March 8 Friday – Sam secretly signed a contract for the new travel book with Frank Bliss, son of Elisha. Sam had been somewhat dissatisfied with Elisha Bliss and the American Publishing Co. since Orion reported misgivings. Frank wanted to break away from his father and start his own company. The new contract was Sam’s way of increasing his control over publication [MTJ&N 2: 42]. (See Nov. 1879 entry.)

Dan Slote for Slote, Woodman & Co. wrote to Sam: “Yours of the 6th inst answered this a.m./ I send to day by mail the first complete copy that has been issued. It is simply beautiful…” [MTP]. Note: Sams of 6th not extant.