November 6 Tuesday – Rev. William Fitz-Simon of St. Mary’s Rectory, NYC wrote to Sam.

It was so kind, and doubtless characteristic of you to remember the clergy. The crown jewels reached me through Rushmore[‘]s hands and you have my sincere gratitude.

As I smoked, I was reminded of an old Maryland fellow’s inscription to his departed wife. They had not lived in perfect harmony, he found it necessary especially when under the influence to use his fist as a means of correction. Yet he cared intensely, and when she was gone, as expressive of his appreciation, he had inscribed on her grave stone which stands to this day the simple text “Hard to beat” [MTP]. Note: “Crown jewels” were gifted cigars.

Jennie S. MacMillan, granddaughter of “old” Abe Curry, wrote to Sam. Grandma Curry would soon celebrate her 90 . MacMillan would send him their personal experience of the S.F. earthquake [MTP].

Edward Rushmore wrote from Tuxedo Park, NY to Sam. “The ‘Crown Jewels’ arrived in safety and put us deeply in your debt….I have asked a number of my smoking friends to try them….” Rushmore divulged that “reproaches have been hurled at this household by the hundred for having kept you in concealment so successfully” during a recent stay [MTP]. Note: see also Nov. 6 from Father Fitz-Simon.