January 28 Thursday – Sam was in New York City.; In Redding, Conn., Mary L. Howden (“Miss Mollie”) wrote for Sam to Mrs. L.T. Guilford.

1) Dear Madam X and to say that as many ladies have written papers on him for their [lunch societies for many years past it is not necessary for him to grant permission. He wishes me to say that he would [ be glad to answer your letter with his own hand but that the mail is so voluminous that it is ] ] impossible for him to attend to any of it personally [MTP]. SEE below:

Before Jan. 28, Mrs. L.T. Guilford wrote from Platteville, Wisc. to Sam, having been appointed by the Tourist Club of her town to prepare a paper on Mark Twain and wished his permission in writing [MTP]. Note: “Ans. Jan 28 M.L.H.” 

January 28 Thursday ca. – Sam was in New York City. In Redding, Conn., Mary L. Howden (“Miss Mollie”) wrote for Sam to Samuel  Johnson Woolf, Secretary of Holbein Studios, 139 W. 55, N.Y.C.

Dear Sir

X is not in R at present has been away for some time and the date of his return is uncertain. I can say for him [illegible] that it is impossible for him to write critical articles of any kind. Even if he had time and inclination to do so he would be prevented by his contract with his publishers. This contract is so binding Mr. C. is unable to overstep its limits for intimate friends [ ] and strangers have no claim upon him whatsoever [MTP]. Note the uncertainty of Sam’s return from NYC.