Liked his magazine article "Modern Authors Can Be Gentlemen" and appreciated his comment on her. Steinbeck and Saroyan do not use the full range of the English language, but only write in monosyllables. Samuel Morison manages to use even ordinary slang in such a way that it fits the need of the moment, without destroying the dignity of his writing. Enjoyed Morison's book about Columbus [1942]; had not known the role of religion in Columbus's life. [Stout #1527]
Appreciates and is very taken with Mr. Jordan's interview in the Cleveland newspaper. Wants her work to be liked by people who deal with the real world more than the soft class of book critics. The Cleveland bookseller was the sole person who got to read Claude [One of Ours] in proof. He surprised Knopf by requesting 250 copies, as his previous orders had never risen above 100. Elsie must have been pushing the book when she was in Cleveland! Still bedridden with "friend," and is bored. Back is improved, though. W.
Promises a letter when at typewriter on 5 Bank Street. Best wishes. Willa Sibert Cather
