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112 East 54th Street
New York 22 New York

Friday
August 6th 1954

Dear Germain:

Many thanks for your good letter and kind wishes of the 26th ultimo.  I am now returned from Quebec, where the new Lincoln performed to the satisfaction of all, and where the good weather was as much of a surprise and treat to the natives as to us.  We came down through New England and visited the camp where Peggy's two boys are developing tans, muscles and woodcrafts.  Now, I am settled in here for a few days to catch up if possible.

After reading your letter to Hans v. Matsch, I recalled to mind, your oft repeated comment on the Austrian and especially the Viennese.  Why that fellow doesnt occasionally do as he promises baffles me, for he is eager to make money and has a certain amount of intelligence.  Perhaps by now he has given you more details of the "David" portraits.  I have no news from him about the bronze or any other item.

Thinking over the Rottier matter: Can we not assume that the recent extension letter (July 2, 1954) primarily continues our designation as Sole Agents (exclusive agents), "in the sale of the works of art mentioned hereinafter."

We agreed to the one modification, (3d party) but as you point out, the failure to mention that "the V. item would no longer be goverened by the supplementary letter," maintains that the said modification is still in force.  Of course, Mr. R. may never have thought of the need to mention the Nett figure, any more than we did.  For that reason, the casual approach seems indicated.

A letter from the Marchesa Claudia Patrisi, via Margutta 54, Rome owner of the Polonaise carpet....with two fine color photographs of the carpet..and a pedigree.  Based on 1936 valuations in London by Christies confirmed by Sir Ronald Graham (sic) and by the then Director (?) of the British Museum of 10/20,000 pounds, she now asks $50,000. from which she will allow 20% commission..."in other words I am prepared to take $40,000. for myself net", she says.  She will be at her country house near Milan from July 30 to end of September

"GERVETTO" (or "GERNETTO")
LESMO,
(Milano)  Tel: VIMERCATE 7810

and it will give her great pleasure to show me (you) the house.  If you were going to Venice, possibly the side trip would have some interest....after all, the Dorias, Pamphilis, Massimos, etc., MAY have left her, the sole heir, some interesting material, and SHE did keep her word and get and send color photographs.  Am wondering whether Mr. B. would have an interest in the carpet, or you in mentioning it.

I note you are quitting Suvretta on the 12th...perhaps you will wish me to know where to address you....or will the Ritz do?

With kindest regards to Ethelyne and yourself,

Sincerely,
John

Germain Seligman, Esq.,
Suvretta House, St. Moritz,
Engadine, Switzerland.

P.T.O.

Transcription Notes:
---------- Reopened for Editing 2024-05-11 21:18:13