From the Topeka Capital

IRONQUILL TO MARK TWAIN.

The other day Eugene F. Ware finished reading a volume by Mark Twain. He wrote to Mr. Clemens, under date of December 1, this letter:

"Dear Mr. Twain: I picked up your latest volume. I read it clear through from cover to cover. It was like a bobtailed flush--I could not lay it down. Yours, sincerely. E. F. WARE."

From 21 Fifth avenue, New York City, Mr. Clemens answered back, under date of December 6, as follows:

"Dear Mr. Ware: I am an old brass-bound, copper-riveted, fire-assayed Presbyterian, with seventy-one years' experience in unworldliness, and I don't understand your metaphor, but I know it was intended as a compliment and I make it cordially welcome. Sincerely yours. MARK."
- reprinted in Washington Post, December 16, 1906, pg. E6