1

Met Papa at Hawarden this morning. Mamma is not much better. The cat has grown so I would hardly know him. The dog pivoted for about half an hour. Nell and I gave him a bath this p.m. Jean came over this evening and I surely was glad to see her. Sadie and I walked home with her. Stopped a few minutes to see Mrs. Wallace.

2

Have worked awfully hard today. Mamma is sick and I had to wait on her besides unpacking, etc. Saw Miss French this afternoon. Went up town with her. Was over to Hoffman’s this evening. Sadie and I went walking. Nell is going to Baldwin. She is nearly crazy.

3

Have put up twelve glasses of jelly and seven quarts of grape juice. Was over to Hoffman’s for supper. Nellie Zable and Nell Nichols were there afterwards. I went over to Frenches for a few minutes. Mamma is not to well today.

4

Nell, Sadie and I have been working all day long. Nellie Nichols, Nell Zable and I rode this p.m. Sadie and I this evening. We left poor *“Mikey” in the cold, dark barn all night long. He must be lonesome, but Sadie ate him the next morning. Miss G came this eve, but I haven’t seen her.

*Could possibly be an apple doll.

5

Nell Z., Nell E., Jess and I went walking. Then went over to Jess’es for supper. Made candy, etc. Nothing much doing. Haven’t seen Jean for an awfully long time it seems. I haven’t had time to go up there and I ‘spose she’s busy too. Gee! But I’m lonesome.

6

School started this morning. We just enrolled for our classes and found out what books to get. Mr. Fehn is a funny “feller”. It seems so good to see Miss Gantt. She is just as dear as ever (if not more so). Jean was down this p.m. Went up to the library and over to May’s.

7

Lessons started today. I just hate geometry! It’s the crazyest(sic) stuff I ever saw. Makes me tired so it does. Miss G changed some seats and Mr. Fehn changed them all back again. He certainly is a funny old duffer.

8

Arose at the unearthly hour of 5:30. Rode three miles on my wheel this morning. Walked home with Miss Gantt this noon. Have worked so hard all day long and am as tired as can be. Studied on geometry, but I am no nearer to getting it now than when I started.

9

Tired? No name for it. Sadie and I bumed(sic) abound tonight. Went up to Wallace’s for a few minutes. I hate geometry. We have Caesar in the office and Miss G makes me sit right next to that red Callahan. Makes me tired, so it does. I just love Caesar th’o.

10

Pretty tired tonight. Jess and I went driving; then Anna May, Miss Osmotherly and I. I think she is rather nice. Jean had gone to Richland to stay over Sunday and it'’ a pretty bum town without her. Guess I’ll go to Soo City with Nell.

11

Thundered like everything last night. Made me think of - it frightened me. Didn’t go to S. City after all Sadie and I went on a bum this p.m. Went walking with Jess this eve. Made jell this morning. Wish Jean were with me tonight.

12

Haven’t done much of anything today. Went to church with Miss Gantt – guess that’s something worth putting down. It has seemed awfully lonesome without Jean all day long. But will see her tomarrow I suppose. Was over to Jess’es this p.m. Made candy, etc.

13 & 14

Felix made a grease spot of a worm today. Heavens – I nearly fainted. Was down to Jeans for supper tonight. Miss Gantt was pretty tired, and Jean too, I guess. Nothing much doing. Can’t see thr’u geometry to save my neck. It gets worse every day and I’m tired and Sadie and I are sitting up studying. It’s now twelve and I don’t know anymore about his horrid geometry than when I started so guess I’ll go to bed. Will have to get up early, I guess and try some more.

15

Felt punk all day. Tonight I capped the climate by having a chill, then fever, etc. Made me tired so it did. Folks wouldn’t let me study and I didn’t have any of my lessons! I had to let them go to smash. I am so tired. Wanted Jean to come down, but she could not.

16

What do you think? Miss G. said she liked Jean and me better than the rest. I nearly fell over. Wonder if she really does. She, Jean and I went riding for a while this evening. I wanted to take her after school, but she was busy lecturing Helen. (Wish she had given Helen a kick for me, so I do).

17

Dreamed last night Miss Mc came back to teach. My I would like to see her. We sat up until twelve last night studying. Jean came down last night. She said Miss Gantt went off and cried last night after Helen had talked so. Confound that Volmer. I would like to half kill her so I would, making my H.G. feel so bad.

18Today Myrtle, Nell Sadie and I went on a picnic at Vinson’s. Got caught in the rain going home. Just got soaked. Jean was going with us, but Miss Sweet was there for supper – was sorry.

