Untitled mimeograph draft of arrangements for the state funeral of William Lyon Mackenzie King, dated July 24, 1950, by W.P.J. O’Meara, Acting Under Secretary of State. Appendix “A” lists the honorary pallbearers and Appendix “B” gives marshalling instructions for those taking part in the funeral procession.

Series consists of correspondence from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King, also to Arthur's wife Kathleen Marion King, written between January 8, 1923 and July 5, 1950. Although Mackenzie King's first letters are directed towards the interests of a growing boy, over the years he stays involved in Arthur's progress through school, university and ultimately in the workplace. He mentions his own activities although often not in detail, sends thank you letters and holiday greetings. He gives Arthur advice on his career, mentions books of interest, and talks about politics, friends, family and visitors to Kingsmere.
Arranged chronologically.

Ephemera belonging to Arthur King and relating to the funeral of William Lyon Mackenzie King, former Prime Minister of Canada. Includes two invitations for Arthur King and his wife Kathleen King to attend the state funeral to be held in Ottawa, Wednesday, July 26, 1950, a card allocating places on the special train from Ottawa to Toronto, and places in a car from Union Station to the cemetery, as well as two luggage tags for the special train. Also includes pre-printed thank you cards.

Framed black and white photographic print of the portrait of Isabel King painted by J.W.L. Forster in 1905. This was Mackenzie King’s favourite image of his mother: it still hangs in Laurier House where he placed it. This copy would appear to have belonged to Dougall Macdougall “Max” King and may have been sent to him by Mackenzie King. An earlier portrait of Isabel King was done by Forster in 1901 and in his diary Mackenzie King expresses his dissatisfaction and describes the portrait he would like to see : “ I am sorry in a way however, that it is not taken more as a photo we have of mother sitting in a chair & looking down at a book, the Mother’s face.” [1]

Eight snapshots taken during Isabel and William Lyon Mackenzie King’s trip to Denver, Colorado, where Isabel was to stay for a time with her son Dougall Macdougall King, his wife May and their twin sons Arthur and Lyon. The first six snapshots are of family groups taken at the entrance steps of 928 Olive St., Denver, where Dougall had set up his medical practice. His plaque can be seen to the left of the doorway. 1. Left to right: May, Arthur, Isabel, Lyon (seated) and Dougall Macdougall King (standing). - 2. Left to right: Isabel and Dougall Macdougall King (seated). – 3. Left to right: Arthur, Isabel and Lyon King (all seated). – 4. Left to right: William Lyon Mackenzie King (standing), Dougall Macdougall King (seated). – 5. Left to right: William Lyon Mackenzie King, Isabel King, Dougall Macdougall King (all seated). – 6. Left to right: Lyon King, William Lyon Mackenzie King, Arthur King. – 7. Picnic in unidentified location. Left to right: possibly Isabel King in widow’s weeds, possibly Mae King, unidentified female, unidentified male. – 8. Left to right: Isabel King in widow’s weeds, William Lyon Mackenzie King, standing beside river. The latter two may have been taken at Welborn Farm (letter Willie to Jennie Sept 16, 1916. He writes that he has left Isabel at Max and May’s and has gone to stay at Welborn’s farm: “ they are all coming out to dinner with us here tomorrow.”)[1]

One set of men's Jaeger beige cashmere and wool underwear, size 42, belonging to William Lyon Mackenzie King, consisting of of a jersey-knit shirt and a pair of bottoms. The shirt has three buttons with button placket reinforced with woven material. Mackenzie King's Initials “W.L.M.K.” are embroidered in red on the front right bottom above the ribbing. The shirt has a white woven label with red letters at centre inside back neck: “Jaeger, Pure Cashmere & Wool, Made in Gt. Britain.” The bottoms close with a three-button fly and have a lace-up gusset at centre back. The waistband and fly are reinforced inside with woven material; the gusset has two sets of embroidered eyelets laced with a white ribbon. Two sets of horizontal double loops made of woven fabric are sewn down outside at the waist on either side of the fly, possibly for attaching to the shirt. The T. Eaton Co. catalogue of 1920-1921 describes these as “brace loops.”[1] There is evidence of something having been sewn above the shirt ribbing, front left side, as thread knots remain. The bottoms have a white woven label, inside centre back, with red letters. The word “Jaeger” is at the centre of a diamond shape bearing text on all four sides: “Health & Comfort, Warrented Pure Wool.” Below the diamond is a ribbon shape bearing text: “Patent Unshrinkable Process,” and below this on the bottom edges is: “Made in Gt. Britain.”

