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176 163 #33 Ferry Avenue, Detroit, Michigan, October 17th, 1905 My dear Mr. Morse:- The news contained in your letter of the 14th instant is surprising at this late day. However, you are going through the same experience I had in the Detroit Custom House some years ago. The law which permits importation of works of art by American artists, free of duty, was passed very largely by the influence of the friends of Whistler. And while the law, itself, does not mention this fact it is nevertheless true. Subordinate inspectors very often misunderstand the facts but you will, no doubt, find that the collector of the port and the chief appraiser will both cheerfully acknowledge the fact, that the art works of American artists, regardless of medium, are entitled to free entry. The item of lithographs was in dispute here for a considerable period. And on several ocassions I paid duty on Whistler's lithographs. My recollection is that one charge was less than ten cents. In those days the duty was determined by the weight of the li[[crossed-out]]g[[/crossed-out]]thographs. I shall be much interested to know what ruling will follow your protest. But I am fully satisfied that all charges will be [[strikethrough]] weighed [[/strikethrough]] waved once the matter reaches the chief official. Matsuki reached here late last night looking very well, and enveloped in great mystery. He hints at having in his seven trunks things of tremendous importance, and tells of other purchases to follow later. I have seen nothing as yet. But the opening of packages will begin in a half hour. I wish you were here to enjoy the performance. Very truly yours, Charles L Freer Charles J. Morse, Esq., #1825 Asbury Avenue, Evanston, Illinois.