Ernest A Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 1899

Letter from Ernest Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 9 Mar 1899

[In note form at top of first page]

Emmie sends her sincere thanks and love

257 Frederick Road

March 9^th, 1899

My dear Fred

I hasten to say that I have received the two money orders of $10 each and that they came as an undisguised God-send, just at a time when we were feeling the bitterest inconvenience of poverty. You will be surprised to have not yet succeeded

[2]

Obtaining employment, openings are so very rare and so many to fill them when occurring. I cannot adequately express my gratefulness to you and Herbert for the assistance just to hand, I shall write to the latter on Sunday also to yourself more fully.

I am busy today and the rest of the week making copies of all the documents in connection

[3]

With my case against Kynoch’s + which is to be heard any day next week so that the present time is an anxious one for me.

I have a very good case against them, but juries are funny things sometimes and nothing is certain up to the finish. I am sorry you have so many calls upon your purse, but I can assure you that any

[4]

Help you can give me, is accepted as an obligation the very first I shall make a point of satisfying.

Please tell Bert I shall write to him and thank him for his kindness.

I do hope soon to be able to breathe freely once more, but in the meantime rest assured I feel very sincerely your great kindness. Will write again on Sunday

Your affectionate Brother

Ernest

September 8, 2019 0

Ernest Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 15 Jan 1899

Letter from Ernest A Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 15 Jan 1899

[note on the top of the letter]

Frost the chemist’s wife at Acock Green died suddenly last week. Nothing new ie Fry I suppose. I have not heard of Rutherford yet.

257 Frederick Road, Aston

January 15^th 1899

My Dear Fred

I have deferred my correspondence with BC for some time now, principally because I only had bad news to impart, but having received from you last Wednesday, a letter enclosing £2 (which was evidently posted by you on Xmas Eve) I am anxious to convey to you the gratitude I feel for the relief. By your letter you are aware of my being out of employment and you may guess that the sudden termination to my splendid prospects was a blow that took some realizing, not only by me but my numerous colleagues at Kynoch’s several of whom resigned their positions on account of they’re not being able to agree with the action of the autocrat Arthur Chamberlain, who, it since appears in persuading the Board to reduce the staff, gave the instructions (as the Secretary Mr Hirscham was away on a business tour to China + Japan) to the acting Chief Clerk, a younger and inexperienced and albeit manifestly unpopular man and of course, my enemy, through jealousy at the progress I had made and under the circumstances the knowledge

[2]

That it was only a matter of time for me to take my proper position in the Company, which of course would mean his removal to some other part of the Co’s concern. As usual I made myself too usefull for those whose influence is the only recommendation they boast.

The unsatisfactory conclusion to my, little more than two years of gradual advancement is now a legal question and would have heard at the Assizes in December only that Kynoch’s lawyer pleaded absence in Ireland, which me since find out was a lie and cannot now be tried until the Spring term commencing the second week in March. Lawyers John Smith of Goodrick-Clark and Smith and brother to Sidney Smith very kindly took my case up at once and has kept the question warm ever since and is willing to take it before a jury and furnish the costs in case we lose, which as you are well aware is not a small matter and speaks for John Smith’s kindness to us in our troubles, besides which he has given me some clothes, gloves +c also two pairs of his boots which enable me in my terrible plight to keep up something like a decent appearance. The state of business here is very bad indeed positively nothing moving, the tremendous Cycle Boom that began to burst up last year has rendered

[3]

Everything in a state of chaos hundreds of companies flushed for exorbitant capital are going through various processes of liquidation and Birmingham which grew by several thousands of inhabitants during the last 5 years, can now show as interesting a display of unemployed individuals, large empty factories, disappointed investors in boomed cycle shares as could favourably compare with, what the solid Englishman always jeered at, the booms of Yankee repute after the explosions.

I sincerely hope that business will be moving again soon when I shall be able to get something to do. I have only earned £5 since the 22^nd October and have of course had to sacrifice everything of value that I had to get along, beside running heavily into debt as well as having to beg small sums from Emmie’s relations from time to time. I think all the pride I ever had is knocked out of me, of course you can put the landlord off and many other things unpleasant but it wants something in a mans nature, that is not in imine, to see the little ones, once so well cared for, at times actually short of food. Emmie I expect will be confined tonight or tomorrow and I shall be thankfull when it is all over. When Norman was born the nurse and I managed

[4]

Without a doctor, but unfortunately we cannot get the same nurse this time so Emmie has engaged another but, who will not do without a Doctor as well, as it never rains but it pours. Lawyer John Smith sent us a PO for £1 yesterday which is to pay for the doctor, which relieves that part of it and we must I suppose, look as little at the immediate future as possible and trust to providence for something to turn up. I have often thought that many times that I have befriended George and Herbert, that they knowing the terrible plight I was in at Xmas time, of all times, that they would have found a spark of sympathy and have done something to help me, I never recollect refusing assistance to them when they were in want and sometimes when they were not and it was with feelings of terrible loneliness that Xmas passed without a cheering word or sign from anyone save small charities from friends whose kindness was a painfull as it was necessary to tolerate.

