May 23 Saturday – In Riverdale, N.Y. Isabel V. Lyon wrote for Sam to Franklin G. Whitmore.
Mr. Clemens wishes me to write for him answering the various points of your letter.
The stained glass can be put in an art store as you suggest.
The mirror can be sold at auction.
The mahogony [sic] bureau and bedstead can be sold at auction.
The sale of the safe at $15 is all right.
Mrs. Clemens does not think it will be necessary for the laces at the Bank to be examined.
Mr. Clemens telegraphed that Mrs. Clemens would like to have Mrs.Whitmore retain the brazier for the present.
Mr. Clemens send herewith his check for $75220 to cover the taxes. And wishes me to say that when all the business is done—and you make a full report of the expenses, he would like to have you include your commission in it. for he would like to pay the entire amount at one time [MTP].
Sam’s notebook: “APH / Martyrdom covers a multitude of sins” [NB 46 TS 16].
J.C. Dana from Newark, N.J. sent a form letter to Sam asking his help “by sending me brief notes descriptive of our favorite method of Escaping from Indians and of Escaping Capture by them when in danger thereof?” [MTP]. Note: Sam wrote on the env. “What a Proposition!”
W.F. Greenberg wrote from Boston, sympathizing with Sam’s illness and praising his “service to mankind” [MTP]. Note: Sam wrote on the env. “An appreciation from a working man”