his childhood, [8], [9];

befriended by his step-mother, [12];

his education, [12];

early reading, [12], [13];

early attempts at humorous writing, [13];

storytelling, [14];

youthful exploits, [14];

let out by his father, [15];

helps his father settle in Sangamon County, Ill., [16];

works for himself, [16];