Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated December 23, 1934, affirming Florence's decision to stay home at Christmas but to let her two sons travel to Hartford, CT, where Harvey is in hospital. King offers to help in any way and offers to see Florence should she wish to come to Ottawa and talk: "If you thought a chaperone necessary, it would be well to bring one of the boys along, or Madge Gibson, or Mrs. Patteson would I am sure be glad to make a second or have you stay with her."
Salutation: "My dear Florence [handwritten]" ; Signature: "With every affectionate good wish to yourself, Believe me, as always, Very sincerely yours, Willie [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated May 14, 1934, in reply to Harvey's letter of May 12 outlining the difficulties in the way of digging up plants at Woodside. King replies that he will try to settle the matter himself on a future visit to Kitchener. He notes that Kingsmere is looking lovely and commends Harvey for travelling to England on holiday: "There will be plenty of time to rest and reflect, and recall the past, when you get your new library into shape!"
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With kindest remembrances and regards, and very many thanks, Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours affectionately [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter, green carbon copy, from Harvey J. Sims to William Lyon Mackenzie King dated May 12, 1934, in reply to King's letter of May 10 requesting plants and shrubs from Woodside. Harvey replies that he was unable to make the request due to the health of the owner and says he will let King know when it might be possible.
Salutation: "My dear Billy"; Signature: "With the kindest regards from the both of us, I am, Yours most sincerely."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated May 10, 1934, in which he passes thanks to Mr. Burden for a clipping sent through Harvey, and expressing interest in obtaining plants and shrubs from his old home Woodside to re-plant at Kingsmere. He asks Harvey to be his middle-man in finding a way to accomplish this while also releasing him from any feeling of obligation. King notes that Kingsmere is looking beautiful and that he has a good gardener, and adds a handwritten postscript emphasizing that Harvey need not take any trouble unless he knows "just the person."
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]" ; Signature: "With affectionate remembrances to you both, Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]." Includes corrections and postscript in Mackenzie King's handwriting.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated April 25, 1934, thanking her for her hospitality on his most recent visit to Chicopee, expressing satisfaction with the by-election results in South Oxford, and hoping that Florence and Harvey will be able to visit Kingsmere in return: "There are no friends like the old friends, and the talks which I have of the old days when I meet you both always awaken memories that are precious and life-giving as well."
Salutation: "My dear Florence [handwritten]"; Signature: "Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]." Includes handwritten corrections.

