The Christmas Victory

Soon it was mid-October and Mark was still not satisfied with his story. “Just let me send it in like it is” suggested Artemus. “At least you’ll get your name in the book.”

Mark frowned. “Nothin’ doin', Arty. It’s just not right yet. I know I can make it better. I just need a little more time.”

“Well, I’m sorry, Mark, old pal. I don’t have more time. I have to send this book manuscript in today. “Then he put his finger to his mouth and thought for a moment. “Perhaps if you finish it soon, I can send it as a late addition and it will still make it.”

But, alas, Mark was still not satisfied with the story by the first of November and the book was well on its way to publication. Finally, on November 5^th, Mark went to Artemus’ room with the finished story, at long last the way he wanted it. “Here it is.” he announced. “Is it too late to send it in?”

Artemus frowned as he picked up the manuscript. “I’m afraid it is too late for the book. It’s already in publication.”

Mark sighed. “I’m sorry, Arty, but it just wasn’t right the way it was before.
“I know, Mark.” Artemus put the manuscript down on the table and picked up a magazine. The title of the magazine was “The Saturday Press.” “Well, perhaps if I send it to this magazine,” he said, handing the magazine to Mark, “they very well may print it in their next edition.”

He did and they did. “Jim Smiley and His Jumping Frog” was published in “The Saturday Press” on November 18, 1865. The story became quite popular and was soon published in variety of other magazines and newspapers.