Sam's Shorts

If you’ve ever wanted to dive deeper into Twain's works but haven't known where to start, Sam’s Shorts is your opportunity!

Each month, we’re bringing you a brief passage from one of his less-familiar works, including his speeches, essays, short stories, and letters, and inviting you to read, reflect, and respond. Then we’ll share what we learned from your responses, answer some of your questions, and tell you a bit more about the background and context of the piece. Your responses help us develop new programs for adults and teach Twain’s writing to students. They’ll also help us pick new shorts for you to read and enjoy!

You can also read previous Sam’s Shorts selections with reader feedback and additional context, and learn more with our companion podcast.

A letter from Clara Clemens to the staff of The Mark Twain House & Museum, November 30, 1960

I am completely bouleversee on receiving this marvelous account (Fall Newsletter, Ed.) of the generous people who are turning the Hartford house into a fairy-story success of its old-time charm. It surpasses all hopes or dreams and I only wish my father could see what is woven in his memory.

A grand piano in the drawing-room has difficulty in keeping its wires from thundering its deeply moved thanks! It was so happy to be again in that unique atmosphere.

The beautiful Tiffany lamp on the piano gives its precious light to the whole room and is appreciated beyond the right words to express. And the curtains too enjoy their new and proper home.

The gifts and loans are so numerous and splendid in every way that it would take a more talented pen than mine, to do them all justice.

I wish some blanket phrase of thanks and delight had been invented for my use on this regal occasion.

The fact is that tears of inexpressible gratitude are freely flowing and probably say more than mere words would.

Please thank everyone individually from me and my darling Father for their revival of a once so beloved home.

I also wish to thank whoever made so perfect a description of the entire magical presentation. I truly am speechless about the proofs of spiritual generosity accorded that deserted house.

My Mother and Father must feel what has been done. I am sure that they do. It is astronomical in its achievement.

Very sincerely yours,

Clara Clemens Samossoud

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This letter is in the collections of The Mark Twain House & Museum.

Sam’s Shorts is sponsored by Talcott Financial Group