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 16, 1934: "The memories of Kitchener visit and South Oxford campaign more delightful than ever, never mind the IOU, I can never repay all your kindness to me."
Salutation: none; Signature: "Affectionate remembrance to all, Billy."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 9, 1934, in response to one from Harvey, confirming meeting.
Salutation: none; Signature: "W L Mackenzie King."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 6, 1934, concerning King's travels in the South Oxford by-election, allowing him to consider visiting Homer Watson again, with whom he has "one or two matters" to discuss. He refers to his previous visit in Harvey's company and reiterates that he wants to see Harvey again on the same visit. The bulk of the letter concerns organizing the trip to suit King's wishes.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "With kindest regards, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]." Includes handwritten insertion and handwritten P.S.: "Please do not think of this above for a moment if you have other engagements or should it not be wholly convenient. This is just a [illegible] shot. K."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated November 9, 1933, concerning publication of the proceedings of the Port Hope Conference as The Liberal Way and the picture of King that appears in it. King submitted to the publication committee a picture that had been taken at Chicopee, not at the conference. He is asking, after the fact, for permission and thanks to the actual photographer.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]" ; Signature: "With all good wishes, believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours affectionately [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated November 6, 1933, expressing satisfaction at by-election results for Liberal candidates, but concerned that Bennett might call an election too soon. He comments on his own health and that of his dog Pat, and on bringing his sister Jennie and family to Kitchener. King's plan for visiting Kitchener before the end of the year is partly because he wants to talk to Homer Watson: "I am also most anxious to see Homer Watson again, as I am hoping it is going to be possible for me to be of some assistance to him. We have had a quite a little correspondence together. He has asked me if I would come up and spend a night in his home." King is pleased that Mr. Coleman has been appointed Under-Secretary of State, and also pleased at recent negative publicity about R.B. Bennett.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours affectionately [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated August 23, 1933, with thanks for the issue of Canadian Homes and Gardens containing an article about Chicopee. He reports that he has been on a speaking tour of the prairies, and that at Swan River, Manitoba he met a cousin of Harvey named Mr. William Sims.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated June 22, 1933 containing effusive gratitude for and memories of the visit he has just made to Chicopee. He writes lyrically and at length about the changes he has seen, "the glimpses of old Berlin hidden away amid the city of Kitchener which proclaims so much of growth prosperity," also "All these things touched my heart very deeply and stirred as you remarked, my very soul." King describes his trip home and his arrival at Kingsmere at midnight: "As I looked out of my window the heaven was lighted across its entire width with a display of aurora borealis such as I have never seen before. It was like a crown of eternal [illegible] set upon a vision of another world – the world of memory, of imagination, of delight in which I lived from the moment of departure to the moment of return." King finishes the letter with possible arrangements for Florence and Peter's visit to Kingsmere.
Salutation: "My dear Florence [handwritten]"; Signature: "Again my warmest wishes to Peter and yourself, for all your generous hospitality and for the joy you gave me, Believe me, dear Florence, Yours affectionately, Willie [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated March 11, 1932, with further congratulations on the birth of a grandson, also repeating the desire to exchange visits, and concern about Florence's health. He also thanks Harvey for approving of the speech made by King on February 28, 1933 "on the Woodsworth resolution."
Salutation: "My dear Peter [handwritten]"; Signature: "With affectionate remembrances to you both, believe me, as ever, dear Peter, Yours affectionately, Billy [handwritten]."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated February 25, 1933, sending congratulations on the birth of a grandson.
Salutation: none; Signature: "W L Mackenzie King." The telegram is initialed "WLK [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated March 8, 1932, thanking Harvey for sending him a copy of the history of Osgoode Hall issued by the Law Society of Upper Canada on its one hundredth anniversary. King expresses his personal interest because of his father's life and career, and his own childhood memories of visiting Osgoode Hall. King expresses interest in exchanging visits with the Sims in the coming year.
Salutation: "My dear Peter [typewritten]"; Signature: "With all good wishes, believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated January 32, 1932, offering to "get up" a book of photographs of Kingsmere and exchange it for one of Chicopee, after having seen one that had been received by someone else.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "With kindest regards, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 29, 1931, thanking Harvey for his letter and comparing Harvey's enjoyment of country life at Chicopee with his own experience "through similar ventures at Kingsmere. Indeed, some of the things you have been doing, and some of the improvements you have made on your property are so ridiculously like those which I have been attempting myself that I have fairly danced with glee at the parallel." King elaborates on improvements and work at Kingsmere, walks, and underbrush, and says he intends to follow Sims' efforts with little dams and waterfalls along a stream. He thanks Harvey and Florence for the gift of a book England, The Unknown Isle and counters with a similar book by Lukin Johnson, a personal friend. King also thanks Harvey for sending him the 1930 volume of the Waterloo Historical Society, detailing the writers and contents, giving a paean of praise for the work of the Society, and expressing amazement at the growth of the County. King ends by mentioning his health, his fatigue. and his need for recreation, and sends New Year's wishes to the Sims family: "The older we grow, the more precious become the friendships that have their beginnings in childhood's days."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [handwritten]; Signature: "With affectionate good wishes to you all, Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Your sincere and devoted friend [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]." Includes insertions and corrections in Mackenzie King's handwriting.

