My dear Miss Addams; -- You would have been gratified at the enthusiasm here when I brought back word that you are willing to come out to address us. You can do more good than any one else -- you will make more converts and certainly the field is in sore need of ploughing. I saw Miss Abbott at the Immigrants' Protective League, and she will come and talk on her work, and Miss Sears, and others. Probably Maude Ballington Booth, who knew my father well -- (<we always thought,> he was the first to parole and to provide a home -- Hope Hall -- and occupation for prisoners, Dr. L. S. Coffin), and Lincoln Steffens, IF he gets back from the seat of war.
As I thought, Mrs. Eppenstein says of course she wants to pay you for the lecture. We hope to have the pleasure of seeing you soon, if your engagements permit. Let me know if you see a clear day ahead in the course of the next week or so. We plan to make your day here THE biggest day Elgin ever saw, and if you will arrange it so that the people may meet you at luncheon and reception, it will please us. However, we must leave that to your pleasure. We shall gladly put the opening day Vice-Presidents' Day, on which we wish you to be present a week ahead -- or October the fifth. Dr. [Jordan], November twelfth, Mrs. Young, October 24, Gov. O'Hara in March, Mr. Gross in February.
You can not be here for the State Convention, of course, October 28-30. I have promised Mrs. Trout to make an address, and I believe I shall compare Mexican and other foreign women with American (I am getting up a [Chautauqua] lecture bringing in peace and suffrage). I should be glad to have any material, or printed matter your secretary would kindly send me. Thank you very much. My baby is just starting to let me have a chance to regain a little strength. I can't say how much we shall appreciate you. It will open up a new life to them. Very best wishes,
Elizabeth Murray Shepherd [signed]
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