Page:Firecrackers a realistic novel.pdf/166

 How do you go about constructing your plots, situations, and characters, Mr. Johns?

So it was the guest of honour. Campaspe heard his response, suave enough in tone: I don't know that I go about it at all.

I mean, his hostess persevered, do you develop the atmosphere of your books consciously or unconsciously?

If you want to know whether I work when I am awake, the answer is that I do.

Isabel persisted: O, now do tell me, do you believe in working regularly so many hours each day or do you wait until the spirit moves you?

If I waited for anything, I'd still be waiting.

Do you work fast or slowly?

Fast and slowly.

Is it hard or easy?

Hard and easy.

Does it help you to talk over your ideas before you write them?

I have never tried it.

Do you like to meet other noted authors or do you prefer not to?

There are so few of us that it's not much use protesting.

What kind of writing do you think is the most fun?

Writing cheques.

What has proved the most popular with your public?