I received a supplementary list of Bartlett [illegible] a few days ago and am sending it on by this post, you will notice that the sheets are perforated to enable you to paste them in the full catalogue I sent you before + which I trust you have found usefull information.

[5]

You have doubtless read of the fearfull gale experienced here the last few days, terrible damage on the Railway, to property +c accompanied by great loss of life. We have had not winter at all but the most horribly trying changes in the atmosphere, frequently getting three seasons in a day, and which has been the cause of considerable sickness, my family have not been entirely free for months now and I do not expect a sound bill of health until some sharp dry weather comes. I receive the Colonist with unremitting regularity and still read it with interest, the divorce case Martin + Hedley Chapman did not surprise me, but the handling of the Sealing question did. It appears to me that the legal fraternity in Victoria just now is a very “junior” type, but I suppose, often, is usefull on that account. Harold is staying with Sidney Smith’s boys at Stetchford for a week or two which fact renders the house a little quieter, he enjoys good health and is always talking about the kind friends in Victoria. If I had have had a few pounds to start with I should have taken up my profession alone and believe should have done well, but you see when Greensill (The chief clerk at Kynoch’s) got his opportunity to remove me out of his way I had hard got out of debt, so was

[6]

Practically on my beam end. You see Fred since I came to England I have had to furnish a house, which on the cheapest principle, is no small item on a weekly salary and fed + clothed my family which as you know is not a small one now and at the time I received the check to my prospects I was only just beginning to convince myself that life was perhaps going to be worth living for again, then to be left as badly off, after over two years of the hardest work I have ever done in my life was a condition of things that came very nearly concluding the chapter as far as my career was concerned. I do sincerely hope I shall get something to do soon and in the meantime if you can help me a little it would be more usefull now than at some future time when I shall not require assistance as I do at this terrible time. When I do get employment again it will take me a long time to pay my obligations off and with increasing domestic expenses I think you will agree with me that the outlook is anything but a cheerfull one. I am sorry to have such a story to tell but will write better news the moment I can.

Hoping all are well

Your affectionate brother

Ernest

Give my kind love to Dear old Dad and Mother.

August 25, 2019 0

Ernest A Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 19 June 1898

Letter Ernest A Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 19 Jun 1898

257 Frederick Road, Aston

June 19^th, 1898

[Note top corner]

Emmie is waiting to go for a stroll

Domestic pen, ditto ink

Dear Fred,

I received your long and very welcome letter yesterday + hasten to reply, not as fully as I should like to, but to save as much time as possible. We hear from Amy (Mrs T) that a Captain Worsnop is coming over, and is to bring Harold. I thought it strange you should not have mentioned the fact and can only surmise that you are unaware of anything of the kind. You mention Appleby coming home to fetch Cissy + youngsters back and if this story of Mrs T is

[2]

Unfounded, I should be in the seventh heaven of delight if some arrangement could be made to let Harold come with him. Unfortunately I cannot send the necessary funds just now, but nevertheless I should be very disappointed if an opportunity of getting my little flock together once again under the altered circumstances, should be allowed to pass. The Dad’s letter I have not answered yet, but shall do fully in a day or two + I shall also make a point of sending you a more interesting

[3]

Letter as well. At this time it will be sufficient for me to assure you that both the “Fry” matter and the needle maker matter shall have my earned attention. I have written Fry to make an appointment to meet me, but, as usual get no reply from him. It is my intention to go fully into the matter with Fry and shall write you the result and at the same time you can rely upon my using all discretion but without losing sight of the fact that there is something wrong + that it is my determination to find it out.

[4]

You shall have all the news in my next, but I am sending this note so that the question of Harold’s coming home may be guided by yourself. Emmie is writing to Mrs Archibald to advise her of the likelihood of an opportunity of getting him with us again and will at the same time suggest that you represent her (Emmie) in the matter. Emmie has infinite trust in you + I personally shall be very proud if you will interest yourself in our behalf.

