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New Zealand Herald, Volume XXV, Issue 9219, 23 November 1888, Page 5

The authorities of the British Museum, and in less degree the curators of the South Kensington Museum (says the London correspondent of the Liverpool Post), find themselves in a rather awkward position. Some time ago the authorities of the British Museum purchased a magnificent marble bust of the Emperor Adrian. It was a work of the finest antique art, and the price was exceedingly reasonable. The authorities were naturally proud of their latest acquisition, and one day invited a well-known gentleman connected with the diplomatic world to view the treasure. The Greek, us soon as he set eyes on the bust, recognised in it one of the most valuable treasures in the Royal Museum at Athens. He communicated with his Government, with the most astounding results. It was found that not only had the bust of Adrian been stolen from the Athens Museum, but many other priceless treasures had disappeared. M. Tricoupis, the Grecian Premier, on hearing from the Greek Minister in London, gave directions for a strict examination of the national collections, not only in the Central Museum at Athens, but throughout the country. It was discovered that the looting had been general, and some high official personages in Athens have been held responsible for the thefts, which have been carried on in the most audacious and systematic manner for a considerable period of time.