November 18 Thursday – In Hartford Sam wrote to James B. Pond, who was managing the speaking tour of the renowned journalist and explorer, Henry M. Stanley. Pond sought Sam for an introduction of Stanley, presumably in Hartford.

If I were in any other town where Stanley was going to lecture, I would introduce him to his audience, & do it with pleasure & with enthusiasm, too; but in Hartford I shall never again appear in public. — a vow made before John Fiske came. I am common and valueless here. [Note: Pond took Sam at his word; Sam would introduce Stanley in Boston on Dec. 9].

Sam added that Livy and he wanted to renew the friendship with Stanley and insisted he be their guest while in Hartford.

There will be silence, & rest, & beer, for the weary; & whisky & billiards for those that are so disposed. Come — say yes [MTP].

Sam then wrote a short note to Henry M. Stanley, suggesting that an answer to his invitation come from Pond:

The man who forces a lecturer to write a letter should land in hell in a minute [MTP].