One formal posed studio portrait of the John King Family of Berlin, Ontario, ca. 1885.
Front row, seated, left to right: Isabel King, Janet Lindsey King, John King, Dougall Macdougall King [seated in front], William Lyon Mackenzie King.
Back Row, left to right: one unidentified boy, two unidentified young men, Bella King.

Telegram from Arthur King to May Macdougall King on July 23, 1950 reporting the death of William Lyon Mackenzie King the night before: “Uncle Willie died quietly peacefully last night with John Harry and myself in attendance. I am representing father here and will detail full account subsequently. Fondest love to you all.
Salutation: none; Signature: “Arthur.”

Six engraved calling cards from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur and Arthur's wife Kathleen, four of them dated and inscribed in Mackenzie King's handwriting, probably as accompaniments to letters or gifts.
Envelope inscribed “Mr. and Mrs. Arthur King” in Mackenzie King's handwriting.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on December 19, 1943. King expresses Christmas wishes to Arthur, his wife Kathleen and Kathleen’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas in Toronto. King notes that he has a gift for them in their new home, “I would like to send you, just as a souvenir of the day itself, and also of a central event in Canadian history, a little picture which was taken at the time of the Quebec Conference[1], and which I am sure you would both like to have.”
Salutation: “My Dear Arthur” [handwritten]; Signature: “With fondest of love, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie” [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on May 7, 1945, “dictated in the hour of Victory which has still to be announced.” He says that “dear Lyon” will be “rejoicing with us all today.” He sends good wishes to all at Laurier House, and thanks Arthur for taking Pat for a walk. King was attending the United Nations Conference in San Francisco. [1] On May 7 the Nazis surrendered unconditionally with May 8 to be the end of the war, Victory in Europe day. [2]
Salutation: “Dear Arthur” [handwritten]; Signature: “With fondest love to Kathleen & yourself. Your affectionate uncle Willie” [handwritten].
Includes envelope. Both envelope and letter marked “Personal.”

Telegram from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur king, composed on May 20, 1945 and received on May 21, 1945, congratulating Arthur and his wife Kathleen on their second wedding anniversary. Mackenzie King was in Swift current probably in advance of the federal election of June 11, in which he lost his own seat, Prince Albert Riding. [1]
Salutation: none; Signature: "Love and all good wishes=:Mackenzie King."

