Wanted to ask about her future plans, but never had a chance to talk freely. Please explain to Mr. McNeny why she has been so little at his office— because wanted to spend as much time as possible with family. Willa [Stout #52]
Many thanks for her good word. Will hope to meet Mr. McNeny in Red Cloud. Willa Cather [Stout #633]
Weather has been cold since she got back, but once she got over the flu has been going to concerts and operas. Sees Virginia about once a week. Despairing about the Lindberghs' baby! Police don't seem to be doing anything, and no one respects their privacy. When her child arrives, don't smother him with motherly doting. That ruins children. Willa Cather [Stout #1102]
Finds she failed to send check for maintenance on the house and yard. Enclosing a letter from Alfred Knopf about Sigrid Undset, whose books she probably knows; also letter from someone in Borneo. Please return them. Sorry to hear she has had shingles. Appreciates all her kind deeds, seeing that the yard is kept up and so forth. Hopes Helen Mac's delivery will be easy. P.S.: Take a few dollars out of the check for flowers on parents' graves, please. Willie [Stout #1105]
Letters seem to have crossed. Edith sent Traveler's Aid booklet so Carrie could see pictures of real people the Society has assisted, not as an appeal for donation. Glad to get good news about Helen Mac [baby?] . Had a nice visit with Yehudi Menuhin day before he left for France. What a lovely person! Willie [Stout #1108]
Please write and tell her all about the baby. Lindberghs' ordeal only seems to get worse. What disgusting deception of them! Has been enjoying their quiet cabin and the cool, foggy weather. [signature illegible] [Stout #1114]
Read proofs of "Two Friends" [Woman's Home Companion July 1932] before she left New York. Sorry about the terrible illustrations, done by a ninny who knows nothing about the West. Hates publishing in magazines, but they pay well. Elsie reports house and yard look good. Cabin here very pleasant, even without indoor plumbing. Everything such a nice green this year. Mary Virginia coming to spend a month; will stay at inn where they take their meals. Please tell Helen Mac how she enjoyed the letter about the baby, Bernard. Hopes she and Mary weren't bothered by anything in "Two Friends." Willie [Stout #1115]
Trip to Chicago was a lucky charm, bringing nice letters from Douglass and Elsie. Is feeling better about things and willing to go more than half way with them if only they will be honest with her. Also had some cheering news from McNeny [about being able to save Pavelka farm from foreclosure]. Has ordered Irene a dress like the one she admired. It will be $69.50. Enjoyed their visit. Appreciates Irene's tolerance of her failings and still being her friend. Willie [Stout #1127]
Appreciates the candy. Is sending Hugo's latest letter. He seems in a little better spirits.[With letter from Hugo Pavelka dated October 24, thanking her for referring him to Bernard McNeny for advice.] Willie [Stout #1129]
P.S.: Obscure Destinies selling well in England. The pianist Myra Hess came by and said her friends were praising it, and reported good words John Galsworthy had asked her to convey. P.S.: Sorry little Bernard is ill, making Christmas sad. W. [Stout #1138]