Transcribe McNiel, J. A. Letter to Ward, Henry A. (1876-01-01)

Page 2 Nor do I make as close selections as when I am packing expressly for cabinet use. There would have been a better select- ion of material sent to you by my first direct shipment if I had a sufficient qua- ntity on hand to select from. I saw that it would be several weeks before I could expect much addition to my stock and wished to send you something before the close of the year.

     In regard to the return of No 37., i presume my Son

had not been avised of that, before he wrote me. I therefore am not advised of what he would do. I know of no Bbl. in Store which would be likely to suit you, unless possably No 14, which contains- 50 Fasciolania tulipa, 100 ? ?, 100 ? gra?. If I remem- ber right, the 1st have the opulence. (15+) S. P. were very fine selected from the pearl divers found for me, not more than 1/10" being accepted. I have sold an inferior quality, at ? $12. per. Doz. & $5. per. pair. Good shells of this sp. are comparatively rare, as is also Str. quacilor. 2 20 3 5 total $42.50