Paul’s artist friend Axel Gallén-Kallela created the cover for one of his novels, "Ein gefallener profet" (A fallen prophet) in 1895. This novel was well received and so were Paul's early plays. At the Helsinki opening of the historic play "Kung Kristian II" in 1898, Paul received standing ovations and was crowned with a laurel wreath that he kept for the rest of his life. The royalties for his books and plays made sure his family had some steady income during the 25 years these lasted.