So it was, that a few days ago, I didn’t know what to do with my book, but Fred showed me a way out of the dilemma. I did not tell him so, because I do not think [[43]]it right to show anybody that I am under an obligation to him; that is a principle of mine, and a true one. He said, that Stern was such a clever fellow, that he made rapid progress in the Dutch language, and that he had translated Shawlman’s German verses into Dutch. You see, the Dutchman had written in German, and the German translated into Dutch; if each had stuck to his own language, much trouble would have been spared. But, I thought, if I have my book written by this Stern——when I have anything to add, I can write a chapter from time to time. Fred may also help—[he has a dictionary of difficulties]. Mary may write the fair copy, and this is a guarantee against all immorality; for, you understand, that a respectable broker will not give anything into the hands of his daughter that is contrary to Morals and Respectability.
I spoke to the young people about my plan, and they liked it. Only Stern, who, like Germans in general, has a smattering of literature, wanted to have a share in handling the subject. This I did not approve; but because there would soon be a Spring Auction, and no order had yet come from Ludwig Stern, I did not like to oppose his wishes. So we agreed to the following conditions:—
1. That he should contribute to the work every week two chapters.
2. That I should make no alterations in his contributions. [[44]]
3. That Fred should correct the grammatical errors.
4. That I should be at liberty to write from time to time a chapter, to give the book a respectable appearance.
5. That the title should be: “The Coffee Auctions of the Dutch Trading Company.”
6. That Mary should make the fair copy for the press; but that we should have patience with her on washing-day.
7. That a complete chapter should be read every week at our party.
8. That all immorality should be avoided.