Hoped to see him, but understands he is away. Leaving for Canada in a few days. He understood what she was doing in the new book quite precisely. Interesting that he liked Bishop Laval best, as she does also, for his loyalty to French ways. Left it up to Knopf to decide about Book-of-the-Month Club, but he would not have allowed it if she had opposed. Wants to know when Mrs. Canby's book of verse is published. Since in California so much with her mother, loses touch with things in New York. Willa Cather [Stout #1060]
Was disappointed to miss her in New Haven. Seems to have been living on trains, rushing to family crises; never sees anyone. Has built a house here in a quiet place near the sea, and is again feeling happy to wake up in the morning. Willa Cather [Stout #1064]
Was pleased to receive her poems. They carry the voice of friendship. Feels very displaced and lacking in purpose. Willa Cather [Stout #1082]
Has just found her book of verses [High Mowing, 1932] among a great many books that have come by mail. Likes them very much. Will be in town at the Grosvenor for about two weeks. Hopes they can talk. P.S.: Especially likes "Timid One" [a poem that expresses a wish for escape from being one's self ]. Willa Cather [Stout #1106]
Appreciates the interest check and is pleased Mr. MacArthur accepted the loan. If he has trouble placing other $700 just mail it back so it can earn interest in the bank. Is working on McClure's Autobiography, which will come out in the fall and winter. Father will like it. Will soon begin correcting proof on new novel [ O Pioneers! ]. Publishers have high expectations, and the book will go on sale September 1. Howard Gore wrote to inquire if she was close to William Jennings Bryan and could persuade him to give Gore a diplomatic appointment in Holland. [Bryan served as Secretary of State 1913-1915.] Gore is smart, but also a kiss-up. Alex Pendleton wrote; is sounding old. Unfortunately can't make it to Winchester this spring. Tell Uncle Billy Parks hello. Heard wonderful old stories from him last summer. Has been thinking about their drives when she was in Red Cloud last spring. Willie
Is leaving soon to spend the autumn in New Hampshire, so is quite busy packing. Received a lovely letter from Marion Dix which was full of details that Jan failed to mention—typical of men. To respond to Edith's queries: Isabelle's will, which she established in 1936, names Jan as the only heir and executor. So, he is entitled to everything, including the decision about her place of burial (Isabelle and Edith's brother Alfred ought to know this). Cannot remember Isabelle ever commenting on her preference for a burial place, but Jan would know and will certainly follow her wishes. Is saddened by the news of Edith's eye trouble and hopes it isn't a dreary cataract. After more time has passed, wants to have a good conversation with Edith. Send Alfred regards. Willa Cather