19

Jean, Sadie, Nell and I went riding this afternoon. Jean came down in the evening and we lay out in the hammock, and talked. I just don’t know what I would do without her. I th’ot I saw Sadie and asked if “he” was with her and it was someone else.

20

What do you know about it? Fehn was out with Anna May until some time this morning. Makes me tired. Sadie and I got excused at 4:00. Nell went away this p.m., and we had to help to get her off. Wish Jean were here tonight. I am so tired.

21

Geometry test came off today. I will get the beautiful grade of 33 1/3. Sadie wrote at the bottom of her paper. “Slam it down, Bang it down, Anyway to get it down.” Wonder what Mr. F. will say.

22

Studied until twelve. Am too tired to see straight now. Nothing much doing. Our English books have come. Wish Jean were here now, but I am all alone, alone.

23

Miss Gantt got after me today ‘cause I laughed. I really couldn’t help it tho, Felix was so funny. Wish I hadn’t laughed now, cause it made H. mad as a wet hen. Mamma, Sadie and I went driving this evening. Have to cram for tests tonight.

24

Had lots of fun in school today. Sadie started a postal to Mr. Fehn and everyone wrote something different. Frenchy wrote, “Oh joy, you haven’t shaved.” We had a test in Caesar and one in History. know I will get an awful grade.

25

Went to Sioux City on the five thirty train this morning. Got a new hat, dress, etc. Sadie ate too much candy and heaved up Jonah all the way home, not to mention in the sleeve of my best and only jacket.

26 & 27

Jean was down this p.m. We went riding a few minutes. Sadie is no good, she went and sneaked my diary off and read everything in the back of the book – all about Hazel and Jean – the ones nearest and dearest to my heart. I could nearly have killed her, I was so angry -–words cannot express what I would like to say. Stayed all night with Jean. We didn’t go to sleep until 2:30. What do you know about it? Miss Sweet was there for breakfast. Last night Nell P., Glen W., and I went riding with Vinson’s horse. Fun.

28

Was down to Jean’s last night. Had to come home early though, as Leon G. was here. I went riding a little while. Was over to French’s and got all my Caesar for tomarrow(sic) (for a wonder). I am sure Miss G. will faint if I have my lesson.

29

Oh horrors! Jean has had her seat changed to the front. I nearly died. She was down after school and after supper. I, Cad and Blanche went driving. Pretty good time. It’s certainly swell out, as moonlight as can be.

30

Got 90 in Caesar test. Punk lesson in Caesar today. Was over to Jeans this evening. Went to the show afterwards, and it was pretty good. Am awfully tired. Guess I’ll have to study my horrid old geometry. Heard from Nell and Edwin and Kenneth.

August

Sunday. August 1, 1909

After a great fuss and flurry, we started for Avery’s this a.m. Alice and I climbed a big hill. Afterward we all climbed another to see the sunset. Alice and I climbed down the steep rim rock about 50 feet high. Am awfully tired.

2

Went trout fishing for the first time today and only caught one. Guess I spent too much time looking for stones. Found three agates. Alice and I went down to the Lethia Spring this afternoon. We had lots of fun.

3

Alice and I walked to the Big Pool after trout. Had an awful time fording the creek. Then we lost our hooks and broke our poles. We certainly are two unlucky mortals. We all drove to Beulah. Heard from Nell P., Jean and Miss McAllister.

4

I was awfully sick last night and so was Nell. Didn’t go to sleep until 1:30. Have been reading all day. Have read “Soldiers of Fortune,” “Lola and Captain Macklin”. Alice and I went wading in the irragation(sic) ditch. Wish Jean were here. Am tired and blue.

5

Today we drove up the canyon four miles. It is much more wild and rocky there. Papa and Mr. Avery caught trout for dinner. I climbed a big hill behind the house this evening after dark. They seem awfully big and lonesome at night.

6

Went up to Boydon’s today. Climbed a big steep mountain. I found five agates. Papa, Nell and I fished. Only caught two. Papa five, Nell nothing. Got caught in a thunder shower and had to come home. Am awfully tired. It is still raining. Wish I could see Jean.

7

I am awfully tired tonight, although I haven’t done much of anything except to lie around and read. Finished “Glenwood” and started “For a Free Conscience.” Alice and I climbed the hill, where Nell took our pictures. Went to Beulah. Heard from Kit and Lottie

8

Was sick in bed all day. Nell kicked me out last night, so I slept on the floor and caught cold. Have read “Wanted: A Chaperone” and “Dorothy Vernon of Haddan Hall.” All the folks have gone to Beulah and I am all alone. It is storming like everything. Gee, the thunder sounds loud.