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 24, 1934, sending birthday and Christmas greetings.
Salutation: none; Signature: "Billy."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated August 6, 1931, expressing his frustration and humiliation over "incidents of the past few weeks" and declaring that "far too much has been left to one or two to do. I have made up my mind that unless a sufficient number of Liberals can be found who will undertake the management and maintenance of an information and organization office, run under the party's own responsibility, I shall cease to have anything further to do with the party's leadership."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Believe me, as always, dear Peter [handwritten], Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated May 4, 1932, congratulating Harvey on the votes he received on his election as a bencher.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "With kindest regards, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy K. [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 6, 1931, written on behalf of his dog Pat, thanking Sims for having sent him biscuits for Easter. King then reports that Pat's recovery has been "well nigh a miracle," and that they have been out to Kingsmere walking.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "With affectionate remembrances to one and all, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated April 5, 1931, in which King sends Easter greetings from himself, his dog Pat, and Pat's sister.
Salutation: none; Signature: "Mackenzie King." The telegram is initialed "WLK."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated March 28, 1931, in which he reports on the health of his dog Pat, who had been treated by doctors at "The Health of Animals Branch." He reports on an accidental fall suffered by Godfroy Patteson, husband of King's good friend Joan Patteson, and says in closing "I am glad, despite the length of the speech, that its reading created the favourable impression which your letter mentions."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "With kindest regards, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated February 28, 1931, in anticipation of a short overnight visit by Harvey on March 14, 1931 on his way to Montreal. King says that he will be delighted to see Harvey but will be busy preparing his speech to be delivered on March 16, 1931: "It relates particularly to the Speech from the throne, a copy of which I do not receive until after it is delivered, so that I shall be probably much occupied in getting material together through the day."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]." Includes an insertion in Mackenzie King's handwriting.

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated "New Year's Eve" 1930, expressing gratitude for the hand-made cushions she had sent him for Christmas, and apologizing for not being able to contact her sooner.
Salutation: "My dear Florence"; Signature: "With all good wishes, Yours very sincerely, W.L. Mackenzie King."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 22, 1930, in reply to one just received. King describes the volume of mail he still receives, "whether it be due to sympathy or regard." In response to being asked how he felt about being in the opposition, King says there is not much difference: "Office is a hard row and a perpetual grind. Opposition is just about the same," and confesses that he is glad not to have to "carry responsibility for conditions as they are in Canada at present."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Your very devoted and affectionate friend [typewritten], Billy [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated September 15, 1930, concerning the agreed need for "friends" to fight in the coming by-elections. King expresses frustration at having his usual time at Kingsmere interrupted.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Believe me as always, my dear Peter, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]."

Printed circular letter dated August 6, 1930, expressing Mackenzie King's thanks to well-wishers after the June 28 election.
Salutation: "My dear Peter!"; Signature: "W.L. Mackenzie King," both in King's handwriting. Includes note in King's handwriting: "Will write first opportunity. This is just to let you see how I am trying to get over ‘thousands' of communications. I shall be glad of the change. Billie."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence and Harvey J. Sims dated June 6, 1930, declining an invitation to their son Kenneth's wedding on June 28, 1930, due to the pressures of the "present campaign."
Salutation: "My dear Florence & Peter" [handwritten]; Signature: "As ever, Yours very sincerely & affectionately, Billy" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from Norman McLeod Rogers, Secretary to President of the Privy Council, dated August 20, 1928, responding in Mackenzie King's absence to a letter and clipping sent by Harvey J. Sims. Salutation: "Dear Sir"; Signature: "Norman McL. Rogers" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated July 21, 1928 concerning his inability to accept an invitation to visit the Sims, and announcing his decision to "be one of the delegation to represent Canada at the forthcoming Assembly of the League of Nations at Geneva in September," detailing travel and speaking engagements in Manitoba and Saskatchewan and a visit to his constituency of Prince Albert. King regards the trip to Geneva as a sacrifice as it "means another summer and autumn lost as far as Kingsmere is concerned." King also says that he has asked his Secretary to "find out from the Department of Marine and Fisheries what may be possible and should be done to secure the trout you are anxious for." In a handwritten P.S. King says "I find from Dept of Marine & Fisheries that the provincial govt has entire charge of fish hatcheries in Ontario. You had better [two words illegible] to Hon Chas McCrea."
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Believe me, as always, dear Peter, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]."

Typewritten letter from W.H. Measures, private secretary to Mackenzie King, replying to Harvey J. Sims on King's behalf. Mackenzie King will endeavour to arrange a special visit to Kitchener by Lord and Lady Willingdon.

