[FrankWakefield]

I looked at that yesterday, and it troubled me. Whoever has it should contact the Met and see if it belongs back at the Museum. And return it if the Met wants it. Then that person should seek recompense from the person from whom they bought it.

I agree that it seems unlikely that the Met would have stamped those cards. If they did, surely the purpose was to deter theft... so much for that.

Years ago I had an opportunity to buy Pepper Martin's 1934 contract with the St. Louis Cardinals. Being a Cardinals fan, and a fan of the Gashouse Gang, I did. When it arrived I called the seller, almost speechless. He thought I was not happy with it and wanted to return it, he started talking about that. I told him no, I was extremely pleased with the purchase, but that I felt bad about having it. I said I might loan it to the National Baseball Museum in Cooperstown. The seller, then, was quiet for a moment, then he asked me to please not do that. Cooperstown has lots of stuff, more than they can display, much of which is stored away. The public might never see this contract, it might get stolen. At least if I had it I could show people. I think he was right. I have it on loan to the St. Louis Baseball Hall of Fame, where it is displayed and well protected. Lots of folks get to see it.

If it belongs to the Met it should be returned. The Met should become a better custodian. And cards shouldn't be stamped or stickered.