Records

• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, May 28, 1889
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, May 28, 1889

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
  New York, May 28, P.M.
  My dear Mrs. Meleney,
  I hope, you were not over-tired when reaching home ?!-It troubled me greatly that I had to keep you waiting so long, -but was unable to do otherwise- until noon. There was quite a “string of young Kgtners” calling, previous to your announcement, - and when all were gone, I asked Mrs Woodward to go to my Rooms with me, as I had kept her
  [page 2]
  her waiting too.- When you left, there came - soon after - Miss Florence & Miss Dorman, & they helped to write out “addresses” for the eleventh. Then I went up to my dinner,- and after that, the sick gentleman & his wife came to hear some music. At half past nine I was alone, -and - a little tired. Now I have rested for half an hour in the chair you occupied-when your dear "nose" looked so white! - Now I have yet a little work to do, but felt, I wanted first to write to you, dear young friend!
  [page 3]
  What did you think of me? Was I too enthusiastic saying at once, that I would join you at Martha’s Vineyard? Did my present feeling of strength mislead me ? and will I be able to assist you in the undertaking? After the - surely - trying time in Washington? I find, according the Program of the N.E.A. that my Paper will be due only on July the eleventh P.M.-and I may be unable to reach the Vineyard not before the end of that week. I have even now consulted the Alumnae. In view of all this, will not you & your husband [illegible] it all? The M.V. Institute commences.
  [page 4]
  Commences July 12th, I perceive. Thus I could only be of use to you for two weeks. I [calenlate] this: that I surely will have to remain a few days in Washington after my paper,-& being “about” I know, I shall need that rest [are] returning to New York and then I would need again a couple of days [are] setting out for the Vineyard. Remember, I am not your age! Even though endowed with a certain young feeling & [tenacity] of great “Will-power”.- The practice work as also the [games]- I would sustain & [illegible] & direct - just as much as you wanted me too ; but you would have to arrange “plan’, - and materials , &c. I do not want to be “head”,-only assistance.- Now I have said all.
  [page 5]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
  
  That what we did not come to say yesterday, - and you & Mr Meleney must now decide: whether it may not be better to ask some one else, to be the perfect help to you, which you would need for the three weeks of such engrossing work. - If you would like to see me - I will give “class hours” of this week, - & time when I shall be comparatively free,
  viz: Tuesd: Class 10 A.M. until 1:30 P.M- at leisure 4 P.M.- over
  [page 6]
  Wednesd: Class 10 A.M. until 4:30 P.M.-at leisure 11 AM. for 15mts to an half an hour,- & at 4 P.M. - Thursd: Class 10 A.M. until 1:30 P.M.- at leisure 3:30 or4 P.M.- Tomorrow, Monday, I also am at home towards lunch time, - and after - until 3 P.M.-
  Dear Mrs Meleney,- I want to place things clearly before you, - hence all this explanation.- May 29th I will now close the letter written this for last night,-
  
  [page 7]
  Although, after re-reading it I find, it might have her greatly condemned. And thus I have to ask your leniency.
  Your with yesterday was a delight to me. Your presence always gives me a happy feeling.
  Affectionately your “Kindergarten Mother” and old friend
  Maria Kraus-Boelte
  
  [front side envelop]
  Teaching at Martha’s Vineyard Institute Summer
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  877. Sterling Place
  Brooklyn N.Y. 16
  Miss Blow
  
  [back side envelope]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, May 30, 1889
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, May 30, 1889

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
  May 30th, 10 A.M.
  My dear Mrs Meleney,
  Your letter reached me even now. I feel so quickly, to leave you this alone for the first week; and I do so hope, that I shall be strong enough to carry out our “plans.”- I merely write to let you (over
  [page 2]
  Know, that, both, Mrs Paulson and her sister are going abroad June first already-starting from Boston.- Who could you have that week? I will think & think- perhaps a “suggestion” may come.-
  Rose Nathan called yesterday; she grew quite enthusiastic
  [page 3]
  About going to the Vineyard for a fortnight or three weeks; & want, to talk it over with Daisy Florence. I so much wish, we could get some of our lovely girls there !- This will be a busy day for me, having to read over 70 Synopses- Adieu ! in haste
  lovingly yours
  Maria Kraus-Boelte
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, November 12, 1896
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, November 12, 1896