Typewritten letter from O.D. Skelton, Under-Secretary of State for External Affairs, Canada, replying to Harvey J. Sims on Mackenzie King's behalf, concerning a letter of introduction.

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated January 31, 1928, concerning the possibility of Mackenzie King attending the funeral of Florence Sims' mother Elizabeth Roos.
Salutation: "Dear Peter"; Signature: "William L. Mackenzie Kin.[sic]"

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims dated January 31, 1928, expressing sympathy for the death of Florence's mother Elizabeth Roos and mentioning close family ties: "I cannot express too sincerely the deep sympathy I feel for you, Maggie, Ethel and Irvine in your overwhelming bereavement. You know how closely our family and yours have been associated for many years. None of your many friends will feel more deeply for you all than Jennie and myself."
Salutation: "Dear Florence"; Signature: "W.L. Mackenzie King."

Telegram with pictorial header from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 31, 1927, sending best wishes for the New Year.
Salutation: none; Signature: "Billie."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 30, 1926, thanking him for a birthday gift and letter. King says he is fatigued and lists the many political activities of the past year.
Salutation: "My dear Peter"; Signature: "With true affection, Believe me as always devotedly your friend, Billy."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Florence Sims, dated August 10, 1925, containing effusive thanks for her hospitality during the Old Boys' Reunion in Kitchener, many memories of the past, and reminiscences of all he saw and did while in the area.

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated August 7, 1925, thanking him and his wife Florence for the memorable visit: "I can recall no happier home town visit since the days of Woodside."
Salutation: none; Signature: "Billy."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated May 23, 1925, replying to an invitation to attend a luncheon in his honour in Kitchener and to visit Harvey.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Believe me, Yours very sincerely [typewritten], W.L. Mackenzie King [handwritten]."

Printed Christmas card from William Lyon Mackenzie King presumably received by Harvey J. Sims, monogrammed on the front, with an engraved picture of Laurier House and greetings for 1924-1925 inside: "With the Season's Greetings, W.L. Mackenzie King."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated January 25, 1924, regarding arrangements for a forthcoming visit to Ottawa by Harvey and his wife Florence.
Salutation: "My dear Peter" [typewritten]; Signature: "Believe me, as always, dear Peter, very sincerely yours. [Typewritten] Billy [handwritten]"

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated January 20, 1924 regarding arrangements for a visit to Ottawa by Harvey and his wife Florence.
Salutation: "My dear Peter"; Signature: "Yours ever sincerely, Billy."

Monogrammed card from Laurier House, Ottawa sent as a Christmas card from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims, undated, inscribed inside in Mackenzie King's handwriting: "With the season's Greetings, W.L. Mackenzie King." Printed inside is King's favourite portrait of Isabel King (painted by J.W.L. Forster in 1905).

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated December 23, 1923, thanking him for his generous birthday gift, thanking him for "devout friendship … begotten of a love that even David might have envied." He presses Harvey to visit and to bring Florence; also Madge and Minnie Gibson. He closes by saying that he has had a wonderful year, and that "of the Conferences, I have a lot to tell you. So come soon."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated January 2, 1923, thanking him for a gift for Laurier House and discussing the delay in reconstruction at Laurier House and the reconvening of Parliament on January 31, 1923. King also speaks of his "deeply valued friendship" with Harvey Sims.
Salutation: "My dear Peter"; Signature: "Ever your true friend, Billy K."

