November 6 Tuesday – In Hartford Sam wrote to George W. Smith, willing to take on his cause against “those Ohio people” and write a letter for him. Sam had seen “some more of it in the ‘Times’ this evening.”

I can say very strong things when I am warmed up, & I am warmed up now. I can write a letter that will just make those peo — but never mind about details, you turn the whole thing over into my hands, leave this Ohio insurrection to me — I’ll make short work of it [MTP]. Note: The source of the conflict involving Smith was not found.

Grace King was still visiting the Clemenses. In a letter this day to her mother, Sarah Ann Miller King, King commented on the political affiliations of Nook Farm and on Mark Twain’s voting:

Mr. Clemens went off with Mr Warner to vote. He takes the most exquisite delight in voting for Cleveland. Mr Warner, of course votes the straight Rep: — Mr Clemens has just come in. He said that at almost every step he was met by someone offering him a Rep. Ticket — and he told him that was not the kind of ticket he wanted — if they had any for Cleveland he would be much obliged. When he got almost up to the polls, a man stepped up and said “Mr Clemens, you had better let me look at your ticket — there are so many split tickets — and the regular one is the thing for you.” Mr Clemens gave his ticket. The man looked at it and exclaimed: “Why this is the Democratic!” “Yes” said Mr Clemens drawling more than usual: “that’s what I thought it was!”

The Warners are very indignant over Mr Clemens conversion — that is the women part of the family. Mr W, does not say any thing — in his secret heart he wants to do the same; but he has been whipped into line by his wife and Gen. Hawley. There was a grand Republican procession yesterday morning — and a torch light Democratic procession last night. But we were out of all excitement living in this rural forest St. [Bush 41].

Charles Webster wrote from Fredonia to his Uncle Sam, feeling “for the first time in months” like his old self again, and wanting to resume his place at the firm by Apr. 1. He offered several suggestions for “the present management” not wanting “to dictate or seem to interfere.” He was taking “nine doses of antipyrine daily,” which may have led to his demise [MTP]. Note: antipyrine, then used for pain, is toxic in large amounts, and may have hastened the man’s death.

Daniel Whitford wrote to Sam (mentioned in second to Hall of Nov. 12) [MTP].