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it was well known as one of the most complete scientific collections in the country. My uncle's thirty years diplomatic service, in Russia, Austria, and Peru, gave him exceptional opportunities for getting hold of specimens out of the [countryruns?], and [that?] collection has somewhat are unique.
I will be glad to give you any information about the collections you may desire, if you have thought of any purchase of collection; and to refer you to eminent mineralogists [and?] others who are familiar with the collection.
I may add that it would seem to me preferable to procure a collection practically complete, as this, to a certain [date?] [leaving?] only [subsequently?] discovered specimens to be added, than to get one ostensibly supplied with species to date yet lacking many all along the line. The collection contains some 3000 or more specimens.
Yours respectfully
Cecil Clay

Chief Clerk
Dept of Justice