December 7 Wednesday – Isabel Lyon’s journal contains an entry for this date: “And then Mr. Thomas Bailey Aldrich came in to ask Mr. Clemens and Jean to go tonight to see a tragedy that he has recently written.” Note: The play was Judith of Bethulia, a Tragedy, which was his dramatization of an earlier poem, “Judith and Holofernes” (1896); Her Journal also contained: “This has been a day of events—for this morning Mr. [Finley Peter] Dunne came for a closeting with Mr. Clemens” [Gribben 16: 1903-1906 Diary, TS 31, MTP]. The New York Times, Dec. 6, p.6 reported Nance O’Neil’s effort in the starring role as “uneven,” the poet is aided little by the production.” Finley Peter Dunne (1867-1936), pseud. “Mr. Dooley,” author and humorist. Dunne loved to play billiards, smoke cigars, and drink, probably all at the same time; He was a member of Twain’s “Damned Human Race Luncheon Club,” whose members never all met at the same time.

George Haven Putnam, president of G.P. Putnam’s Sons, wrote to Sam, having read “with interest” Sam’s “Concerning Copyright,” which he felt was “exceedingly graphic, and ought to be effective.” Could he have the “North American” send a copy of the magazine with this paper to his office. “I shall be interested in bringing it to the attention of certain of the authorities in Washington” [MTP].

James A. Renwick wrote to Sam, acknowledging receipt of his check for $100, and adding, In accordance with our conversation of yesterday settles in full for the rent of No. 21. 5[th ave], all up to Jany 1st, 1905. I am exceedingly sorry that the work delayed your occupation of the house, but you must remember you were kind enough to tell me to take my time & your reward, if any, has been in having the house thoroughly done—I hope & believe. My only wish now is that you will enjoy residing there and will do so for many years to come with health & happiness to you & your family [MTP]. Note: Sam quoted this letter as above on May 31, 1905 to attorney John Larkin.