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Wheeler
collection of photos and letters
the more recent letters have private addresses removed
Page 1 -
Photos, Cards and Misc. and some earlier
letters 1938 to 1955
This Page - Letters
in chronological order
1956
 
  
 
  
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1) 28 Windsor Park, Belfast 13th March 1956 - Dear Lord MacDermott, It is
with the greatest regret that I am at last compelled to inform you that I
really can no longer continue properly to fulfil my duties as Registrar of
the Supreme Court. Dr/ Pantridge and my own doctor visited me on Friday
evening only to find that my condition had deteriorated a little even after
the treatment of Cortisone which they had felt confident some few weeks ago
would have helped me, This necessitates a further short period of rest in
bed and Dr. Pantridge's clear opinion is that, if I am to make a recovery, I
cannot do so if I continue with the work and responsibilities of the Courts.
This is my own feeling too, as one must inevitably be forced to the
conclusion after so long a fight as I have had - literally without winning a
single round - that the time has come to throw in the sponge. I must
therefore ask you to allow me to retire on the grounds of ill health. My
wife and I are quite unable to thank you adequately for your great kindness
and consideration during my illness, and I personally find it difficult to
express my own appreciation of your invariable courtesy towards me during my
short period as Registrar. This is a most grievous blow to me; I had hoped
to enjoy the benefits of my position for several years to come, both for my
own and for my wife's sake, for in our earlier years money was not so
plentiful and we both had to make many sacrifices. I have tried always to do
my very best work but I have often known that better results could have been
achieved had I had the support of a more virile and helpful staff. I am, my
Lord, Yours very sincerely, J. G. Wheeler
2) Judges' Lodgings, Enniskillen 18.III.56 - My dear Wheeler, I have your
letter of the 13th March conveying Dr. Pantridge's opinion and offering your
resignation. This is, indeed, sad news for myself and the Supreme Court
service and I have received it with deep regret. But in view of what the
doctors say it would be wrong to try and persuade you to stay on and I must,
I feel, accede to your retirement from office. I know this is a heavy blow
for you - as it is for us all - but your sense of duty is too strong to
allow you to continue without feeling the burdens of the Registrarship, and
it is clear that being free of these will be a big factor in the process of
recovery. I need hardly say that your departure from the Courts will be for
me a personal loss. I have never regretted your appointment, and I can
assure you that it has been a great relief and comfort to have one of your
character and ability at the head of the Registrar's department. Please
accept my warmest thanks for all you have done in the service of the Courts
since you came to them. In all that long period you have been content to
maintain but one standard - the highest - and have given continuously of
your best. And may I thank you also for the wonderful example of courage and
cheerfulness you have set us all during the long and trying months of your
illness. During that time you, of course, thought you were doing nothing,
Instead, you were teaching us a lesson I hope we may never forget, and may
I, with great respect, venture to include your wife in that? I cannot say
more than that her cheerfulness and courage matched your own. I hope and
pray that, without the worry of trying to get well in a hurry, your health
will improve. You have shown such powers of recuperation that I'm sure
recovery will be helped by the easement which retirement will bring you. I
hope to call when I get back. Meantime fix such date as suits you with
Ritchie. With my kindest regards to you both. Yours sincerely, Macdermott
3) 4 Taswell Road, Southsea 7.4.56 - Dear Tim, our letter has been seen by
Helen and myself. Lord M. leaves no doubt about when he thinks of you;
curious that he doesn't seem to entirely agree with W. L. W.! You must be
mighty pleased with his letter, and Pearl too. So you continue to go through
the process of attempted robotisation of your bodily functions! your frame
must be composed as much of synthetic chemicals as of flesh. But as long as
you have your own fertile brain, we will all be only too pleased, whatever
the means by which you are relieved from physical torture. I am glad that
others besides your family have noticed the amazing courage with which you
have fought your affliction. It has certainly been an astonishing
exhibition. I do indeed wish you many years of happy retirement, and hope to
see you from time to time, which I always enjoy even if I am at times a
subject of your caustic wit. But I don't mind. Its worth it. God bless you.
Walter
4) 22 Clonallon Park, Belfast Monday 14th May - Dear Tim, I was greatly
touched by your very kind letter of congratulations and I do appreciate most
sincerely your kind thought in writing and all the good wishes from Pearl
and yourself for May and me. I do wish the position had never arisen for me
to have to take on your duties for I'd have been much happier continuing to
work with you and under you. That was a real pleasure to me (as it was to do
anything in your absence in the hope you would be able to return to us) and
I'd have been only too glad to go on as we were, helping you in your work
for an indefinite period if that had been possible. But I know only too well
the great effort you made until you became physically exhausted and I hope
sincerely that now you have been relieved from the anxiety and strain you
will rapidly improve and be long spared to enjoy your retirement. Your
resignation will be a great loss to the Court and a great personal loss to
your staff and to myself in particular. I have been very happy in my work
since I joined the High Court and that has been mainly due to the very kind
and friendly way in which I was received, especially by yourself and Pearl.
I shall miss greatly your experienced advice and wise counsel but I feel
sure I can still call on you in case of any special difficulty, and what I
value most that our friendship will continue. May would I know join
wholeheartedly with me in sending her thanks if she were with me and will be
greatly pleased to read your kind letter which I shall send on to her. Yours
most sincerely Billy Shorr or Sharp - 15th May 1956 Postmark Belfast to J.
G. Wheeler Esq., Ashbourne, 13 Lisburn Road, Balmoral, Belfast
 
 
 