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on February 25, 1947 expressing anxiety about Arthur's "new apartment and removal to Toronto," and asking for specific details about his new home. Arthur had apparently been assisted in finding living quarters through D.B. Mansur, president of the Central Mortgage and Housing Corporation and "Mr. Handy" and King expresses surprise that Arthur has not yet followed up with them: "As soon as I learned of the change you had been able to effect in apartments, I rang up Mr. Mansur and thanked him personally for his kind intervention. I am sure that but for his personal interest in the matter and Mr. Handy's kind interest in advance, you would have had real difficulty in securing any quarters."
Footnote: "let me suggest that you visit Mr Mansur [&] Mr Handy without delay. But for their good office you might be very badly off. W"
King then addresses everyone's state of health and reminds Arthur that he must "do all that is in your power to prove your qualifications for the position you now have and to ensure advancement in the future;" also that "Toronto is a nice city in which to live and you will have opportunities of personal and business contacts there much greater than are likely to come elsewhere. I am sure you will make the most of them."
Includes handwritten correction.
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "With love to both, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on August 18, 1947, thanking him and his wife Kathleen for their “charming little letter” on the death of King’s dog Pat, and noting “Naturally I feel his loss very much.” King expresses hope of seeing Arthur and Kathleen when he is “up at the Exhibition” [1] and gives details of his busy schedule during the days of his visit. Although he will not be able to visit them at home he has asked that they be sent tickets to the garden party being given by the Lieutenant Governor the Honourable Ray Lawson in the hopes that they may meet each other. King asks if Arthur remembers going with him and his brother Lyon to the opening of the Exhibition “the last time I was there. I think that was just twenty years ago.”
King asks about the vitamin supply.
Salutation: “My dear Arthur” [typewritten]; Signature: “With fondest love to you and Kathleen, Yours affectionately , Uncle Willie” [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on August 20, 1948, describing his relationship with John D. Rockefeller Jr., and mentioning his invitation to visit Mr. Rockfeller's "summer home at Seal Harbor, Maine." King anticipates going to Europe in three weeks, and notes that he is "now relieved of the leadership of the Party. On my return, I expect to be giving up office as well."[1] King declares the "Convention" as "a great success" [Liberal leadership election] [2] and wishes that Arthur and Kathleen had been there to "witness the ovations." He expresses his pleasure at Arthur and Kathleen's new home in Leaside, although his opening of Sunnybrook Hospital prevented him from visiting in person. He remarks on the pretty names "Southvale Drive" and "Leaside."
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "With fondest love to you both, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on December 28, 1948, containing effusive thanks to him and his wife Kathleen for letters and Christmas gift of hand-picked and preserved wild raspberry jam. King notes that the jam will be used for special occasions of afternoon tea at Laurier House or Kingsmere. King reminisces "I remember when Lord Athlone and Princess Alice used to come out to Kingsmere occasionally for a walk, there was nothing they enjoyed so much as some of the strawberry jam which I had there. Jam made from wild strawberries is, of course, the most delicious of all. [1]
King refers to his "little gift" to Arthur and Kathleen and says that "Nothing could give me more pleasure than that you should use the cheque toward the purchase of a rug for one of the rooms in your little home." He also extends his thanks to Arthur's mother for her letter and gift of books. King notes that is health is not good and that he was wise to have retired when he did. In closing, King mentions that he is sending Kathleen another supply of vitamins.
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "With love to you both Yours affectionately Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on March 22, 1949, relaying information from Arthur's friend Wilmot Gordon that his father had died, and encouraging Arthur to contact him.
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "With fondest love Yours affectionately Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on January 6, 1950, containing belated thanks for their Christmas letters and gift of the book Cry The Beloved Country. King finds it "extraordinary" that three books recommended to him by Violet Markham were given to him by three separate family members that Christmas. The other two were Schweitzer's Out of My Life and Thought and Lead, Kindly Light. [1] King describes his poor health, commiserates with Arthur's disappointment at not seeing his mother at Christmas, and approves of Arthur and Kathleen's plans to use his Christmas cheque to buy a set of nesting tables. King reiterates his pleasure at receiving letters from Arthur and Kathleen, and ends with concern that Kathleen's vitamins might have run out and that he is sending more.
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "With fondest love and all good wishes to Kathleen and yourself. [Illegible, possibly Again as?] always, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on Easter Sunday, April 9, 1950 in which he describes his own poor health and expresses concern for Arthur's. King asks for all the details about the oil burner that Arthur has acquired for his furnace and notes that the cost of oil makes heating almost as expensive as coal.
King thanks Arthur for congratulations on "the Royal Honours recently received, the Grand Cross of the Order of the Netherlands Lion and the Grand Cross of the Order of Leopold from Belgium," the which he notes belong to the nation and not to him personally. He goes on to quote from a letter from Churchill to himself published on p. 739 of Churchill's most recent work, The Grand Alliance, in which Churchill writes: " ﾑWhat a pleasure it is to see the whole empire pulling as one man, and believe me, my friend, I understand the reasons for your success in marshalling the grand war effort of Canada.' It is a nice tribute from the one who, more than any other, had to do with the direction of affairs at the time of the war." King expresses hope that he will soon be able to start work on his memoirs. He has still not ever visited Arthur and Kathleen's "little home in Toronto", and intends to do so "the first time I am in the city."
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [typewritten]; Signature: "Yours very affectionately" [typewritten] "Uncle Willie" [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on August 28, 1929 in reply to letters received from both Arthur and Lyon after a trip from Denver to Ontario to visit family. In it King states that a letter of thanks is as good as a gift (proposed by Lyon for Aunt Jennie), reminds them to tip the maid at Aunt Jennie’s, envies them their trip to Niagara, and ends by saying he is sending the letter ahead of them to Denver.
Salutation: “My Dear Arthur” [handwritten]; Signature: “Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" handwritten].
Includes one handwritten correction.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on February 15, 1932, with congratulations on his results in the first quarter of university. He expands on the necessity of knowing one’s subject thoroughly, even if it takes longer. He references his brother Dougall Macdougall King's book on Nerves and Personal Power, and advises “Nature has no short cuts in anything; she never hastens, but also she never rests. It is the steady careful work which counts for most in the end.” King advises Arthur to concentrate on doing his best to complete his first year before thinking of any other possible activities.
Salutation: “My dear Arthur”; Signature: “Yours Affectionately, Uncle Willie.” [“Uncle Willie handwritten.]

