June 15/80.
My Dear Howells:
The family are assembling at the front door for immediate flight to Elmira. Your letter just received. Well, I’m mighty glad the grave Baxter didn’t “give me away.” I breathe freer, now.
Patrick will express to you, to-day or tomorrow four little roots, & says all you’ve got to do is to plant them close up to the wall & trust in God; they will take care of themselves, & give you no trouble; they’ll soon spread over & cover the wall.
Garfield suits me thoroughly & exactly. I prefer him to Grant(’s friends.) The presidency can’t add anything to Grant—he will shine on, without it. It is ephemeral, he is eternal.
I think Winnie’s teacher has excellent judgment—but I shouldn’t have thought it before your review converted me from my ill opinion of the book.
I’m called——Good bye & love to you & yours.
Yrs Ever
Mark.
Source text(s):Previous publication:
MTHL, 1:316.
Provenance:See Howells Letters in Description of Provenance.
