Understands why she did not come with Dorothy last week. Not surprising she would feel angry toward anyone who hurt Dorothy. Willa Cather [Stout #106]
Very sorry to hear about Mr. Canfield's death. Was delayed in learning of it because in the hospital with mastoiditis. Willa Sibert Cather [Stout #157]
So very sorry about her father. Sorry Dorothy was away during his illness, but had been a constant happiness to him. Willa Cather [Stout #158]
Glad to receive her invitation and hopes she will stop by the office when in town. Willa Cather [Stout #167]
The Song of the Lark was fun to write, but shows carelessness. Cut out several chapters set in Germany to keep it focused on the Moonstone perspective. They would have spoiled the unity. A few negative reviewers have wished it were a tragedy rather than a success story. The title is a weakness, it's true. Hasn't been up to starting a new book this winter, with Judge McClung's death, the closing of the house, and prospect of Isabelle's marriage [April 3, 1916]. Doesn't get along well with Jan Hambourg. Loss of Isabelle is a severe one. Also, Annie Fields died last winter. So much misery in the world in general, with the war. Wishes they could have a long talk. Willa [Stout #351]
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]
She was generous in the Yale Review [review of Youth and the Bright Medusa]. Nobody else's praise could mean so much in Red Cloud. No one else knows so well what hard struggles there were in the early years. Now can write calmly and with pleasure. Is a much tamer person now. Willa [Stout #534]
New novel is well over half done. Feels apprehensive about the part still ahead. Wishes she could talk with her about it. No one else could help as Dorothy could. Going to Toronto in two weeks. Willa [Stout #535]
Believes they can be friends again. Regrets being so stubborn about a bad story. Dorothy's letters about her books have meant a great deal. Looks forward to sharing their lives again. Willa. P.S.: Leaving tonight for Toronto. [Stout #537]
Please look at some of Mr. Victor Llona's French translation and see if it is really as bad as it seems. Isabelle says hello. Willa [Stout #538]