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1) Registrar's Office, Royal Courts of Justice, Belfast 15th June 1956 -
Dear Mr. Wheeler, It was with very great regret that we learnt of your
decision to retire from the office of Registrar of the Supreme Court, after
a period of 35 years devoted to its service - particularly because your
retirement was due to ill health. We know well the long and trying illness
you have had, and we admired greatly your efforts to continue in your work
until you became physically exhausted. Your retirement has meant a big loss
to the Court in general and in particular a personal loss to your colleagues
and staff and others associated with you. We miss very much your wise and
experienced advice and guidance, tempered always with your sense of humour.
We do not forget you and, as an expression of our appreciation of all you
have done and of our feelings of loss and continuing affection, we are
sending you an Armchair, which we hope sincerely you will use and enjoy for
many years. May it remind you of the high regard we have for you and your
wife, and of our very good wishes for you both. I am writing on behalf of
all those associated with this gift and I enclose a list of their names.
Yours sincerely, W. ? Sharp - J. G. Wheeler, Esq., 13 Lisburn Road, Finaghy,
Belfast
List of name:- J. Ritchie, W. McC. Sharpe, G. J. Cairns, Miss Mary Cullen,
H. P. Moore, Miss E. Henry, W. Dodds, G. D. Hunt, T. A. W. McMillan, William
Moore, J. K. Davis, R. L. G. Davison, F. Robinson, J. Craig, W. Holland,
Miss Burns, B. W. McConnell, W. Pugh, Vivian Care, Miss Stewart, Miss
Gulston, Miss Wadsworth, Miss Ervine, Miss White, Miss Ellis, Mrs. Martin,
Miss McClintock, J. R. Lindsay, Miss M. Flack, W. P. B. Lawther, Miss M.
Aiken, T. S. Townley, R. T. Millar, J. Sloan, Miss K. Moutray, Miss I.
Walker, T. Dunne, A. E. McConnell, H. Morrison, W. T. Barry, J. A. G.
McGonigal, A. E. Anderson
2) Pear Tree Cottage, Nr. Burwash, Sussex 21/6/56 - My Dear Pearl, We are
sharing this very anxious time with you. A long letter arrived from Marge
today giving us the latest news of poor Tim. What a battle he is fighting
against tremendous odds, and getting weaker each day. You have been
indefatigable and must by now, be feeling the strain terribly, but, still
untiring in looking after him, one cannot but feel that the end cannot be
far off, and indeed it would be a release for he could never be strong
enough to enjoy life again. I'm sure that he, poor fellow, must realise that
now, and is prepared to leave a world of turmoil & distress, for a better
place. You have all my admiration and sympathy, & my love to Tim. Yours
Bindon Blood
3) My darling's hair
4) The High Court of Justice in Northern Ireland, King's Bench Division
(Probate), Principal Registry, Royal Courts of Justice, Belfast 4th July
1956 - Dear Tim, You are never much out of our thoughts these days at the
Courts. I am so glad to hear the latest good news about you. I send you
these roses picked this morning from my garden. With kindest remembrances
from Yours Sincerely James Lindsay
5) The Royal Courts of Justice, Ulster, Belfast 9th July 1956 - Dear Mrs.
Wheeler, It was with very great regret that my staff and I heard to-day that
Mr. Wheeler had passed away and we tender to you and your son our deepest
sympathy in your loneliness and sorrow. You will miss him all the more
because of the devoted care you have lavished upon him during his long
illness. Since his retirement Mr. Wheeler has been greatly missed by all the
staff. We had hoped that freedom from the cares and responsibilities of this
office would have benefited his health and that he might have been spared to
enjoy his well-earned leisure for a little longer, but it was not to be.
Personally, I have lost an old and valued friend - one with whom I have
worked for nearly 35 years and whose wide advice and help was always freely
given in any difficulty. The original staff is a rapidly dwindling band, and
now one of the best and kindest has gone. You will be much in our thoughts
at this sad time. Yours very sincerely, Edith McClintock
  
 
 
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1) 46 Upper Cavehill Road, Belfast 19th July 1956 - My Dear Pearl, As our
phone has been out of order during the past few days, Phyl has been unable
to get in touch with you, actually she was keen to go over tonight if she
could have contacted you, however it has given me an opportunity to write
and thank you for your letter received the other day. Tim and you have
always been our best friends and we regarded it as a privilege to be able to
help even if it was only in a small way. Phyl and I will never forget the
happiness you both brought into our lives and even though Tim is no longer
with us, time will never dim the wonderful memories we have of him, his
great sense of understanding and quick wit endeared him to us for all time.
Phyl and I would like you to know that our home - such as it is - has an
open door as far as you and Gordon are concerned and if at any time and in
any way either of us can be of assistance to you, you know that you have
only to ask and we will be more than delighted to help. I have always
been full of admiration for you Pearl and know that no one had more courage
to face the coming years than you have, but never the less Phyl and I would
like to feel that we were sharing the future with you and I am sure Tim
would like it that way, however Pearl no matter what the future holds for us
we want you to know that you will always have two friends who will always be
glad that they met Tim and Pearl. Very Sincerely Yours Harry
2) Bar Library, Royal Courts of Justice, Ulster, Belfast 12th July 1956 -
Dear Mrs. Wheeler, The Bar Council & Members of the Bar have asked me to
write to you & your son to offer, on their behalf, their deepest sympathy on
your recent bereavement. It was with a deep sense of shock that we learnt of
his passing, following, as it did, so soon after his retirement. Mr. Wheeler
was held in the highest regard by all of us & his obvious ability was
recognised by all who came in contact with him. His loss to the profession
is a heavy one & he will long be remembered by us with kindly affection.
Yours Sincerely, R. W. Porter? Hon. Secretary
3) Nutley, 37 Adelaide Park, Belfast 17th July 1956 - Dear Gordon, I was
very sorry to hear of your fathers' death, and although it must be a great
relief in many ways, not only to himself, but to you and your mother, I am
sure that you will both miss him very much. Neville has often told me what a
fine man he was, and I know too that he will be greatly missed by everybody
at the Law Courts, where he was always held in very high esteem by all his
many friends there. Please accept my deepest sympathy on your great loss.
Yours very seriously Melville
4) Mayview, 453 Upper Newtownards Road, Knock, Belfast 11th July 1956 - Dear
Mrs. Wheeler, It was with deep regret that I read the notice of the passing
of Mr. Wheeler. Accept of my very sincere sympathy in the this sad hour,
also your son. I recall how kind he was when we met in July 1947. I would
have been at the funeral only I had an important engagement at 3 p.m. on
Tuesday. Please convey my sympathy to the other members of his family. May
you know the comfort of the blessed Lord in this bitter experience. Yours
very sincerely, C. H. Macartney Clayton(?)
5) Kimberley, Upper Dunmurry Lane, Dunmurry 10th July 1956 - Dear Mrs.
Wheeler, It was with great regret that we learned of Mr. Wheeler's death.
Knowing the outlook, you must have carried a very heavy burden during the
past months. We should like you to know that you have our deepest sympathy.
Yours sincerely, Walter E. Morton(?)
6) 41 Wesburyway(?) July 11th 1956 - Dear Pearl, This is just to say how
much Gertrude & I sympathize with you and Gordon in the terrible loss to you
both. You have seen poor Tim suffering for so long that even in your sorrow
there must be relief that it is all over and he is at peace & free from
pain. His going will leave a great gap in your lives for some time to come,
but your happy recollections of life with him will be a comfort. Wishing you
both every blessing, Yours sincerely ? Owden
 
 
   
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1) Hongkong and Shanghai Bank, Teluk Anson 9.7.56 - Dear Pearl & Gordon, We
were most distressed to get your cable this morning telling us that Tim had
died in his sleep yesterday. No words that I can write can express to you
both how much we feel for you in your great loss - our very deepest sympathy
goes out to you. I really wish we could have been at home & able to do
something to help. You have all been in our prayers and thoughts
continually. For Tim's sake it is a blessing that he is out of his misery &
at peace. You will have to have a good rest Pearl to regain your strength
after the long months you have had nursing him. Ivan is very upset but so
glad that he had seen so much of Tim during our last leave. God bless you
both & give you strength to bear your great loss. Much love from us both.
Ivan & Dorothy
2) Wilmar, Newcastle, Co. Down 9th July '56 - My Dear Mrs. Wheeler, My heart
goes out to you and your son, with very deep and loving sympathy - in your
great loss, yet beyond everything we feel, one must be truly thankful that
your darling is now in perfect peace and rest - that thought will cheer you
many times - I am sure during these days of missing his presence with you,
God bless you and give you courage. Yours affectionately Maude Keown
3) QUB J. J. Graneek, M.A., Librarian 9.VII.56 - Dear Gordon, I would like
you to know how sorry I was to hear of your fathers death. It was a ? shock
even when it is long expected as I know from my own experience. It may be of
some comfort to you that he had the satisfaction of knowing that you are
well launched on a career which I am convinced will be a credit to both your
parents. Do please convey to your mother my most sincere sympathy in her
loss. Yours sincerely, J. J. Graneek. P.S. I'm sorry I was out when you
phoned this morning. There will of course be no difficulty about taking a
fortnights leave from Wednesday. J.J.G.
4) 4 Taswell Road, Southsea, Hants. 9/7/56 - My Dear Pearl, It is very hard
to write a letter of sympathy at any time for I always find one cannot
express their feelings as they would like, but believe me both you & Gordon
have my heartfelt sympathy although one cannot haved wished Tim to have gone
on living you? sense of loss must be pretty dreadful but there is one thing
you did a marvellous job of work, no one could have done better, you have at
least that satisfaction. You must I'm sure be feeling very worn out & in
need of a holiday, if at any time you feel like coming over you are welcome
to come here. I rang up Hilda Maddox this evening, my guess was no one would
have informed her that Tim was gone, how right I was, she just said "when
was it" & all but broke down, By now Walter must be leaving Liverpool. I was
so glad he got a birth, I had intended going up to London with him, when we
got to the Station there were no cheap tickets so I went to Kay's & we
walked along the front with Sharon (who I just adore, she's so lovely) had
some tea after we met Sandra, came back home, did a few jobs, watched TV, a
couple more letters & so to bed, my Aunt is coming tomorrow to keep me
company, with much love to you & Gordon, affectionately Hilda P.S. In
passing I almost feel I need sympathy too, for I've always had a "?" regard
for Tim. Please convey my love & sympathy to Marg.
5) Telegram 9th July 1956 - Lt. Wheeler Ashbourne Lisburn Road Balmoral
Belfast = We share your grief and are with you in spirit, love Ivan Dorothy
 