Kind love to all + again promising another letter in a few days

Your affectionate Brother

Ernest

August 21, 2019 0

Emma Jennings Paulin to Charles Wilfrid Paulin, 1942

2/510 Birchfield Rd

Perry Barr

March 31^st [1942]

Dear Wilf

Received your letter dated Jan. 29^th a week ago- Grace and Hilda have flue, both in bed, at the same time- they have now started work again- so many have had it run down conditions, no doubt, cause it- Sorry your sugar is rationed, we have been short, but manage somehow. I had Golden Syrop with my month’s allowance, find a tea spoon in hot milk is fine for porridge (my breakfast dish). The good thing, especially for large families, bread is not rationed, though a little darker in colour. We can stand anything, to help win this terrible war- which of course we shall do with the help of our grand allies- God grant it may be soon. I am still collecting paper and help at home, while the young ones work- That is all I can do now- This is a time where old age is a nuisance. Hope you are all well. Love to yourself, George and all your dear ones. Your loving Aunt Emmie

August 17, 2019 0

Ernest Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 27 October 1897

Letter from Ernest Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 27 October 1897

107 Whitehead Road

Aston

October 29^th 1897

Dear Fred

I have been striving hard to find time to answer your letters, the last one received on the 20^th inst but have had my mind so full of matters affecting me nearer home, that I positively could not carry out my resolution to spend a short time in paying my debts in the matter of overdue correspondence, before this evening, and even now, I scarcely know what to start on first, in order that I may curtail as much as possible all I wish to communicate and spare your time when reading as well. I enclose the Power of Attorney signed and witnessed and left blank as I think it will be far better for you to

[2]

When you can find time to have the details put in over there, as I may not exactly fill the bill myself and it would then necessitate returning to me again to be initialled. I trust you will not mind the trouble.

Anent Henley Lodge, I quite agree with you that it had better be sold and I can from actual knowledge recommend the earliest opportunity of realising Fry to be taken advantage of. I have frequently seen Frost and he experiences as much difficulty in understanding Fry as you do, as I do, or anybody could do – He allowed the last tenant to go out without even asking him for the arears of rent. The man Geo Corbett I find is living now in the Oxford

[3]

Road at Acock’s Green and according to the prevailing English law can be distrained against for rent owing to a previous landlord. Of course I am ignorant as to whether Fry has collected anything or tried to, as you do not say.

I enclose a letter from Frost enclosing the last communication he had from Fry. I took the matter up with the proposed purchaser but cannot give you any definite idea yet as to any business that may ensure, I cannot give the matter nearly so much attention as I should wish, through want of time and the expenses attached to it, although trifling, are seldom available from my finely cut revenue. At any rate I shall be pleased to have any suggestions

[4]

You can make that may tend to relieve the insufficient exchequer at Oak Bay, which of course I am aware means a constant worry to you and an oftentime unwelcome draft on your resources.

I have not heard of the whereabouts of Rutherford since I wrote you last, but I do not anticipate much difficulty in finding him when I am in a defined position to clear up the question of the pictures – I am sorry you considered it necessary to raise the question as to whether “I did not think it would be unwise to part with the money before I had possession of the pictures.” I hope that I am capable of carrying out this commission for you with due regard to common sense.

[5]

I am very pleased to hear that Bert is getting on as well + hope he will embrace what I consider to be the chance of his life, to a successful issue. I never had a chance like it myself.

I have not heard from George lately and very much miss his breezy little notes. I wish you would tell him so, and ask him to excuse me if I owe him a letter. I often think of him and sincerely hope he is doing better and that his young family are all he can desire in health.

Emmie had a letter from Cissy the other day, she was very pleased and will reciprocate the first spare time she has. Of course you can understand that her hands are pretty full just now.

[6]

Our latest addition to the family is a robust little chap and is a ray of sunshine that has been a great blessing to us, notwithstanding his travelling expenses before and after his arrival were a very serious matter indeed. He is named Norman Frederick and looks every inch his name.

We are constantly thinking of our boy Harold and shall bless the time when were are informed of anyone coming over to bring him, do not let an opportunity slip to send him giving us lots of time to arrange his passage and other details.

Dad has not written for months now, why is it? If I have offended him in any way do let

[7]

Me know, I daren’t even dream of there being any estrangement between me and my old Dad, can you persuade him to drop me a line sometime?

As far as advancement in the confidence of my “company” and the creditable responsibilities placed upon me, which are rapidly increasing. I can say I have got along splendidly and am looking forward almost daily now to an increase in may salary, in fact I have placed my position before the board recently and have not as yet heard their decision, but their delay in considering assures me that was wise in approaching them.

