Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]

MR No. 658—Sister Kerr's Gifts

Sister Kerr took me into her parlor bedroom, and opened a box of ruches [A strip of lace, net, ribbon, or the like, used in place of a collar or cuff.] for the neck, and desired me to accept the entire box. Her husband is a merchant in Honolulu, and though not a believer, he is a very liberal man. She also presented me with three yards and a half of silk, costing three dollars a yard with which I was to make a sack. [A short coat or jacket fitting somewhat loosely.] I saw that she was very desirous that I should have this, and I could not refuse without greatly disappointing her. It was beautiful silk left from a dress which she had. She also gave me a silk scarf, and a ten dollar pin, composed of white stones, very plain and serviceable. I thought I could not accept this, but she looked so sorry, that I finally did take it, and have worn it ever since, for it is handy and becoming, while it is not showy at all.—Letter 32a, 1891, pp. 2, 3. (To J. E. and Emma White, December 7, 1891.) 8MR 449.1

Released October 26, 1978.