9

This morning we started off for dinner. When we got there discovered there wasn’t any hotel so Mrs. Avery asked a lady if we could stay there. We three girls slept on the floor. Walked down to the tin mine, climbed Green Mountain. I am awfully tired.

10

This morning Alice, Nell and I gathered birch bark. Then we picked red raspberries about twenty five quarts in all. We camped at a spring and reached home about 4 o’clock. Nell and Mamma have gone to Beulah. Hope I get some mail.

11

Our last day at Sand Creek. Papa caught thirty-five trout, Nell at last saw a snake, Mamma found two new birds and I climbed the hills all by myself. Mrs. Avery and I drove to Beulah this evening. I heard from Grace and Sid.

12

Arose at the scandelous(sic) hour of half past four. We started for Spearfish about 7:00. Mr. Cook took us up to the fish hatchery and to an artesian well. Mrs. and Irene Atmore are visiting here too. Have only heard from Jean once. Wonder what’s the matter.

13

Climbed Lookout Mt. this morning. About noon discovered I had left mamma’s bird books so had to go all the way back. Talk about tired. I was nearly dead. We left Spearfish this evening. At Deadwood we saw Alice, Maud, Antoine and Jule. It seemed good to see someone from home.

14

This morning we went over to Lead. Went thru the hoist and stamping mills. It was certainly interesting. Miss DeVinna was with us. Saw John C. We reached Pres. Fulton’s camp about 9:30. We sat around the campfire for about an hour. Wished for F. and H.

15

Have had lost of fun today. Dr. Fulton told me all about the rocks etc. We went thru an old mine from which wulfrum is obtained. I have several pieces. We also saw a shaft 500 ft. deep. Marion, Bertha and I waded in the creek.

16

This morning the “goils” and I picked raspberries and waded in the creek and caught frogs. It made me think of Miss Mc. We drove eleven miles to Silvan Lake. It is beautiful, but such a little dinky thing. We went for a long row this eve.

17

We climbed Harney Pk. on burros this morning. I was on the leader “Jerry”, Nell took a header off “Bunso”. Pa and I climbed up on the needles. We had a fine view from the peak – highest point in S.D. – could see Bad Lands etc. Put our cards in the post office. I am terribly stiff. Rode on the stagecoach to Custer.

18

Reached Hot Springs at 12:30 p.m. our train was awfully late. Heard from Jean at last. We went out to Wind cave. It was awfully interesting. We took the Fair grounds route. Tonight we went up the plunge. We had lots of fun. Met Aunt Clara this afternoon.

19

Got up at five o’clock this morning to catch the early train. Reached the claim about eleven. Went horse back riding this p.m. Papa and I played cards. I am going to sleep out on the porch in the hammock. Jiminy! But I am sleepy. 5:30 is too early for me.

20

This morning I chased all over after the old horse “Frank”. Then I went riding on him. Papa went away today. While everyone was gone I started to lie out on the grass and read when about two feet away was a rattler. I was stocking footed so ran and got my shoes and hoe. When I got back he was gone.

21

We drove fourteen miles to Hasson’s. Heavens! But it was hot. We went to see the rattle snake Mrs. Thurston killed. It had ten rattles. On our way back we saw another, but it got away. Maud T. and Mother were over this evening. We played flinch.

22

Mamma, Aunt C., Nell and I walked over to Cottonwood Creek. Found a good many agates. Then Mr. Thurston took us down to the Cheyenne R. I rode horseback with Faye T. I certainly had some fun. After dinner we walked down to the Cottonwood, Mamma killed another rattler with nine rattles.

23

It has been so hot today. Mr. McDuff gave me the rattles of a snake he killed this morning. Nell and I drove to Buffalo Gap. It certainly is a punk little burg. On the way back, we met some Indians and Frank nearly upset us. The buggy went way up on two wheels. No mail yet.

24

A little cooler today. This simply caps the climax! I was up on the hill looking for Frank when I saw a rattler close in front o me. It coiled, rattled and struck at me, but never hurt me a bit. If I had had the hoe I would have killed it, but it got away.

25

Washed this morning. Nell and I drove to Buffalo Gap. On the way back travel saw some Indians and nearly upset us. The buggy went up on two wheels. Scared? Don’t mention it. We drove all over the claim this p.m.

26

Made the stone walk. Left Buffalo Gap this p.m. Aunt Clara went to get us some sandwiches and the train started, so we didn’t get to bid her goodbye. Walked around Rapid and bought curios. Nothing much doing. Am awfully sleepy.