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on July 27, 1934. King advises Arthur, having heard that he had to give up on a course because of chicken-pox, to put his health ahead of everything else in order to fully recuperate. King reports on the “gratifying” election results in Ontario and Saskatchewan, and anticipates a general election. King reports that the past winter’s arthritis has disappeared, also that he has been to Williamsburg to see Dr. Locke[1] and is wearing Locke shoes [for fallen arches]. In regard to his nephews’ chosen professions of medicine and engineering, King says “The service which can be rendered the world through electrical development has become more apparent in our age than in all the centuries of the past, and I believe that we are only at the beginning of discoveries in that field which will revolutionize the thought, as well as the daily life and habits of the people. “
Salutation: “My dear Arthur”; Signature: none [all after p. 4 missing].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on October 9, 1944, written as a reminder to Arthur to make efforts to locate Sir Campbell Stuart [1] on Stuart’s return to Ottawa, October 24, 1944.
Salutation: “My Dear Arthur”; Signature: “Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie, This is just a reminder. W” [handwritten]. Includes underlining.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on December 26, 1944, thanking Arthur and his wife Kathleen for a Christmas letter and gift, “doylies[sic] … exquisite in their texture and design. In taste, they could not be more to my liking. They are a real addition to Laurier House.” King has left a gift at Arthur and Kathleen’s that requires samples and going to shops, but is otherwise not described. King send this letter with a promised copy of Emil Ludwig’s Portrait Sketch and also a copy of “a little book entitled “Rendezvous," which I think you would both like to read. [1.] I read a copy myself many months ago. It wholly accords with my own belief. I want you to have it as a remembrance of Dear Lyon.” Salutation: “My Dear Arthur” [handwritten]; Signature: “Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie” [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on January 17, 1946, in which he encloses $5.00 to complete the sum needed for a radio cabinet (see letter Dec. 29, 1945). Also with reference to the previous letter, he continues on the subject of the vitamins he has sent them.
Note on p. 1 “Please find $5.00 enclosed, WLMK” [handwritten].
Includes handwritten correction.
Salutation: “My dear Arthur” ; Signature: “Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie” [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on January 17, 1946, a short note of thanks, comments on their healthy appearance and apologies for not having been able to talk longer.
Includes envelope inscribed only “Mr and Mrs Arthur King [handwritten].
Salutation: “My dear Arthur”; Signature: “Love to you both, [typewritten] Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie” [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on January 4, 1947, commenting on Arthur’s mother’s visit [May King, nee Wookey] and reports he had received of her apparent good health.
Salutation: “Dear Arthur” ; Signature: “With fondest love, Yours affectionately Uncle Willie” [handwritten].

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on February 17, 1948, in response to one received. King informs Arthur that after some months of ill health, King's sister and Arthur's aunt, Jennie, has had an operation for a perforated appendix and has recovered. King describes also the "miraculous" recovery of Mr. Handy's son who, after having spent 14 months in hospital, is now at home "with his leg completely restored."
King expresses pleasure at Arthur's report of his progress at work and his advancement to a supervisory position, remarking "It means that your future is now secured."
King advises having, or moving to, living quarters with plenty of sunlight, as beneficial to health. He also agrees with Arthur that Arthur's mother has "gained a new strength and power," and asks, "How are the vitamins holding out?"
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten; Signature: "Your loving uncle Willie."
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King (while at the 1948 Commonwealth Prime Ministers' Conference in London, England) [1] to his nephew Arthur on October 18, 1948, in reply to a letter from Arthur and Kathleen apparently expressing concern about King's health. King downplays the press reports of his "condition" and explains that he has taken medical advice to "take a complete rest instead of attempting to go on with the proceedings of the Prime Ministers' Meetings at Downing Street," and anticipates being in bed for a further week until boarding the "Queen Elizabeth" on October 29.
King expresses interest in Arthur and Kathleen's house and garden, and notes that everything is "going so well for your mother."
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on June 14, 1949, expressing pleasure that Arthur and his wife Kathleen are going on holiday to Denver to see Arthur's mother. King cautions Arthur not to drive too fast or to far. He announces that he is now at Kingsmere for the summer, and that Arthur's Aunt Jennie and Rosabel will be staying with him in July.
Salutation: Dear Arthur [typewritten]; Signature: With fondest love and all good wishes to you both, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie." [Handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on June 19, 1950, hoping that Arthur and his wife Kathleen had spent a pleasant day in Buffalo with Arthur's mother, that he is enclosing a cheque that he had promised to send for her, and that he is happy she is having a "delightful little holiday."
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on January 8, 1923. King sends wishes of the season, thanks Arthur and his brother Lyon for the gift of a belt for Christmas and reminisces about his own childhood Christmases. Salutation: “Dear Arthur”; Signature: "Ever your loving uncle, Willie.”

