Yes, is a woman; can't explain name. In the South, however, it was common to feminize the name of a male relative. Wish they had just left it William. Glad he likes the book. It stays very close to fact. Willa Cather [Stout #939]
Regrets having received his letter only today. Is grateful to accept election to the Academy. Has heard many of his public statements, with which she agrees. Senses the country is drifting toward dreadful events contrary to its traditional values and daily experience. Willa Cather [Stout #1425]
In accordance with Mrs. Vanamee's request, is sending this formal acceptance of membership in the Academy. Willa Cather [Stout #1426]
Pleased by A. E.'s remarks quoted on page 81 in Yale Review. Willa Cather [Stout #1457]
Thanks for the books. Notes errors in biographical information on William Archer, whom she knew beginning in 1908. Attended George Meredith's funeral with Archer in London and sat with him in [William Butler] Yeats's box with Lady Gregory at a performance by the Abbey Theatre Company in London. He was one of the first critics to recognize John Millington Synge's work. Was a great enthusiast of Ibsen and translated several of his plays. Hopes this can be corrected. Willa Cather [Stout #1458]
Is not angry, just tired from the flu and impatient with all the requests made of her. Is refusing the requests, but even writing decorous rejections is burdensome. Getting the honorary degree from Columbia University was wonderful. Was the sole woman among six aging men, and sat in cap and gown next to the French Ambassador [Paul Claudel?]and the University of California's president [ William Wallace Campbell ]. Edith says that the crowd cheered for her most, and they did. Was applauded when the President [ Nicholas Murray Butler ] called her name and again after two Deans put a beautiful collar on her; the others only got applause after they received their degrees. The Cuban, de Bustamante, was also well-liked. After the ceremony, she went to a supper party hosted by President Butler and spoke with many dignitaries from the university and beyond. It was pleasant, but tiring. She should have invited Mary Virginia along. Is mailing the Columbia collar [hood], along with the Michigan one, to Carrie Sherwood for storage. Hasn't the room to store them, and Carrie has a special place. Hopes mother likes the beads, even if family does usually question her [i.e., Cather's] judgment in such matters. Is planning to go to Grand Manan soon. PS: The traveling done by the men receiving degrees tells one how important they think it is. Willie
Guess what? Has been putting together a Christmas box for her, including a gift for Mrs. Bates. Is not typing this, for the racket would bother Edith Lewis, who is in bed after dislocating her knee. Has heard that Isabelle fell and broke her shoulder—Jan says she is in great pain. It is hard to concentrate on work when all her friends are hurting. Mary Virginia is doing well, however. Sent her some roast beef, vegetables, and mushrooms, as she is having a dinner party. Went to Columbia University President Butler's dinner party last week and met many notable people, including the Governor of Virginia [Harry Flood Byrd?] and his wife. Also spent a day at Knopfs' country house. Hopes she waits to open her gifts at Christmas. Please ask Douglass to write. Willie