27

Left Rapid this morning. Reached Philip at noon. Beryl and all the Tone’s were here to meet us. Ate dinner with Miss Orr. Rode horseback all afternoon. Went for a picnic supper at the Bad River. Climbed the hill, played games, etc. About 25 of us.

28

Climbed the hills this morning and rode horse back. Fatty left early. Reached Uncle Jim’s at seven this evening. We came up from Blunt in an auto in about an hour. It’s a seventeen-mile drive too. We certainly had some fun. I am dreadfully sleepy.

29

Took a sixty mile auto ride over to the Missouri River today. We surely went a whizzing part of the time. I got as dirty as an old negro and awfully tired too. Stole plums, but couldn’t find any watermelons. Isadore isn’t feeling well, alth’o Herbert is doing his best to comfort her.

30

Mr. Nelson took us auto riding this evening. Had a pretty good ride. I sat on the front seat and ran the machine for a little while. A stack of kids are coming over tonight so no sleep for me until 12:00 – I am awfully sleepy too. Wiped dishes and waited on the table.

31

Arose at the unearthly hour of 3:00 o’clock this morning and went seventeen miles in the auto in a cold wind and then missed our train. Made me tired, so it did. We went Otto(sic) riding this afternoon. He’s the funniest fellow I ever saw. Reached Huron at eleven. Couldn’t get berths, so sat up all the way to Hawarden. Reached here at 8:00 a.m.

July

Thursday. July 1, 1909

I got my pictures today. They are horrid. Jean and I played croquet this p.m. Myrtle and Glen were over tonight. We went uptown and got some ice cream. It wasn’t good. Miss McAllister has resigned. We will have no more moonlight rides or visits in the little school-house.

2

I am so tired and I never seem to get rested. Wish Jean would come down. We intended to go on a picnic at the Missouri, but at the last minute they all backed out and would not go. Makes me tired so it did. Played croquet this evening.

3

Jean beat me 10 games out of 12 on her own grounds. I think that was mean so I do. She is going to stay for supper and all night. My poor kid is pretty tired and nervous I guess I don’t feel any too good my self.

4

Am awfully tired. Today has been rather cold – for a wonder. Jean and I went to sleep early last night – 12:30. We toasted marshmallows. I have been thinking about Miss McAllister – I never will see her again. Thank heaven it is her instead of Miss Gantt.

5

Ransome(sic) and Sid have been here today. They played croquet against Sadie and I. Glory be! We won one game and they the other.

6

Had a grand old fight today. Slapped Florence Steckman cause she pounded me with her fists. She makes me weary. Nell th’ot it was perfectly terrible, but I am going to stand up for my rights. Jean and I went to the show.

7

Went to the depot this a.m., but Gladys didn’t come. She came this p.m., but was sick so went on home. Gee, but I am nearly dead tonight. Have been up town and to the depot four times. Jean was down this p.m. I am so sleepy.

8 & 9

Got a card from Miss G. at last. Wish some one else would write. Had an awful dream last night. I dreamed that I was alone in the house all night, so I had a revolver with me. I heard someone crawl in the window and I shot at them, I heard a scream and a thud of someone falling. I lit a candle and ran over. I had wounded Miss Gantt. She said she could never forgive me and that she always would hate me. Then she died. My but it was horrible. What if anything like that should happen? I am lonesome tonight. Have been crying and my head feels as if it weighed a ton, and my eyes hurt. Wish Jean were here. Maybe she wouldn’t care th’o either. I wonder sometimes if she really loves me and if she cares how I feel. I wonder too, if she wants me to love her. Wish I were dead. Feel lonesome tonight.

10

Big flood in Sioux City. Hope Hazel is safe. God alone knows what I would do without her or Jean.

11

Today is Sunday. I haven’t seen Jean for ages. Am beginning to think she don’t care to see me. Feel blue tonight. Guess I am N.G. anyway. Just an ornery old cow, no wonder Hazel or Jean or anybody don’t love me. I hate myself so I do, you old cry baby.

12

Went to Soo City today. We rode out to Morningside to see the flood. Went past Miss Gantt’s, but didn’t see her.

13

Jean and I went up to the library this p.m. Mrytle and we kids climbed up on the schoolhouse and wrote our names in the belfry. Then we went out on the lawn and read, at least Jean did, but I was busy thinking (as usual).

14

Was over to Hoffman’s this p.m. and watched Lola and Jess paint. Was over to Jeans a few minutes tonight. I just love her so I do. I don’t believe I want her to read any of this stuff anymore. She would think I was daffy.

