February 22 Wednesday – In Hartford, Sam inscribed a portrait of himself to an unidentified person: “There isn’t any merit in doing a thing which it is a pleasure to do: & therefore none is claimed by / Ys Truly / SL. Clemens / (Mark Twain) / Hartford, Feb. 22, 1882” [MTP].

Sam received “a lot of English notices” on P&P, which he thought were “profoundly complimentary; even the ‘London Times’ stoops to flatter’ ” [MTP, Feb. 23 to House].

Edward W. Bok wrote from Brooklyn. “Now, Sir, will you not oblige me with what I have written you 4 letters about…” asking for “a short letter in your handwriting” [MTP]. Note: Sam wrote on the env., “Answered—will bring a sharp rejoinder, doubtless / A letter from the unspeakable Bok”; see Sam’s Feb. 24 answer.

Jane Clemens finished her letter begun Feb. 21 to Sam and Livy [MTP].

Irene E. Ruff wrote from Athens, Ga., a begging letter for herself and her children [MTP]. Note: Sam wrote on the env., “Telegraphed No; Southern woman writes a long letter asking help”

Sallie B. Morgan wrote from Greenwood, Miss., her book out after “many trials and tribulations.” She asked Sam to criticize it in a way that would “draw public attention” [MTP]. Note in file: “Sallie B. Morgan appears to be the Pollie B. Morgan of #40697, 11 Feb. 1881 – RKR”