Concerning Mr. Clemens's politics: September 14, 1976 Samuel Clemens wrote to W.D. Howells: "...It seems odd to find myself interested in an election. I never was before. And I can't seem to get over my repugnance to reading or thinking about politics, yet. But in truth I care little about any party's politics - the man behind it is the important thing. I will not, and do not, believe that there is a possibility of Hayes's defeat, but I want the victory to be sweeping ... It seems odd to find myself interested in an election. I never was before. And I can't seem to get over my repugnance to reading or thinking about politics, yet. But in truth I care little about any party's politics - the man behind it is the important thing..." Source, Twain's World CD ROM Paul Berkowitz