 
 
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1) 49 Bloomfield Road, Belfast 9th July 1956 - Dear Mrs. Wheeler, I was
grieved to read this morning of the passing of your dear husband & I feel
for Gordon & you very greatly at this trying time. For you, the loss is
irreparable, you have lost a good husband, & Gordon a good father. He was a
fine man. I can't say more. I will think of you both in the coming days, &
can only ask you to turn to Him, our Mediator & sure Friend. May he be with
you both in the times that lie ahead. Yours sincerely, T. B. Donaldson
2) 20 Castlehill Road, Knock, Belfast 10th July 1956 - Dear Mrs. Wheeler,
May I write you these few lines to try to convey to you my deep sympathy in
your great sorrow. Though Tim had a long illness it is hard to realise that
he has passed on. All of us who served with him at the Courts will indeed
miss his cheery and happy presence which made everyone's life there so much
easier and more pleasant. We have all lost a good and kind friend. I don't
know whether the sympathy of one's friends can do anything to lighten so
great a sorrow. But if it can do so at all, be assured of the very deep and
sincere sympathy of all of us who knew Tim and worked with him and shared in
his great gift of friendship. Yours most sincerely, Arthur Black(?)
3) Royal County Down Golf Club, Newcastle, County Down 18th July 1956 - My
Dear Gordon, It was with the deepest sympathy that I heard of your fathers
death, & indeed according to some Law people that I have recently met, the
obituary hardly did him justice. Certainly everyone held your father in the
highest regard & there will be many who will miss his advice & friendship
very much. I know very well the difficult time your Mother & you have had &
please tell her that she has my very heartfelt sympathy. I particularly
regret that I cannot get to the Funeral but I have been away for the last
few days on holiday here, but will be returning next week. Your ? this
letter up to get posted to you at once to let you know that you & your
Mother are very much in my thoughts. In the meantime I have sent a small
wreath in token of my respect & regard for your Father. With very sincere
Sympathy to you both. Neville
4) Bostock House, Royal Victoria Hosp., Belfast Sunday 6th July - Dear Aunty
Pearl, I really don't know what to say, I was very very sorry to hear from
Uncle Tom this morning, that dear Uncle Tim had died. I just don't believe
it. He suffered for a long time, & I am sure that it was a happy release for
him, you too, had your more than fair share of trouble & unhappiness, & I
hope sincerely that as time passes, you will be able face the future, as you
do most things, with courage & determination. You will miss Uncle Tim, that
is obvious. He was such a wonderful man. Once more a case of a good person
dying young. I don't expect to be welcomed back with open arms, but if you
would like Jimmy(?) & I to call some time, let me know, if not, I quite
understand. Once more may I say how sorry & upset I am & please accept from
Jimmy & myself, our deepest sympathy to you both. Love Roma
5) Lisadian House, Hillsborough, County Down Monday - Dear Pearl, Jill and I
were both terribly distressed to hear of poor Tim's death - and we wanted
you to know just how much we are feeling for you at this time. No words can
help I realise but perhaps if all those who know him take a share of your
anxiety, it may help. Yrs. Mill Moar(?)
6) Telegram 9th July 1956 - Wheeler 13 Lisburn Road, Belfast = Most sincere
sympathy with you all await details interment = Harry Slieve Newcastle Down
 
   
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1) Pear Tree Cottage, Nr. Burwash, Sussex Friday - My Dear Pearl, I have not
written purposely earlier than this because I am sure you have had enough to
worry you this last week. It does not mean that you have not been in my
thoughts. Poor Tim put up a gallant fight and you did all you could. But it
had to be, and, no doubt it was best that the end should come, rather than
that he should be an invalid for the rest of his life. I know you will be
lonely, but that will heal in time with the knowledge that he lead a noble
life, and has passed on to peace and happiness beyond all understanding. You
will be brave - that I'm sure of. With love and sympathy from Bindon
2) Les Fontaines, Five Oaks, St. Saviours, Jersey C.I. 14/7/56 - My dear
Pearl, I have just heard from Hilda the sad news about Tim, how terrible for
you and you must know how Daphne & I feel & the sympathy we have for you &
Gordon. We have had rather indirect & conflicting reports for some time
past. First that Tim was very ill and laid up for ages, then he was better
and back to work, then a cutting from the Aunties that he had had to retire
& finally the last news from Hilda. Under the shade of the old Lennoxvale,
Adelaide Park, etc. Tim & I were always great buddies as small boys, then we
drifted apart for many years till we visited Belfast again when we stayed
our first night or two with you & Tim just before you were evicted from the
furnished house you had & moved to Ormeau Road. Then more cheerful times on
various leaves. We have not heard any details but gather that for the last
few weeks there was not much hope for poor old Tim. I do pray he was not in
pain and died peacefully. I realise how terrible it must have been for you.
However that is that and there is no more to be said. I retired on the age
limit - 55 for us - & I am in the throes of trying to buy a small bungalow
in Jersey. All very difficult but hoping one near the Golf Course rather
like Marge's at Newcastle. Again all our sympathy, Pearl. ? yrs. Ralph
3) c/o 2 Gahan Street, Portadown 9th July 1956 - Dear Mrs. Wheeler, It was
with the deepest regret that my husband and I heard of your sad bereavement.
It is very difficult at a time like this to express in words what one feels
but I would hasten to express our sincere sympathy to you and Gordon. We
both had hoped your husband would be spared for some time to come but
unfortunately it was not God's Will. We do hope you will be comforted by
your many friends at this time and again assure you of our deep sympathy.
Yours sincerely Nancy Watters
4) 3 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast 10th July 1956 - Dear Mrs. Wheeler, It was
with sorrow and regret that I read of Mr. Wheelers sad death on Monday
morning. Mr. Sharpe had said on Friday that he seemed very much better, as
apparently he was too. My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your son in
these dark days. May you be given the strength to bear it after all you have
gone through. Yours sincerely, Peggy Aiken
5) Shillong, Golf Road, Newcastle, Co. Down Thursday - Dear Mrs. Wheeler, A
little note which requires no reply but I feel I may write and say how very
sorry I am for the sadness and bla?? that has come to you and your son - I
had a chance of seeing how very brave you and your husband were against
great odds. I hope the thought of all the sympathy which surrounds you will
help a little, please accept mine ? sincere regret. Your very sincerely
Louis? Thompson
    
