[Letter] Jan.22,1887,Smith College [to F.H. Giddings]

Jan. 22, 1887, Smith College.

My dear Mr. Giddings,
        I am just
completing the step in
evolution which consists
in assuming the vertical
posture. I have been in
bed for a few days, with
something termed pneumonia
with an adjective attached
which simply means that
it isn't pneumonia at all
but resembles it. It did
not involve the lungs to
any extent, and I am now
all right.
 Your very kind
letter came. I waited
to hear again from Prof.
Morse whom I had seen
just before receiving your
letter. He had promised
to reconsider and write again,
and I could not reply
intelligently till the reply came.
It announced a sore throat
and a feeling that he must
abide by his former answer.
Now I value far above any
office, however honorable and
easy, the good will of the
friends who would place me
in such a position. It is
a source of very great pleasure to me that
you and the club are inclined to continue
the present relation between us. There was so
much pleasure in this fact that I cared nothing
comparatively about the office itself. If it is
best that I serve again it will be no burden
but a pleasure to do so. That however for which
I shall feel like thanking you all is the
confidence and friendly feeling which prompts
you to desire the continuance of my tenure.
Of course I shall retain my hope that another year
will see you in the position.

                Yours Very Truly,
                      J. B. Clark