  [page 1]
  Pardon the blot!
  Hotel San Remo
  Central Park, W., cor. 75th. St;
  New York, Nov: 12/96
  
  My dear Mrs. Meleney,
  You know, we want to have you on one of the Ex: Com: of our Association. Please let me hear from you, if you will favor us? - Say "yes".- Also your name was missing from among the "slips" to give subject for discussion or instruction. Please, do so now,- one or more subjects. It will help!- I think, you are just as pleased as I am, that Jennie Merrill has
  [page 2]
  the position for Supervisor of N.Y. Kgtens. It will be a grand work she is doing! And that Mr. Meleney is also "in" for it,- all helps! Though it may not be direct work.-
  I am very sorry, that you have moved to Brooklyn. All out of "selfishness" I say so for now I cannot go and see you! I know, I should not get "beyond the Bridge". Brooklyn seems such a strange place to find yourself in.
  With kind regards for your husband, and love for the children, Affectionately Yours Maria Kraus- Boelte
  [Envelope]
  From yours J. Kraus
  Hotel San Remo,
  New York
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  985 Butler Street
  Brooklyn NY
  [marginalia] 1896
  Jennie Merrill
  From Maria J. Kraus
  Hotel San Remo, New York City 1896
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, January 6, 1897
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, January 6, 1897

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central Park, W.[ear].75th. st
  New York, January 6/97
  
  My dear Mrs. Meleney,
  I cannot express my happiness at having had you here with me the other day. I have always loved you dearly; but you, as a mother, seem to be dearer to me than ever. - I wanted to write you a "good" letter; and here I am- it is
  [page 2]
  just midnight-and want to ask a favor- from you and your husband, Anna Harvey- you have seen this earnest, energetic, cultured and fine woman and gifted Kindergartener- urged by Dr. Jenny B Merrill & myself-and with the consent of Dr. Livermore-will make application
  [page 3]
  for the Office of Superior of Kgtens of Brooklyn. Dr Merrill will write on her behalf to [Suph. Maywell]; and so will I, and also Dr. Livemore. Would you write to your husband [Sph] Maywell and say a good word on behalf of Anna Harvey? They could have no better one! Your husband is known and respected in Brooklyn (is also in New York), and a good word from him would go far.
  [page 4]
  Would it not be grand, to have one of “ours”,- & such a one-in the B'klyn position? She has ex-perience as a teacher in [Public] Schools, as a Kgtner- the 7th year and conducts also the Training Class of Adelphi Academy. Trusting, Mr Meleney will do this-for the sake of the little children in th Brooklyn [Kgtens, I remain, with regards for Mr. Meleney and love for yourself, Maria Kraus-Boelte.
  [Envelope]
  From Maria J. Kraus
  Hotel San Remo, New York City
  Jan, 6 1897
  Amna Harvey
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  #985 Butler Street
  Brooklyn NY
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, June 26, 1897
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, June 26, 1897

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  New York, June 26/97
  
  My dear Mrs. Meleney,
  I meant to have written before; but have used my strength-only so lately returned to me-to a too large degree, I had to pay for it. And even now I feel miserable with a wretched sore throat. I see no-one, and do all I can to be well again by July 1st. Even now the Official Program has been sent to me-and I am delighted to find your name. To my suprise, no other ladies are going to speak,
  [page 2]
  and I understand Dr. Merrill, that so many were on the list for our [Dpt].-I am greatly thrilled about the stairs I shall have to mount-as that is the difficulty with me yet- after my illness. If there are more than one flight, I am afraid, it will undo me for anything else.- Please, let me know, how long you are going to remain in the City; and if there will be a chance, after July 3rd, when the meetings end, of having the pleasure to see yourself Mr. Meleney for dinner? You are such an ideal Kindergarten-Mother, that, to place you on the (Plat-
  [page 3]
  Platform alone, without speaking even a word, would win the hearts of the audience. This is no flattery. I feel so truly!- And next year-so God will- I want so much to you in your family-circle. You will let me come, I know.
  I must not write any more. The Doctor wants absolute rest.-With love for you and your "dear ones”, believe me always. Your affectionate old friend Maria Kraus Boelte.
  
