^Lot 435 Samuel L. Clemens

ALS signed “S. L. Clemens,” one page both sides, 5.25 x 8.5, July 11. Letter to Hartford friend and mayor, Henry ‘Brer’ Robinson. In full: “I hope you'll make the Engineering Co. take care of that note of mine July 26th. I received the slip you sent me. It was good. I wish I could be there to assist at the 500-point game. But as you were four-fifths out at last accounts, I suppose the conflict is over before this. Mrs. Clemens is still a skeleton, but is freighting up at the rate of an ounce a day, & the prospect for ultimate recovery is quite bright. The rest all well, & join in kindest regards to you & Mrs. Robinson.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds (vertical fold passing through the signature), a couple slight brushes to text, and a bit of scattered light soiling. Despite his playful jab here at his friend’s playing ability, Robinson’s 1900 death is said to have deeply affected the author, who lamented the end of the 16-year-long billiard party in which the two men partook.