My dear Peter,
Your wonderful gift has kept me more or less at bay for the past ten days. I have hardly known how to acknowledge it, not having words [wherewith?] to express my appreciation of your great generosity. I am still at a loss and shall have to ask you to accept the will for the deed. It will be a great happiness to do as you suggest, to purchase for Laurier House something of which I may be in need to put the finishing touch required and to be a reminder through the years of your kindness. The bookshelves and library equipment which has made my present house the joy it has been in that respect, and which were the fruit of your previous gift, I am moving, in fact, out to Kingsmere, so summer and winter alike I shall be surrounded by evidences of your benevolence. I had expected to be in Laurier House by this time, but it has taken longer than anticipated to complete the work of reconstruction. It is going to be worth all the delay, however, and I shall look forward with delight to having you as a [first?] guest whenever you can come. I shall be able now to look after Florence's comfort as well, so do bring her with you when you are this way on some future occasion. Your generous gift enabled me to do a little better by some of my friends at this Xmas season than I would otherwise have felt I could. It came at a moment I was debating what I should send to May and the two young lads at Denver, and permitted me to make without thought of sacrifice what I was anxious to send. I must thank you therefore in more than a two fold sense for your goodness as well as your generosity.
I am very very busy as you can well imagine. Parliament re-assembling on January 31 and three of the ministers still overseas and two or more hors de combat. I may put your gift into riding or boxing lessons. A health investment is the best possible for my job.
I hope you all had a happy Xmas and I think, dear Peter, that this New Year will be the best you have ever known. My grateful thanks for your deeply valued friendship goes with my best of wishes to you and to all near and dear to you.
Ever your true friend,
Billy K.

Typewritten letter marked (confidential) from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Harvey J. Sims dated September 11, 1907, accompanied by a carbon copy of a letter from John A. Lang to A.B. Aylesworth; together with a letter from Peter H. Sims to Harvey dated October 1, 1907 commenting on Mackenzie King's proposals.

Handwritten telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Mr. and Mrs. Harvey James Sims in Berlin, Ont. on October 29, 1902, sending congratulations on their wedding day.
Salutation: none; Signature: W.L. Mackenzie King.

Letter from Peter H. Sims dated Toronto, November 7, 1915 to his grandson Kenneth Sims, congratulating him on passing first in his class (includes envelope).

Correspondence from P.H. and Jemima Sims to their son Harvey J. Sims on a trip to England and Scotland from June to September 1912.

Letter from Peter H. Sims to his son Harvey J. Sims on March 3, 1812 from Mayagues [i.e., Mayagüez] (Puerto Rico). Peter H. Sims writes about his trip to Puerto Rico to assess risks on behalf of his company: he summarizes and comments on Puerto Rico's climate, landscape, history, people, American interest, Catholic Church, Spanish rule, agriculture, sugar cane production: "I thought I had retired from active work but I am at is as hard as ever and I enjoy it. I do not know if the trip will do the Co. any good. The conditions are all new to me."

Eight letters from Peter H. Sims to Harvey J. Sims written between 1902 and 1910.

Thirteen letters from Peter H. Sims to Harvey J. Sims written before 1900.

Two letters and a drawing from Forsey Page, Architect, concerning a possible addition to Florence's bedroom:
1935 December 5: Forsey Page to Florence describing a sleeping porch or covered balcony off her bedroom
1936 May 13: Forsey Page is disappointed that she has decided against a sun room.
Includes a drawing in pencil dated January 23, 1934: "Sketch showing new door and porch off bed room #1."

Letter from Mary Elizabeth dated 48 Austin Terrace, Toronto, January 26, 1928, thanking her Aunt Florence for birthday gifts (includes stamped envelope).

Telegram from Irvine Kempt in Glasgow but postmarked Oban, July 30, 1923 to Florence Sims, regretting that he will be unable to meet her.

Letter from Bella King dated 4 Grange Road, Toronto, February 14, 1915 to Florence Sims, writing on her mother's behalf [Isabel King]. She thanks Florence for sending her mother "the very pretty little knitted wrap", also that it was good of her "to think of Max and his little family," and reports that Max's health is much better. She also mentions "this awful war" and how women have "worked and are working everywhere." She speaks of her mother's health as well. Signed Bella King.

Letter from Bella King dated 4 Grange Road, Toronto, June 28, 1908 to Florence Sims after the birth of William, her second child. She asks about the baby, mentions family, friends, and plans: "Willie is going to take [mother Isabel King] on a trip when he comes back from Quebec." Signed Isabel King.

Letter from Bella King (sister of W.L. Mackenzie King) dated July 17, [1904] to her friend Florence Sims, who has just given birth to her first child. After asking about the baby and Florence's health, Bella announces that "the house question" has finally been settled and that they are to move to 4 Grange Road in the middle of September, talks about holidays, and reports on going to "the Dundonald reception" with her Father John King. Signed Bella.

