Has been in this grimy city only a few hours. Began feeling happier when she got east of Chicago and started seeing hills and clear streams and trees. Conductor asked if she was going home. Was met by Mr. Axtell. For now, is staying at the Axtells' gloomy house, where the only ornament is a drawing of someone's grandfather. At least their library has some novels (tame ones), and Mrs. Axtell has Harper's magazine. Using daughter's room while she is away; room has three Bibles and an E. P. Roe novel. Willa [Stout #25]
Is studying Greek and being treated like a goddess. Hasn't seen the Nevins, but they have phoned and he has sent a copy of Shakespeare's sonnets. In Chicago had dinner with Mr. Dooley. He and the Peatties encouraged her to come there to work. Mrs. Peattie's new story in Atlantic ["The Man at the Edge of Things," reviewed by Cather Nov. 4] establishes her as a writer. Was met at the train station by Isabelle, looking beautiful. They have been walking in the hills and going to concerts. Has read all of Dorothy's letters from Paris. Had a nice visit with May Willard last night. P.S.: Will tell her about Alfred next time. Willa [Stout #58]
Appreciates her comforting words. Very worried about father, but news today seems encouraging. Willa Cather [Stout #119]
So glad to get Fanny's letter and to hear she is opening a book shop. Would be pleased to have her [Cather's] picture displayed in it. Going abroad in late spring, but must go see parents first. Knows handwriting is hard to read, but wanted to send a personal message. P.S.: Will come by to see the shop if possible. Willa Cather [Stout #212]
Sorry she has had bad news. Mr. McClure turned up unexpectedly last week. Leaving for Pittsburgh tomorrow. Elsie Sergeant saved her sanity while she [Cather] was in Boston. Willa Sibert Cather [Stout #215]
Has reached Winslow. Is worried about Elsie's news. W. S. C. [Stout #220]
Will be glad to assist with autobiography. Is enjoying her trip, especially seeing pueblos and cliff dwellings. A wonderful part of the world. Planning to see a Moki [Hopi] snake dance and go into Mexico with Douglass. News of the Titanic is shocking. Willa Cather [Stout #222]
Likes the old part of Albuquerque. Has had a wonderful time. W. S. C. [Stout #231]
[No message.] [Stout #234]
Appreciates her invitation to submit a poem or poems for Poetry, but does not have anything to send at present. Looks forward to seeing the first issue. Willa Sibert Cather [Stout #243]
