I'm happy to say that the list members who suggested that perhaps a clear chainstay protector was put on over the masi decal and not truly part of it were absolutely correct. I examined it and screwing my courage to the sticking point, carefully pulled off the yellowed chainstay protector and revealed the Masi decal perfectly preserved beneath it.
Talk about the best possible scenario! My hat's off to the collective wisdom of those who responded and wish to thank all of them for their wise and friendly advice.
Tom Sanders
Lansing, Mi