15

Beulah and Jean were down this evening and we played croquet and then went driving. Had lots of fun, but could not help but think of my last ride with F.M. and H.G. Jean is going to stay all night with me soon. (I hope so).

16

Lola, Jess, Nell, Sadie and myself drove to the Missouri and took our lunch. The river is cutting dreadfully. We went home by Hammonds singing to beat the cars and we met Glenn Miller and Phil C. and Lucile and Frank K.! We looked so tough I guess they didn’t know us.

17

Nell had a pile of company last night, and she kept one on the jump all day. I am all in tonight and so is Sadie. Was going down to Jeans but am too tired now. Wish she would come up here.

18

Helen Miller and her baby are here. Heavens it surely is hot out. Was down to Jeans this p.m. and then she came down here to supper. Papa and I planned our trip to the Black Hills. We are going to start next week if Do and Gertie do not come.

19

96° in the shade. Sadie and I made ice cream this p.m. Glory I have been working all day long, just awfully hard too. Hope I don’t have bad dreams tonight. I am forever dreaming of Jean or J.D.F. dying and I’ll wake up crying.

20

Awfully hot. Went riding this evening. Jean is going to stay all night with me to night. Started a new basket. Lola showed me how, etc. Miss Gantt said we didn’t know how near she came to resigning. Great Caesar, I am glad she didn’t because I_”because I love you”.

21

Glory I am sleepy. Jean and I did not go to sleep until after two. It was so hot that we went out on the porch and sat in the windows and caught cold. I feel horrid again. Sadie and Lizzie and Nell and I went driving. I can hardly keep my eyes open. Heard from Sweet.

22

Lizzie, Grandma Ericson and I drove out to Vinson’s. We were intending to go on a picnic tomarrow, but it was postponed. I and Jim went horseback riding after the cows. We have decided to stay all night. I don’t like the country. Gets too lonesome.

23

We went home by the Missouri. It has gone down and has quit cutting. Th’ot we would take the shortest way home by the bridge. We found to our sorrow we could not get across, so we had to go away around again. Maybe Miss Gantt is going to room here. I am so excited I don’t know what to do.

24

Picnic today in Iowa. We went on the banks of the Sioux River for dinner. I had all sorts of troubles. Jess forgot the butter, Ma nearly upset the carriage and spilled the water. Lola spilled the potatoes, and the pigs ate our bread. I climbed up on top of a big hill all alone. I could see Soo City and Jefferson. I then went wading. Drove home by Jefferson.

25

Raining cats and dogs out and I am sick in bed with rheumatism. Have been reading “The Guest of Quesnay.”

26

Great Caesar! Holy Moses! Etc. At last we have decided to start for the Black Hills Wednesday. I am so glad I don’t know what to do. Lola goes tomarrow a.m. Jean was down this evening. She is going away too. Address 809 Hurleigh St., Yankton, c/o Minnie Lagan. Saddie is sick today.

27

Packing, packing forever packing. I am nearly dead. Heard from Miss Gantt yesterday. Was over to Frenches. Kit and I were planning to read Caesar, but we haven’t done a thing. She said she would help me in the fall. Sadie and I fought to beat the cars. Am nearly dead.

28

Started off in a hurry this a.m. Didn’t even get to see Jean. Papa and I went to a double header ball game, but Soo City was beaten both times. Erma came down today too. Stayed at “The West” until 10:30 then went to the depot and here we are on the sleeper.

29

“Brite and Fare”. Reached Huron this a.m. Saw Mrs. Tone and Mary. I have seen the Bad Lands, and river, The Cheyenne, etc. The country is beautiful I think. Didn’t see Charlie N. Reached Rapid at 7:30 a.m. so sleepy.

30

At Sturgis today with Anderson’s. We met Pres. Cook, etc. Then drove out to Ft. Meade at which a thousand soldiers are stationed. Anderson’s have two dear kids, not to mention a cute ponie(sic) I was afraid to ride. We got into Deadwood 9:30 this evening. The city is built right on the hills.

31

We went down the Spearfish Canyon. Ours was the 2^nd train since the washout. The canyon was beautiful and we saw lots of old deserted mines. Reached Spearfish this noon. Horrid place. Walked to Norm’s. Thinking as usual.

June

Tuesday. June 1, 1909

Jean and I helped Miss Gantt clean out her desk and carry the books home. Miss Sweet sent me to the office. Said I would have to see Prof. Before I would take exams. You bet I will

2

The seniors class play comes off tonight. Took exam in English and algebra. Was out riding. Took Miss Gantt to the courthouse and Miss McAllister uptown. June S. is coming on the evening train. The play was just fine.

