On 9/15/95, Steve Jobe posted a question about an inscription in a relative's book. " The inscription goes something like this: "Signing the pledge will not make bad liquor into good, but it will improve it." He's curious whether Twain has quoted himself here or has coined an original witticism. Does the aphorism ring any bells with anyone?" That particular quote is listed in the book, _Everyone's Mark Twain_ by Caroline Harnsberger. Unfortunately, the source is listed as coming from _More Maxims of Mark_, a privately (?) published book from the 1920's; so the real source is still not known. The odds are that Twain indeed quoted himself in the inscription, but I would be curious to know what book is inscribed, and under what circumstances he happened to sign the book. Hope this hasn't raised more questions than it answered. Frank North Becky Thatcher Book Shop Hannibal, Mo.