Page 168 - The Story of My Lif

My Dear, Kind Friends:—I thank you very, very much for naming your beautiful
new ship for me. It makes me very happy to know that I have kind and loving
friends in the far-away State of Maine. I did not imagine, when I studied about

the forests of Maine, that a strong and beautiful ship would go sailing all over
the world, carrying wood from those rich forests, to build pleasant homes and
schools and churches in distant countries. I hope the great ocean will love the
new Helen, and let her sail over its blue waves peacefully. Please tell the brave
sailors, who have charge of the HELEN KELLER, that little Helen who stays at
home will often think of them with loving thoughts. I hope I shall see you and
my beautiful namesake some time.

With much love, from your little friend, HELEN A. KELLER.

To the Messrs. Bradstreet.

Helen and Miss Sullivan returned to the Perkins Institution early in November.

TO MRS. KATE ADAMS KELLER

South Boston, Nov. 10, 1890.

My Dearest Mother:—My heart has been full of thoughts of you and my
beautiful home ever since we parted so sadly on Wednesday night. How I wish I
could see you this lovely morning, and tell you all that has happened since I left
home! And my darling little sister, how I wish I could give her a hundred kisses!
And my dear father, how he would like to hear about our journey! But I cannot
see you and talk to you, so I will write and tell you all that I can think of.