A theory for the wet web strength of paper modifies the fiber network theory for the load elongation of paper by Kallmes, Bernier, and Perez (KBP). The theory involves a response to a fiber bending mode of force rather tlian axial extension as assumed by KBP, because there are only a few bonds per fiber in the network. The bonds in a wet web are the component of fiber-fiber crossings with a normal in the direction of the applied load such that the load is resisted by the capillary forces acting on the water within each crossing and by the London Van der Waals forces between fibers. Equations for extensional stiffness, maximum load, maximum elongation, and the work absorbed up to failure are given in terms of the fiber properties of coarseness, perimeter, length, and bending stiffness, along with the wet web properties of basis weight, segmental distance between bonds, specific bond force, and relative bonded area. This is a technical article explaining most of the paper properties in mathematical fonnulas, but contains much information on current theories in the industry on paper physics, structure. -- AATA