July 17 Sunday – Sam wrote from Branford, Conn. to George W. Cable. Sam mentioned Howells “spent a day with me last week” and that he was “still in the mind to go to New Orleans with me in November for the Mississippi trip…” [MTHL 1: 364].

Clemens also inscribed his photo for Mrs. Embury. “To Mrs. Embry, / With the kindest regards of her friend & fellow-summer-boarder, / S.L. Clemens / (‘Mark Twain’) / Montowese House / July 17, 1881.” [MTP].

Karl & Hattie J. Gerhardt wrote to Sam and Livy about studies and competing for a medal [MTP].

July 17?–31 Sunday – Sam wrote sometime during this period to Joel Chandler Harris (1848-1908), expressing his admiration for “Uncle Remus,” and proposing that Harris visit him in Hartford at some early date. Sam wanted to discuss Negro fables, in particular a “ghost story” [MTP].