Dear Rick,

"Ben Wise" among the "group of real heavyweights???? What can you
have been smoking/drinking??  I'm incredulous and deeply humbled by
your estimation, but must respectfully decline to be included among
such accomplished and knowledgeable scholars and experts.  I'm just a
punk retired biologist who has always been interested in American
humor and social criticism, has always loved and admired MT,  and
sometimes posts a reflexive comment or two on the list, which are
usually politely, and appropriately, ignored.  But for Allie:   you
can benefit by my example as it shows that you will be more than
welcomed and warmly regarded by this wonderful family of fans and
authorities, regardless of your background, since you love and
appreciate the work and spirit of Mark Twain.  I'm really happy that
you are embarking on the project which you so articulately describe,
and wish you a great experience and good luck.  I'll be interested in
seeing the results.

Benjamin N. Wise
Keene State College