May 17 Tuesday – Sam had received word from Frank D. Finlay (1838?-1917), which included the news that Finlay’s sons (Frank D. Finlay Jr. and Russell Finlay) were in the military. Sam met Finlay in Belfast, Ireland in 1873, and the two became fast friends (See MTDBD 1: several entries). Sam responded and wrote about a possible business trip to England next fall.

Last week Mrs. Clemens discussed & completed (apparently) a project for spending the summer in Europe, & I came right up to the billiard room & began my part of the preparations. Two hours later I found I had had my labor for my pains: she had concluded not to go. That’s just as usual. I may have to go over on business next fall, but I rather doubt it [MTP].

Joseph Jefferson wrote to Sam sending a MS by express [MTP].

Check #  Payee  Amount  [Notes]

3695  Mrs. Anna H. Bumstead  25.00

counter chk  cash  50.00