Search The Archive

[Condolence letter written to Mary Gullen, of Echo Place, Ont., from her sister-in-law Agnes Gullen, of Toronto. Mary’s husband Pte. William Roy Gullen was killed in action in France on May 3, 1917, leaving Mary widowed with seven children, the youngest of which Roy had never met as he was born in the months following his father’s deployment overseas.]

Dear Mary:-

Fred and I were looking over Roy’s letters and cards last evening, and I am making a copy of the last letter we received from him and enclosing herewith as I know you will be so glad to have it. It is a lovely letter – as they all were – and speaks so kindly of you and the little ones – he is ever with you in thought.

How are you dear? You were so brave when we left you on the 24th of May. My heart aches for you, Mr. and Mrs. Gullen, and all of you. My head has ached ever since the 24th – and I know I can’ have any idea how you feel Mary. Don’t keep your troubles too much to yourself. Roy knew you pretty well – he said you were very quiet.

You certainly keep the children looking cheerful and healthy – which is great work. I am sure they are a great comfort to you and will help to sustain you until you receive further word.

Roy is so unselfish – he said he was glad that he was the only one over there in France.

Well Mary I wish I could write more, but I am very busy both here at the office and at home. Every monent has to count for something – I get very tired but I do love to be busy and feel that I am useful.

With heaps of love and best wishes to you and the children and Father and Mother Gullen and Irene,
Sincerely,
AGNES….

[enclosed by Agnes with the main letter was a typed transcription of a letter written to Fred and Agnes on April 8, 1917:]

(COPY)
France,
April 8th, 1917.

Dear Fred and Agnes:-

I received Agnes’ letter in the line and was very glad to get it. A fellow picks up when he reads dandy letters from his people. We have been giving Fritz fits lately, and this time it will be the big one. Will hope and prayfor the best. Am very thankful for all you have done and kind memories. The kiddies are very small and need a few years care yet. Some little business that did not give Mary too much worry would fix them fine. A few hundred in a jam factory or manufacturing business. We could make jam from some of those things that went to waste every fall.

Thought I would write a word this time, it may be just as well and may not be needed. If I do not write for a few days does not say anything. Be hopeful that I will turn up some time and let you know things. Visit Mary as often as you can. I wish I knew a business for them. Mary is very quiet and has very few words to outsiders, and is a little giant in a great many ways. May a Higher Power travel with her and bless them all through life. She is in a very good place just at present. Hope she will be there for some time. I would like to have had another photo of them all by now. Glad I was the only one out here.

Well will stop,
Your old brother,
W. Roy Gullen