Letter from Emma Stilwell to Charlotte Cushman, June 21, 1875
Dublin Core
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Library of Congress, Charlotte Cushman Papers, Manuscript Division, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.
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[3800] Miss Cushman
Nearly my first day. dreams were of becoming an actress — however bred by methodist parents (my father a minister soon after) these dreams began I was — disappointed of the hope by being +++ of them or if our Church literature that such people were considered as acl aliens from religious society if not from heaven at least — As young as I
[3800 reverse] was — so young that I wonder where in the seclusion of our country life and she meager range of my reading I ever found food for such — imagining — this was a sad enlightening for one — afterward — as dream I must — it was of book making — but the reality has been school teaching year after year — a wide field I grant[?] and satisfactory if — but I am — taking much liberty and will hasten to the Conclusion — At thirty one. I find myself again teaching a district school for a trifle over a dollar per day — out of which board is to be paid — I strive to get out of the ill paying work — at encouraged by
[3801] friends (who would not have flattered) to spending time and money in the study of Elocution (under Prof. +++ A. of Chicago) I found myself at the end of a year — After commencing teaching the same — receipts about $3,00. expenditure at least $375, and than to risk the further increase — am again teaching district school to strive to make up the deficit — interest of the same at least — There's many reasons for me to strive to become what I wish you to tell me how to become — I pause. my pen hesitating to pen what you may deem egotism – but I do feel and know that I might as an actress of Tragedy
[3801 reverse] lift — the load of poverty from +++ sisters and brothers and thus not have +++ in vain – I confess beside it all I think I partake of the noble ambition of minds like your own that have made for your – profession – friends who were enemies and judge without mercy – But I am ignorant of the first steps — The only bit of tragedy I ever beheld upon the stage (and I must confess that I imagine more than I witnessed) was Mrs Siddons as Lady Macbeth — Miss Cushman can you help me with advice – tell me what to study — tell me how — I can but believe you will pardon this wearisome letter
[3802] and of your experience reach a helping hand — to one who knows not where else to ask I am yours Emma S. Stilwell +++ — +++ Co. Pa.