  [Envelop]
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  #985 Butler Street
  Brooklyn NY
  1897
  6/26
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, July 1, 1897
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, July 1, 1897

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  New York, July 1,97
  
  My dear Mrs. Meleney,
  I cannot allow the day to end without writing to you, and to say :"that your lecture was a crown and a jewel. It ought to have been given earlier in the morning, so that all might have heard it, and felt with the influence of your words and spirit on their minds and hearts. And I am so delighted, that it will be printed,
  [page 2]
  - and though the charm of your sweet personality - embodied Motherhood- will be working on the printed words-yet- your spirit will have over it. Blessed, indeed, are you, your children and your husband.-I suffered a good deal last night with my throat,- & though able - by applications of a specialist-to read my Paper-the trouble has returned to night in a slightly severer stage. I [intend] going to-morrow to the Kgten D'pt, and this afternoon to the "specialist" Doctor, -and about the [middle]
  [page 3]
  middle of the next week I may be able to leave the City for a while.
  Wishing you and yours a happy and pleasant Summer, I am, my dear Mrs Meleney, your admirer and old friend.
  Maria Kraus Boelte
  [Envelope]
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  #985 Butler Street
  Brooklyn N.Y.
  1897
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, October 24, 1897
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, October 24, 1897

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
  New York
  October 24,97
  
  My dear Mrs. Meleney,
  I was unable to see Doctor Wood earlier than last night, he says; his address has not been printed, as it really was only half finished; and is much pressed with business,other-wise he would have written and an extract for our report. He may do it yet- if we give him time.-I under-
  [page 2]
  stood him sometime ago, that it was soon to be published. It is all that can be done this time to give a sort of sketch of the year's work and no one can do that better than you, you dear, true ideal Mother! God bless you and yours.-You are right, we all have felt, that this was a year of development and growth. Truly, "in union there is strength"!-And speaking of myself-I do feel so strengthened by all of you my dear kinder-garten children, that it seems -a new life has come to me.-
  [page 3]
  Anna Harvey wrote to me, & I to her,-& i spoke about the same to Mrs. Peek and Mrs. Slade- and we all are of opinion, that you, dear Mrs. Meleney, should be our first Chairman. You are a graduate of longer years-and besides, Anna Harvey tells me, you did not occupy the Chair last Winter.- I was going to mention this at our last Ex. Com. Meeting, but having brought out so many new paint, thought, you might think me too forward,- and hence I proposed “begin like last year”. If only one had spoken, we could have
  [page 4]
  arranged it then & there. As it is, - it will not be too late- if you are willing. There are other reasons, that you should open the years' work: your sweet dignity & motherliness-will & must impress all. I think , there is nothing to say but you say 'yes' to Anna Harvey & to me. Anna Harvey is the truest, dearest girl, - so unselfish- and always for the best. I will write her by the same [Mail], & tell her, that I wrote to you, & explained it all. Anna Harvey will then preside at the November Meeting; and so on. - Mrs Hughes has not written to me. Mrs Hughes wrote "that Mrs H. would be proud to address our association, & she would in N.Y. early Oct 30th, & he thought, in time for our meeting.- Yours with love
  Maria Kraus Boelte
  
  [Envelope]
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  #985 Butler Street
  Brooklyn N.Y.
  10|24|97
  Anna Harvey
  [back side envelop]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
  New York
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, October 27, 1897
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, October 27, 1897

  [Page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
  New York
  Oct: 27. 97
  My dearest Mrs meleny,
  Thanks for your very kind assent to be our Chairman on this eventful first meeting, the first Anniversary of our “Infant Association”,- & if continuing to grow tis successfully, & suffer of no “diseases”- it will be in due time a strong “Grant-Association”- may - better than that, viz. A true “Woman Association”
  
  [Page 2]
  Of course, you will introduce Mrs. Hughes to the Association. Mr Hughes wrote that she would come from the Station straight to the Hotel. & he thought, would come in time. I am sorry, we do not know with what train she is coming-or we might do something to make her feel comfortable.-We have arranged, that the members of the Association can have a
  [page 3]
  Luncheon consisting of sandwiches, milk, coffee or tea, for 25 Cents, to be served in the Dining room of the Hotel up on the 10th floor. Will it not be nice to be able to be this united? I hope all will join; the price is small, & it will be quite sufficient for a Luncheon,-& no one will-I hope- rush away- & everything will be so much nicer. Rose Nathan has been to [active] in all this, that she deserves a “vote of thanks.’- I am going to keep my promise and have just finished my.
  
