Victor Paulin to Edith Nickells Paulin, 1917

Stockbridge

Royal Flying Corps

December 28, 1917

Dear Mother,

Steno, I am again just before bed scratching off a few lines, no mail has arrived from Canada yet. I received a letter from “Ruby”enclosing a picture, of herself, which I answered immediately, she says Wilf has not written her for 12 months. I wrote back saying I would write him a scolding letter. I also had letters from Ben, Wilf and George. Wilf is, at present on leave he is going up to Aberdeen, whatever for

I can’t tell you, and will stay off at B’ham for a day to see Ben. George hasn’t got anything to say in his letters at all, never mentioned being gassed at all.

I expect 4 days leave soon and will go and see Ben and Ruby, also Mrs Pauline in B’ham. I am afraid I have forgotten if she has children or not, and I might make a break in showing her how ignorant I am regarding some of my relatives. She has been to see Ben, and asked Ben about “Sid”, Ben didn’t know know of any other “Sid” but Sid Thomson so I concluded it

Must be he. But couldn’t figure out how “Sid” knew Aunty “Emmy”. I think thats her name. I’m only making a rough guess. So I am going to wait until she writes me, and kind of break the ice a little. I might get real hold of one of these days and write, “my dear aunt” but no “Emmy”. It would be a good one on me if I wrote “my dear Aunt Emmy” and her name was “Maud” or something of that kind.

How is Dad? I wrote him about a week ago. Yes I ought to get a bunch of letters, for the letters are written, I must have scrawled off about 100.

I had a quiet Christmas

went for a walk around the courtyards, Hants is a very pretty country. W is had a y~~~ feed for a change, that was the only thing that made it seem the least bit like Christmas. I ~~~ was getting better now, but when we ~~~~ here, Wow! W~~ kicked every day, they curse through with a little service.

Well Ma, I hope this letter is not a “fearful bore” (English for D- nuisance) it is near the end now. Love to all, and heaps to Dad and yourself.

Your loving son

Victor

PS “How’s Toby” and Mrs Jones? Don’t confuse the two!

October 23, 2019 0

Victor Reginald Paulin letter home, nd

Fancy me writing a letter like this. I am afraid I will get brain storm.

Letter 2 [nd]

While in Waterloo Station on my way back the other day, a Canadian officer came up and asked me where he could buy a paper. I did not know as it was Sunday, and we got talking. He asked me where I came from, and I told him, so he asked me my name as he also came from Victoria. I told him, and instantly we were old friends, as it was young Gonnason, he was on leave from France and was through the same show

that Ben and George got at with Passchendale. I told him all about Ben and we had quite a nice little talk. So nice that I nearly missed my train.

As regards to my insurance, it is a safe investment if you pay it because I will be in a position to pay it soon. From the first of this month I get 25 bob a day, but my allowances which make up the large portion of this sum were paid about ~~~~~ in arrears, so when they come through and my account gets “properly started” I will send you a draft.

The last night I went to Zigg Zagg, a musical revue in London and enjoyed it very much. Cousin Hilda, sings very nicely if she had someone to play for her. Gracie plays a little, but not much. Gracie is married to a returned soldier with one arm, and lives across the street from her Mother. She is not nearly as nice as Hilda, she has picked up the same way of speaking as the people they been living amongst in Perry Bar (some place) and reminds me very much of Aunty Polly, always acting the goat and making faces. But there is all the differences in the world between

the two. Well Ma, this is about the longest letter I have ever written, and as all things must have an ending, I must break off right here, simply from lack of news and brains fag.

With all kinds of love to Dad and yourself

Your affectionate son

Vic

October 21, 2019 0

WPC Leonard to George Paulin(e), 1918

Letter to George Paulin, Victoria from WPC Leonard, Chaplain to the forces

May 10, 1918,

No 23 Squadron, Royal Air Force

Dear Mr Pauline,

It is with deep sympathy that I write to you about the great loss which you have been called upon to bear in the death of your son while flying.