Three letters from friends of Harvey J. Sims.

Letter from Nellie Sharpe dated July 27, 1930, Winnipeg, Manitoba to her cousin Harvey J. Sims, conveying the news that their mutual uncle, William Andrew Sims, had died in New Westminster, B.C. on July 21 or 22. She says of him, "he was a harder man than your father [Peter H. Sims] or mine [James C. Sims], not the genial temperament they had."

Letter from William Harvey Sims dated April 7, [1930?], Toronto to his father Harvey J. Sims, concerning financial matters and his Osgoode Hall graduating banquet the night before.

Eleven letters to and from Harvey J. Sims and Rella May Stewart and family.

Five letters from Jemima Sims in Toronto to her son Harvey J. Sims.

Letter from Margaret Davidson dated Toronto, June 30, 1890 to her granddaughter Florence Roos, sending the news of family doings in Toronto. She says she received and encloses a letter from Mrs. Argo for Florence's mother to read, and that if she is well she will be there on Tuesday (includes envelope).

Letter from Margaret Davidson dated Toronto, November 19, 1886 to her granddaughter Florence Roos, sending the news of family doings in Toronto (includes envelope).

Letter from William Davidson dated Toronto, December 23, 1925 to his sister Elizabeth Roos, sending Christmas wishes and fond memories (includes stamped envelope)

Photographic postcard (damaged) from Florence Sims dated Prince Rupert B.C. August 18, 1922, to her mother Elizabeth Roos, showing a totem pole in Alert Bay, B.C. The postcard is accompanied by handwritten notes and observations made on a trip.

Handwritten draft of a letter by Elizabeth Roos in response to a newspaper advertisement seeking relatives of John Davidson on behalf of the estate of Minnie B. Davidson, providing details of their relationship to the deceased. Attached is the advertisement "Are there heirs here?" Includes a carbon copy of a letter to the same Charles White Mortimer from James Davidson, M.A., M.B., Burnside House, Turriff, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, describing his knowledge of the John Davidson who had been lost to his family, and also the family genealogy.
Includes a carte de visite, head and shoulders portrait, sepia-toned, signed John Davidson, taken by Caswell & Davy, Duluth, Minnesota.

Letter from Hattie A. Bruce dated Waterloo June 16, 1892 on behalf of the Ladies' Aid Society, thanking Margaret for her donation and giving her news of friends and family: "I had the pleasure of spending Tuesday evening at Mr. Davidson's watching Emma and a number of her friends going through their Delsarte exercises" (Includes envelope addressed c/o Dr. Davidson, 207 College St., Toronto.)

Letter from Anne Argo, Eden Mills, [date illegible: 1890?] in response to one from Margaret, calling her an old friend and sympathizing in her widowhood. She gives all the news of illnesses and doctoring of family and friends. This letter was enclosed with one to Florence, June 30 1890.

Invitation from the aunt and uncle of Fannie M. Thorold to the wedding of their niece to Alexander Davidson, to be held September 16, 1886, in Port Rowan (includes envelope)

Letter from Florence Kempt dated Glasgow, December 13, 1882 to her grandmother Margaret Davidson, written in pencil in capital letters.

Invitation from the parents of Maggie Rennie Struthers to the wedding of their daughter to Robert Garden Davidson, to be held October 3, 1882 in St. Catharines (includes envelope).

Invitation from the parents of Wilhemina Topp to her wedding to William Davidson, son of George and Margaret Davidson, to be held September 20, 1877 in Toronto

Letter from Margaret Davidson's sister-in-law Catherine Davidson from 5 Ann Place, Aberdeen, July 30, 1884 reporting the death of her brother and Margaret's brother-in-law John Davidson (includes envelope addressed to Mrs. Sheriff Davidson at 272 King Street, Toronto).

Letter from George Davidson's sister Catherine from 5 Ann Place, Aberdeen, April 13, 1881: she is sorry for his protracted illness, and relates news of all the family.

Letter from John Davidson, Fraserburgh, Scotland on October 16, 1848 to his nephew George Davidson, commiserating on the death of George's infant child: "I know that you are of tender heart and will be much affected." John is Assessor and Collector of Road Money in Fraserburgh and as such was out on business when George left for home.

