January 14 Friday – Sam wrote from Hartford to Howells, enclosing George Gebbie’s Jan. 12 letter, which offered to come to Hartford “on the business we have already mooted”—that is, what became the Library of Humor.

Now if you are still a mind to tackle this Cyclopedia with me, drop me a line right away—for I have put Gebbie off two or three days on purpose to give myself time to hear from you. I still like the idea of going into this thing, as much as ever; & I hope you do, also.  …

On 3 different days, last week, Bay, & the baby, & the house, came within the half of a hair’s breadth of being burned up! Stirring adventures enough for one small week, ain’t it? Yrs Ever Mark [MTHL 1: 346].