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on February 23, 1924. King thanks Arthur for a sending him a typewritten letter, congratulates him on his typing skill, apologizes for brief acknowledgement and sends love to Arthur’s brother Lyon and to his mother.

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on December 20, 1925. King sends wishes of the season, tells Arthur to write about his presents and “all the happiness of the day, and also about what you are reading and most thinking of, and what you have decided to be when you grow up.” He notes that Arthur had been in hospital with a broken arm the Christmas before and hopes it is better.
Salutation: “My dear Arthur”; Signature: “Your loving uncle, Willie.”

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on December 18, 1927. King sends wishes of the season, says he has heard from Santa Claus that neither nephew wants a single present but several smaller ones such as, in Arthur’s case, an archery target, radio tubes and batteries. King says he will send a bank draft that ought to cover the presents plus extra and asks Arthur to write and say what he has purchased. He also indicates that he is sending a sum to Arthur’s mother to use for Christmas, the “I want to do that for Daddy.” [Daddy?]
Salutation: “My dear Arthur”; Signature: “Your loving uncle, Willie.”

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on December 28, 1930, thanking him for the gift of a book on science, but especially for the greeting card meant for “Pat” [WLMK’s dog] as well as for himself. “I am glad you remembered Pat, for I know he often thinks of you, and I am sure he sensed in your card some note of friendliness towards himself on the part of Tatters also.” King says he will enjoy reading Science and that “the discoveries of science are revolutionizing modern thought, as well as practices, in a number of directions. He then mentions Eddington and Jeans [1] and hopes that “someday I hope you will come to view things as they do. They seem to catch glimpses of the great unseen universe much more profound than those of most scientific writers of our day. King then mentions Evelyn Underhill [2] and her book The Life of the Spirit and the Life of Today that also “gives glimpses of much that lies beyond the revelations of science.” King mentions that he has had correspondence with Arthur’s brother Lyon, and invites Arthur to write on any topics that interest him.
Salutation: “My dear Arthur”; Signature: “Your loving uncle, Willie.”

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on December 19, 1931 in reply to one sent by Arthur from Boulder, Colorado. King expresses his pleasure at Arthur’s enjoyment of life at university and expands on the importance of character as the most important ingredient in success. He expresses his approval of electrical engineering as Arthur’s course of study. His Christmas gift to the family will be a sum of money to draw on through the year as needed, as well as individual sums.
Salutation [handwritten]: “My Dear Arthur”; Signature: “Your loving uncle, Willie.” [“Willie” handwritten]
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on December 22, 1942. Arthur has apparently had pneumonia and King offers recovery advice, including a check-up by Arthur’s uncle Dr. Harold Wookey. King includes detailed suggestions for a proposed overnight stay at Laurier House on an unspecified date. King sends Christmas wishes through Arthur to Arthur’s fiancée Kathleen Thomas and to Mr. and Mrs. Rean (Arthur's brother Lyon’s in-laws) in Toronto.
King describes in detail the portrait he has had taken by Yousef Karsh as a Christmas gift to all family members, “which has a very special interest.” King describes the location of the portrait as the library at Laurier House, describes the significance of the table and the significance of some of the objects placed on it. He adds “there are other features of special interest of which I shall have to tell you at some future time.” King enlarges on his reasons for self-documentation at this particular time: “One can never say how long one may continue to be in office. This picture, being taken at a time of war, and signed by myself while in office as Prime Minister, will make it, I am sure, an acceptable gift to you.”
Salutation: “My Dear Arthur” [handwritten]; Signature: “With lots of love, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on July 6, 1945. King expresses his pleasure that Arthur and Kathleen enjoyed a holiday in Muskoka and that they have moved into a new home in Montreal.
Salutation: “My dear Arthur” ; Signature: “With fondest love, [typewritten] to you both, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie” [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on December 22, 1945, thanking Arthur and Kathleen for their Christmas letter and wondering what book they have sent him to open on Christmas Day. “I have no doubt it is among the packages on the little bench in my upstairs hall, being kept in reserve for Christmas morning, when Santa Claus, Pat and I sit down together to open the several Christmas gifts.” King expresses regret that he has not had time to find a gift suitable for their new apartment but is instead enclosing an envelope. King also expresses pleasure that Arthur enjoys his work and that both Arthur and Kathleen are “both so happy in your charming little apartment.”
Salutation: “My dear Arthur” [handwritten]; Signature: “With fondest love to you and Kathleen, Your loving uncle, Willie” [handwritten].
Letter also accompanied by a separate envelope inscribed “To Arthur and Kathleen” and a Christmas money-holder card inscribed "To Dear Arthur and Kathleen With fondest love and best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Uncle Willie, Christmas 1945," both inscriptions in Mackenzie King's handwriting.

