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PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home

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The view from the front door at The Gills cottage. THE GILLS GROUP
Hands down - the best seat in the house. THE GILLS GROUP
"This place has stolen our family's hearts..." Michele K.
The Gills seen from the water. THE GILLS GROUP
Firewood is provided for the wood burning fireplace. THE GILLS GROUP

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor barbecue
  • Balcony
  • Massages in spa
  • Internet access

Explore the area

View map
Harpswell, ME
  • Place, Land's End Gift Shop
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Mackerel Cove
    ‪6 min walk‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Office
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home

HISTORIC ISLAND COTTAGE
Built in 1918, The Gills is an original summer cottage perched above the sea at the very end of Bailey Island. Secluded far from the road, nestled in a grove of pine and spruce, the house is pure tranquility. Each beautifully appointed room is both comfortable and authentic.

Enjoy naps on the porch swing or walk to nearby beaches, restaurants and shops. Explore tide pools along the rocky coastline. Go sailing or kayaking. Fish for striped bass from the rocks, just steps from the porch. Enjoy fresh lobster pulled from the ocean that morning by one of the local lobstermen.

Whatever you choose to do, it all comes back to the view. Clear and calm one day, misty and grey the next. Sit back and watch the sea and sky change with the weather. Hour by hour. Minute by minute. Always beautiful. Always different.

The Gills will give you the opportunity to slow down, and remember how good it feels to do nothing at all, surrounded by friends and family.

THE GILLS sleeps 6 - with two queen beds and two twin beds.
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THE GILLS GROUP

THE GILLS GROUP is a collection of oceanfront cottages that can be rented together for larger groups or intimate events. The cottages are adjacent, each with its own spectacular ocean views.

For larger groups - please check out the other GILLS GROUP cottages (Jaquish Lane and The Red House).

Jaquish Lane sleeps 12 (VRBO property # 733483) and The Red House sleeps 4 (VRBO property # 1063510). Renting two (or more) of THE GILLS GROUP cottages together is the perfect way for larger groups to be “together” while still having a space of your own.
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BAILEY ISLAND

25 minutes from Brunswick and Bowdoin College. 40 minutes from Freeport and L.L.Bean. 50 minutes from Portland - Bailey Island is the perfect place to unplug, relax and recharge.
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THE OWNER
My name is Carter Smith and I am the owner of THE GILLS GROUP (The Red House #1063510, Jaquish Lane #733483 and The Gills). I was born on Bailey Island and after traveling the world I know that this little island is special. As both a photographer and filmmaker, I travel quite a bit and I've furnished the houses with things I've collected from around the world (and around Maine). These are not just "rental properties"to me . These are houses I've designed and furnished with love and attention to detail - places where I spend time with family and friends whenever I get the chance. Places that I love sharing.
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FROM THE GUESTBOOK

"We fell in love with the cottage as soon as we climbed the steps to the porch and saw the expansive ocean views."
Julia K.

"You have created a beautiful retreat that captures a time when life was slower and the focus was on what is truly important - those we love."
Cynthia M.

"Walking into The Gills was like taking a step back into another time. Every room feels like it has a story to tell."
Alison C.

"There are special touches in every room, and the owner has gone above and beyond with great mattresses, linens and towels"
Aja M.

"We loved starting each day on the porch with our coffee - watching the lobster boats, seabirds, and the changing colors of the ocean"
Kelly B.

"The location is breathtaking, with wonderful sunrises and sunsets."
Kim F.

"This place has stolen our family's hearts."
Michelle K.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
This cottage is perfect if you're seeking an authentic Maine experience and love historic homes - BUT - The Gills is over 100 years old and has all of the quirks of an old home. There are changes in the level of the floor at several of the thresholds between rooms. The original horsehair plaster in the upstairs bedrooms and hallway is intact - and imperfect in places. The original canvas floor runner on the stairs is still in place - and shows it's age with the wear of the many people who have enjoyed this magical cottage. As the owner - and lover of historic homes - I have chosen to keep these original details intact. If you are expecting something glossy and perfect and new - then The Gills is probably not the cottage for you. If you love the authentic charm of a truly historic home - the quirks and odd details that can't fully be shown in a photograph - then you just may fall in love. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact our property manager David Johnson - Dave@thegillsgroup.com


Keywords: Private, Oceanfront, Family, Cottage

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue
Ocean view
Fireplace

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings and birthday parties
Event fees apply and require additional insurance
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Pets

