On September 2, 1897, Paul Laurence Dunbar in New York City wrote to his mother Matilda in Chicago, telling her how busy he was. About a month earlier, Paul had returned to the United States after a lengthy visit to England. Since then, he had yet to see Matilda, who was living with relatives in Chicago. Paul was occupied with preparing his first novel for publication, writing articles for periodicals, and reciting his poetry in public.
I have been going at a break neck pacing, working very hard and steady. My novel is at last in the hands of the publisher's readers from whom I expect a reply in a week or ten days. Everything is moving smoothly and hopefully. But I am sorry that I cannot come home until after the 21st. You know I read on the 17th and 21st, and I shall be busy clear up until that time. I have been writing for the N. Y. Tribune & Sun and am doing an article for the Independent. I spent an afternoon and night with Reverend Ward, editor of the Independent at his home in Newark, N. J.
Paul Laurence Dunbar to Matilda Dunbar, September 2, 1897. Paul Laurence Dunbar Papers, Ohio History Connection (Microfilm edition, Roll 1).
Paul referred to Reverend Dr. William Hayes Ward, who edited the Independent, a liberal magazine that promoted racial and gender equality. Some of Paul's early short stories had been published in the Independent. Later in the same month, Paul told Matilda he was still working hard and had given a successful reading in Brooklyn. He spoke at Concord Baptist Church, a Black congregation founded in 1847 and still in existence today.
All is going well except that I cannot come home a couple of weeks more. My novel has been accepted and I have to stay and polish it up. I am in good health and am working harder even than usual. My recital Friday night in Brooklyn was a great success.
Paul Laurence Dunbar to Matilda Dunbar, [after September 17, 1897]. Paul Laurence Dunbar Papers, Ohio History Connection (Microfilm edition, Roll 1).
Paul Laurence Dunbar, who returned from London a few weeks ago, read selections from his own works last evening in the Concord Baptist Church. It was Mr. Dunbar's first appearance on the platform in this city and on being introduced to his audience he was given the warmest kind of welcome. The church was crowded. Mr. Dunbar is a fluent and graceful speaker and has an excellent voice, which he uses with admirable judgment in reading his poems, which treat largely on the ups and downs of his own race.
"Paul Dunbar's Reading." The Brooklyn Daily Eagle (Brooklyn, New York). September 22, 1897. Page 7.
Paul's reunion with Matilda was delayed again when he went to Washington, D. C., seeking a job at the Library of Congress.
It is Monday morning and I have been here since Saturday night. I am going out this morning to attend to business as soon as I can get away. I will either telegraph or write as soon as I know anything. I shall stay here about five days or a week and then go back to New York with my novel. I am working on the New York Journal now, doing a series of stories and other things. I shall come west, of course, but shall not stay long as the money seems to be in the east. My hands are more full than I can tell you, and it may not be a bad thing for me if this matter does not pan out.
Paul Laurence Dunbar to Matilda Dunbar, September 27, 1897. Paul Laurence Dunbar Papers, Ohio History Connection (Microfilm edition, Roll 1).