3

Exam in Phys. Geog. and Latin. Got 91 in Latin, 65 in algebra and 94 in English exams. On my card I got 89 – Latin, 96 music, 88 English, 78 algebra. Don’t know what I got in P. Geog. yet. Got home early from exams. Papa has gone to Green Lake fishing a few days.

4

Went up to the schoolhouse this morning after my card, but it wasn’t ready yet. Prof. C. always is the last to get our cards. June S. went home this p.m. Then Margaret Mangan and I ran errands for Miss Gantt. We went up to the chinamen’s four times after her collars. Then Miss Sweet, Jean and I went for a walk.

5

Sid, Mamma, and I went for ‘a picnic’ out on the Sioux by Belmires. Caught an old carp. Got my report card when I got home. Latin 89, English 88, Phys. Geog. 86, Music 96 and algebra 78 (of course, Miss Sweet could give me a good grade).

6

Jean and I went walking. A full account may be seen in the back of the book on these conditions: Never tell anyone, trust me and believe it all. Do not think me silly and above all things. Don’t laugh – But no one must ever read it – unless sometime I can let my Jean read it.

7

I was down to Jean’s for supper tonight. We read each other’s diaries on the way home. They were awfully funny.

8

Mr. Munson died Sunday. His funeral was today. Jean was down all afternoon. We had such a jolly (?) time. I read the rest of her diary over on the bed. Something in it made me feel bad and something else made me feel better, then we went riding and Jean stayed for supper.

9

Jean and I went to Vermillion tonight. We are staying at the Waldorf. Saw Glen and Helen Collins, besides my own dear Miss Mc and Miss Sweet to. We went to the law commencement, where we saw Hazel and Kit. Jean and I went home all alone from the University.

10

Jean and I walking this morning. I believe we took in the whole town. We were wandering around looking for Mrs. Wights when we heard Miss Mc call to us. She and Miss Sweet were there and we went in. Later we all went over to Mrs. Wights and then went to the commencement. Came home this p.m. Jean is down here now. Got the dearest angora cat at Vermillion I ever saw.

11

Nothing much doing except Jean and I went up after Hazels things. Mrs. Flannery gave us a whole raft of *truck, but we lugged it all home and Jean tied them all up and put them in a shoe box. She put in an old brick too. Glory, but that box is heavy.

*Commodities appropriate to barter or to exchange.

12

We took the box down to Miss Gantt. She decided she would leave it with us, but forgot to. Miss Mc and Miss Gantt are gone for good now. Don’t suppose I will see them again untill(sic) next fall. Jean was down this p.m. and we played croquet.

13

It’s awfully hot out. I am nearly melted. Gee, I feel cross as an old bear. Went to league with Jean. We sat up on the platform and Pearl Barr threw a cat in the window. It ran across the platform and out the door. You ought to have heard those kids laugh. Floy was so mad.

14

Institute started today. Mr. Perisho, Mr. Trettien, Miss Dolan and Miss McCumber all room here. I have to sleep over the kitchen, and it is so hot. Papa went away today. I go to institute. Take Phys. Geog. and water colors. Jean and I have lots of fun.

15

Mr. Perisho showed me all the stars. Jupiter, Antares in Scorpio, the Arrgin, the Sickle, the Celestial Triangle, Denew in the Great Northern Cross, Vega in Lyra and Alter in Aquilla. Then I went up to Wallace’s and stayed all night. Had lots of fun.

16

We played croquet tonight until after dark. We played partners. Mr. Perisho and I against Mama and Jean. Then we looked at the stars again. I am nearly dead now. Guess I’ll go to bed.

17 & 18

Sadie came this morning. I was so glad to see her. Gee, but she is a peach of a looker, lots prettier. We all smoked glasses and went up to the school house to see the eclipse of the sun. Could see it real plain. It entered at the left hand side and went off at the top. Then all us kids painted up Caesar and crawled way up on the roof of the school house. We could see all over. Then we played croquet. Was expecting Gladys tonight, but she didn’t come. Miss Vaught came tonight.

19

Today Mamma, Miss Vaughn and I went on a picnic at Vinson’s. Then we drove on down to the Missouri, which is cutting like fury. Sadie and I had lots of fun tonight. She certainly is the limit. Tried to choke me, etc.

20

What a crazy dummy I am. I went and wrote in July instead of June, but can’t change it now.

