Secretly Gertrude loved George, and she
resolved to study chemistry and electricity and keep pace with his
studies, and if ever asked to become his wife, to aid him in every
possible way. She thought that she discovered in him the material for
a noble man, a statue which she hoped to chisel. Too often marriageable
young women and their anxious mothers demand the complete statue at the
outset, and are not content to accept and chisel granite.
At Smith College the months sped rapidly, as earnest study and bright
expectations occupied Gertrude's time and satisfied her heart. Every week
brought a letter and a reply was promptly sent. George wanted to write
twice a week, but Gertrude checked him, saying that both needed their
time, and that too frequent correspondence, like too much intimacy, often
brings disfavor.
"More details of the doings at the steel mills," wrote Gertrude. She
cared more about the welfare of her father's employees and their families
and George Ingram's plans than to know the latest fad in society. George
was equally anxious to keep her informed, and to learn of her
intellectual advancement, what books she read, and her views on the
leading topics of the day.
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