When as a young man, the Emperor became interested in mollusks and wished to identify Japanese species, he turned to Pilsbry's works, particularly as published in the Manual of Conchology. Pilsbry had made the only comprehensive studies of Japanese shells from specimens sent to him by collectors in the orient, the cabinet being retained at the Academy. A letter from [UNK] steward, in Japanese, dated Dec. 21, 1926, extends thanks to Pilsbry for securing for His Highness the Prince Regent, the Manual of Conchology, published by the Academy. A translation was included on letterhead of the Japanese Embassy, Washington, and signed by Count Sutemi Chinda, Lord Steward to the Crown Prince. The Emperor's interest was active throughout the years, until in 1949 another letter reached Pilsbry, presenting a copy of his new book, under the authorship of Baba, entitled Opisthobranchia of Sagami Bay. It was dated Oct. 28, 1949 and written from the Ministere de la Maison Imperiale du Japon. The signature: Takanobu Mitani, Grand Chamberlain to H. M. The Emperor of Japan.