Has been working well. Expects to be in Pittsburgh until Christmas. Jack doing well at school; sees him often. War occupies all conversation. A friend from Belgium, Mme Flahant, is in New York and says her family members in Brussels are starving. The Belgian Relief Committee in London says that only the U.S. can sustain Belgium through the winter. Germans allow no food in that comes through England or France. Will donate to the relief fund instead of sending Christmas presents. America will have to answer to history if it fails Belgium. Willie [Stout #289]
Advertising Ántonia on the back of Capek's book on the Czechs was a good idea, but the name of the Bohemian who wrote the letter was not Sadiler, but Sadilek. It makes a difference. Another example of his publicity department's work. And they had an agreement that she was to see all advertising in proof! When he comes to see her, he'd better be prepared. Has just finished a good story that opens a new line she can follow when she chooses. Take note! W. S. C. [Stout #490]
A huge procession of war orphans marched in a parade today to celebrate America. The stars and stripes flying above public buildings. The French like American soldiers, but not Wilson. Hopes to go to Cantigny next week, though trains still disrupted. Feeling good after the voyage. Almost dreads trip to Naples, with travel so difficult now. Willa [Stout #510]
Ancestors were Virginians, one great-great-grandfather from Alsace. Otherwise from Ireland, but came to America before the Revolution. Expects to see the Knopfs in Paris. Very pleased with them and likes them personally. Willa Cather [Stout #678]
Has received a copy of America with his review of Archbishop; is pleased by his understanding of what she was doing. Prefers to call it a "historical narrative," though publisher refers to it as a novel because the public understands that term. Glad he realizes purpose was to celebrate the lives of two men of real nobility and their relationship with a place. The story really lay in their engagement with that place. P.S.: Would appreciate his sending her another copy of the journal, to send to her father. Willa Cather [Stout #904]
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]
Enjoyed reading his book Fremont. Caught the spirit of that thrilling time in America. Hand out of splints about a week ago. Willa Cather [Stout #1226]
It is nearing his birthday. Extends good wishes and praise for his achievements. Values his regard. It is a puzzling and disordered time. Public opinion in a state of confusion, moral values being overthrown without the creation of new ones. The regard of people one esteems is the only source of satisfaction in today's world. He is the only public figure with whom she has corresponded who is not exiled. Many scholars have been driven out of their homelands and taken refuge in America. Willa Cather [Stout #1251]
Is sending him a book of essays including one he may especially enjoy about Boston before World War I, "148 Charles Street," which begins on page 52. Thinks of the years before 1914 as a pleasant time in Europe and America when one could travel without passport to so many wonderful places that it was hard to choose. Always remembers his good words to her. Willa Cather [Stout #1334]
Enjoyed reading The Prodigal Parents, reminded her so of home. Americans are so naïve! Don't seem to realize there is such a thing as evil in the world. But American kindness shines through, too. America has let in too many immigrants who proved to be crooks and do-nothings, and their grandchildren are ruining the country. The U.S. is in trouble! Willa Cather [Stout #1392]
