Dear Friends,
       Jim Wilson's wife Mary Ann has informed me that The University of
Southwestern Louisiana is establishing a collection of Mark Twain books to
memorialize Jim.  Those wishing to participate may send contributions to the
James D. Wilson Collection, The English Department,University of Southwestern
Louisiana, P.O. Box 44691  Lafayette, LA 70504.
     We at the Elmira College Center for Mark Twain Studies are
grief-stricken at the loss of Jim Wilson.  It was Jim's wish that we proceed
with the conference on "The State of Mark Twain Studies" to celebrate the
centennial of - Following the Equator - and to honor Hamlin Hill upon the
occasion of his retirement.  We will do this in memory of our dear friend.
                                                   Gretchen Sharlow
                                                    Director
                                                    Elmira College