1953: McFadden's death (1 of 2)

Continued from scan 9

… the animals) which will ultimately I presume be borne by the estate.

I suggest, if you agree, that you ask the University Museum in Philadelphia to have the University send to the Manager of the Ottoman Bank Limassol a resolution (similar to that sent by the Assistant Secretary of the Trustees on June 2 1952) authorising Joseph S. Last to draw on the "Curium Excavations" account. It would be desirable for them to advise the authority by cable through the Chase Bank New York. This on the understanding that Joe will meet both categories of expenses from this account for the time-being. According to information from Episkopi there is a sum of some £800 in hand. In the second place I suggest that it would be most helpful if you came here yourself as soon as is convenient. You are the best person to sort out the Expedition's property and the Government's property (e.g. the antiquities from the excavations) from George's personal possessions, which must be done as soon as possible. In the absence of a local executor the American Consul has to take possession of the estate so far as this is compatible with local law. He also requires an inventory and to assist him the Commissioner is arranging for this to be prepared with the assistance of the staff at Episkopi as regards clothing and other items unquestionably George's.

If you cable me when you expect to arrive I shall arrange to have the car meet you unless you should wish to stop in Nicosia where I should be very glad to put you up. I suppose you will wish to see the American Consul on arrival. He is proposing to have one of his staff go down with you to Episkopi where the Commissioner would like to join you for a conference as regards what remains to be done.

In the meanwhile the Commissioner has had the upper rooms of the house and George's "Apothiki" sealed and the seals will be replaced after they have been broken for the preparation of the inventory.

There may be some delay in completing the usual formallities if the body is not found. But it is too early to give up hope of that.

I am sending copies of this letter to the Commissioner of Limassol, the American Consulate and to Rainey at Philadelphia. I enclose a spare copy in case you wish to send one to Rodney Young.

Handwritten: (Sgd.) A. H. S. MEGAW