Transcription:
Lordsburg, Cal. April 26, 1909. My Dear Mr. Muir:- Stickeen, with your valued words of presentation, came to hand in good
time, several days ago. I have been delayed in making this acknowledgment, but not very long, and I hope you will pardon it.
To say that I value the little book is to use a feeble word. It is a treasure in itself, and the manner in which it has come
to me makes it doubly fine. I had not looked for it, but thought that the next time I visited Pasadena I would buy one of
friend Vroman. Now I am again and still further in your debt, and can only say that if you will accept my thanks in fullest
measure till I can make better payment I shall be grateful. I have read the story once since it came. In a few days I shall
read it again. I find its charm increased above what I remembered of it, and I remembered it, as I have said to you, as one
of the greatest little stories I ever read. It is a great tale and superbly told. I know of no other narrative or description
of animal nature that so clearly illuminates its subject, and is such delightful, absorbingly fascinating reading. Oh, if
only we might have more and more of these things of yours I have been remiss in not writing to you in regard to Helen, but
the imperfect touch I have been able to keep with you through the newspapers has led me to believe that of late you were absent
from home. I know only that she went to Los Angeles to a hospital. Since then I have not heard. What is the situation? I hope
and pray that you have reason to feel encouraged. If the sympathy of friends could do you any good, or help her, she would
be well and your mind would be so lightened that you would feel in the humor to write a dozen books. I have been anxious about
you both, and shall be till I hear. When you see her please tell her that we often think of her, and earnestly trust that
we shall see her again in health. March 30 Mrs. Calkins went back to Iowa, called thither by the rapid decline of her father,
80 years of age. She is still there, and may be there for some time yet. Her brother and his family are at my house, and will
be here several weeks, so I am not reduced to a state of absolutely savage bachelorhood. The boy and I are busied with our
work, and enjoying life here as much as we can. 04483