 
   
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1) 3 Victoria Terrace, ? ? July - Dear Pearl, Thanks so much for ? me. It
was a shock to hear of poor Tim's death & to feel I had lost one of my
oldest friends but in the circumstances I know it is best that he should
peace at last. What a terrible two years it must have been for both of you.
I was thinking of of you as we stood at the graveside of two of our friends
on a little hill overlooking the Lake of Menteth(?) on the same afternoon as
Tim would be buried, & my sorrow was trebled. You will no doubt have read of
the boating tragedy at the lake. Young Ian was the custodian of the island &
a great friend of ours also Davie Drummond who accompanied four americans on
that fateful night. Four were drowned. I'm sorry I couldn't have been with
you yesterday but even if I had known in time I doubt if I could have
managed. My holidays have been quite messed up this year & I have been on
call to go to do a job at the Bristol Factory. Only to-day I have been told
that it can wait till after my holiday, now it being Glasgow Fair week I
can't get ? sailing tickets or car space so I fear it will just have to be
England after all. I sold the Austin about a year ago & got a little old
1938 Morris which Jenny learnt to drive on & gave excellent service, however
it was a bit dated so I have sold that & got a Morris Minor Shooting Brake
which I am very pleased with. It is possible to fi? it to sleep two very
comfortably & we had hoped to tour & camp ? Donegall. It is very nice of you
to invite us to stay with you some time we will manage. I had no idea Tims
health had got so much worse or that he had retired. I was hoping for a
gradual improvement, how terribly disappointing for you after he once seemed
to be on the mend. I hope your own health has borne up under all the strain
you have had. Thanks for ordering a wreath for me, I was glad to at least be
able to do that, I take it the firm will send me along the bill in due
course or if you paid it let me know how much I owe you. Having a suitable
car I had the job of collecting all the wreaths coming from Sterling & it
was packed. Young Ian though just an ordinary farm worker before he got the
island job & an orphan had such a personality that everyone knew him & even
the landed gentry were either at his funeral or sent wreaths. Well Pearl
dear in conclusion both Jenny & I send you our heart felt sympathy for all
your troubles not only now but for the last two years or more & we hope it
won't be long till we can see you. Yours ever Monty. P.S. Did you manage to
contact the elusive Mr. R. M. Fee? When last heard of he was in some dive at
St. ? Sea.
2) Wednesday. My Dear Gordon, It has been a long and weary time for you and
Pearl - you must be completely exhausted. Thank God Tim is at peace at last.
I won't write to Pearl or Marge - they will have more than enough letters. I
am glad the Gordons(?) were able to be with Marge. On no account write to me
now. If you ever feel like writing, mind you do - and please visit us all
again in happier circumstances. We are having tea with those wonderful Aunts
on Saturday, we very seldom meet these days, they find a motor trip tiring &
entertaining except for a few hours. Please give my love to Pearl and Marge
from one of the clan. as ever Hilda
3) 8 Ann Boleyn Walk, Kingston on Thames(?), Surrey 11/VI/56 - My dear
Gordon, Fitzie sent on sad news to me here - I am very sorry, but your
father seemed in such a poor state of health for so long that is was hard to
see any hope of complete recovery, & life for him, if it had gone on, would
have been nothing but a burden, however death when it comes no matter how
long expected, is always a sad blow & leaves an irreplaceable blank. I am
very sorry for you & your mother, please give her my deepest sympathy. I am
writing from bed, I came over here to play in croquet championships & two
days after arriving went down with a bad go of flu, so that's put paid to
the croquet & I don't know when I'll feel strong enough to undertake journey
home end of week I expect. David just heard result of B.A. before I left, to
all intents & purposes, never appeared to open a book, but came out more or
less first, anyway we never saw all his marks but got 85 for music & 80 for
English, so he was a respondent whatever that means, I think he gets degree
with the 'nods'(?) David Lee goes away with Dr. MacDowell for a trip on the
continent in August & David is going to Music School, Dartingdon Hall in
Devon with Towkin(?), which should be a great help to him. Michael, Lorua? &
baby are in great form, 'Gerald Francis' is a huge great good humoured lump
(not a FitzGerald at all) Mike & Lorua have gone to her people in Scotland
for a fortnight, they are coming back for Horse Show & will be with us till
end of Oct - At present we have the "Ubiquitous" Molly in charge at Wendyle(?)
Drive, but unfortunately she is getting married August Bank Holiday so I'll
have my nose to grind again. Be sure & let me know if you'd like to come
down. Fitzie heard your boss at Queens was delighted with your work, so
that's a word (on first page - ) of cheer, my love to you Auntie
Geraldine
 
 
 
 
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1) 227 Bingley Road, Shipley, York(?) July 12 - My dear Mrs. Wheeler, I felt
very sad this morning when I heard the news of Mr. Wheelers passing - some
how he had made so many wonderful recoveries that one always hoped on - but
it was not to be, and I am sure for him, it must be a happy release from all
his sufferings. I do send you my very loving sympathy - I know what a blank
will be left in your life, but its grand that you have Gordon with you. The
High Court are badly hit at present, for by the same post I heard of Lord
Justice Porters death - very suddenly I believe. This letter does not
require a reply - I shall look forward to seeing you on my return, which I
hope will be some time next month. My brother here is very much better &
after he has had an x ray check up at the end of the month I shall hope to
get home. With love & renewed sympathy to you and Gordon. Yours Kathleen J.
Sharpe
2) Pear Tree Cottage, Nr. Burwash, Sussex 10th July - My dear Pearl, This is
just to send you & Gordon my deepest sympathy at losing dear old Tim - he
put up a good fight and you stood by him well all through it but I know he
will have hated when an invalid, probably in a bath chair, & I'm sure he is
happier now & out of all his misery. I'm very sad to think I'll never see
him again as I was very fond of him, he was only seven when Mother died, I
had to look after him for some years till I went to India & then Marge was a
mother to him and he was devoted to her & she to him, she will miss him
terribly. Be brave & think of all the happy times you've had together, love
from Helen
3) 66 Malone Road, Belfast 13th July - Dear Mr. Wheeler, I was very sorry to
hear of your father's death, and I should like to express my sympathy.
Please don't trouble to answer this, and don't think about library problems
until you come back. Everything seems to be in order. ours sincerely Alice
Megaw
4) 12 Ravenhill Park Gardens, Belfast 9/7/56 - Dear Gordon, It was rather a
shock to read of your father's death in this morning's paper, considering
his slightly improved condition last week. I am sure, however, that you feel
it is better for him to be spared further suffering. At least now the time
of strain is over, though I am sure you will still have many problems to
meet and settle. I want you to know how much I sympathise with you in the
true sense of the word, and how much I have felt for you during the trying
time through which you have been passing. I know that every member of the
library staff would wish to join me in this expression of sympathy. May God
grant you strength and guidance at this time as I know he will. Yours very
sincerely Frieda Brown
5) 1 ? Place, ???castle, Friday - Dear Pearl, I just cannot tell you how
sorry I was about poor Tim. I had heard that he was much worse lately & no
hope of ever being well again, I am sure he was very weary of being ill &
you have had such a long trying time nursing him, I am sure you are
absolutely exhausted. I am so glad to hear you have got a very nice home, in
a good vicinity & will have Gordon living with you. I meant to send this to
you in town but did not know your address, so will just send it to Marjories
as I think she said you would be with her this week end. Pearl dear I am a
very, very bad letter writer, but I just want to convey to you & Gordon,
Jack's & my sincerest sympathy, Yours Very Sincerely Olive(?) Harvey(?)
6) Telegram 10th July 1956 Mrs. M. Wheeler Ashbourne 13 Lisburn Road Belfast
Deepest Sympathy = J. and C Hodgkins Newcastle
 
