December 20 Sunday – Sam wrote from Hartford to Charles Webster, stressing the importance of securing a contract with Mrs. Grant for the publication, now planned a year ahead, of General Grant’s letters to his wife. Sam was afraid there’d be a demand for an even higher royalty or an offer to take in Fred Grant as a partner. Did Webster want Sam “to come down & ask for the letters?” Or, simply to come and consult about a plan. Sam also wanted Webster to secure the Pope’s book through Dana of the New York Sun [MTP].

In Auburndale, Mass., Howells wrote to Sam about bringing his daughter for a visit [MTHL 2: 548].

Charles Hopkins Clark wrote: “Your note is received and with photographic information is transmitted to Mr Osgood / Your kind and characteristic suggestion about the Library of Humor comes with a pleasant Christmas flavor and I appreciate and am much obliged for the offer” [MTP].