Although we do not read of Jervis’ reactions as Daddy Long Legs, it is through Jerusha’s letters that we learn of their blossoming friendship and romantic relationship. Unbeknownst to Jerusha (later known as Judy), Daddy Long Legs is actually Jervis Pendleton, a man who is coincidentally related to her roommate Julia. The shadow looks like a wavering daddy-long-legs spider to Jerusha and because of the strong emotional impression of that shadow, she gives the mysterious man the name Daddy-Long-Legs. As she leaves the interview informing her of her new situation, Jerusha sees the shadow of the Trustee, who is hurriedly leaving the orphanage, cascaded on the wall as a shadow. She must write him a letter every day discussing her studies, not that he will ever answer, but this will help her practice her writing skills. After showing great academic potential, Jerusha is informed that she is being given a full scholarship to college to pursue a career as an author, thanks to a loyal Trustee who shall remain anonymous. The story explores the life of Jerusha Abbott, an 18-year-old orphan who lives in the John Grier Home. The plot is conveyed through an epistolary format–a series of letters between Jerusha and a mysterious benefactor she nicknames ‘Daddy Long Legs’. Not to be for ever regretting the past, or anticipating the future but to get the most that you can out of this very instant.“ĭaddy-Long-Legs, first serialized in the Ladies’ Home Journal, became a best-seller when published in book form. “It isn’t the great big pleasures that count the most it’s making a great deal out of the little ones-I’ve discovered the true secret of happiness, Daddy, and that is to live in the now. Webster died of childbirth fever on Jgiving birth to her daughter, who was named Jean in her memory. She donated her work to the college as a contribution towards the Special Collections Library. She participated in marches in support of votes for women and remained actively involved with the Vassar. Webster also supported women’s suffrage and higher education for women. Webster was involved in reform movements and was a member of the State Charities Aid Association, which included visiting orphanages, fundraising, and arranging adoptions. It was during her time at Vassar that she explored her writing skills and created many strong, female protagonists that mirrored her love of education, activism, and feminism. In 1901 she graduated from Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, New York. Webster adopted the name Jean while attending the Lady Jane Grey School in Binghamton, New York. Jean Webster was born Alice Jane Chandler Webster on July 24 th, 1876 in Fredonia, New York.

Daddy long legs jean webster 1912