 
 
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1) Telegram 12th July 1956 Dublin Wheeler Ashbourne Lisburn Road Belfast =
Just heard the news our love and thoughts are with you come down to us
address Hopetown Stillorgan Road Blackrock come soon - Florne and Phoebe
2) Fairhaven, 19 Donegall Park Avenue, Belfast 9th July 1956 - Dear Pearl,
Judy and I wish to convey to you and Gordon our deep sympathy on your tragic
bereavement. Tim was a very fine person and I know a great many people will
be sharing your sense of loss. Sincerely Jack Fox(?) or xox
3) Wentworth(?) Delaware Park, Tuesday - My dear Mrs. Wheeler, We are so
very sorry to hear of your great loss. Had hoped your dear husband would
enjoy retirement for many years, with all the loving care you gave him. He
was such a fine man, words really seem useless at a time like this to
express all we feel, but we would like you to know you are in our thoughts
and prayers, and please accept our deepest sympathy. Very sincerely yours
Davie(?) Curran
4) 23 Kirkliston Drive, Belfast 15th July 1956 - My dear Pearl, Please
accept Alex's and my most sincere and heartfelt sympathy on your irreparable
loss. Tim was such a vital person that is was a great shock to hear the sad
news, and I still find it difficult to really comprehend it. There is so
little one can say that is of any real comfort. Time alone can help, and all
one can do is to pray that God may give you the strength to bear this heavy
Cross that he has seen fit to send you. Please give our condolences to
Gordon - he will be a great source of comfort to you at this sad time. Yours
most affectionately Nan(?)
5) North Down House, Comber, Belfast - Dear Mrs. Wheeler, Please except my
sincerest sympathy your great loss. It is only when one has suffered such a
loss, one can really truly sympathise. There is so little one can do to help
but knowing friends are thinking of you & understanding your sufferings is a
comfort. Grief is really for ones self because in time we realize those we
have lost have all misery & suffering over. You have your son as I have my
daughter, for which must both be thankful. If ever I can do anything for you
as one who really does understand I am always at hand. Yours sincerely Rae ?
6) No. 9 Kirkliston Gardens, Belfast 10th July 1956 - Dear Mrs. Wheeler, It
was with very real regret that I learned of the death of your husband and
would offer to you and your son my deepest sympathy. I read in the paper a
short time ago of Mr. Wheelers retirement because of ill-health, but did not
realize it was so serious. I hope God will comfort you in your sorrow, and
in this expression of sympathy I am joined by my husband & son Hubert. Yours
very sincerely Rose Selby
7) Belgrave, Greenisland, Belfast 9/7/56 - Dear Mrs. Wheeler, It is with
greatest regret that I have heard about poor Tims passing, although I think
it must be indeed a happy release for him after the sufferings of the past
two years. I have known him since 1921 and really feel that I have lost an
old and valued friend. I hope to see you at the funeral and please accept my
very deepest sympathy in what I know is a terrible loss for you, after your
truly heroic efforts to save him. Yours sincerely Harold P. Mervue(?)
 
 
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1) 10 Waterloo Park, Antrim Road, Belfast 9/7/56 - Dear Pearl, Jef and I
were very sorry to see Tim's death in the paper this morning. Will you and
Gordon please accept our deepest sympathy. We were always very fond of Tim,
in the days of the Bungalow. You will both miss him very much, especially as
we heard he had been so ill recently. Letters are not much use, at a time
like this, but I just wanted you to know, you are in our thoughts. Yours
sincerely Brende
2) Loughview House, Craigavon, Co. Down 56' July 10 - My dear Gordon, It was
a great shock to hear this morning that you have lost your father, somehow,
I cannot tell you why, it seemed to me (all this time that I knew you, and
knew of him) that he would recover. For him, after all his suffering, it is
(perhaps) for the best, everybody will be telling you that and I am rather
ashamed at having to repeat it and rather ? to tell you how sorry I am for
you that you had to bear all this when still so young. Indeed, I should be
very glad if I could help you in any way during this very difficult time for
yourself, beyond offering you my useless sympathy. Yours ? Robert
3) 40 Marlborough Park South, Belfast July 10th 1956 - Dear Mrs. Wheeler,
May I offer to you and your Son the profound sympathy of an old colleague of
"Tim's"? For more than twenty years we worked in harmony, and he always was
a pleasant colleague, whose great ability was always illuminated by his
brilliant wit and unconquerable good humour; and his well deserved
advancement in The Service of the Courts was a source of gratification to me
personally. Many will mourn him, and Sympathize with you, and none more more
so than those who were privileged to work with him. Believe me, Very
Sincerely yours Wm.(?) Goldman(?)
4) 32 Hampton Park, Belfast 9th July 1956 - Dear Mrs. Wheeler, I was shocked
to-day to hear of the passing of Mr. Wheeler on Sunday. It is over 26 years
since I first met him and I have always held him in the very highest regard.
I will always regret not having called to see him in your new home. Mr.
Wheelers illness must have caused you great strain and I must admire your
courage and faithfulness during the past number of years. Although you have
not met my wife I have often spoken of you to her and she joins with me, in
sympathy for your very great loss. I will call with you at the earliest
opportunity when you feel more rested/seated? Yours very sincerely R.
Stewart
5) Telegram 10th July 1956 Wheeler Ashbourne 13 Lisburn Road Balmoral =
Deeply regret sad news = Pulleyn Kilkeel
6) Telegram 9th July 1956 Wheeler 13 Lisburn Road Belfast = Sincere Sympathy
= Thompson Armagh
7) Telegram 9th July 1956 Greencastle Mrs. Wheeler 13 Lisburn Road Belfast =
Deepest Sympathy to both loving thoughts May Sharpe
 