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on December 29, 1945 expressing his pleasure at receiving from Arthur and Kathleen, John Erskine’s book The Human Life of Jesus. [1] He emphasizes the importance of the life of Jesus to mankind, and says “I am so glad you have made this particular selection as a Christmas gift. You could have thought of nothing more appropriate and, I may add, nothing which to myself could bring a fuller measure of joy. To you both, I send my warmest thanks for a present I shall always greatly treasure and which will be to me an added strength and inspiration as I continue to go on toward the distant horizon and the glow which I hope may be mine as one approaches the close of one’s earthly life.” King the offers to pay the entire cost of a radio cabinet to hold Arthur and Kathleen’s collection of records, a sum greater than the original amount previously sent to them. King mentions “the little talk” they had on Christmas Day; also that he intends to send a fresh supply of vitamins. [2]
Salutation: “My dear Arthur” [handwritten]; Signature: “Please let this letter bring to you and to Kathleen my very best of wishes for this New Year and My fondest love, Yours affectionately , Uncle Willie” [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.

Handwritten notes by William Lyon Mackenzie on a small envelope, inscribed to “To Arthur and Kathleen with love and all good wishes, Uncle Willie, Christmas 1946,” with additional note “Not to open till Christmas morning.”
This envelope is enclosed in a mailing envelope postmarked Toronto Dec. 22, 1946, with “WLMK, PM” in bottom left hand corner [handwritten.]

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur and his wife Kathleen on December 21, 1947, thanking them for their letters of “love and best wishes” for his 73rd birthday. He blames his current lack of communication on “how very strenuous the pace has been. I doubt if ever in my life I have had so much ground to cover, or been as active and busy as I have. “ He then notes “It has all been a kind of ‘grand finale’ to my many years in public life, and which in the nature of things, cannot be expected to continue much longer.” King explains that he has had no time to select a Christmas gift and so has instead enclosed a “Bank Money Order” to be used for something for their home “as coming from me; something that may serve to remind you at all times of my love and abiding affection for you both.”
Salutation: “Dear Arthur and Kathleen” [handwritten; Signature: “Again, with fondest love and best of wishes, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie” [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.
Includes enclosure: empty Christmas money-holder card, 16 x 8 cm folded. Inscribed in King’s hand: “To Arthur and Kathleen With love and all good wishes for Christmas and the new year from Uncle Willie, Xmas 1947."

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on May 17, 1950 in reply to one from Arthur commenting on the official opening of Mackenzie House in Toronto on May 9, 1950.[1] King notes that the premier of the Province [Leslie Frost] and the mayor of the City of Toronto [Herbert E. McCallum], both Conservatives, took part in the ceremonies: "To my mind, that disclosed a fine spirit, and one which would have brought great happiness to Mackenzie's heart." King expresses concern that Arthur has not reported on a dinner at which Leonard W. Brockington was to speak: "I thought I had made it clear to Kathleen and yourself that I not only would have liked you both to be present to hear Mr. Brockington speak, but that I would be happy to make that part of the proceeding ﾑmy treat'. King describes the speech [about William Lyon Mackenzie] in superlatives.
In a handwritten added paragraph King wonders if he has not mixed up the Royal York and the King Edward hotels as the dinner location, "or if by any chance, you happen to be minus a dinner jacket or dress suit. Please let me know if you have the latter."
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "Once again my fondest love to you and Kathleen,Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on May 25, 1950. King is happy that Arthur and his wife Kathleen did after all attend the dinner and speech by Mr. Brockington, that they had a chance to speak with Brockington, and encloses a cheque to pay the cost of the tickets [not present]. King reports that he has been out for one or two drives and that he will soon be going to Kingsmere. He mentions his own poor health and asks after Arthur's health.
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on Dec. 27, 1943, thanking Arthur and his wife Kathleen for the Christmas letter and gift of handkerchiefs, and sending New Year’s wishes.
Salutation: “My Dear Arthur” [handwritten]; Signature: “Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie” [handwritten].
Includes insertions handwritten.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on October 15, 1944 concerning the “Inscription in memory of Surgeon Lieutenant William Lyon Mackenzie King, F.R.C.S. to be cut on memorial in Mount Pleasant Cemetery.“ King is waiting for family to approve the inscription and details of lettering before placing the order. Arthur’s twin brother Lyon had died on Sept. 20, 1943 when the St. Croix was torpedoed by a German U-Boat and all men aboard except one perished. [1]
Salutation: “My Dear Arthur” [handwritten]; Signature: “Yours affectionately , Uncle Willie” [handwritten].

