Good work on the publicity booklet and poster. Thanks for the advance copy. Likes the cover, jacket, and type. Has excellent photos of Mesa Verde provided by the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad, also of Taos and the pueblos near Santa Fe. Would he still like to have a book about the Southwest? Might be able to travel for free on Santa Fe next summer to gather additional material. Unfortunately, has gained six pounds while climbing and riding. Edith lost weight. W. S. C. [Stout #322]
Just reached Red Cloud after a summer in New Mexico and Wyoming. Enjoyed Roscoe and his family, especially the twins. Made a talk about The Bent Twig [Canfield Fisher's novel, 1915] to a bridge club. Interesting that they both used the same kind of treatment for such different material. Sympathizes with the character who fled moral restrictions. The mother reminds her of a stalwart woman who came to visit Fremstad when she was in Maine—such wisdom. They have different groups of readers in Lincoln. Dorothy's think Cather immoral, and her own think Dorothy boring. All of Dorothy's readers want to believe Thea didn't live with Fred out of wedlock. Willa [Stout #366]
Is disappointed to have missed her. Will call again next week. [Stout #379]
So glad to have her letter. Theirs is a lifelong friendship. Proud to hear of her work for the Red Cross. Has had a hard winter, with fuel shortage and illnesses, and the book will be delayed. Olive Fremstad helped get her through an attack of bronchitis; she wasn't working because there were no German operas this year. Is getting along well with Isabelle's husband now, having learned to like him. Was at the Wieners' house often before Mr. Wiener's death. A gracious family, unlike many wealthy Jews. Edith sends regards. Winter was hard on her, too, but of course worst on the poor people of the city. Willie [Stout #414]
Prefers to remain silent. [?] Willa Cather [Stout #445]
Miss Lewis did the enclosed. He may omit the second paragraph if he wishes. W. S. C. [Stout #455]
Quite satisfied with the new jacket, but quotation is misattributed. Will leave here the end of July and spend August in Jaffrey, N.H. Edith Lewis is looking at apartments. Is working well and hates to stop. W. S. C. [Stout #468]
Is enjoying the books he sent. Please send A Year in the Navy by James Husband. Miss Lewis has sketched out some good advertising ideas. Moving back into 5 Bank Street on October 23. Same apartment but twice the rent. W. S. C. [Stout #475]
Sending quotation from William Allen White. Please return it. Miss Lewis has had a relapse and they couldn't get a nurse. What is the doctor calling the bug he has? Sorry he didn't see Knopf. Viola Roseboro' has been telling her she can't find a copy of Ántonia. Stores in Chicago have been unable to get copies, and Brentano's says its order hasn't been filled. Willa Cather [Stout #495]
Had a wonderful voyage. Edith Lewis not so ill as usual. Enjoyed reading her novel on the way over. Several memorable characters and strong sense of community dynamics. Paris is lovely. Staying just across the river from the Louvre. Veterans in the park are a reminder of the price for such a beautiful civilization. Willa Cather [Stout #507]
