Friends; it's been almost a year and I was wondering if any sort of
consensus among scholars is emerging, re: the claims of Susan Bailey as
descendant of MT?

In particular, in rereading the Forum review today, I noted this comment:

"DNA tests to date have been promising, and conclusive results are within
reach. Kevin Mac Donnell -- the generous Mark Twain scholar and collector,
who has items from Clara Clemens' estate, including letters and photographs
-- stepped forward this week with an offer to donate envelope flaps and
postage stamps for additional DNA testing. Susan Bailey has accepted the
offer, and they are hoping that a specialized lab that analyzes such items
will be able to resolve this important historical question."

Taylor, Kevin, Barb:  has anything conclusive emerged from the further DNA
testing?

I was thinking about all this in prep for the Hannibal conference, where
Bailey is to appear.  I'm also curious as to why this book was
self-published and not scooped up by a trade press.  Or even a film company
option, at the very least on the History Channel.  Any thoughts are
appreciated... -hb



-- 
Prof. Harold K. Bush
Professor of English
3800 Lindell
Saint Louis University
St. Louis, MO  63108
314-977-3616 (w); 314-771-6795 (h)
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