But here is what I wrote: "I am a bit of a fool over this book.

It catches me at every tender corner of my nature.

It has aroused all the old ardent dreams of youth and springtime puissance.

I cannot lay it down, and I cannot shorten it, for story, character, soul and reflection, imagination, observation are dragging me along after them....

This novel will make me or break me--prove me human and an artist, or an affected literary bore.