I have now the full

[8]

Control of the accounts of the Company and am deputed “advisory accountant” a responsibility that is highly interesting and keeps me constantly on the go, framing systems for our new enterprises, the conduct of our agencies both home and abroad, and even control as regards method and detail over the visiting auditor themselves, this latter department was readily ascended to by Messrs Gibson + Ashford

I feel that I shall be rewarded for my labors, but it cannot come too soon.

I enclose what I hope to be the winding up of an estate I took in hand from

[9]

Sidney Smith (brother-in-law) + trustee to the estate, being a heavy creditor he has only so far paid my expenses to and fro the business, but upon the administration of the estate I am to receive the full allowance for accountants fees prescribed by law. I am afraid I shall not get it cleared up by Xmas, can hardly expect that, but it is something to look forward to.

The printing I have had all done at Kynoch’s, of course at cost and credit which I was fortunate in obtaining without demur whatever in fact the printing department took unusual interest in my little commission, which I fully appreciate.

I hope Clondyke will continue to boom for your sake and Victoria generally, but I am

[10]

Sadly afraid there will be some dreadfull suffering by those who have failed to get through. Why did you not have your firm name on the envelope reminding the public of the American duty?!

Has the idea of sending over my valuables dropped out entirely, I should so like to get anything you can send. You see we furnished ? on the instalment plan, at the poorest rate and we lack comfort very much and it will be sometime yet before we can get the necessary additions to our present plant.

I longingly look forward to, at any rate, living times again

[11]

I hear Florence is to be married soon, I hope she will be happy.

When next you write do let me know how the Dad is + endeavour to persuade the boys to drop me a line or to – I hope Goodwin I will obtain the telegaraphist billet, which of course has meant a lot of work to learn and he will receive higher pay.

Hoping you and your family are enjoying good health and that I shall hear from you again soon.

I am

Your affectionate Brother

Ernest

Don’t talk about me getting any fishing – but it is refreshing to hear of your outings, let me have more of it.

Emmie sends her love to Cissy and your boy.

August 17, 2019 0

Ernest A Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 23 March 1897

EA Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 23 March 1897

[letterhead – Kynoch Limited Late G Kynoch & Company, Limited – Ammunition Works: Witton & Thames – Engineering Works: Witton – Rolling Mills: Lodge Road & Witton – Crucible & Siemens-Martin Steel Foundries: Witton – Black Gunpowder Works: Worsboro’ Dale – Cordite & Nitro-Explosive Works: Witton, Arklow & Thames – Smokeless Powder Mills: Thames – Chemical Works: Arklow & Thames – Soap, Candle & Glycerine Works: Witton – London Depot: 25 Heldon Street, Regent Street W

Lion Works, Witton, Birmingham]

March 23^rd 1897

Dear Fred,

I received your very welcome letter dated the 27^th ult on Saturday last and can read quite, quite, a story from [illegible] Winman’s clippings went Pleace ad the other beauties. Nemesis must be close behind. It is a pleasure to feel that you write cheerfully after having made a general analysis of your letter, your references to fishing preparations rather tends to create an unusual run of saliva, also your proposed return visit to Yale in April, when I hope you will be more successful in your search. You do not say what Jack is doing, your news re Goodwin surprises me, as to shortage at all events, altho I heard from Rutherford that Braund had that news some time ago, in fact Braund seems to be pretty well posted on one family matters. Both Braund and Rutherford are beauties, the latter I am totally disgusted with and shall be deeply thankful l when, what business we may have with him comes to a close in order that there need to be no necessity of even speaking to him. Your remark re Oak Bay finances interest me and am sorry you have to stand up as you do: anything I can do here in the way of urging on the transfer of the trust I am at your services, but I must get my instructions from Victoria

[2]

I cannot see that any good can come of Fry’s guardianship of the property. I understood Rutherford to say that Fry claimed the Acock’s Green tenant had not paid any rent for some time, had failed or something , now you say he has given notice to leave at Easter, not without paying up I hope. Rutherford is willing (and has to Fry so too) to release the Trustee + join in the indemnity deed, on the condition that a sum the equivalent of Louise’s interest, or pro-rata, or whatever the will calls for, shall be left invested in England for the benefit of Louise’s children, and also R inferred to me when I last saw him, that this arrangement would remove Fry’s objection, but then I believe the latter is just a trifle nutty and has a vacillating mind. If Fry could be finished off and I cannot now see why not (providing his accounts are square) the Stocks could be easily enough converted and at once and transferred to BC then the Acock Green house could be dealt with as soon after as possible, anything at all, to improve the finances at Oak Bay would be better than under the present circumstances. Let me know what you think about it. I am waiting for authority to collect the pictures for you, they are at Rutherford’s brother’s house, have been cleaned and provide a handsome decoration to his walls, also he has Dad’s Secretaire and Japanese table, all of which Rutherford has asked me

