MILFORD, CONN. — Leading Shannon’s Fine Art Auctioneers’ May 2 Fine Art auction was an 1897 portrait by American artist William Merritt Chase, titled “Portrait Of Caroline Allport.” The oil on canvas painting was signed “Wm. M Chase,” and descended in the family of the sitter. It had additional provenance to Madron Gallery in Chicago, and a private collection in Michigan. The most unique aspect of this portrait was the original handwriztten letter that