AFTERWORD

Edward Garnett-an apostle of interpretative criticism-makes the following prophecy:

"I believe firmly that American literature will count many great original achievements within a couple of generations. All the pith and sap of a great literature are there, and a ferment of spiritual force which sooner or later must burst into flower.

"There is the mingling of many races out of which a great world literature must grow, but it must be founded on a true American spirit."

America has found herself and in many ways presents her claim to the soul of the world. Think of her scientific wizardry-how the President's voice by wireless circles the earth! Can our imagination lead to what in the coming years may be the achievements of our American authors?

We pause just here in our brief and simple "Story of American Literature," for we may not attempt to interpret the unrounded lives of any of the younger living authors, many of whom are already striking an individual note.