[3]

To inform him when I am ready to fetch them and he will go with me and see that everything is handed to us just as he left it with his brother. Fred, I don’t think it would pay to pack the table and Dad’s secretaire for such a journey, so if I may take care of them for you until they are wanted, I should so like to and besides I have no sitting room furniture at all and those two things would be a start for another room. I have not heard from the Dad for 3 or 4 months now and suppose all my cutlery table linen, pictures, bed room & Parlour furniture has been well used, they evidently take a pride in showing to what extent their greed and selfishness will go without any comment, I hear my best curtains are in use in the Front room and I suppose my tools are on the down run, nevermind. I shan’t forget their cruelty in a hurry and may have a chance yet to prove what I say. I believe Emmie has written to mother about the things. We have just completed the re-construction of our company and next month I hope to be able to write and give you some idea of my progress during my short acquaintance with the Company, I have done very

[4]

Well indeed as far as a personal satisfaction goes, the matter of increased remuneration must wait a little while, remembering I have only been here less than six months and am in name (as yet) chief clerk of Kynock Limited over a staff of 83 men and 38 ladies – the chief clerk as far as salary goes, our Mr Atkins, takes the management of our new cycle works in line next – Our secretary Mr Frank Hirscham FCA in an interview with him about two months ago, expressed pleasure on behalf of himself and the Board at the improvements I had made in the accounts depart and asked me to be good enough to overseen the whole of the general offices as well as telling me that Mr Atkins would shortly be given a position he was more at home in than accounts and hoped to shew his appreciation of my services more substantially. I can let it rest at that. Eh!! Altho there is an immense amount of jealousy of “that cute yankee chap” that has to be contended with especially among the old servants of which there are quite a number. I could have given both Bert + George good situations several times over, in fact we are very short of Juniors (good) now, labour of all kinds is at a premium in Birmingham we have had an advertisement out for 300 girls for the works for 3 months, in which time we have only succeeded in obtaining 29 just fancy

[5]

If it will not be a trouble to you Fred I wish you would ask Blackwood to give you particulars of the Port Crescent property I bought with him (5 acres with Blackwood and 5 acres with Tom Ella) I want to know whether any taxes have been levied on it per se. If you could get all information from him and all that it is all right I should very much like you to get the papers made out for the whole two lots in your own name and hold them in trust for Emmie, whose money it was that purchased it. I suppose there is no chance of selling it, so Emmie wants it put into shape and held so that if ever is of value she will be able to give it to Harold, or at any rate she will not let me rest until sure that the property is still there, you will create a blessing on me by looking this up.

Altho I wrote you about the stuff I left at Oak Bat very fully once before, I do not want you to mention my present remarks to them, I would sooner leave that to their own conscience (if any). I shall as soon as this is posted commence looking forward to another letter from you, you have very little idea what a treat it is to heard from some of my

[In red at the top of the page]

We are sorry no one is likely to come over this spring as we very badly want Harold with us. Have not heard from him lately – if any chance of sending him, let me know + I will make some provision or another to get him here.

[6]

People.

It will be a very uphill summer for me (the weather does not suggest any summer yet) we are expecting another addition to our home about the end of June and have commenced speculating already as to the sex (if only one) and how we shall manage to provide a carriage paid entrance into the world, but suppose the ever watchfull providence has got on eye on [illegible] us + would have us not meet troubles half way. But I for one shall be very thankfull when it is all over and what kind of a hole were landed in is known.

I hope your family keep well, I suppose our other branches are alright or I should have heard. I had a letter from George yesterday, he writes briefly but not too blue, hope by that he is doing better, am marking him a few lines today, he tells me Edith is likely to assert herself in June too, two of my wife’s sisters May + August so something must be wrong somewhere Eh!!