I can assure you that every member of the Squadron shares your sorrow to the uttermost, and feels for you sincerely in this overwhelming loss.

Your boy made many friends among us, and earned the very highest opinion and admiration as a pilot. He was absolutely fearless, and had he been spared, I am certain would have made a great name.

The Commanding officer, Major Bryant, will probably have told you, as he told me, that he looked upon your boy as his best and stoutest hearted pilot.

It was excess of keenness and enthusiasm which really caused his death, for he was trying to do a difficult climbing turn, when the machine crashed to the ground, killing your son instantly.

We laid him to rest this afternoon in the British Cemetery near St Omer, and as soon as possible a cross made out of a propeller will be erected to his memory. The Co. and all officers who were not on duty came to the service, in which we laid his earthly remains to rest, and commended his brave soul to the keeping of Him who also gave his life to pay the price of a purer and better world.

Out here we begin to understand that death, is not the end; it is but the gateway of a fuller and more perfect life. One day we shall meet again in that promised land where death is swallowed up in victory.

I know that no words of mine can relieve your grief, but I hope that God will comfort you and give you pride in the greatness of the sacrifice which your boy has laid on the Altar of Patriotism.

In deepest sympathy, in which all ranks wish to join,

Believe me

Very Sincerely Yours

MPG Leonard,

Chaplain to the Forces.

October 19, 2019 0

Victor Reginald Paulin to Edith Nickells Paulin, 1918

Letter to Mrs George Paulin from son Victor Paulin, France 22 April 1918

Dear mother,

How are things in old Victoria? Received a letter from Victoria yesterday giving all the latest events, from Nancy Riddell, they are now living at 793 Stillside Ave, wants a snap of me, so I told her to call on you, and you would be sure to give her one. I hope you received the postcards taken at Ayr and the 2 films taken in France while I was in the pool.

I have just returned from Baron von Richtofffen’s funeral, he was the German “star” aviator, and was brought down yesterday by one of the chaps in this wing. He flew a red tryplane. I also went and had a look at that this morning. It was quite a funeral for France, a firing party of Australians, and the pall bearers were officers of the Australian Flying Corps. During the ceremony a formation of our machines flew around the cemetery, everyone was wishing that he had been brought down alive, as he was a brave fellow. I have had him dive on me on one occasion, and am not at all sorry he is out of it, at the same time I have every respect in the world for him, if Idid not happen to be able to dive faster than he on the occasion I mention, he would have “got me” -as the him tryplane is a very frail machine and is liable to break up at a great speed. He couldn’t follow me, believe me, I had “gust up” when I knew that the “star”

“him” was on my tail.

I received a letter from Aunty Nellie, also one from Ben, Ruby and Hilda, everything in the garden is rosy so far as Ruby and Ben are concerned. It appears they have both written me, but I have not received the letters.

Say Mother, did Aunty Floss ever write me? I have never heard from any of our relatives in Victoria, except that one letter from Aunty Doll Aunty Polly. I must have lost a whole batch of mail. I have written about a hundred letters for every one I receive. Expected one from you today, it seems funny that I should receive a letter from Nancy from Victoria, and no other mail with it. Perhaps some more is coming !!!(This letter was dated 11 March)

In case you haven’t received my other letters my address is 23 Squadron, RAF, BED France. I received a letter from Wilf recently, he was in London for a few days. I will get leave in about a month, and will send some more music for Dad, tell him to write a few lines once in a while. I haven’t had a letter from him since I landed in England. I received a Christmas card from him that is all, Well Ma must close now, hope Toby won’t be a nuisance to you, the best way would be to raffle him for the Red Cross!! deducting your expenses.

Love to Dad and yourself, your loving son Vic

October 17, 2019 0

Ernest Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 1908

Letter from Ernest Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 6 Dec 1908

22 Britannia Road, Ilford

6/12/1908

I thought that I would send you just a word or two with the “Ole” fashion Xmas card.