102° in the shade. It is terribly hot today. I am nearly roasted. I have a new name for the dog Wullie – Mr. Perisho calls him that, the ornery thing. We had only part of the children’s day exercises because it rained and not many were there. They are going to give it over next Sunday.

21

Picked ten quarts of strawberries this morning. I am so tired I can hardly stand up. Sadie, Jean and I went out to the Missouri R. for a picnic. We had lots of fun. Then when we got home Sadie and I went to the show. Jean was too tired, poor kid.

22

Went upstairs this p.m. all alone. I felt awfully blue and miserable. Made a fool of myself for a couple of hours then hitched up the horse and went up to the library. Alice, Maud and Kate ran off with my horse. Jean was down tonight after supper and is going to stay all night.

23

I washed, filed and painted all my balls and mallets this morning. It is cloudy and sultry out. Papa came home today. We are having a very bad storm. It is just raining down cats and dogs, and thundering like sixty. Mr. Perisho and Trettien were here for supper. Went to S.D. program at the courthouse.

24

Slept until 10:30 this morning. I got a hot dinner this a.m. no good at all. Isadore came this p.m. Dr. Trettien and I played against Ma and Issy. We beat three games out of four. Jean didn’t come down today. Missed her so much.

25

Mr. Trettien went away this morning. There were graduation excercises at the courthouse. Ruth was down here. Nell got home this p.m. Seems good to see her. Sadie and I played croquet against Prof. Perisho and Isadore. Of course they won.

26

It has been so hot today. Ruth went away this evening. Jesse H. came this p.m. and we went to the picture show. It was great fun. Haven’t seen Jean for ages. Guess she has forgotten me.

27

94° in the shade today. Jean and I went to Epworth League. We are going to have a picnic next week. We had children’s day tonight and I had to read an old response. Then I went home with Jean and stayed all night with her. I was awfully nervous.

28

Mamma, Jess, Isadore and Nell all went to the river and left me all alone. Started for Jeans, but got switched off at the Idle Hour. It was very good (?) I fixed my kodak book this afternoon. Jocks, but I am nervous tonight. Guess I’ll go upstairs.

29

Mamma, Jess, Isadore, Nell and I went out to Vinson’s grove for a picnic. We took Tip and we had an awful time. He jumped out and started for home once. Then on the way home he got loose and started back to the woods. Was so funny we nearly died laughing.

30

Today was Jean’s birthday. Was going out riding, but decided to go to the show instead. It was bum. Jean was there too. I have got it from all sides today. I guess everyone is tired of having me around. I wish that I were dead. No one would care any way.

May

Saturday. May 1, 1909

We were going to have our picnic today, but at the last minute, everyone backed out. Makes me tired so it does.

2

3

4

5

Oh dear, I have left this poor old book so long that I have forgotten everything. So will just have to let it go.

6

7

Was down to Jean’s last night. Miss Fantt was there. We made candy for the picnic. Gee, but we had a perfect circus. Then we went out riding. Miss Fantt and I. She’s a perfect dear so she is. Kate went with us to. I like them both very much.

8

Picnic today. Started 9:30. Miss G. too and Kate. Runaway. Ran into the telephone post, and knocked it over. Nearly everyone jumped out. Miss Gantt hurt her leg. Was awfully tired when we got home. Then I went over to Kits a little while. My but I am tired and sunburned.

9

Went out to Vinson’s, this morning. Am just about what you might say, all in, except my shoe strings. Went riding this p.m. with Kit and Miss Gantt around my Vinson’s and home by the Missouri. Miss F. had hurt herself quite badly. I am awfully sorry.

10

Kit is the biggest josh I ever saw. Always talking of her Doane. Just got sin today in school cause I slapped Herbert. Test in Latin and only got 79. Highest grade th'o. Miss M. and I went riding.

11

Miss M. and I went riding again tonight after school. She said that she th’ot I didn’t like to have her go etc. But I finally got her to change her mind. She said for me not to wait so long next time. We had a dog fight on the way home.

12

Physical Geog. test this morning. I didn’t know one thing, either. Had to sit on the front seat. Boo Hoo. My pictures came today. They are awful dear. I mean of Miss Gantt. I will have to show them to her tomarrow(sic). Was down to Jean’s tonight.

13

Test in Latin and we had all translations of Latin sentences into English. Mark B. gave all the sentences to Milton and there were three teachers in the room when he did it. What do you know about that? Miss Sweet just drives me crazy.

14

Test in English today. Talk about cheating! Nearly everyone in the room cheated. Miss Gantt went away so Kit taught in her place. Pearl and I were down to Jean’s. They had some kind of a tea. Miss M. was there too. We had some fun. She’s mad at something th’o.

