November 2 Tuesday – Sam gave a speech for Hartford Republicans at the Hartford Opera House. It was a celebration of the victory of James A. Garfield and Chester A. Arthur (1839-1886) in the 1880 presidential election. Sam’s speech was title “Funeral Oration Over the Grave of the Democratic Party.” Some in attendance were taken back by Sam’s doleful presentation [Fatout, MT Speaking 146-7].

Woolley’s Livery Stable bill of Jan. 2? Shows use of a hack this day. A short ride, only 25 cents [MTP].

The November bill from Western Union shows a telegram sent to Boston, and one delivered from San Francisco (parties unknown; see Nov. 30 entry for others). The Dec. 1 bill from Atlantic & Pacific Telegraph Co. also shows a telegrams sent to Boston, and San Francisco (parties unknown; see Dec. 1 entry for others).

Cornelia Ward Smith (Mrs. Edward Meigs Smith) wrote from Heidelberg to Sam and family to thank them for the picture of baby Jean and of following Sam’s career [MTP].