Stavirt any more to bother you with old man, so with Best Love + wishes for the future I would like a line from Bert to hear how he is getting on

Your affectionate Brother

Ernest

August 15, 2019 0

Letter, Ernest Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 1896

Letter, Ernest Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 7 Dec 1896

109 Whitehead Road, Aston, Dec 7^th 1896

Dear Fred

I received your kind and most welcome letter yesterday, Sunday 6^th having been the usual (lately) 17 days coming. It is very kind of you to take so much trouble in endeavouring to collect the money Pleace owes me and I sincerely hope you will be successful. I suppose all Pleace’s personal estate is by transfer merged into the Standard Co Ltd ? but at any rate a judgement against him would cover any estate he has; He had some property at Wellington, his own house at Nanaimo was in his own name and he has life Insurance and numbers of interests in departures of a more or less speculative nature in fact everything belonging to the Nanaimo business, either the hardward +c or property in connection therewith was recorded as Pleace’s, Tye was never even known in the business at all until I managed to handle the Pleace with the result as I left it last July, he then having paid Tye’s attorney out – what Pleace has been up to since goodness only knows. The whole lot of them are a lot of scheming swindlers and the weakest among themselves will, I suppose go to the wall.

Re being employed –

I am surprised at the knowledge of old S[illegible] Kelly and can only trace it to the immaculate Thomson again; during Expressmen’s orations, because Amy was

[2]

the only person who my wife mentioned it to and giving no particulars at all + I certainly have not mentioned it to anyone save yourself or the Dad = the fellow is a born idiot.

Next time Galley asks you as to the where abouts of the Kelly Estate books, it might be as well to ask him what business it is of his, the ignorant booby, if any particulars are required re the Kelly Estate, I or my co Trustee can only furnish same to interested people, not idle curiosity mongers.

Mr Hall the manager of Hudson’s Bay Co, is my co trustee and wanted me to call a meeting and tell the Crs there was nothing for them, as there is in fact not enough in the Bank BNA to our a/c (and which represents it all) to pay legal expenses but he went east for 2 or 3 months _ so it slid on again.

Emmie says the books were packed with my other things and are, if so, out at Oak Bay, there should also be some papers with particulars of what little money was collectable + a Bank + Cheque Book shewing account – there should also be a cheque given me by Mr E Crowe Baker in payment of an old widow’s a/c. I forget the name, this cheque was given me when Hall was away on his journies and for months I was unable to get his signature to it for Banking purposes, the cheque was dated some little time before Mrs Baker died and after that I let the matter slide again + finally forgot to ask Mr Baker to write out a new cheque as the other

[3]

Was too ridiculously old to present. If Hall explains this to Baker + returns him his cheque I don’t suppose he would object to pay coin now, the amount (if the cheque is not amongst my papers at the Bay) is $15. All the packing was done by my wife as you know, long before I knew she insisted upon visiting her people + says she packed the Kelly books but I don’t recollect them ever having been removed out of the (Tye’s) office except when Fred Nickells had them to make out what accounts he could, ≠ to called under my instructions, those he made out were paid out or covered by contia when he presented them (some settled after assignment by not to all some himself) or not to and finally given up as bad. Mind, if the books are in one of the cases at Oak Bay they are joint property of myself + Hall and the everlasting Galley crowd have no interest in them, than the man in the moon, they will want to possess the earth in reality presently. I’ve no doubt their ignorance suggests to their own enlightened minds that it ought to belong to them. If the books are found let Hall have them, but send any papers to me in connection therewith to me + I will put them into shape and with instructions to

[4]

Hall to let one or two of the largest expenditures declare what shall be done with the money then at any time I can sign a Bank BNA cheque so that Ha; can hand the funds over to whom it may legally have the paid claim upon it – But I shall not go to any further expense in the trust, I have already paid sufficient out without any chance of recovery.

11^th

I have kept this letter back a day or two as I could not convincingly spare the postage money just at the time – I received the “Times” you so kindly sent me containing poor Fullers case + particulars of Wallis’ predicament. The loss of Will must prove a terrible blow to his parents, and will I suppose affect the Esquimalt firm in some way or another.

I have not heard from anyone in BC but yourself and am sorry that some one doesn’t write if it is only a line to let me know how they all are [illegible]

I don’t suppose this letter will reach you much before the New Year so will take this opportunity of wishing with all my heart that 1897 will be a prosperous one in business and that

[5]

You and your family will be blessed with good health +

Give Emmie’s love to Cissie and tell her she will write a line shortly to her. I have had Emmie down for a considerable time now with a severe cold, she caught it from the children at first and had check after check until she lately had to give up, if we could only get some dry weather and less changeable atmosphere, I think we should fare better. Am very lucky in not being laid up myself, but mustn’t brag, there is a terrible lot of sickness around us; principally this being emplant + diphteria and am still without any line from Fry, so cannot give you any news of him or his idiosynchrisities.