No pets allowed, service animals permitted
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
There is a 500$ charge if smoking occurs
If using "INSTANT BOOKING" make sure your departure/arrival day is a Saturday - we can ONLY accept Saturday to Saturday rentals from June 14 - Sept 6
For rentals longer than one week, a non-refundable $139 property fee will be charged for each additional week of your stay (partial or full)
Multi-week rentals must be cleaned each week. You will be charged separately for all additional cleaning fees.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings and birthday parties) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 12
Note from host: Event fees apply and require additional insurance
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Bailey Island

Located in Bailey Island, this cottage is on the waterfront. Cobwork Bridge and Bailey Island Bridge are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Brunswick Town Commons and Casco Bay. Land's End Gift Shop and Paddleworks are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and power boating nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with mountain biking and hiking/biking trails.
View more Cottages in Bailey IslandOpens in a new window
Map
Harpswell, ME

What's nearby

  • Land's End Gift Shop - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Mackerel Cove - 6 min walk - 0.6 km

Getting around

  • Brunswick Station - 34 min drive
  • Portland, ME (PWM-Portland Intl. Jetport) - 61 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cook's Lobster & Ale House - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Bailey Island General Store - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Morse’s - ‬22 min drive
  • ‪B.I.G.S. Bailey Island General Store - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Dolphin Marina & Restaurant - ‬36 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home pet-friendly?

No, only service animals are welcome at the property.

How much does it cost to stay at PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home?

As of 26 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home on 23 May 2026 start from NZ$757, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is PRIVATE OCEANFRONT RETREAT - enjoy the peace and quiet of an historic Maine home located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is within a 10-minute walk of Land's End Gift Shop and Mackerel Cove. Casco Bay and Bailey Island Bridge are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 52 out of 62 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 62 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 62 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 62 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 2 out of 62 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

8/10 Good

Lynn M.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Awesome view and awesome fireplace. Pay attention to the owner's commentary about the quirks of an old house - stairs are very narrow and somewhat steep. The owner has furnished the house very creatively. Artifacts are interesting, but they are also excellent dust catchers!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Howard S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Classic Maine cottage experience

Pretty much the perfect Maine coastal cottage.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Courtney W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely!

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at The Gills! The view was beautiful! The house was amazing and perfect for our family. We spent a lot of time on the porch swing, and fishing off the rocks. We explored the island on bikes and did some sea kayaking and hiking nearby as well.-
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Re-Energize

This is the perfect spot to just relax, forget about time and what day it is. Just sit and watch the water, fish off the rocky coast, play games and eat lobster. The house is magical, a quirky old cottage with fantastic aesthetic feel. We enjoyed every moment and will consider a return.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Rejuvenation

The perfect escape; private, the sound of the ocean crashing on the rocks, my wife and our dog Gus. The 4 days we just spent here were rejuvenating. Thank you for making it so seamless Dave. We will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Spencer S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing Vacation

My family of four stayed at this beautiful property for a week and my only regret is that we didn’t stay longer. It’s like going back in time in a good way. Very peaceful property right on the water. Every detail was well thought out as far as anything you need. Bailey island and surrounding small towns have so much character and charm. We would love to come back!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gary N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

July 2023

Would love to have had more of a 180° view of the ocean but the view we had was terrific and the 1918 home exuded charm and great style. Large living room fireplace was comfy and warm especially when we had some rain our first week. Walking down to the rocks was enjoyable and gave us wonderful memories.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jane S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Wrinkle in Time

Dating from 1918, vacationing in this cottage was a quiet visual delight. The view from the front porch, overlooking the evergreen trees and blueberry bushes, out to the ever-changing ocean will stay in my mind throughout the year. The house itself is much the way it has always been, simple, rustic and quiet; off the beaten path, a retreat with few conveniences, a great place to look and contemplate, to read and draw. For us, it was perfect.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Leslie C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful place to stay!

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at The Gills. Dave, the property manager was very responsive and gave us great tips on kayak rental and where to put in. He was incredibly quick to reply with any questions we had and was very welcoming. The properly was clean and well maintained for an old home. The location can’t be beat and I could live on the porch overlooking the ocean- so comfortable and plenty of comfortable seats for everyone. I will remember that porch swing as my happy place for a long time to come. We look forward to coming back!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

6/10 Okay

Kathy A.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Kathy

The location and view were wonderful! The home Itself is deteriorating. The rot on the columns holding up the porch was concerning, There was standing water outside the back porch. It needs work.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

heather D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quintessential Maine!!