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur King on January 19, 1947 in response to and supportive of the news that Arthur is moving to Toronto to work for Ontario Hydro. King enumerates Arthur’s qualifying experience and background, compares Toronto to Montreal as a suitable place to live, and offers a list of factors to consider when looking for a place to live.
Salutation: “My dear Arthur” [handwritten]; Signature: “With fondest love to you and Kathleen, and again with many thanks for your letter and all good wishes Believe me [?] Affectionately yours Uncle Willie” [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on August 2, 1947, responding to one just received, containing news of a holiday in Muskoka, and confirming receipt of fruit knives and forks with “precious associations” sent to Arthur and his wife Kathleen by Mackenzie King and his sister Jennie.
King thanks Arthur and Kathleen for their earlier letter of congratulations on achieving twenty years as Prime Minister. He describes the unveiling of his own and Sir Robert Borden’s portraits by Lord Alexander and mentions the presence of President Harry Truman. He declares his intent to send Arthur and Kathleen copies of Hansard of June 10 and 11 containing congratulations to himself, speeches made at the unveiling, and President Truman’s address to both Houses of Parliament.
King asks about the vitamin supply, and gives news about Mr. Handy’s son’s health.
Salutation: “My dear Arthur” [typewritten]; Signature: “With love to you and Kathleen, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie” [handwritten.]

Typewritten letter marked "Personal" from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on December 26, 1947, expressing thanks for Arthur and his wife Kathleen's Christmas letter and gift to him of hand-painted tiles. “How sweet of you both to have remembered my admiration of the little paintings so exquisitely framed! I have already given them a place in my sunroom at Laurier House to which they are lending a note of added beauty and cheer. In the summer time I may take them to Kingsmere as well.” King continues in this effusive and somewhat repetitive vein, and again asks about their vitamin supply. King speculates that Arthur may have telephoned his mother and/or have written to her during the Christmas season, and informs Arthur that he had received a book from her entitled Human Destiny which he is looking forward to reading. [1]
Salutation: “My dear Arthur” [handwritten; Signature: “Again, with my warmest thanks to Kathleen and yourself for your lovely gift and letter, and much love to you both, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie” [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on December 22, 1948, thanking him and his wife Kathleen for sending 74th birthday congratulations. King asks that his best wishes be extended to all members of Arthur and Kathleen's family that will be gathered at their "own" home, and expresses pleasure that Arthur's mother will be visiting them. King suggests that Arthur and Kathleen use the enclosed money order to add to the silver King gave them as a wedding present.
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "Yours affectionately Uncle Willie" [handwritten].
Includes handwritten corrections.
Includes two possible enclosures: a printed correspondence card (9 x 13 cm) sending Christmas and New year's wishes from King to all who had sent him greetings, dated December 1948. Also includes an empty envelope (7 x 10 cm) inscribed "To Arthur and Kathleen with love and all good wishes from Uncle Willie" in King's handwriting.

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on March 29, 1949, in reply to his of March 28. King notes that Arthur has written to Wilmot Gordon and has also acquired a dog. King cautions Arthur against being overworked.
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [typewritten]; Signature: "Fondest love to you and Kathleen, Affectionately yours, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on December 20, 1949, thanking Arthur and his wife Kathleen for 75th birthday congratulations. King notes that because he can't keep track of family birthdays, he is more appreciative when people remember his. He explains that he is enclosing a bank draft to be used, he hopes, on something for their home as a gift from him. King notes that he has just written to Arthur's mother, and closes by sending Christmas and New Year's wishes to Arthur and Kathleen. Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [handwritten]; Signature: "With fondest love to you both, Yours affectionately, Uncle Willie" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to his nephew Arthur on July 5, 1950, enclosing a letter that King has just received from Arthur's mother, who is on holiday in England. He says that she acknowledges the cheque King send to her through Arthur, and adds that Arthur might like to keep the letter "as a receipt."
Salutation: "My dear Arthur" [typewritten; Signature: "With every good wish, Yours sincerely," [all typewritten] "McKenzie King" [handwritten].

Typewritten letter, marked “Personal”, from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Kathleen King on May 21, 1948, in which he expresses pleasure at seeing Arthur and Kathleen in Toronto, ascribes their good health and happiness to having their own “little house,” and sends them wedding anniversary congratulations. He adds that he is sending more vitamins.
Salutation: My dear Kathleen” [handwritten]; Signature: With love to Arthur and yourself, Yours affectionately, W.L. Mackenzie King” [handwritten].