Letter from Maggie Kempt dated Forest-Hill, Glasgow, December 22, 1886 to her mother Margaret Davidson, containing news of the family, her son George's impressions of Canada and that his health has improved (includes envelope).

Letter from Maggie Kempt dated Wiston Manre [Manor?], Wiston, by Biggar, July 1, 1886 to her mother Margaret Davidson describing her daughter Florence's asthma, and thanking her mother for looking after her son George on his trip to Canada. She sends all the news of visitors from Canada and says of George: "I hope George will be able to go and see our old home when he is in Berlin. Do you know the people that have Forest-Hill? He has heard so much about it that he will be disappointed if he cannot get into the house. You will find George a great politician and a fearful Tory, but I hope he won't display his views too much among a lot of radicals. He says the Canadians are nearly all Radicals." In closing she says "this courting through the telephone must be a novel arrangement."

Letter from Maggie Kempt dated Glasgow, April 28, 1881 to her mother Margaret Davidson written after she had received her mother's telegram reporting George Davidson's death the day before: "Your telegram telling us of dear Papa's death, came this morning about eight-o'clock when Irvine and I were dressing, and has made us all very downcast." She expresses her sorrow and sympathy, and also the effects of the technology of the telegram on her feelings: "This is the first telegram I have received across the Atlantic and somehow it seems to bring me nearer home than I have ever felt before. To think that I know today what happened with you yesterday and though the message brought sad news we are pleased you thought of telegraphing."

Letter from Alexander Davidson, Port Elphinstone, dated July 22, 1856, to his niece Margaret Davidson, thanking her for presents sent. He reports on the growth and changes in Aberdeen and area since she had last been there, and lists all his children and what they are doing.

Letter from George Davidson in New York, dated May 16, 1880 to his wife Margaret, commenting on the number of "pleasure seekers" passing his window on a Sabbath. He mentions that "other people from Berlin are here." He complains that he will be confined to his room as the elevator is out of order, recounts an accident with a chamber pot and complains that his appetite is not good (Includes envelope addressed to Margaret at "Forest Hill, Berlin, Ontario").

Letter from George Davidson at 100-West 53 St., New York dated May 7, 1880 to his wife Margaret, thanking her for letters received: "I am glad you are well and more than glad that Lizzie has got those ugly teeth out & hope she will now be free from that horrid disease neuralgia." He is having treatments of various sorts for his legs in the hope that he can walk without crutches, treatments that he describes in great detail and mentions that he is rooming with his son Sandy, who adds a page at the end of the letter.

Letter from George Davidson in Toronto, dated June 26, 1879, to his wife Margaret, reporting on treatment he has received in Toronto on his leg, people he has seen and visited, and arrangements for getting home. He underlines "slang" words such as "chimbly" and "cracks" (jokes).

Letter from George Davidson in Aberdeen, Scotland to his wife Margaret in New Aberdeen, C.W., responding to the news of the death of their infant son: "The intelligence was painful, more so than had I been present with you, for altho' my friends here feel deeply with me, still you were awaiting." He speaks of the comfort that their belief offers, and continues: "I thank God that you are living & that I have so near a prospect of meeting you again – how happy I shall be to see you & this feeling is strengthened from the fact that you will be the same regarding me." He will be on the steamer Europa from Liverpool to New York and lists in detail the amount of time it will take to be back in New Aberdeen. (includes envelope sealed with family crest)

Letter from George Davidson in Berlin, Ont. Dated 9 ½ o'clock, May 5, 1863 to his wife Margaret who is in Toronto: "The children have gone to bed, and so I sit down – all alone – to write you the promised letter – you will be enjoying yourself with Mrs. Manning over Schedam Sch[illegible] while I poor unfortunate am enjoying myself in thinking how comfortable it will be to go up to a cold bed, and nobody in it. I have just been up stairs Bob & Sandy are in bed the former at the front the latter at the back with space and an extra pillow between for Lizzie who has been managing the children and the affairs of the household at a great rate." He gives Margaret a list of cash payments to make – boys' board, clothes, but also ask her to bring home seed catalogues and stock. A postscript the next morning describes the state of affairs: "Wednesday morning 7 ½ O.C. we have slept and waked – thank God – Lizzie was up about ½ hour ago went down and put [kettle on], is however still in her nightgown sitting on the floor with Sandy playing Jackstones or something of that sort – Bob is up and takes this to the P.O. Very cold rainy morning GD."

