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SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION   594
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MADE BY BAKER-VAWTER CO. 
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Much as we of the West could have learned, --and can still learn, -- from China in this respect, it has latterly become possible for us to supplement the archeological studies of the Chinese, not by stimulating native dealer to greater effort in looting antiquities for commercial purposes, but by contributing, in a spirit of collaboration, to the instincts, traditions and learning of Chinese scholars regarding the past achievements of their race, our own more scientific methods of archeological investigation, --especially methods of excavating and recording in the field, and of classification, preservation and installation in museums.

With this primary end in view, Mr. Bishop's first duties have been to make clear to interested Chinese the spirit and purpose of our expedition, to establish among them a feeling of confidence in our integrity and ability, and to organize a self-sustaining archeological society of native scholars which should have the official sanction and support of the Chinese Government in all its undertakings. These delicate and difficult tasks Mr. Bishop has prosecuted with an extraordinary degree of skill and success. The Archaeological Society, with headquarters in Peking and a membership composed of the most influential scholars and government officials, has already made arrangements with the authorities for our expedition to undertake the excavation of two highly important sites, on the understanding that while our records and reports of the operations shall be at its disposal, the material "finds" shall be equally divided between the Chinese Government and ourselves. If further indications of our good standing with the authorities were needed, they may be found in the fact that when soldiers of General Wu's army in Honan recently opened an ancient royal grave while digging for water, General Wu at once telegraphed for Mr. Bishop to come down from Peking and report on this important discovery and on the many fine bronzes there unearthed.
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