Many, many thanks, again for your kindness to me and longing to hear that you are coming over in the spring, which I should do, if I were you, I suppose someone of your firm will make the trip and it is about time you had a change. When you write again please previously find out how dear little Harold is. I shall feel more at home when he is with us again, in the meantime I am struggling along and so long as I am left without kindness, to nurse my present occupation, no one need fear the result – your little lecture as you term it if applied

[written in red atop the page]

I would like a letter from George and Bert is the latter doing anything he had better come here – there is lots of work for willing people, that is better than no work at all.

[G Kyncoch & Company, Limited Ammunition Works Whitton, Rolling Mills Lodge Road Birmingham Crucible & Siemens-Martin Steel Foundries Witton; Black Gunpowder Works: Worsboro Dale Cordite & Nitro-Explosives Works Arklow London Depot 25 Heddon Street, Regent Street, W]

[6]

To intemperance or reckless living I accept as you desire as genuinely given + with good intentions, the whole “history” of what creates in you + other minds an idea of my moral + physical down run, is not well understood and I it is here, have always avoided excusing myself having nearly amply sound reasons for many matters which have misconstruction to my cost and possibly in my weakness made me in ignorant anger worse and for which I have suffered alone, nevertheless Fred old man you will be pleased I know to hear – that what trouble I have now I have learned at all events not to abuse myself for, and this policy I adopted when I placed my foot on British soil last, amongst has never been left sight of + I do not think ever will was, and it is no more a necessity to use artificial + sont eating stimulants now I am happy indeed to sing in order to live.

I went over to Acocks Green last night to help them in an entertainment walked both ways, programme enclosed.

Let me hear from you again Fred as soon as you can get time. Kind love and more Best wishes for you next year

Your affectionate Brother

Ernest

August 11, 2019 0

Emma Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 15 Feb 1913

39 Audrey Road, Ilford

Sunday 15th

Dear Fred,

My trouble is more than I can bear – dear Harold passed away last Thursday. I had a cable on Thursday (Harold dangerously ill, very little hope, from Grace & Co, London) I went to them Friday for me, the suspense was too awful. Mr Grace then told me the worst. I am afraid to write to Granny, it might give her a shock – she has so much trouble lately. I was taking Irene’s and Norman’s tickets on the Friday for Valparaiso – where they meant to work. I return the money to enable us all to go later – now it is all over – Excuse more. I have to write to Harold’s poor little widow. God help her.

Love to all, yours very sincerely

Emmie

PS I had the insurance last Wednesday.

August 9, 2019 1

Postcard from Ernest Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 1911

Postcard to Frederick Pauline from Ernest A Paulin, c.1911

8 Alliance Series Leigh Front (East), Leigh-on-Sea FC Slatter Leigh-on-Sea

Fred A Pauline Esq

Yates St

Victoria

British Columbia

Recd photo this a.m. absolutely splendid. Many, many thanks. Quite a treasure. Kind love from everyone here. Am having a few days holidays just now.

Ernest.

August 7, 2019 0

Letter from Ernest Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 27 Oct 1896

Letter, Ernest Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 27 October 1896

107 Whitehead Road, Aston

Oct 27^th 1896

Dear Fred,

I had a letter from the Dad and one from George a few days ago and have not answered them as I have been expecting to hear from you as the last I had was confirming your cable remittance to Mr Stokes of the proceeds of Please’s first note + which I acknowledged by return thanking you for your trouble.

First I must extend to you my most profound sorrow for the loss of your fine little boy and extend my sympathy in your great loss, which I only too well know must have been a great trial to yourself and Cissy – Emmie wishes particularly to condole with you also. I cannot say anymore Fred, but I know what it is to lose them.

You will see by above that I have changed my locality, which was done that I might be nearer my work. I have not told anyone of my having at last secured a position with Kynock’s Co the great ammunition people at Witton, and am starting my new life with this wealthy and immense firm on a fair basis. I do not wish this known so please keep this information to yourself Fred. I have reason for this at present, one

[2]