  [page 4]
  “proper”-& trust, it may interest you all, as I kept it “above the common level.” You must allow me 45 minutes. I know, this is much time,- but something good cannot be given in a shorter time- concerning my subject. I hope, you will frankly tell me, after the meeting is over, how you liked it, - & where it was wanting -
  Good bye until Saturday. We will convenience promptly at 10:15A.M.- And, dear Mrs Meleney, I have taken the liberty to have two of my this year’s Class present; one is a cousin of Susan E. Blow, & she was 3 yrs ago in the Class, & has a triple to finish up,- & cannot be here after Christmas. And the other, Miss Ferris, went all through last year,- but by my advice is just taking some of the Lectures again.- And there are 3 or 4 graduates who wish to join at once, - true ones- & as a vote is to be taken for last year’s class, these ladies can likewise- be voted upon: Miss M Douglas, the Misses Sharpe, & I bought the other name. Good night!- it is [illegible]!- Your with love
  Maria Kraus Boelte
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, December 5, 1897
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, December 5, 1897

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park West 74th & 75th St.
  New York
  December 5, 97
  My dear Mrs. meleney,
  You are always so very thoughtful in writing to me,-& I am- apparently- so little appreciative of your kind thought of me; but let me assure you,-your letters are just like “shining stars among the many letters I receive. The days are too short, to do all “I ought to do”; & hence you have, please, to be lenient with me, & offer take my - cover
  
  [page 2]
  “good will” for the deed.-I hope, your little give is quite well again. I know, your heart is “full” all the time- aside of the “needs & necessities” for the entire family. It is so difficult to avoid getting a cold these days.- I always wanted to ask you. “Would your brother, Dr. [Cait], ever have the time to give us a lecture on “points of health” for the kindergarten & little children under 8 years of age? I believe- that is his specialty?- Please,
  
  
  [page 3]
  Excuse this question,& regard it as “nothing”, if out of place. I am greedy for the members of the Association-I have re-read Mrs.[Bertt’s]letter,- & overlooked at the time, that she said. “Later on in the Season she would give us a lecture.- Please, bear these points in mind for our ”Meeting” on Tuesday. Of course, I shall be willing & do anything I can, if the Committee says so. I have had quite a “holiday” by not speaking of our last delightful Meeting, and to have only a very short-2o minutes-talk on Dec 18th.
  
  [page 4]
  It being our December meeting i.e. the Christmas Meeting, I also have a little fun in store for the members.-Thinking it all over, I believe, it may be best not to have an “open meeting’ on the 18th,-for two reasons, [viz]:
  Because of the [Darraeh] who [so not] word “that he did not like it to be the public for various reasons; and that he had made this offer solely for me”.
  Because of “the fun” I am going to have.-It would all give the wrong impression of our Alumni work to outsiders. Don’t you think so too?- Our January meeting could be a public, or “open” one.
  And what do you think of my idea: Would it be well if
  
  [Page 5]
  if I were to write: the heads of prominent Kgten workers; for [inst]: Mrs F [Carlei] & Mrs. wakerman,&- who else? In Brooklyn; and Mrs. Dozier, Mrs.--- from the Teacher College Mrs. Haven, Mrs [Hancher],Mrs [Harris] & c. whoever we ^i.e. The Committee may decide upon, If I said: I to write them,- this was said merely: to hold out my hand, & show, that I, the “much abused Mrs. Kraus” is broad enough for the occasion. I see-your smile! Tell me frankly-am I right-or wrong? I am “teachable”.
  Dear Mrs Meleney, your de-lightful account about your “family Ktgen” will not leave my mind. What a fine Kindergarten & true Mother you are!
  
