Dear Beatrice,
I hope you are well, and that you have had success in your goal of learning medicine. I know this letter is probably unexpected since we haven’t seen each other in years, but I want to assure you that I am doing well. I have managed to have a good life and have been productive even with the problems that broken bone as a teen presented to me.
I have moved out west to the Idaho territory. I found myself in a wonderful little town called Birch Creek. There are so many things here to recommend it to anyone looking for a new life and a fresh start.
This may not be something you would be interested in, but if you ever find yourself wanting a place to use your love of medicine and your knowledge of the human body and healing methods, might I recommend you look into coming out west? There is such a need for people who are strong and capable and willing to learn. I myself have even gone so far as to marry a widower with three children and have helped him with his farm as well as kept him alive after a horrid bite from a rattler snake.
While I nursed him back to health, I wished for more knowledge and understanding of how to help someone heal, and if the people there aren’t understanding of your desires to work in medicine, I know Birch Creek would welcome you with open arms.
Once again, I wish you well, and even if you choose not to come out here, I hope to receive a letter from you in return. I would love to know how you fair and how things are with you and your father.
All my love,
Grace Burr Owens