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me that he ought to know something about antiquities & where to find them as he made every photograph published in Chavannes recent book, which is commanding so much attention at the present moment, though as yet, only two volumes have appeared and they without text. Don't say I am not lucky in unknowingly drawing such a prize. 

I am
[[strikethrough]] Am [[/strikethrough]] receiving the pleasantest treatment everywhere. The Vice roy here, sent his English-speaking representative by appointment, today, to return my call made through Nan the day of my arrival. He, the Vice Roy, sent me word that three weeks ago he had received instructions from his government at Peking to insure me every courtesy along the route of my traveling through Honan, that orders accordingly to his subordinates had been promptly issued, but that as double security, he sent me an offical document to use anywhere in his domain should I find it necessary. The document looks like firecracker wrapper, but, I fancy, it is as powerful as an iron-clad. However, I anticipate no call for its use.

The Toati of the province of Shansi is here on official business, and is stopping at this hotel in apartments next to mine - He is twice as big as dear old Bill Jarvis and four times nosier than Bill when full - He's my only pal and a half hour ago, when I told him through an interpreter, how much I liked Kai Feng-Fu's antiquities, he smiled serenely and replied that the only things in this city worth while were sweet potatoes, millet and peanuts- just as Bill might have told
told me when in cup - with different things possibly, by companion. In many places to be visited thereafter there are no post offices, so let not absence of words from me cause fear or alarm - All will go well. With best wishes to you and yours and all inquirers - C.L.F.