Of which is that I believe the Galley family (this ignorance of actual facts which I shall never give them unless compelled to do) would have people believe I robbed Tye’s estate as they term it and they manifest their usual indiscretion in doing so, not for the sake of the untruth + libel alone, but for their own sakes inasmuch as they have me + me alone to thank for one cent of the concern today and their shabby treatment of me, is a repetition of ignorance rising suddenly in affluence, never giving a thought as to how it came about or by whom, being content I presume and covering themselves with the importance thereof, under the shortsighted conclusion that it is so – I sincerely hope they will make good use of the magnificent start given them and are carefull not to so expose their inability as to compel a lesson in another direction entirely. If you have heard any statements that the Dad appears to have done through that medium of authority Thomson, I shall be glad if you will contradict same if you will for me and take my authority for it. There was one or two amounts drawn by me on a/c of a cheque due me that Mrs Tye refused to sign which formed a part payment of the amount due me by Mr Tye and were left in abeyance by me for adjustment “when Mr Tye returned” and

[3]

Which was done by me per Taylor’s own request, but of which the Galley’s know nothing and I suppose Taylor being afraid of offending his particular friend Mrs Tye hasn’t explained to their august personages – Mr Tye (or as the Galley’s now glory in terming the Tye Estate) still owes me a considerable sum of money leaving out the interest in the business he left instructions for me to be possessed of and which Mr Richards his late partner here avers was my right and would be today had the female mushrooms in the commercial line not have grabbed the opportunity of incarcerating poor old Tye, to nothing more or less than defeat that end, regardless of the cruelty of the man who has kept them all their lives and whom today did he but know what has transpired, would still say as everyone who had his confidence during the time I represented him can say now, that “Pauline’s place is and always will be while that business lasts at the head of it, as had he not have been the best friend I possibly could confide in I should be a beggar today + perhaps a convict.” This latter scene overdrawn but it is time – I am frequently having

[4]

From Mr Richards who is in business again for himself and I should not be surprised if he has not made an attempt to reach Mr Tye by letter direct as he complains of having written several times during the last two years + has had not even an acknowledgement from Tye’s attorney (Taylor). I am very carefull not to say too much to him, but of course he intends to know the reason why he doesn’t receive scant courtesy, he, Richards, holds documentary promise of a private nature from Tye, given him while the latter was in England and would be foolish if he didn’t see what was in t hem. The position I hold at Kynock’s is one of no mean calibre + it would retard what is undoubtedly a pleasant prospect, were any of the Galley’s lies to become known to the Directors – who are comprised of the Chamberlains, two Nettlefords, Lacy, Hookham + Gen’l Arbuthnot, all of whom personally endorsed my appointment, after three Board examinations which at first claimed two hundred + thirteen applicants, the final bringing out six, I being the only stranger amongst them + the successful one, my knowledge of intricacies in estates and divisions + analysis of same and other matters of a private nature analogous to large concerns gave me opportunity to even surprise myself when I found what genius (rule of three style) I had been

[5]

Competing against but never mind that. It would be the last straw were my hard earned chances to be blighted by the slightest interference of the filthy ignorance of the cursed Galley’s, it makes my blood boil to write the name.

I am sorely in need of Pleace’s money + cannot understand not having had the second one by now as the third + the proceeds of the cheque are due as well. Of course beyond what money my wife owed her friends here I have had to borrow further or starve; this is not a town to live on jawbone in and feel my position very keenly. I was fortunate in getting furniture enough for two rooms (all plain wood things + no carpet) on tick at an installment place and paid one installment out of last money and am being dunned for one overdue, but hope to get some from you every day now, or they will take that little away from me. Mrs Stokes lent us some bed clothes + c to go on with, so you may laugh at our poverty, but I shall never please God have to swallow my pride in the way I have done here since I came again. Do your best to hurry some money along Fred sometimes I lose heart a little but grim determination has so far kept me going. I wrote asking the Dad to sell what furniture I left at Oak Bay a long time ago, please

[6]

Jog his memory, you cannot possibly conceive what a blessing it will be to get some clothes and furniture to make our poor home cheerfull. The money I owe to my wife’s friends I intend on paying off in installments when I can from my salary when it commences to come in. I am expecting a letter from Fry every day in reply to my last to him + upon receiving his answer will drop you a short note advising you of its contents.

Give my kind regards to all particularly the Dad, George + your own household and excuse the length of my letter, then I will give you more to read next time on matters not so painfully impregnated with the troubles of

Your affectionate brother

Ernest

Emmie sends her kindest regards to yourself and Cissy and would very much like to know if anyone is coming over this season, so that we can make some arrangement to have Harold with us again. We heard from Mrs Archibald the other day that he is well; dear little chap we do miss him. Sorry to hear Herbert is still doing nothing.

Pleas keep the fact of my being in harness again strictly to yourself. I had to write and tell Pleace because I wanted a reference from him. Hope he won’t tell Galleys. If you see Pleace you might ask him not to and he can read this if you like.

August 5, 2019 1