15

Jean and I were up to the school house nearly all day long. We had a bum old time. Miss G and M. are leviteh at Soo City. Went up to the show this p.m. Pretty good. Jean was down for supper and then we went walking.

16

Went down to Vinson’s this morning with Uncle Mike and Alice. No fun. Was over to Hoffman’s for dinner and we had a fine time. Took a picture of Miss Gantt, Miss M., Jess and Kit out on Hoffman’s step. Hope it’s good.

17

Was a good (?) little girl today. Cuffed Roy S. and got caught. Miss Gantt and S. went riding after school. She's a fine teacher, all right. After supper took a book to her and then up to Frenches. Was over to Foxes a few minutes. Today is Kit's birthday.

18

Miss G. and M. tried to ride my wheel. Fun! Don’t mention it. Miss M. didn’t know how. Then Jean and I went down cellar – Hum. Guess there was something doing then. Miss MacAllister and I went riding. The darling, I dearly love her. We were both feeling sad.

19

I can’t see why Miss Sweet is so unjust to me, but if she don’t like me she don’t have to. I don’t care anymore. Jean and I were over to Miss M.’s this morning. It just poured tonight and I was out without any umbrella. I just got soaked. Was over to Foxes.

20

Miss MacAllister and I started out for the ditch tonight. We got out as far as Main’s and then it just poured. We turned around in a hurry to. Then I had to go up to the school house after my wheel. Went over to Kits and she helped me with my Viri Romae. Miss G.’s sister, Ethel is coming tomarrow (sic).

21

Oh. Have had more fun today! Miss Sweet kept Jean and I after school. She said she was thoroughly disgusted with us and that she never was so angry in all her life at any scholar. Oh, but is was funny. I wanted to laugh awfully bad, but I succeeded someway in keeping my face straight.

22

Went to a silhouette social last night. I had Prof. C. for my partner for supper. Now that was fun. Alice and I went to Vinson’s and I lost my jacket. Jean and I went to the show. It wasn’t good. Was down to Wallace’s a little while. Ethel fell in a pail of water. She got just soaked. Wish Jean could have stayed all night.

23

Heard last night that Miss Sweet had gone and blabed(sic) a lot of stuff about Jean and me to Lucile. We are going to tell Prof. C. tomarrow. Didn’t have much fun today. It’s just pouring down now and I feel sort of blue, so I do. Wish somebody loved me. Wish Miss McAlllister and Miss Gantt loved me a little, but I guess I’m too crazy.

24

Was terribly sick today. Caught cold and I have a stiff neck, sore throat and rhumatism(sic). Th’ot I would never get thru Latin class. Jean br’ot me home and then Blanche Sagan came and took me over to Foxes, because there was no one home with me. Dr. Hawes was over tonight and the horrid thing gave me some awful medicine for my throat. Glory, but it was bitter.

25

Went to school today, but don’t feel very well. My neck is so stiff, I can’t turn my head a bit and I can hardly talk either.

26

Didn’t go to school this morning cause ma wouldn’t let me. I just have to go this p.m. because we have an exam in music. Got our tests back – 92 in P.G. and 97 in English (good reason why). Ma’s over to Frenches tonight. She was helping me with Latin and in came Miss M. and G. Walked home with Miss Gantt alone as Miss Mc had gone on before.

27

Miss French phoned and asked me if I wanted some help, so I went over. We reviewed verbs. Am going to take Caesar from her this summer. Won’t that be just dandy? I will have a good start and lots of fun besides. Was over to Hoffman’s tonight. Miss G. and M. were there. I went in and got something for Miss Gantt to wear. She said I was a darling. Nearly fell over.

28

Was over to Kits for a while after supper. Am going over for supper tomarrow. Put Latin rules on the board for 80 minutes this afternoon for Miss Gantt and am awfully tired. Must go to school and copy them tomarrow.

29

Went-

Don’t know what I did today. Have forgotten. Guess I went to the show, but I don’t know. Guess I’m crazy tonight. Jean stayed all night, made coffee and had a grand time-Hum.

30

Jean and I went walking. Then Margaret Mangan, Jess and I. After church Miss Gantt and I and Jess and Miss McAllister took a walk. We went way up by the schoolhouse.

31

Decaration(sic) day – but didn’t go to the excercises(sic). Miss Gantt, Jean and myself went driving. We ran errands for Prof. C. – got lamps, curtains, a spinning wheel and everything imaginable. Ma br’ot home the ugliest jacket I ever saw. I just won’t wear it, so there.