Far from Mississippi River steamboats, an aging and sickly Mark Twain penned this 2-sentence note to a friend in the early 1900s that was typically full of wisdom -- and, atypically, for him, optimism. At the time, the author of small-town American scenarios was in New York, in financial straits and in a foul mood that sparked numerous curmudgeonly observations. However, contemplating his own condition, he was confident of a recovery, writing, "It is never too late to mend. There is no hurry." He signed, "Truly your friend, Mark Twain, New York, August 1903." Writing is in black fountain pen and nearly immaculate, the bold signature a prime Twain grading 9/10. 5 x 8" sheet is remarkably EX-MT not including a very small tear on the upper right corner. Great Twain quotation, in its original venue.