May 12 Wednesday – Sam wrote a short note from Hartford to Orion, who landed an editor position at the Keokuk Gate City newspaper (see May 14 entry). Sam encouraged him in that direction, probably feeling the book would never be publishable, advising him to: “Drop the book & give your entire mind to the newspaper. Concentrate—concentrate. One thing at a time” [MTLE 5: 101].

Orion Clemens wrote to Sam. “I am much obliged to you for the suggestions and comments accompanying the last two batches of MS., and will heed them. I am sorry for Bliss, and would like to have him know that I feel for him now both sympathy and friendship…” [MTP]. File note: “Seems to reply to SLC to anon, 6 May 1880—at least the comment about Bliss does.”

Paid to Madame Fogarty, New York clothier, $100 [MTP].