 
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1) Belgravia Hotel, Belfast 9th July 1956 - Dear Mrs. Wheeler, I am so sorry
to read in to-days News Letter the announcement of your husbands death. Mr.
Gibson told us from time to time of Mr. Wheeler's long illness and we were
so glad when we heard that he had recovered sufficiently to take up work
again and grieved to know that he was so ill again. It has been a long and
anxious time for you and for that you will miss him more than ever. It
leaves such a dreadful blank when there is nothing more left that you
can do. Please accept my deepest sympathy with your great sorrow and believe
me, yours very sincerely Judith Rennie
2) Greenisland Lodge, Greenisland, Co. Antrim 11th July 1956 - My dear Mrs.
Wheeler, Phyllis rang us last night to tell us your sad news. I had been
speaking to Harry in town recently & he said time was running out very
quickly for Tim, but it's always a shock to hear of a friend's passing. All
I can say is that you have our heartfelt sympathy, as words are so
meaningless at a time like this. Yours very sincerely Alice & Albert Reid
3) Telegram 10th July 1956 Mrs. Wheeler 13 Lisburn Road Balmoral Belfast =
Deepest Sympathy = John McMahon/ Desmond Harriman called
4) Sunnymede, Malone Park, Belfast 10th July 1956 - Dear Mrs. Wheeler, My
husband & I would like to send you & Gordon our very deep sympathy in your
sad trouble. How lonely you must feel after such a long nursing period, I do
feel so sorry for you & I hope that time will help to heal your sore heart.
Gordon will I'm sure be a very great comfort to you & I'm sure you feel very
blessed in having him. Yours very sincerely Rhona(?) F. Clarke
5) 38 Florenceville Avenue, Ormeau Road, Belfast 8th July 1956 - Dear Mrs.
Wheeler, Mr. Ritchie telephoned me this morning to tell me the sad news, and
I hasten to extend to you and your son my sincere sympathy. There is little
comfort one can offer or receive at a time like this, but Mr. Wheeler had
suffered so much I am sure you would not (even if you could) have kept him
when God, in his mercy, took his apart into his peace where there is no more
sorrow or pain. Yours sincerely, Maureen Wadsworth
6) 41 Westingway, July 9th 1956 - My dear Pearl, Helen rang up yesterday to
tell us that poor, dear Tim had passed on at 5.30 a.m. on Saturday. I can't
begin to tell you how deeply Aunt Olive and I sympathize with you and Gordon
in this time of sore trial, please believe you are very much in our thoughts
and prayers. With much love Affect. yours Aunt Norah
7) Holy Trinity, Walton, Aylesbury Tuesday July 10. 56 - My dear Pearl, Aunt
Ann has dropped us a short line giving us the sad news of Tim's death. I
hasten to write to assure you of my thoughts & prayers & sympathy. You must
try to look at this as being for the best as there is nothing so awful as to
watch continued suffering & weakness, none the less you will feel lonely &
bereft but you are blessed in Gordon. May God please surround & keep you
both. I only wish I was nearer to look in & try to help. If you want to get
away & have a break we would be so happy to have you here. I shall be
thinking especially of you both tomorrow (Wed) at our Holy Communion at 10.0
a.m. & I pray that our Lord may be ? to you by ? ? ? ? & comforter. Alice
joins me in united sympathy. Yours as always a loving brother(?)
Willie/Walter(?)
   
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1) July 1956 Ashbourne, Lisburn Road, Balmoral, Belfast - Mrs. Wheeler and
Gordon desire to express their sincere thanks for all the sympathy shown to
them in their great sorrow, and for the many tokens of affection and esteem
in which Mr. Wheeler was held.
2) 14th September 1956 from Leonard I. G. Fox, LL.B., Solicitor - My dear
Pearl, As I think you are aware, shortly before Tim's death a few Belfast
Solicitors who had been closely associated with him in connection with High
Court work, decided to join together to make him a presentation of some
useful article as a token of their affection and respect and of their
appreciation of the many kindnesses and great assistance they had received
from him. Unfortunately, Tim passed away before the arrangements for the
presentation, of which I was in charge, could be completed, and it has been
decided that the best that can be done in the circumstances is to ask you to
be so kind as to accept the sum collected for the purpose of the
presentation amounting to £79. 16. 0. as we all feel that you would thereby
be affording us the opportunity of doing something tangible to express the
respect and regard for Tim to which I have referred. I enclose herewith my
cheque together with a list of subscribers and would like to express the
sincere hope of us all that your troubles are now over and that you will be
sustained and fortified in the future by the sure knowledge of the great
affection and respect that Tim inspired in all who knew him. With kind
regards and best wishes, Yours sincerely ? to Mrs. J. G. Wheeler, 28 Windsor
Park, Belfast
Mr. J. G. Wheeler's Presentation Fund :- Andrew R. Fletcher & Co.; David
Gordon Esq.; R. S. Neilson Esq.; W. S. Park Esq.; Wheeler McCutcheon &
Glass; F. J. Orr & Co.; Albert Foye Esq.; James J. Napier Esq.; John G. H.
Wilson & Co.; N. Murray Esq.; J. C. Taylor & Co.; Joseph O'Hara & Son;
Robert Kelly & Son; N. & F. Tughan & Waimsley; J. Morris McKee Esq.; Samuel
D. Crawford Esq.; Norman Wilson & Co.; Johns Elliott Wallace & Co.; John M.
Hughes Esq.; Henry J. Catchpole Esq.; L'Estrange & Brett; Denis K. McMillan
Esq.; Clive McComb Esq.; W. A. Stinson Esq.; Francis Hanna Esq.; Arthur P.
Ward Esq.; W. J. Jefferson Esq.; H. L. S. Jefferson Esq.; Daniel O'Rorke &
Son; T. M. McDonald Esq.; Samuel Love Esq.; J. Terence Farrell Esq.; Robert
V. Gregson Esq.; Gibson Barron Esq.; W. Brian Rankin Esq.; Leslie Morris
Esq.; A. Pearson Elliott Esq.; Bernard Campbell & Co.; Skelton McMaster &
Co.; Richard Sheldon Esq.; James Boston Esq.; Leonard I. G. Fox Esq.; J. A.
Culbert & Martin
1970
private addresses removed
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1) 11th June 1970 Postmark Maurach to W. G. Wheeler, Belfast, N. Ireland -
This is where we stayed last night, the best hotel so far, I am enjoying
ever minute of it (no thanks to Westminster Tours, will tell you all about
it when I return) I am writing this at the Swiss Frontier were we are
waiting for our driver, we seem to have a lot of trouble at all the
frontiers, yesterday we lost three hours at least, we drove through the
Black Forest this morning, oh Gordon the scenery is beyond words, we are
having our lunch in Switzerland, then back into Germany(?) and on to
Austria. Our driver can't speak a word of English, he is French which is a
bit difficult, will write another card soon. Love Mother
2) 12th June 1970 Postmark Maurach to Mr. W. G. Wheeler, Belfast, N. Ireland
- We arrived here yesterday for three days, I told you that we had come
through the Black Forest on my last card at the Austrian Frontier, then we
came across the ? pass. I thought my heart had stopped beating on several
occasions, hair pin bends & terrific heights & bottomless depths, scenery
such as I could ever imagine existed on this earth, the beauty of the snow
all around us, still very deep Waterfalls everywhere, oh it was beautiful,
we arrived at the hotel at 1.30 a.m. where we had dinner at 2 o'clock & so
to bed!! Hotels passable food consists of veal for lunch and dinner at
practically every hotel, cheers when we had fish two nights ago. The view
from the hotel overlooks the lake, reminds me slightly of the lake hotel. We
are off to Finland (?) tomorrow at 9 o'clock, back here in time for dinner.
On Sunday we leave for the Pa? Play on Monday. Love Mother
3) 14th June 1970 Postmark Oberammergau to W. G. Wheeler, Esq., Belfast, N.
Ireland - We arrived here this evening from Achensee(?), we are staying at
Unteramergau, scattered all over the Village, four of us are with a
delightful family, who were watching television when we arrived, the English
and West German football match all very excited. We arise tomorrow at 6
o'clock a.m. to get to the Pa? Play for 8.30 a.m. Yesterday we spent the day
at Imbush(?) what a beautiful city, we were taken around the old town to see
the sights. I do hope my efforts with the camera are successful as I think I
have rather some interesting photos. We went to the ski run for the high
jumps absolutely ? Love Mother
4) 17th June 1970 Postmark Roeselare to W. G. Wheeler, Esq., Belfast, N.
Ireland - We travelled from Oberammergau to this hotel last night, a very
very long drive, we were all very tired but after a wash & change of frock,
and an excellent dinner, a special Swiss evening was arranged for us,
dancers in national costume, flag throwing and singing, most enjoyable. The
setting of the hotel as you can see on the card was beautiful. Tonight we
are in Eppinal(?) in the Central hotel, you were quite right about the
prices in France, one of the party had a Whiskey & Soda 10/4, we stick to
wine 2/- a glass. I will tell you all about the Pa? Play when I return, it
was truly the most beautiful performance I have ever seen. Love Mother My
next card will be from Worthing.
5) 23rd June 1970 Postmark Worthing, Sussex to W. G. Wheeler, Esq., Belfast,
N. Ireland - We have arrived back safely at the Vicarage, our ship had to
lie outside Folkstone harbour for half an hour for the disposal squad to
blast up a German mine!! Pa? defeated, on Saturday morning, I took Walter
Alice and ? out to dinner on Saturday night ? ?. Sunday twice at Church and
friends in for drinks at night. Strawberry tea on Monday 170 people
including the Bishop and his wife, rather tired this morning as Alice and I
got all the tables read, quiet day today. I hope tomorrow out for lunch and
going to friends in the evening for drinks. Thursday the Joynes(?) are
taking me out to lunch so I haven't had a dull moment. I am beginning to get
quite excited at the thought of going home, and to see your ? ? I do hope
that all the ? were in order. My plane leaves Gatwick at 17.40 hrs. Pat is
coming to collect me at the Air Port, should be home about 7.15 p.m. Walter
and Alice have gone out of their way to make my stay enjoyable. I am so
looking forward to seeing you again, no place like home. Love Mother
1975
private addresses removed
    