Letter to Margaret, Jane, and Jessie dated London, September 11, 1835 from their brother John Garden, in which he reports on the sad state of his health and wardrobe, asks for shirts and collars, but particularly for "flannel drawers and a surcoat." He reports that on reading Jessie's letter "an overpowering sort of sensation thrilled through me, such as I have not felt since I came here … never did I wish so much to be home" (includes envelope).

Letter from Margaret Forbes dated Inverury, October 4, 1835 addressed to Miss Garden, 204 Gallowgate, Aberdeen, hoping that Margaret will visit after the communion: "It always gives me pleasure to know that you have been favoured with such a Minister, who is likely to be zealous, in the cause of Christ … while God gives much grace to your young minister, he also will be the means of comforting you." She goes on to say, "We at present are well supplied with Gospel ministers, I pray for us, that the Spirit may accompany their labours," and ends by sending love to Jane and Jessy and hopes all can visit or write.

Partial letter from [Robert?] Garden dated London, 31 October, 1833, to "Dear Sisters," followed by a long disquisition on the proper response of women to changes in their circumstances: "It is the smile of contentment which ought to be on your lips even in the midst of the greatest difficulty." It is not made clear whether actual changes in circumstance in the financial or social standing Garden family are behind this well-meaning attempt to stave off discontent in the sisters. This is possibly from Garden sisters' brother Robert Garden.

Letter from Ed Knorr, Secretary Treasurer of the Woelfle Shoe Co., dated January 14, 1955, informing Kenneth Sims that the board of directors of the company had passed a resolution at the annual meeting of May 4, 1954 on the death of William Sims, to be recorded in the minutes.

Letters from Elizabeth dated January 10, 1953[sic], Winnipeg; from Sophia and Dick in Guelph , undated, and from Gay Estill Sims, January 10, 1954, Washington D.C , with sympathy on the death of William Harvey Sims who had died on January 7.

Letter from Manette Goldsworthy dated August 25, 1953, Kitchener asking Mabel Sims for a loan.

Letter from E.G. Barrie dated June 18, 1951, Kitchener, to Mabel Sims, thanking her for taking care of table arrangements for an annual celebration, possible of the Chicopee Tennis Club. The letter is written on The Barrie Glove & Knitting Co. Limited, Kitchener, Ontario letterhead with a drawing of the factory.

Letter from Nigel Kempt, cousin of Kenneth Sims, dated January 6, 1950, thanking Mabel and Kenneth Sims for the "lovely piece of beef" sent at Christmas. "New Year is usually rather a wearisome time with us as our staff always have to get off, leaving us to feed the hens & do the cooking and so on."

Letter from Adam Strohm dated October 21, 1949, Kensington, MD, reporting to Kenneth Sims that Fred Burden had died "two weeks ago" at the age of 86.

Letter from Nellie Sharpe, dated March 28, 1948 Winnipeg, Manitoba, thanking Kenneth for writing with information about Rella. Very difficult handwriting.

Letter from Adam Strohm dated August 4, 1945, Manistee, Michigan to Kenneth Sims. He encloses a letter written to him on July 30, 1945 by Harry Bullock, an old friend of both Adam and Harvey, who says of another friend Fred Burden's troubles from feeling his age: "Harvey Sims passing was part of his trouble and yours and mine too. I think he was the finest Canadian I ever knew."

Letter from Francis Alexander Anglin, Justice of the Supreme Court of Ontario, dated July 2, 1945 to Kenneth Sims, with sympathy on the death of his father Harvey J. Sims.

Letter from Harvey J. Sims dated January 25, 1945, Delray Beach, Florida to his son Kenneth, urging him to come to Florida for the month of April, which he has already booked and paid for. He needs Kenneth to let him know definitely.