  [page 6]
  Thank you, for “ending-up” The interesting educative account of the “broker dream” You should write this up, as an article, and send it to the “Kgten Review”- Anna Harvey visited any class last Wednesday and brought her Class. I had invited them for any final lecture on the II Gift. We had a lovely Afternoon. She has such nice girls in her Class- Are you ever in the City on a Monday or Wednesday at about 11 AM? And would you like to look in “on any class?- or in the Afternoon of either days?- I hope, I have not tired you with my long letter.
  Your loving old friend
  Maria Kraus Boelte
  [card]
  Hand book for Mothers
  Mary Louise Butler
  [Kim Literature bo.]
  Womans Simple
  Chicago Ill.
  [envelope]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
  New York
  Dec 6’97
  
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  #985 Butler Street
  Brooklyn N.Y.
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, January 3, 1898
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, January 3, 1898

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
  New York
  January 3, 98
  
  My dear Mrs Meleney,
  Your dear heart-warming letter was a feast. How good of you, to picture to me that true “home, life” of yours. I cannot help, but thinking of it all, - daily. And I thank you a thousand times for this ! also your
  [page 2]
  Dear boys for the picture; it having all these days on my Christmas- tree, - & I have it now on my desk.- Away from my work and my “kindergarten children” I am - very alone. And I am very, very thankful for all the love shown to me, -, particularly at this season. I am truly thankful with all the prospective work, and
  
  [page 3]
  That my [reserved] good health & cheerful mind enable me to do the same.-One thing I am regretful of & and that is: that I did not ask you to bring your boys in in see the tree & rainbow, when, of our meeting, you told me: they were in the Park.- Mrs. Woodward had brought her little boy in,-and your children would have been just the ones to have with us. Please, forgive my thoughtfulness dear
  [page 4] dear friend! May blessing be on you & yours, and the new year see your little “girl-flower” increase in health & strength. - Even this minute reaches one the [Kg] Review of January, - & I read at once, rapidly, Mrs [Blows] “Danger-signal.” And if nothing else were in the pamphlet-it would be enough to make rejoice the hearts filled with the true “[Kglen Spirit].” She just expresses the - at present - so offer now- recognized “[Froebe]- idea” versus the “Herbert-views” so prevalent everywhere [illegible] years- in [Kglens]!- I feel quite happy about this article.- Goodbye! Yours with loving and [illegible] & affection
  Maria Krause Boelte
  [Page 5]
  P.S. Please come to our ex: meeting tomorrow. We have some important matter to discuss. And even now I hear that neither- A. Harvey nor B. Demarest will be able to present, because -respectively- the re-[commence] their work to-day &to-morrow. We want to join the [illegible] hat: Kg: Association & ought to have two Delegates Steps for the first ought to be taken at once. And so to the
  [Page 6]
  Delegates,-that is quite an important question-to represent us. I shall propose Mrs. Meleney for one, & hope she will accept!- Also! We should so again something towards our Secretaries and include our Treasurer.- Then, the question must come up on to “whether the Jan: meeting will be an “open” one, & have a list ready of the “heads” of the [Kgten Dept] whom we are going to invite for it?!.- We need you, dear Mrs. Meleney,- come and be our strength!-
  Ever Yours
  M. Kraus Boelte
  [envelope]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
  New York
  Miss Blow 1898
  
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  #985 Butler Street
  Brooklyn N.Y.
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, February 9, 1898
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, February 9, 1898

