July 2 Tuesday – Bill paid for James Ahern, Practical Plumber and Gas Fitter, 272 Main St. Hartford for work done Apr. 12, May 18, 21, 29, and June 13; total 17 man hours work, $15.76.

Sam send an engraved card in script font to an unknown man:

Dear Sir:

      I thank you for the compliment of the invitation, but am compelled to decline, since my lecture has permanently closed.

Yours truly,

Sam’l L. Clemens

   (Mark Twain)

At the bottom of the card he wrote: “P.S. I was away from home when your first letter came. / SL Clemens.” [eBay Oct. 22, 2010 by seller signaturesintime2, item 310263974…]. Note: the fact that Clemens had such cards printed shows he had many invitations to lecture.