Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Lt 264, 1908

White, Emma

St. Helena, California

September 20, 1908

Previously unpublished.

Dear Emma:

I wish to write a few lines to you, advising you to come with Edson to St. Helena. We would be glad of Edson’s help on some books that we are preparing for the press concerning my early experiences. This connection of Edson and Willie in my work has often been suggested. I will pay Edson for the work he does on my books. He will find Clarence Crisler good help in the office. 23LtMs, Lt 264, 1908, par. 1

We need to work rapidly now, for time is short; and what is done must be done quickly. Willie has been called off from his work to travel, and this has hindered his work. I hope that now we can all plan together. I have often wished that this might be. W. C. White also has often spoken in regard to it. I send you these few lines now, so that you may be working to the point, if you decided to come. 23LtMs, Lt 264, 1908, par. 2

We will be glad to have you with us at our home. We have two gentle carriage horses, either of which you can use when you wish to ride out. The two large gray horses do the work on the farm. The smaller of the two carriage horses, Ladybird, is an intelligent animal. She hardly knows what it means to be struck with a whip; a touch is sufficient to send her off as fast as we care to go. The large carriage horse is a good traveler. We have a nice double carriage, a platform wagon, and two phaetons. 23LtMs, Lt 264, 1908, par. 3

Your sleeping room is above the sitting room and is furnished with stove so that you can be quite comfortable. 23LtMs, Lt 264, 1908, par. 4