ALS signed “S. L. Clemens,” two pages, 4.5 x 7, personal letterhead, November 15, [1880]. Letter to Mr. Hill declining an invitation. In full: “No, it would not be worth while. I am a bad club man; I belong to only one Club (the Lotos) & I never go near that one. I am a bad dinner-man, too. I hardly ever accept an invitation to a public dinner. I am become old & idiotic, & have grown rigidly stay-at-homish. But I thank you, all the same, & cordially, for the pleasant compliment of your proposition.” Second page has been inlaid into a slightly larger sheet. In fine condition, with horizontal mailing fold affecting tops of several letters of signature, partially separated hinge, and some scattered light toning and soiling.
The Lotos Club, one of the oldest literary groups in the United States, was founded on March 15, 1870, by a group of writers, journalists, and critics, with Clemens joining a mere three years after its formation...even though, by his own admission, “I never go near that one. I am a bad dinner-man.” He still held the group in high esteem, once referring to Lotos as the ‘Ace of Clubs.’ The New York City organization continues to be a gathering place for elite journalists, scholars, musicians, painters, sculptors, art collectors, historians, novelists, and college presidents—individuals not of Clemens’ “stay-at-homish” ilk. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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