Typewritten and handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Kathleen King on January 8, 1949, acknowledging one received from Kathleen with news that the vitamins had arrived safely. He comments on Arthur’s mother’s visit. [typewritten].In an added handwritten paragraph King writes: “Your wild strawberry jam is awfully delicious. Mr & Mrs Guthrie of Paris, France, were the first to sample it at tea, a few days ago. [illegible word word word word word word word word] for Ottawa’s future as Canada’s capital. Today the Prime Minister of New Zealand Mr Fraser, and the High Commissioner, had a taste. They were all delighted. [illegible word] never tasted anything as good. Love again to you and Arthur.”
Salutation: “My dear Kathleen” [handwritten]; Signature: “Yours affectionately, W.L. Mackenzie King” [handwritten].

Typewritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Kathleen King on January 18, 1950, on the topic of her vitamin supply. King notes that he is pleased that Arthur and Kathleen have decided to use his gift of money to purchase nesting tables.
Salutation: “My dear Kathleen:” [typewritten]; Signature: “Yours affectionately [typewritten], 'Uncle Willie.” [handwritten].

Engraved calling card: "Mr. W.L. Mackenzie King, Laurier House, Ottawa, Canada," inscribed in King's handwriting to Miss Kathleen M. Thomas on December 24, 1942: "So many thanks for your beautiful card of Christmas greetings. My very best of wishes to you for the New Year. So kind of you to have had me in your thoughts at this season. Again, my very best of wishes to you. WLMK 24-Dec-42."

Handwritten letter from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Miss Kathleen Thomas on May 16, 1943.
Transcription: “My dear Kathleen: This is the week on which you and Arthur are to be married. I have waited until this Sunday morning to write to you, not being too sure during the past few days just what my movements might be in the course of the present week. You no doubt will have seen from the papers that the President and Mr. Churchill have invited me to come to Washington for talks together, for meetings, conference, and the like, in the course of Mr Churchill's stay. It is now clear that I shall be obliged to leave tomorrow afternoon at the latest, and that I shall be obliged to be there in Washington on the day of your wedding, Thursday May 20th.
I need not tell you how sorry I am to have to disappoint Arthur and yourself; and, myself, to miss the pleasure of being with you both at the marriage ceremony, and to sign the register as a witness, as I did in the case of Margery and Lyon's wedding. However, there is no alternative, as Mr. Churchill is expecting me to be with him on Tuesday, and the President has invited me to be his guest, at the White House, on Wednesday spending the night there, and attending a meeting of the Pacific Council on Thursday morning, and a meeting of delegates from different parts of the British Empire, on Monday afternoon. I mention these engagements because of their importance and historic significance, and that you may know just why it will not be possible for me to be with you all on the day of, and at the time of your wedding. Perhaps, in the long run, a message from the White House, on the day of the wedding, may come to be an even more significant and welcome souvenir of the occasion than the witnessing of the marriage ceremony, and being a witness to its having taken place. Still I should have liked to have been with you and Arthur as I was with Margery and Lyon.
You know, I am sure, all the good wishes that I send to you for the day and for the Nova vita [underlined] on which you enter at that time. I wish you and Arthur the greatest possible happiness. As you both have a high purpose in life, and a love of service, and with the [will be?] sharing kindred ideals, I am certain that the way will open out before you in [to?] new widening vistas of opportunities, and of realization of your highest hopes. It will, I imagine, not be without its difficulties and privations at the start, and until this time of war becomes something of the past. You will have in that the consolation of knowing that you are sharing with others the sacrifices by which in the end, all that is highest in attainment is accomplished. There will be, too, [illegible] much sunshine and gladness along the way.
I should like to make you a little gift which would be something you would like to have from me, as a remembrance of your wedding day. In order that I may be sure the choice would be something you yourself would approve, I am going to ask you to help me in the selection of it, after you come to Ottawa, where we can confer together about it. Meanwhile, please accept 'my promise to pay' with my love and best of wishes for May the 20th, 1943, and for the days, and months and years to come. I pray through this all, you may be greatly blessed.”
Salutation: “My dear Kathleen,” [handwritten; Signature: “Yours affectionately, W.L. Mackenzie King.”

Telegram of good wishes from William Lyon Mackenzie King to Miss Kathleen M. Thomas on May 19, 1943: “Please let this message bring to you on the morning of your wedding day every loving good wish for your happiness today and through the years to come I am sorry not to have been able to be present at the wedding ceremony but my thoughts will be with you all. “
Salutation: none; Signature: “W L Mackenzie King.”