I have Robert Stewart's article to thank for bringing much of this to
my attention.  He did an excellent job of research into the life of
Reuel (Ruel) Gridley.  Also, I was unaware of that unfortunate bit of
journalistic license, the Miscegenation Hoax, that was the likely cause
for Twains departure from Washoe.  I have added a small essay to my
page on Chapter 45 of Roughing It for those interested.
  
http://bscottholmes.com/twain/roughingit/chapter45
-- 
 There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of
                          in your philosophy.
                        http://bscottholmes.com