Across the Spectrum:The Interdisciplinary Life and Letters of John G. Neihardt (‘Flaming Rainbow’)

Thanks for a good letter!

We have been reading your book aloud, and I feel you will have no great trouble in condensing it, here and there, without sacrificing much of prime importance. I do hope you will not have to cut or condense your fine pages on the Laureateship! It's [bully?], and its important. Right now this is of special value, as there is a [movement?] to celebrate the Semi-Centennial of the Laureateship on the steps of the Capitol, as [mentioned?] 50 years ago by Dean Sherman when the ceremony was held [out?] on the steps of the theater because the Capitol was only being started.

What a chance for a wow of a celebration. There is plenty of interest in the Legislature to [put?] the new legislation across.

It seems a great pity that your fine book is not ready for publication, because we are apparently reaching a peak of Neihardt interest and possibilities. In addition to Cavett's 90-minute show in color, there is a probability that Hugh Downs will come over too. But don't tell this publicly yet.

Whoever gives the big speech at the Capitol will be delighted with your chapter on the subject.

Just think! "The master goes back to Petrarch" in the Middle Ages!!

I do hope you can work freely on the [condensation?] job.

Jacquot is a great joy and comfort to us! Arf!