Prior to completing Channeling Mark Twain, Muske-Dukes sent out a short story titled "Contraband," which she submitted to The New Yorker and Esquire. Although this story was ultimately rejected by both publications, it contains many key elements for the opening to Channeling Mark Twain. This story is based on a chapter from an unpublished novel titled The Honey-Producers or Edelweiss, depending upon the draft. Both submitted copies of "Contraband" and the editors' replies are housed in Box 6, Folder 4.