September 16 Sunday – In Elmira Sam wrote to Orion Clemens, explaining his changed plans, which originally included five days spent with the family in Keokuk; ultimately he had to cancel the trip.

Of course I could not leave Sue & Livy to take care of him by themselves on this remote hilltop; so I telegraphed Chicago & canceled my engagement.

Give my love to Ma & Mollie & express my disappointment, which is very great.

Livy & the children were to have started home day after tomorrow; but that is all put aside. There is now no prospect of starting soon. We make no calculations at all, except to stay here just as long as may be necessary, no matter how long it is [MTP].