Mother had a laugh from the picture of Mark Twain dinner. Seems a little better than last year, but still terrible condition. Sister away for a little rest. English nurse has been caring for her for a year and is very good. Has a cottage [at Las Encinas Sanitarium] of her own and is comfortable physically, but life looks bleak. Willa [Stout #1008]
Yes, please sell British serial rights to "Neighbor Rosicky." That is, assuming she still owns the rights. Willa Cather [Stout #1010]
Mary Virginia kept trying to take over the green jacket Zoë sent for Christmas, but can't have it. Wore it the day she finished the last chapter of new novel. No, doesn't like the new play much [The Greeks Had a Word for It, running since Sept. 25, 1930], mainly because of the lead actress but also because it shuts one into a dreary world with no way out. Will go back to California about the end of March. So tired of being unsettled! Willa [Stout #1034]
Very much admires Lorenzo in Taos [published in 1932; she must have seen manuscript or proof]. It equals the Buffalo section of Intimate Memories. Whether one agrees or not with the views of the people, they are well presented. Lawrence himself is caught better than anyone else has ever caught him, down to his giggle, or snicker. Country itself has its own life, and Tony's car takes on real significance. Edith away for a week, but read it, too. Is leaving for California before long. Mother about the same. Hopes to go to Mexico City before long. Willa Cather [Stout #1036]
Is leaving soon for California, where her mother is an invalid. Cannot serve on organizing committee on southern writers. Use of her name in such a way would bring other demands on her time. Willa Cather [Stout #1040]
Had hoped to have a talk with her, but must rush off to California. Liked her book [Pilgrims of '48: One Man's Part in the Austrian Revolution of 1848, and a Family Migration to America, 1930]. Enjoyed the presentation of the Brandeis family as well as the Goldmarks. Has enjoyed knowing immigrant families in Nebraska and seeing how their lives flowered. Willa Cather [Stout #1043]
Is there to receive honorary doctorate. Will be back in Pasadena in about ten days. Mother's condition worse. W. S. C. [Stout #1045]
Awarding of honorary degree was quite festive. Is having a fine time, but getting tired. Will be back in Pasadena April 1. W. S. C. [Stout #1046]
Thanks for the Easter lilies sent to mother, who is weaker than last year but still in good spirits. Will send the Doctor of Laws hood. Willie [Stout #1047]
Mother was worse when she arrived, but somewhat better now. Speech completely gone. Brother Douglass still very devoted. Has finished page proofs of Shadows on the Rock. Working on it held her [Cather] together for five years. Will go away to Canada for hot part of summer. Willa [Stout #1050]