21/7/75 Mayhew - Dearest Pearl & Gordon, This is to thank you both for
your very nice birthday cards - how did you manage to find such lovely ones
- I got ten cards altogether which I think is a very good show for an old
lady of 82!! Also of course thank you for the exciting present which Di is
bringing down tomorrow also, I must not forget a chocolate ? but to-day ?
afraid I couldn't face it after such a huge lunch. To day we are all longing
for some good rain to water the burnt-up grass etc. etc. Helen's parcel
arrived in great good time - a variety of exciting & useful gifts. Old Mary
presented me with Harvey's Bristol Cream Sherry, very naughty of her. Her
birthday is this month. It is all far to generous & I do hope to have a good
? for it & that you will soon all of you, come in for a ? coffee party
before very long. Poor good old D?? remembered me with a very sweet pussy
cat birthday card. Dorothy put on the usual marvellous luncheon, Salmon &
ice cream meringue. She had Nina & Annie Brasdshaw so we were five - only
one mabel!(?) but she won't say what date! She is far too extravagant
always, poor soul, I wish she wouldn't. Hope you are both very well, thank
you Pearl dear for the Tatler, I love getting it. Dorothy seems to likewise,
& Ivan. Getting too dark to see what I write. Again many many thanks to both
of you dear good people, as ever, Auntie Marge xx - Newcastle postmark, 22nd
July 1975 to Mrs. M. M. Wheeler, Belfast
1990s
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1)
Belfast 15th October 90 - Dear Gordon, I have just heard of the sad death
of your Mother. I am so sorry. I believe you have been attending the
hospital daily for a long time & I feel most sympathy for you as I went
through this agony for 90 days before my wife died. For her, it was a
blessing & I believe the same is true for your Mother. For you, it is a
great loss. Time, of course, does heal, but it takes a long time to come to
terms with being alone. I know that from my own experience. I shall be
thinking of you. Yours very sincerely Douglas (Harrison) P.S. Please do not
answer this note.
2)
19 ? 90 Gordon, Although I never really met your mother, I often heard
you and others speak of her and so felt I knew her a little. Consequently I
was very sorry to hear of her death. I do hope things will at last be easier
for you, and that you'll now have time to enjoy your new house. Perhaps I
could take this opportunity to thank you for your reference on my behalf for
The Science Librarian post, and also for putting my name forward for a
discretionary reward - I don't believe I ever properly thanked you for that.
I hope you'll now be able to relax and really enjoy your semi-retirement.
Yours Sheila
3) QUB 18.7? 90 - Dear Gordon, I was very sorry to hear of your mother's
death last Sunday. I offer my condolences and sympathy at this sad time.
Yours sincerely, Jennifer Fitzgerald(?)
4) Linen Hall Library 22nd October 1990 - Dear Gordon, I am writing on
behalf of the governors, staff and members of the Linen Hall Library to
express our condolence on the sad death of your mother. She had a long and
happy life and she was highly respected and enjoyed life to the full. You
must have many happy memories of the years you spent together and you have
the knowledge of knowing that the passing of time will help ease the sorrow
that you are now experiencing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Yours
sincerely, John Simms
5) Downpatrick 17th October 1990 - Dear Gordon, Mary and I were sorry to
hear of your dear mother's death and wish to offer you our sympathy in your
great loss. I met her in your home during the Literary Society meetings and
at the Line hall Bicentennial Dinner and remember well her warm and
gracious personality. I know you will miss her very much; but life has not
been easy for her in recent months and you will be grateful she is spared
further suffering. The sympathy of your many friends will be a support at
this time, and you can rest assured you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Yours sincerely, Jack Magee (or Jock)
6) Library & Information Services Council (Northern Ireland) Executive
Officer W. R. H. Carson FLA 18th October 1990 - Dear Gordon, I have just
heard the sad news about your mother's death, and I would like to extend to
you my sincere sympathy. I have known for some time from talking to some of
your colleagues that she had not been well, but I didn't think it was so
serious. It is a trying time watching loved ones suffer and yet death is
such a final act that it leaves you numb with shock when it happens. I am
sure I speak for all the members of LISC(NI) when I say how sorry we all are
to learn of your bereavement, and to ask you to accept our sincere sympathy
on this sad occasion. Yours sincerely Harry Carson. to Mr. W. G. Wheeler
7) The Royal British Legion Women's Section, N.I. Area 16.10.90 - Dear
Gordon, I was saddened to hear of the death of your mother and on behalf of
myself, the Officers and Members of the N. Ireland Area Committee, I convey
sincere sympathy to you & your family at this sad time. I met your mother on
a few occasions since I took over this post as Area Secretary and always
found her to be such wise counsel and a great support as I tried to come to
terms with the job. She was a respected Area Treasurer and member of the
Area Committee for many years and I know that many members of the Women's
Section have very pleasant memories of Mrs. Wheeler. Yours sincerely,
Patricia Patterson (Area Sec.)
  