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  New York, Feb: 9, 98
  
  My dear Mrs. Meleney,
  I do so hope, that you will be able to go to Philadelphia I mean to go,-for-so far I am in “good condition.” Mrs Rachel Rogers of Moorestown near Philadelphia, a [Quaker] City, a for graduate and a very able & superior Kindergarten writes, that the Morristown people want us, namely
  [page 2]
  They want you, and Mrs. Merrill, and Mrs Kraus, on Monday.-They offer hospitality at different houses of some of their “best” people. The speak of a “Reception”- & want you & Mrs Merrill to address the many Mothers! I wish I could see you ! to talk this over. If you go,-when are you going ? with us? How delightful that would be I have written to several [Habels] for accommodation. As soon as an answer comes, I will let you
  [page 3]
  Know all about it; - for, again it would be so charming, if we, all of us, were going to the same Hotel. Would it be well to go to “Head quarters”? They tell we, we should better go to the “Bellevue” wear the Station, - & in easy access to the normal school.
  Dear Mrs Meleney, when I write to you, -I never know, how I could sufficiently express my love and affection, - you dear
  {page 4]
  “Ideal’ Mother. God bless you & yours.-
  -It is late,-& I [will] mail this letter down-word with the letter boy by the “[chite].’-
  Good Night; I hope the children are well, -& that the “broken”[limb] has healed, - and the little “princess” hale & well.-
  Affectionately
  Your old friend
  Maria Kraus-Boelte
  
  [envelope]
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  #985 Butler Street
  Brooklyn N.Y.
  Feb 9, 98
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, February 12, 1898
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, February 12, 1898

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  February 12, 98
  My dear Mrs Meleney,
  The inclosed was received this A.M., and knowing, you would like to have it, send that same.-Daisy Florence called even now, and she showed me your Certificate-or-what is it called?? She will write at once to
  [page 2]
  To Miss Close, and tell her, to secure another- one for me, - and have them properly filled out, and sent, respectively, to you & to me.-So-I think- that part of the business has been settled.-Our train leaves at 4.20.PM.-I am always so glad to see you,-
  [page 3]
  And I have such a happy feeling always in the “after effect” and recollection of a visit from you. Thank you for “calling” yesterday.
  Even now a “man” kindergarten called- trained in Berlin-seeking for a position. He made a very good impression. Is on need of
  [page 4]
  of work. Speaks French, English & German well from Heidelberg. What could be done- or recommended to him-to get employment ?
  With love & affection
  Yours Maria Kraus-Boelte.
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, February 14, 1898
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, February 14, 1898

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  New York, Feb 14, 1898
  
  My dear Mrs Meleney,
  I know, the 3:30 will be a “good” train, -and if you should prefer going at that time, meeting “all the nice people from that classical City”, - we will not feel offended; although we have been looking forward toward having you with us.- We can not go so easily, as our Class closes at 1:30P.M., and then we have to take a Luncheon, & “get ready”, & e.-It will be, any how a rush for me. -Please, do not consider us; for I know, how many friends you have among the Boston [Kglners], - & it will be so nice for you to meet them. -To-day, we ordered our Rooms- for you, E. Slade, Cora Peek, Mrs Williams and myself.- A. Harvey B. [Demarest] in [lead]
  [page 2]
  Following on Friday A.M. If you go with us, we shall look out for you in Jersey City; of course, that is much more convenient . I did not know it. I have [hued] like a snail in my house,-& am not much versed in anything of that kind.
  The Hotel Walton is the place we going to; and the Proprietor- [beo.W. Sivett]- has written to the Propr: of San Remo,-& will give no rooms for $2.00 and up - if we house. The “Walton’ is corner Broad, Locust St;. every accessible to the Normal College.-Mrs Woodward, who called Saturday, said, that we & her husband were there at years & found it delightful.- European Plan.- - Dr Merril remains over [friday] in [Plula],-& will go to Moorestown.- Mrs Pilman & Mrs Paulson will call to-morrow, to see me. Dear me! Where is my quiet life ? all of a sudden I find myself in a “whirl”. Lovingly you “Kindergarten Mother
  Maria Kraus-Boelte
  [envelop]
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  985 Butler Street
  Brooklyn N.Y.
  1898
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, March 5, 1898
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, March 5, 1898

