June 5 Monday – A letter sold on eBay (Sept. 18, 2007; # 270167135431) that puts the Clemens family’s departure for Elmira at June 5. Though dated only “June 5,” the letter could only fit into this date for the entire period from 1870 through 1885:

“Dear Sir, I snatch a moment to say Thank You—the baggage wagon at the door & the family ticketed & labeled & ready to flit for the summer. You have made ‘Events’ an interesting number—at a glance I see that. With thanks again, I am Sincerely Yours, S.L. Clemens.” [Note: the “Events number” may refer to an unknown publication or column, which, if found, may further cement this letter to 1871].