February 23 Friday – At mid-day in Fairhaven, Mass., Sam wrote to Livy, relating the events of the past two days there (see Feb 21-22). Sam would skip a mid-day dinner choosing to eat in the evening. He wanted to save himself for another dance, expected to dance all night, and wished she was there. He related a conversation he had yesterday during a walk with Rogers, who offered to give him a vacant lot in Fairhaven if he’d build a home on it. Sam agreed, “as soon as the machine makes me able.” He closed writing about the work in front of him before he sailed on Mar. 7.

I reckon I can’t get through with it, but I’m going to sail, just the same. Mr. Rogers & I will tackle the Webster business Monday — he will tell me exactly what to say to the Century people & how to say it, & then I will go back to him & report what progress I have made — if any. They want my books badly; so he believes I can crowd them into giving me something for the rest. He wants me to be absolutely clear of business & stay clear.

I’m going to snatch one little nap, now, & then rout Mr. Rogers out, & have a walk [MTP].

Sam went to bed at 3 a.m., read until 5, and then rose at 8:30 a.m. [Feb. 25 to Livy].