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The literary work of Mr. Charles W. Chesnutt, especially his first book, "The Conjure Woman," is attracting a great deal of attention by reason of its subtle understanding and appreciation of negro traits and character, expressed with much skill. His parents were both North Carolinians, but Mr. Chesnutt's first story was written at 14, and was published in a newspaper issued by a colored man in North Carolina. Since 1884 he has contributed stories to the Chicago Ledger, Puck, Tid-Bits, The Independent, and The Atlantic Monthly. He has written much and published little, however, hoping when he should be able to make literature his profession to have a style and fund of experience which would give him the tools to work with. It is very gratifying to him that the publication of "The Wife of His Youth" in the The Atlantic Monthly for July, 1898, marked almost the exact time at which he had for years intended to begin definitely a literary career.