Because sometimes the writing means more than the card. Nevertheless, when you have nine years “trying to sell typewriters and a pen in your hand about once a month.” Criticism is barred. I nearly danced a “Reel” when I read the official announcement and I am indeed thankfull that you are still better off.

I hope that Bert will prove trumps, George must + will. Of course, I got news sometimes from the Dad + Mother and there

[2]

Is generally something of interest.

It seems hard sometimes that I quite alone here; but I feel sure I could do better out of this Foggy City – It is hard work. But I am not grumbling Fred, am not actually starving + with Gods blessing and the health that is necessary (which I have made a serious study of, since starting a new life back in the old country) I hope to see some of my family once more.

Nothing pleases me better than to hear that your years of hard plodding, thoughtfull life, are an almost assured success. I wish with all my heart that I could shake hands with you, otherwise, than on paper.

[3]

Business generally is very bad. The present government seem to indulge in fractional party politics, or “Locking up suffragettes”

I don’t know whether you ever see the ½ Mirror I send to Dad every day. Would you like it?

Just one more look at your handwriting. It will only cost gone 2c. Please.

Every Xmas I miss awfully away from our Family circle

Ernest

[4]

You will be pleased to know that Harold (who is 21 next March) is doing very well in his 3 years engagement in Weir Scott + Co, Valparaison. He started at £150 a year, with an increase of £10 during the 3 years and good prospects of a continuance of advantage after.

It is a pleasure to send his thanks for getting with the firm, and a further pleasure to know that his employers here feel the same as myself.

Rene + Grace are working now, in a large general supplies stores in Ilford here, and are very proud that they can pay for their own clothes. Hilda + Norman are at School. Norman is learning draughts fine.

September 14, 2019 0

Ernest Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 1899

Letter Ernest Paulin to Frederick Pauline, 18 Oct 1899

[Typewritten]

“Hillside” Farquhar Road, Moseley

Oct’r 18^th 1899

My Dear Fred

I will not attempt to express how thankfull I was to receive your kind enclosure, coming as it did unexpected and just at a time when any pecuniary assistance was more than usually valuable. I should like to have some good news from you and am looking forward to your promised next.

I wrote to George a week or two ago, which letter you might have seen, lettering you know that I have taken a Commission job on the introduction of a new typewriter, the “Oliver” on one which I am writing this short note; as there are thirteen typewriter agencies in Birm’m most of them with a ten years start or more you can imagine that there is not much in it but hard and disappointing work; when I tell you that it has taken me nine weeks to draw £4 you can fairly calculate the up the hill job it is. Nevertheless I have every confidence in the machine and eventually may be better; of course during the disastrous cycle boom here every body was in the cycle trade & every one had typewriters, so now that scores of the mushroom companies are gone, the market is glutted with typewriters of various degrees of perfection and price and these naturally very much handicap the sale anything new, and will do so for some time to come; but “Nil Desperendum”

You may tell the Dad that Red Cliffe House matter is concluded and that by to-morrow at latest I shall forward to him all the particulars of the transaction and hope he will found my stewardship of his interest satisfactory. As my letter to the Dad will be somewhat lengthy

-over-

[2]

I can embody any further items of interest in it, which no doubt the Dad will permit you to peruse. If you could have witnessed the relief that your kindness brought into our almost proverbially empty house, I feel sure that it would have amply repaid you for your kind thoughtfulness. I hope you and yours are well and that Piercy’s trip to Dawson will prove lucrative. Permit me to again express the hope that you kept on the near side of the Klondyke business and that your usual care and tactical discretion will leave your transactions well on the right side.

Emmie wishes me to convey her sincerest thanks to you and the little kiddies, who of course benefitted by your kindness have reminded me several times not to forget Uncle Fred’s present and tell him that now we have got new boots, we are going to school again and they will black their boots every morning and see how long they can make them last.

With kindest love and a hope that I shall get some news from Victoria again shortly,

Your affectionate Brother

Ernest

September 12, 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 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 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