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^[[copy sent to Mr GS 26/4]]

WJ ES      
April 26, 1929

Mr. J. Sinclair, Chairman
North Atlantic U. K. Conference,
10 Bridge Street,
New York City.

Dear Sir:

It has been called to our attention that an increase in the freight rate to Europe on paintings in which we do a considerable business to $10 per cubic foot is contemplated by the North Atlantic Shipping Conference, and we wish hereby to call to your attention the serious effect an increase in the rate we are now paying would have on our trade.

You no doubt know that our business is seasonable, the season being restricted to about six months, from October to April which naturally forces us to endeavor to do business elsewhere during the remaining part of the year.  We are obliged to have a very large stock of paintings of which only a small proportion can be sold in the season.  Those not sold, we have to send to Europe at the end of each season to find a market.  Pictures are thus sent back and forth half a dozen or more times, and you would kindly understand that an accumulation of freight will increase the cost price to such an extent that on many of them, increased rates would become prohibitive.  We, therefore, consider that the interests of the shipping companies is not served as the number of shipments will be very considerably reduced, besides having a legitimate business paralyzed which we think it is not your intention to do.

The art trade is an uncertain proposition and we trust you will kindly consider this and not place any handicaps in the free movement of the paintings which in the long run will be more remunerative to all concerned.

Believe us,

Very truly yours,

JACQUES SELIGMANN & CO., Inc.,

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