Oh my, where to start?? This is THE Maine house to stay at when you want peaceful, hidden and right off the cliff side of the ocean. The fireplace was so enjoyable for us coming from Texas and being on the colder side during a small storm haha. Carter the owner gave us such good recommendations on everything! The beds were very comfortable, we had all of the cooking utensils we needed and the wifi was strong throughout the house. I will admit I tried to buy the house from him but he politely declined. The history of the house is neat too and you can tell the years of love it had! We will be back!!!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Gerry R.

Liked: Communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy

Dark, dingy, dilapidated.

Disappointment is an understatement. The location of the house was as expected but the disrepair of the structure was not ...nor was the depressing decor. We left early. I will not trust VRBO again until they certify a property to a decent standard.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Archival

8/10 Good

Kim F.

Charming cottage, exceptional location

We enjoyed a picture perfect week on Bailey Island, and The Gills was part of the charm. The location is breathtaking with wonderful sunrises and sunsets, and a setting on dramatic cliffs. The cottage oozes a quirky character and inspires...whether your aim is to create, relax or explore. What's more, the cottage caretaker, Dave, makes you feel right at home, and delivers amazing lobsters right to your door. With a few upgrades (a bit more neat and manicured landscaping, some cosmetic and structural repairs, better attention to dusting, more plush towels, wider selection of DVDs), the cottage would rate a solid five stars. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience and the Gills was in the center of all that beautiful Bailey Island has to offer. We didn't want to leave!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Denise D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our new family tradition!!

I fell in love with the description of this property and location when I booked it but boy arriving and seeing it in person was even better!! We have been on many family vacations throughout the years and some overseas and you can't even compare. The Gills took our breath away. So relaxing... peaceful and time just being a family. The house itself was just perfect and and full of love... the decor and age of the home is just priceless...You can tell how much work has been put into this classic home. ... It's like going back in time! The view isn't bad either!!! Sitting on that swing or sitting on the rocks down by the water reading a book was just what we needed. The kids enjoyed riding their bikes around the corner to Lands End store or down the street to another beach exploring the island. My husband and I have already booked again next year and hope to many years to come!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle K.

Perfect Maine house on the ocean with beautiful views

The Gills ... ♥️♥️♥️ ... The place has stolen our family’s hearts ... We are fortunate to have been able to stay at the Gills ,the last two fourth of July’s .. We love the layout and the Awsome porch overlooking the ocean .. The boys all fish off the rocks , they catch stripped bass .. This house and island is a true Maine experience.. Dave the caretaker isca nice guy . He is around if you need him but he is not intrusive at all .. The only thing is the fridge would not keep our food cold enough .. But I think we just had too much in to be able for it to work at full capacity.. The only thing that I miss is a dishwasher that would be incredible.. Nobody wants to wash dishes on vacation .. But not a deal breaker for sure .. We will be back to Baily island next year .. Thanks Dave
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2018
Archival

10/10 Excellent

cynthia m.

Beyond words!

I wanted to take a moment and tell you how wonderful our stay was at The Gills. We are Mainer's and can experience the coast anytime, we chose the Gills because of it's wonderful setting and unique atmosphere. Chris, my partner and love of my life and I are old souls who find great comfort in the ocean. We had planned our getaway for nearly a year. Sadly, in July, Chris lost both his mothers in 5 days. During this awful time for us we just counted the days until we could arrive at the cottage and decompress from all the stress of life. You have created a beautiful retreat that captures a time when life was slower and the focus was on what was truly important, those we love. Our morning coffee was enjoyed sitting on the swing your Dad made on the porch overlooking the ocean. We spent our days watching the boats go by from the porch or on the rocks, and our evenings with a fire sometimes playing cards or reading from your library. It was so wonderful to fall asleep listening to the waves and wake to the boats going by. The cottage was just perfect for us and helped heal our souls. I am counting the days until our next trip to the Gills.
Verified

6/10 Okay

Steve R.

