Twain, Mark (1835-1910) Autograph letter signed. Syracuse [New York]. Addressed to Thomas Nast, December 4, 1884

File — Box: 1, Folder: 57

Staff Only

Scope and Content

From the Collection:

This collection consists of letters and supporting documentation, books on the art of letter writing, a small miscellaneous grouping of catalogs and photographs, and issues of The Wolf Magazine of Letters from June-July 1979 to Summer Quarterly 1991. The earliest letter, from the Marquise de Sevigne, dates from 1695; while the most recent was signed by entertainer Mike Douglas in 1980. Most of the letters date from the 19th century. The collection, which now numbers 85 letters, will continue to grow; in conjunction with his gift, Mr. Lang established a gift annuity to be used for the maintenance and augmentation of the collection.

Dates

Creation: December 4, 1884

Creator

Twain, Mark (Author, Person)

Language of Materials

From the Collection:

The records are in English

Restrictions on Access

There are no restrictions on access to this collection.

Extent

From the Collection: 1.26 linear feet

Additional Description

Condition

Very good. Marked staining on back of both leaves

2 pages, separate leaves, 9"x 6" (small 8vo),

Transcription

[page 1]

Syracuse, Dec. 4/84

My Dear Nast:

All these days I have been feeling the thanks I owe you & your family for a thoroughly enjoyable night, & for the hospitality which neither oppressed nor made afraid; & if I haven’t voiced these thanks before, it is only because we have been kept too busy by the platform & the railroad. Be piously grateful that as yet you are permitted to remain with you household & under the shelter of your delightful home; & do all your praying now, for a time is coming when you will have to go [page 2] railroading & platforming, & then you will find you cannot pray any more because you will have only just time to swear enough.

Please remember me gratefully to Mrs. Nast & to all the scions of your house, & also to their sire, & believe me

Truly yours,

S. L. Clemens