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  New York, Feb 14, 1898
  
  My dear Mrs Meleney,
  I know, the 3:30 will be a “good” train, -and if you should prefer going at that time, meeting “all the nice people from that classical City”, - we will not feel offended; although we have been looking forward toward having you with us.- We can not go so easily, as our Class closes at 1:30P.M., and then we have to take a Luncheon, & “get ready”, & e.-It will be, any how a rush for me. -Please, do not consider us; for I know, how many friends you have among the Boston [Kglners], - & it will be so nice for you to meet them. -To-day, we ordered our Rooms- for you, E. Slade, Cora Peek, Mrs Williams and myself.- A. Harvey B. [Demarest] in [lead]
  [page 2]
  Following on Friday A.M. If you go with us, we shall look out for you in Jersey City; of course, that is much more convenient . I did not know it. I have [hued] like a snail in my house,-& am not much versed in anything of that kind.
  The Hotel Walton is the place we going to; and the Proprietor- [beo.W. Sivett]- has written to the Propr: of San Remo,-& will give no rooms for $2.00 and up - if we house. The “Walton’ is corner Broad, Locust St;. every accessible to the Normal College.-Mrs Woodward, who called Saturday, said, that we & her husband were there at years & found it delightful.- European Plan.- - Dr Merril remains over [friday] in [Plula],-& will go to Moorestown.- Mrs Pilman & Mrs Paulson will call to-morrow, to see me. Dear me! Where is my quiet life ? all of a sudden I find myself in a “whirl”. Lovingly you “Kindergarten Mother
  Maria Kraus-Boelte
  [envelop]
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  985 Butler Street
  Brooklyn N.Y.
  1898
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, March 11, 1898
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, March 11, 1898

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
  March 11, 98
  My dear Mrs Meleney,
  I now want your advice,-if you will give it to me. You may remember, that I spoke to you about having been asked to have my name on the Program [of] “the National Congress of
  [page 2]
  Of Mothers,”-and that I declined the honor.- And here I am just in receipt of another letter, asking me to “re-consider.”
  Mrs Slade has written to Mrs Blow.-I strikes me, that we ought to have Mrs Blow and Mrs Wheelock on two
  [page 3]
  Entirely different occasions. What is your opinion ?
  Yours Lovingly
  Maria Kraus-Boelte
  
  [front side envelop]
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  985 Butler Street
  Brooklyn N.Y.
  Miss Blow
  [back side envelope]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, March 14, 1898
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, March 14, 1898

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
  March 14, 98
  My dear Mrs Meleney,
  I do not know, have I expressed to you how glad I am, that you have been appointed for “Chairman” of the Committee proposed. You will give it the over
  [page 2]
  “Stamp” and true character, bringing it in the right channels. This was just what was needed. “We are. “Moving on- in the right direction, my dear young friend. I have [miss-] placed your letter,- but
  [page 3]
  Have in remembrance that you said or wrote “something about” Betty Harrison being the “spokeswomen” of this ?-what does that mean?-We shall soon have Luncheon. The [birds] on the trees before we- are almost opening .-lovingly- write the best good
  [page 4]
  Wishes for your “family”, I am- your old “Kindergarten Mother”
  Maria Kraus Boelte
  
  [front side envelop]
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  985 Butler Street
  Brooklyn N.Y.
  1898
  
  [back side envelope]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, March 18, 1898
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, March 18, 1898

  [Page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
  March 18, 98
  
  My dear Mrs. Meleny,
  Today I saw Mrs Blow. She has accepted for Easter, Monday, the 11th,-& at 3PM. She will deliver her lecture. Now-when shall we have [Miss Wheelock?] And should we [not] now have a meeting of the ex. Com ! so as to pre-arrange all and everything?
  [Page 2]
  I think, it is just too lovely, that we are a Association and can extend courteseys-& show our appreciation to others. I hope to meet Mrs [Wheelock] also privately, by myself. She said she would write & let me know. I hope you children are well again, you dear Mother.-
  [page 3]
  Mrs McCullogh from St. Louis sent yesterday the promised cards.-I am so sorry, that Mrs Close- after all- wrote or added “admission 50 cents” for our next meeting. I think, we will ignore it.-Shall we not invite Mrs Blow for that meeting.-lovingly yours Maria Kraus Boelte
  [page 4]
  P.S. What can be done for Lillie [Years]? Her story is [poliful].
  What [un-] kind treat-meant!- and- I did not know, that I has so many against me!?
  M.K-B.
  [front side envelop]
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  985 Butler Street
  Brooklyn N.Y.
  Miss Blow
  
  [back side envelope]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, April 9, 1898
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, April 9, 1898

