Two undated letters from Kuss to Schaeffer on the study of objects found during the excavationsR. Kuss

Engomi 4 September

Sir

My letter from Beirut has, I hope, reached you safely. This one is meant to give you the first Cypriot details of this campaign.

Tuesday 2, the time of arrival of my plane at Nicosia meant that, despite my attempt, I found the museum closed. My evening was therefore mainly devoted to the search for a car, but on the one hand the very poor condition, and on the other hand the very high prices led me to continue my search in Famagusta. On the morning of the 3rd, I was able, as soon as the museum opened, to speak with Mr Megaw, who showed a great kindness that we knew of, and above all a speed and efficiency that I had not found among his collaborators, even the most zealous, but Cypriot. This visit completed and all details settled, I was able to reach Engomi by taxi, through numerous checkpoints following the daily attack, since each day offers a new exercise of this kind. Despite an appearance of calm, one clearly senses a very tense atmosphere, unlike Beirut where the numerous noisy demonstrations remain of little real significance. Mr Megaw and I think, however, that by observing certain traffic restrictions, Aitken runs no more risk than anyone else. We have made arrangements for his arrival, he will be met by me and, if possible, by Mr Megaw, and, after a night at the hotel due to his arrival at night, I will take him directly to Engomi where no incident has occurred this year. The villagers received me with exactly the same feelings as last year, and I am almost certain that it is pointless to envisage any risk.