Page 167 - The Story of My Lif

You have studied all this, I don’t doubt, since you have practised vocal speaking.

I am surprised at the mastery of language which your letter shows. It almost
makes me think the world would get along as well without seeing and hearing as
with them. Perhaps people would be better in a great many ways, for they could
not fight as they do now. Just think of an army of blind people, with guns and
cannon!

Think of the poor drummers! Of what use would they and their drumsticks be?
You are spared the pain of many sights and sounds, which you are only too
happy in escaping. Then think how much kindness you are sure of as long as you

live. Everybody will feel an interest in dear little Helen; everybody will want to
do something for her; and, if she becomes an ancient, gray-haired woman, she is
still sure of being thoughtfully cared for.

Your parents and friends must take great satisfaction in your progress. It does
great credit, not only to you, but to your instructors, who have so broken down

the walls that seemed to shut you in that now your outlook seems more bright
and cheerful than that of many seeing and hearing children.

Goodbye, dear little Helen! With every kind wish from your friend,

OLIVER WENDELL HOLMES.

This letter was written to some gentlemen in Gardiner, Maine, who named a
lumber vessel after her.

TO MESSRS. BRADSTREET

Tuscumbia, Ala., July 14, 1890.