John Speed writes to his daughter, Polly, at Nazareth School in Nelson County, about her education and education for women in general: “it is impossible to conceive of a fine woman not possessed of a good disposition, refined feelings, and a good heart. These are also to be cultivated with great care.” Expresses his pride at Polly’s wish to learn the catechism, but desires she spend this time devoted to her other studies, such as arithmetic, geography, and reading.
