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<7>
and he says that I must see Minister Leishmann at Constantinople who, if he will, can recover the sculptures by appealing direct to the Sultan.
 
But this I shall not ask. It might in some way, some time, reflect a shadow upon my collection or the Smithsonian Institution. The Orientals might some time jump at the chance and make a great noise. I do not consider myself guilty of displaying any great amount of immortality, but as I have, in a way, lead some one else, a native, to disobey a foolish law, which is constantly transgressed, I cannot exactly classify myself with the Angels

<8>

in white. I shall tell Mr. Leishmann the story in full, but shall not allow him to ask for recovery of the sculptures - Even though they are a superb lot - think of 29 separate pieces, some having two figures each - each one with early Greek inscriptions etc., etc., fully illustrating the cost important epoch of Greco-Roman art in the Hauran, including at least some unique pieces, as well as some pieces which I believe are counterfeit. A tremendous find, which I enjoy [[strikethrough]] ing [[/strikethrough]] ed dreaming were to be mine! Still, I'll forget this loss if they don't take away my Rakka pots soon to begin their perilous journey to London.