1953: McFadden's death (1 of 2)

May 20-1953

Dear J. Roger: About Benson: it has always seemed to me, & still does, that it would be desirable for him to come here. Not so much for our sake as for his, so that he could do a little digging, and also see an orderly catalogue system at work, before going to Cyprus. The program is really educational, so that I think he should come here first, however late, so long as the doctor will let him come before the end of the season here. If you or somebody else responsible will be in Cyprus it is less necessary - though it would still be helpful - and if not, it is absolutely indispensable - he has never dug, knows no Greek, and in Cyprus as far as objects finds and inventory are concerned he would find only a sea of disorder. If he could come here early in August, if only for a month, so much the better. I was sure that Marion did not take all the plate holders for the big camera to Nippur, & I am positive that I sent some somewhere around last year. However, I have looked high and low and could not find them anywhere; so maybe I was mistaken. We have one, which came with the camera, and we need 5 more (5x7). I hope it is not too late for you or Cyrus to obtain and bring such. They should be charged ideally to Johnson fund, which bought the camera itself. It works very well, but I cannot duck into the dark room after every two pictures to reload our single plate holder. What are the plans of the Mabel? Is she coming this year or not? Her presence or absence will make a difference in the distribution among the various rooms. I wrote Ito about George's will, or the copy of it found in Curium. There is money to finish up. No doubt he showed you my letter, & has since had a further report from Mr. Hill. I have written Mr. Hill suggesting that Christofi go to Athens to work with Travlos, as planned, then come here to take over from D.H.C. when she leaves. We have got very little done since I last wrote. Rain. Last Wed. we had to quit at 8 and it poured all the rest of the day.