ALS signed “S. L. Clemens,” two pages, 4.5 x 7, black-bordered stationery, no date [Vienna, circa 1897]. Twain writes to Mrs. Wirth. In full: “Mrs. Clemens corrects me. She says ‘My Grandfather’s Old Ram’ is in print. She says it is in a book of mine whose American title is ‘Roughing It’—but the English & Tauchnitz editions bear another name—a name we are not acquainted with. She also thinks that the ‘Negro Ghost Story’ is also in one of my books, but she doesn’t know that name of that book, & neither do I. The truth is, I am not very well acquainted with my books. The ‘Gold and Silberland’ book is made up of parts of ‘Roughing It’ but they left the Old Ram out. Thank you in advance, & very much, for the Reichsrath ticket. I am sorry, for your sake, that I know so little about my literature.” Though the present letter is undated, another letter from Twain to the same recipient is known, dated October 28, 1897, at which time Twain was staying at the Metropole Hotel in Vienna. Twain’s use of mourning stationery was in commemoration of the death of his daughter Susy on August 18, 1896. In fine condition, with toning to bottom of first page and a heavy central fold to each page. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
We use cookies on this site to improve your experience. By using this site, you accept our use of cookies. To learn more, please see our Privacy Policy.
