Wishes she were there to go on top of a bus with her to the park. A fine day. Enjoyed last Saturday. Enclosing a note from Mrs. Fields. W. S. C. [Stout #214]
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]
Pleased by his article on "Our National Letters." Earlier in career tried to counter the influence of foreign writers by following Henry James and Edith Wharton; now realizes their conventions took her further into artifice, away from authenticity. Would like to send him an advance copy of new novel when it becomes available. Does not believe it is a sentimental book. Willa Cather [Stout #577]
Returned from New Hampshire because of appendicitis. Better now, but is still under doctor's care. W. S. C. [Stout #623]
Controversy about the book ought to boost sales, at any rate. Receives letters equally absolute on both sides. Had tea yesterday with William Allen White—such a pleasant person. He kept trying to encourage her and joked that her elite literary set had abandoned her. Sinclair Lewis there also. Glad she didn't feel irritated with him, because she can never hide it. P.S.: Would like to meet Robert Frost. Willa [Stout #624]
Has read her thick book [ Rough Hewn ]. Liked the French part best. Family very well done; the shameful mother accurate of a national type but original in fiction. Marise very well done without excess, but Neale would have been better with less said. He's too familiar, whereas the father is strongly felt but still a puzzle. Is planning to visit Dorothy's mother. Willa [Stout #635]
Can't make any engagements during the Christmas season as three family members will be with her. To be honest, will not make any engagements until March. Was lazy during the summer but is working well now and must avoid interruptions. Spontaneous things are all right, but planned engagements clutter her calendar and her mind. Maybe they can meet for tea when she is out for a walk in Central Park? Willa Cather [Stout #810]
Steadfastly refuses to speak at colleges, but nevertheless feels inclined to accept her invitation. Evening of December 16 possible. Please, no public reception before the lecture. Willa Cather [Stout #861]
Will plan for January for the lecture. P.S.: Please don't spread it to other college presidents that she will speak at Bryn Mawr. Willa Cather [Stout #864]
Is sorry to have waited so long to write and say that she enjoyed her visit to Bryn Mawr. Willa Cather [Stout #872]
