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Page 2, letter to Col Hecker dated Mukden Decem 25, 1910.

away the large sculptures mentioned in an earlier letter, and to confine myself to smaller objects. Consequently and fortunately, I managed to clear through the customs, at Tientsin four days ago eleven liberal-sized cases containing over two hundred objects many of which are highly important in the art history of China. This shipment is consigned direct to the Smithsonian and I am sending Bills of Lading and other documents to George. My return to Peking next spring, will delay my return to Detroit probably to June, but the only pressing matter there known to me, is the repairs to me house, ans as the beginning of work is put off till spring, I am sure to be back in time to look after the finishing details which alone require me personal oversight. From here I go first to Shanghai and vicinity then Hongkong and Canton, after which I shall probably go to Bangkok, Siam, for a stay there and at Ayuthia of a short time - in all probably three or four weeks from Hongkong back to Hongkong or Shanghai.

I want if possible to get definite information concerning Siamese pottery and bronze of early dates - which I now think more Chinese than Siamese.

I hope that my frequent calls for cable remittances have not bothered you - your very prompt responses have surprised my Chinese creditors and caused them to poen their go-downs. Silver is very dear, freight rates are soaring, real works of art are threatening here yo rise somewhere near their actual comparative value. When this happens my purchases of recent years, will have financial as well as artistic consideration - foolish though it seems to mention it.

With all good wishes to you and yours,
Charles L. Freer

P.S. This letter begun early this morning, has been written between visits to the Imperial Palace and elsewhere. Its now midnight after a pleasant Christmas.