It was in regard to one of these early contributions that my mother wrote Richard the following letter: PHILADELPHIA January 1887.
DEAR BOY: What has become of The Current?
It has not come yet.

If it has suspended publication be sure and get your article back.

You must not destroy a single page you write.

You will find every idea of use to you hereafter.
Sometimes I am afraid you think I don't take interest enough in your immediate success now with the articles you send.

But I've had thirty years experience and I know how much that sort of success depends on the articles suiting the present needs of the magazine, and also on the mood of the editor when he reads it.
Besides--except for your own disappointment--I know it would be better if you would not publish under your own name for a little while.