From Samuel L. and Olivia L. Clemens
to Charles C. Duncan
26 September 1871 • Buffalo, N.Y.
(Sales catalog: Rulon-Miller Books, September 2002,
no. 79, item 53, UCCL 12650)

53. CLEMENS. Two page A. L.s. in pencil to “Dear Captain” and signed “Saml. L. Clemens & wife.” Buffalo: September 26, 1871. $8,500

8vo, 38 lines, approx. 160 words, on recto and verso of a single sheet, previous folds else very good. An early letter by Clemens, unpublished and apparently unknown to Clemens scholarship, written to the Captain of a steamboat Mr. & Mrs. Clemens had just disembarked, regretting that they will not be able to attend “the gathering of the pilgrims . . . We have packed up everything but ourselves, to move to Hartford, & shall pack ourselves aboard the train within the hour . . . If I am not there when you beat to quarters, you will know that circumstances . . . have got the advantage of me. In which case I shall at least be present in spirit & make a mute speech well packed with cordial good wishes for the long life & happiness of all that stand where they could hear if the silent syllables were voiced . . .”