Severely Overpriced

There are no misrepresentations in the descriptions or pictures, but at the price paid per night (and apparently I can't divulge what that was) I expected a lot more. I have used short-term rentals several times, so I have a base level of expectations. I expected to have interior and exterior doors that open and close without excessive physical effort. I expected to have a handrail on the main outside steps that was not in danger of failing over because of rot, and not have numerous rot spots on the deck. I expected to use the front door in a normal fashion, and not to have to bolt it from the inside and padlock the backdoor. I expected to be able to open the downstairs windows, and I expected the front screen door to stay closed close without the aid of a twist-tie. I did not expect massively flaking paint in all the upstairs rooms. I did not expect to be ankle deep in water at the end of a short shower, nor did I expect a moldy shower curtain. I didn’t expect the TV room to contain a single wooden chair. I didn’t expect 3 of the 6 dining room chairs to be coming apart. I also did not expect the dining table to slope 2 inches. I did expect to be able to see in the kitchen – the lighting is horrendous, even during the day. All other rooms are under-lit as well. I expected a better selection of pots and pans, not ones with burned-on stuff on the bottom. I expected a couple of storage containers for left overs, or at least some aluminum foil or cling film. This place is not for people who need a handrail to use stairs. The interior stairs are “quirky” with several portions having no hand rail. Also, the interior thresholds are of various heights and widths, which may cause minor or major trips. It is peaceful and has a wonderful view. The kitchen has plenty of cutlery, plates, mugs, and glasses. Bottled water is supplied. A little gift basket of Maine products was left for us. But all in all, not worth the price per night.
Stayed 21 nights in Sep 2018
Verified

8/10 Good

Donald R.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing location, great character

This home has a lot of character. This is our 2 year in a row visiting. As accurately described in the listing, it is rustic without washer, dryer, dishwasher and ac; however, the peacefulness it provides are worth it. Compared to our first visit, it is in need of some tlc, elbow grease and some repairs to the porch. We hope that plans are in order for a little extra love prior to next season because this home and location are incredible.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Allyson H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Family Vacation

Thoroughly enjoyed our week long stay at this quaint cottage. After spending a week camping on Hermit Island several years ago, we were looking for an alternative that provided the same throwback and rustic feel, with the comforts of a home. The Gills certainly delivered. Jumping off the rocks and watching the ocean for hours on end were the highlights. We spent our days relaxing on the front porch, reading and admiring the sea. We were also fortunately to kayak out of Mackeral Cove. The Gills was just as described, and we appreciated all this home offered. We hope to be back, as Bailey Island may be our favorite Maine destination yet. Thanks for this special place! The Hicks family Concord, NH
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

James C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family fun

We had a fantastic week at the Gills. It is everything we could have hoped for. Stunning location, warm feeling inside. Short walk to a gentle beach. Dream trip for our family. Hope we can come back soon!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marianne G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

New Favorite in Maine!

Our group of 5 with two "seniors" and three 20-30 somethings all loved our stay at The Gills. We had a hard time pulling ourselves away from the view on the front porch to enjoy all the other fun things to do in the area. Big front porch with comfortable furniture was the biggest hit with our group. We will definitely come back again. Our group loves to cook and we had great meals. Beds were comfortable, fans in the bedrooms were perfect when we found ourselves in a heatwave. Very private location and quiet. If you like to relax and watch the waves roll in and the boats go by, this is the place for you. Special treat was going down to the rocks very early and watching the sunrise!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tessa W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Dreamy Gills

This house was a dream and I hope to return again and again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

ideal

It was the perfect Maine experience.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Thomas M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical

Incredible home, Ideal location
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021
Verified

8/10 Good

Pat C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quirky old home

Very quirky old place, had a couple of issues which were promptly taken care of by Dave. Great view and porch, coffee maker makes the worst coffee. Just bought from the local store and microwaved in the morning. Salty water obviously due to location rather off when brushing your teeth. But all in all a unique experience.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

About the host

Hosted by Carter Smith

Host profile image
I'm a photographer and filmmaker who loves renovating historic homes. I'm from Bailey Island originally, but now spend my time between New York City and Maine. I love creating spaces that help people experience the magic of this incredibly special place. THE GILLS GROUP cottages are not just rental properties to me, they are homes I created to spend time with people I love.

Why they chose this property

Spending time at The Gills is like stepping back in time - when life was simpler and moved at a much slower pace. Falling asleep to the sound of the ocean and waking to that magnificent sunrise is like medicine for the soul. Sounds corny but it's absolutely true.

What makes this property unique

THE GILLS GROUP property manager Dave Johnson is an island local who is also a lobsterman. We can arrange delivery of fresh lobsters directly to your doorstep during your stay.

The Gills can also be rented along with one of my other cottages from THE GILLS GROUP - Jaquish Lane (VRBO # 733483) which is directly next door and sleeps 12 or The Red House (VRBO # 1063510) which is across the street with a private pebble beach and 100 foot wharf. The Red House sleeps 4.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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