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
  April 9, 1898
  My dear Mrs Meleney,
  -I am so sorry for Mrs Wheelock, & trust & hope, all will be well with her father.-
  I write to let you know, that our reception on Monday will be post-poned, - as Mrs Blow also is pre-vented to come (her
  [page 2]
  Her brother has died. This, of course, makes an end to our reception, - & we have sent notices to the different papers, To day, on my return from [Atlantic] City, I found all these sad news, - * I sent for Anna Harvey & Edith Slade,- & we [consoled] -& decided upon this [aefeir]. Please, give my “regrets’ to Mr Meleney,
  [page 3]
  Lovingly-with “Easter Greetings”
  Yours
  Maria Kraus Boelte
• 

  Poulsson to Meleney, May 31, 1898
  

  Poulsson to Meleney, May 31, 1898

  [page 1]
  Kindergarten Review
  Editors: Emilie Poulsson, Laura E. Poulsson,
  96 Chestnut St., Boston Mass.
  Published by Milton Bradley Co.,
  Springfield, Mass.
  Boston May 31 1898,
  My dear Mrs Meleney-
  Off for Europe today so that decides Martha’s Vineyard, doesn’t it? I should have loved to be of service to you for you must have your hand full-
  I sent the Emily Sheriff article back
  [page 2]
  Because I did not like to hear in here all summer; and I doubt now whether we should have opportunity to me if as we find hers & her space for selected mother- It is a beautiful article and I am glad to know of it- If I find an opportunity for its me later, you will lend it again, won’t you?
  With best wishes for a happy summer for you & We little folks, and thanks for your & [conaging] appreciation of my little [rhymes] I am your cordially
  Emilie Poulsson-
• 

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, June 26, 1898
  

  Kraus-Boelté to Meleney, June 26, 1898

  [page 1]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.
  June 26, 98
  My dear Mrs Meleney
  Thank you ever so much for working , when you must be very busy- on the eve of your departure to the Vineyard. If I get safely home “from Washington”, I shall delight in all that is going on in
  [page 2]
  Martha’s Vineyard, - and may prove of better help that you may anticipate. When I “put myself’ on doing a thing, I am in it heart and soul. And I do look forward toward coming in “touch” with your dear children & “the family whole & complete.” Mrs Peek is very much afraid of my
  [page 3]
  “Overdoing”,- for she has seen me at my weakest; but I am really growing stronger every day,- and the only thing I dread is : the heat at Washington.- In regard to changing the [sulyest] of “flat-[illegible]” to that of the “Mother & Corseting Song: the weather[have] - I am perfectly willing to do so, & although it would seem to me , that this belongs rather to the first week?-
  [page 4]
  Think it well over when you travel towards the Vineyard,- & then drop me a line, that I may be prepared. You forgot, that you promised to send me copay at the schedule of your entire plan: the work of the first week, - and the Afternoon- work at the two following weeks. I am all the while for “entirely” and “relation of parts to the whole”, - and this shall come much better prepared & [some] ready to do my part & assist in other parts.- I hope, you & the children will have a lovely journey to the Vineyard.- I am so glad
  [page 5]
  That Anna Harvey also will be at the Vineyard, & give her assistance. The [games, &c.] will have the greater charm, when represented in varied views; although previously these should always be a little consultation as to the “what? how? Who?? If all are for I am true [ has been very], our work will approach somewhat Froebel’s ideal of [[wanted]family life .”
  [page 6]
  And now I will say “good bye” and “bon voyage”.
  To what address could I send my homework, that it may be put- up & be ready, when I come? I am quite “[under[ilitie]” in looking forward to that part of quite restfulness & solitude-
  [page 7]
  which I always need, whenever I “give-out” much.- Will you, please, thank Mr Meleney for me, for sending the Pamphlet?
  -I wrote to Mr Skinner, and had a answer, of which I will tell you & Mr meleney, when seeing you.
  With loving affection
  Your Mother Kraus
  
  [front side envelop]
  4919 Anna Harvey
  Mrs Clarence b. Meleney
  877. Sterling Place
  Brooklyn N.Y. 18
  Miss Blow
  
  [back side envelope]
  Hotel San Remo
  Central park west 74th & 75th St.