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October 19, 1959

Dear Mr. Wilson:

H.E. Mr. Maximo Sciolette, a foreign diplomat, has requested me to ship to you a painting belonging to him by

Baron Gros "La Rencontre des deux Empereurs"

at present in a warehouse in New York.

It is his desire to have this painting - the study for the large one in the Chateau de Versailles - included in one of your very good auctions some time this winter, but, to be catalogued as "private collection" as he does not want his name mentioned, and without any indication of a city.  Furthermore, it is his wish that it be reproduced in the catalogue.

On the appended page you will find a description as well as the related data.  These will give you the correct impression of its importance - its historical as well as aesthetic merit.

It is also to be noticed that [[underlined]] it is still on its original canvas (not relined) and stretcher [[/underlined]].

As this gentlemen has entrusted me with the different formalities connected therewith, I would like you to give me the following information.

     First, the assurance that the proceeds of the sale will be turned over to me in New York in dollars.

     Then, whether this picture can be shipped directly to you and,

     what papers are necessary from the angle of the British Customs and,

     what value, if any, should be indicated for this same purpose.

The insurance on this painting will be taken care of while in your custody and in transit.

tsvp

^[[initials]]

^[[marginalia - Sotheby]]