of [crossed out] desolate without her. She is such a motherly kind sister. When she called here to see me the young ladies all thought she was my mama. They said she looked so like a mother. The thought of us all so soon departing quite pains me for I have so many loving companions amongst the girls. Many of them are similarly situated to myself whose brothers have been fortunate abroad and educating their sisters before they take them. One of them belongs to the [west ?] at least her brother is there. She is very pretty but a shocking vulgar girl. Those of them who are going abroad take lessons in riding which is very essential in your quarter of the globe. I would like very much to have lessons too but it is I fear fully expensive. I have also a great desire to get to the Continent after I learn more of the German language. I shall try and get a governess situation in some school and teach English. A great number do that but it requires influence and means to obtain an opening but