May 24 Friday – In Hartford, Sam wrote a long letter of celebration to Walt Whitman for his impending 70th birthday (May 31). The letter (part of Camden’s Compliment to Walt Whitman: May 31, 1889) reflects Sam’s belief in the fallacy of man’s perfectibility as witnessed by the many inventions and breakthroughs Whitman had witnessed in his life. Wait for another 30 years, Sam wrote and Whitman would see “Man at almost his full stature at last!” [MTP]. Note: Such optimism would fade into bitterness.

Sam also responded to a letter and report (not extant) from Mrs. W.M. Neal of the Arkansas Federation of Women’s Clubs. Sam was impressed with the energy shown by the report.

You have not asked me to offer any books, but I have ventured to order that four or five be sent to you for the Library, — moved thereto solely by goodwill, & hoping that the motive will save the act from offense. I have known the town for more than thirty years [MTP].

Edgar W. “Bill” Nye wrote from N.Y. to Sam, “thinking recently that a burlesque interview could be made quite interesting,” if he could get Sam to “participate in it at our leisure” [MTP].