24. 1923:
Rapid City, Man.    December 20, 1923

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Dear Mr. Phelps,

No, don't think it disquieting in the least. It is financially somewhat embarrassing, that's all. However, I'm free of debt. I owe no man a cent, and I have enough lead by to see me through 2 ½ yrs if need be. There are some calls on my help which I shall meet by evenings. I am bountiful of things to write. I have dozens of manuscripts to get into shape. I am glad of my freedom. I shall stay here till summer, then I shall go into the country and hunt "a kennel?" (where I shall raise chickens for a living). I believe that in a year or so I shall be asked to go on a lecture-tour. I fell most buoyant.

Here in town a reaction has already set in. Most people begin to realize that their H.S. has never been taught as it has been during the last few years. If they came back to me, I should flatly refuse. Mrs. Grove is exulting.

By the way, Mrs. L. M. Montgomery Macdonald (of "Green Gables") - she is way, way superior to her books - has read my Pioneers and has written to M. & St. saying that she considers it "a great and fascinating piece of fiction". She speaks of the "strait simplicity of the Bible" which is in the sexual things, etc, etc.

She has quite staggered M. & St. who were on the point of declining: I wish they could decline for I am much dissatisfied with them.

Also by the way, the "Turn" has taken much more than the Drives so far. Prof - Osborne writes of the "stark, poignant simplicity" of the work and is quite enthusiastic. However, I sit and smile. I don't think any too much of it. I shall shortly have time to write you a few words about the foreword.

In haste,

Yours,
F.P.G.