  
 
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1)
H. Hall. Ontario, Canada to W. G. Wheeler, Esq., Belfast, N. Ireland -
Brampton, Ontario 31? or 3 Oct. 90 - Dear Gordon, I was very sorry to hear
that your Mother had passed away peacefully. You must be relieved for her
that she is now at rest. It's a real shock when ones Mother goes and it does
change the world when one realizes that we are now the older generation. You
will be happy to think of all that you did for her when she needed you.
Thank you so much for sending me Frank Partridges book. I was down in
Baltimore recently and Longford Kidd assures me that at least 3 of the
stories in the book were helped by Frankie P's fertile imagination - He
certainly is and was a character. Longford is well and looks forward to
working till he is 70. I am well and wouldn't mind stopping tomorrow (59).
However we must keep our noses to the grindstone mustn't we? I had a visit
from a Norman Lush, a ? Warden of Columbas earlier this year and he managed
to dig up about 15 old Columbans from the Toronto area, it was nice to be
with them but made me feel quite old and separated from when I was a school
boy. I do hope you are well. Thank you and best wishes. Henry or Harry
2) The Institute of Irish Studies. The QUB 15th October 1990 - Mr. Gordon
Wheeler, Main Library, QUB. Dear Gordon, I'm sure your colleagues on
the Institute Board and Committee of Management will wish to send you formal
thanks for your help over the years. Meantime can I send you my personal
thanks and good wishes for your retirement. Sincerely R. H. Buchanan
Gordon - I've just heard of your bereavement, my sympathy. R.
3) Belfast, October 16th, 1990 - Dear Gordon, Please accept my most sincere
sympathy on the death of your dear Mother. I have just heard the bad news
this morning. Remembering my own Fathers death I know just how desolate and
exhausted you must be feeling now, but you must have the consolation of
knowing how much your constant presence and support will have strengthened
her in the end and through her illness. You know your Mother to be happy and
at peace now and I am sure that this certainty and all your happy memories
will comfort you in your great grief. You must be very busy and preoccupied
at present but I hope you will be able to take a long rest soon. If there is
anything at all I could do for you please let me know. Please be assured of
my thoughts and prayers for you at this very sad time, and of my deepest
sympathy in your bereavement. With kind regards, Yours sincerely Marg, Mary?
Sammy?
4) 15.10.90 - Dear Gordon, I heard today from Breige that your Mother had
died peacefully last night. I am relieved for you that your long vigil is
now over and I am so very pleased to know that you were with your Mother
when she died. The last few years have been sad and anxious for you. Your
Mother is now safely at peace and her suffering is over. I have some idea of
how very much you loved your Mother. I am certainly aware of how well and
how beautifully you have cared for her during her time of illness. My memory
of her is simply of a slim, tall, elegant and poised lady, of whom you were,
quite rightly, extremely proud, I spoke to her only on the phone and found
her delightful in conversation, full of humour and sense. My Sincere
Sympathy to you. My prayers are with you at this time of parting and grief.
Yours Joan(?)
5) Mary E. V. Douglas, Belfast Wednesday 17.10.90 - Dear Gordon, This is a
rather feeble attempt to tell you how sorry I am that you have lost your
mother. I am well aware that the loss has been a long and painful process
and the worst of it is over, but not is the traditional time to express
sympathy, and I know that even when a death is a welcome relief from
suffering it can leave a painful gap in your life. I really hardly knew your
mother, but what I did know I admired, and I hope you will be able to
remember her with pleasure as she was in her prime now that she is no longer
present as a suffering shadow of her former self. Yours with love and
sympathy, Mary
   
 
 
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1) Portrush, Co. Antrim 31.10.90 - My dear Gordon, If it said in the papers
that you wanted no letters, I apologise but I didn't see any papers; the
word of your mother's death came via Diane. I was very sorry to hear about
it, though I know that the past ?2 years have been very difficult and tiring
for you. It's very hard to see one's parent deteriorate, especially when, as
in your mother's case, they've been such a strong person but the relief that
they have got safely away is, of course, nothing to the grief that you must
be experiencing. Death is always a shock, even if one is prepared for it.
You and your mother were so close and you were always a splendid son - I
hope your loneliness isn't too awful. I know that after my mother died I
wasn't prepared for the loneliness I felt - and I'm not inclined to feel
lonely! I gather that a move to Downpatrick is indicated - we may see more
of you then - please feel free to come and inspect our new east wing (well -
kitchen really) at Lisbane(?) - we'll be almost neighbours and we often go
for walks along the Quoile. The phone number is Killinchy 541095 - it's in
the book under Moore! I hope you're enjoying your (semi) retirement and now
have time to do the things you enjoy. I seem to have been awfully out of
touch but my visits to Belfast are functional & swift. And if I go to the
library I feel like an alien. I always imagine I'll return to Belfast
eventually, but I'd a shock when I realized that when Michael would retire
I'd be 72! Am now not so sure if I'll be back! Andrew was 9 on Monday and is
setting fair to be a giant, like his mother. His feet certainly are anyway!
Michael is wrestling with this awful new contract - maybe he'll retire
earlier! You always do come into my thoughts quite frequently but recently
you've been there more because of your mother's death and I just wanted you
to know this. With love Hope
2) Millisle, Co. Down 15th Oct. 1990 - Dear Gordon, I was so sorry to hear
about the death of your Mother - too late to attend the funeral. I would
like to have been there, not only as a friend, but also on behalf of the
Women's Section R.B.L. Pearl was such a wonderful person, lovely looking,
always so gracious, and so beautifully dressed. On inspiration to us all. We
missed her on the Committee, for her guidance and her thoughtfulness, and I
personally have much to be thankful for, in her kindness to me and my
family. We will all miss her so very much. My thoughts go out to you at this
time. Your Mother was always so proud of you and how much she looked forward
to ? dinners etc. for you, you were just her whole life, and I know you will
miss her so very very much. Yours in Sorrow Euphie(?) (Pack-Binsford)
3) 19.X.90 - Gordon, Thank you for permitting me to share in your Mother's
Funeral Service. It was a great joy for me to know her & I know she is at
Rest with her Lord. May the Peace of God be with you over the next few
months particularly, Garry
4) Holywood, Co. Down - Dear Gordon, We are sorry that we were away on
holiday at the time of your Mother's funeral. George saw the notice in the
Telegraph and rang Debby, and she told us when we rang from U.S.A. Your
Mother was a wonderful friend and neighbour. We will always remember her
with great affection. She maintained her dignity and cheerfulness through a
long and difficult illness, with great fortitude. She often said what a
wonderful son she had and what a great comfort he was to her. We offer our
deepest sympathy at this sad time. We would like very much to keep in touch
with you. You will have many many letters so do not feel that you have to
answer this. Yours sincerely Dorothy & Gerry
5) Dear Gordon, I was very sad to read that your mother had passed away. I
had no idea she was so ill. I knew, admired and was extremely fond of her.
She was always and will remain in my memory as a most competent & elegant
woman. I know you will miss her greatly but you have been most fortunate in
having had such a wonderful mother. May you enter 1991 with courage, good
health and peace, Sincerely Betty Jagger
  
   
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1) 16th October 1990 - Dear Gordon, Please accept our sincere sympathy on
the death of your mother. We know that she had been ill for a long time, and
understand that the condition was almost certainly terminal. But that
knowledge does not make such a great loss more palatable. Your mother was a
greatly respected figure, whom it was a privilege to have met. I feel for
you all the more due to the coincidence that my own ? brother has died, from
an operation for cancer only this last week. Yours very sincerely, Marcus(?)
(Wheeler)
2) Belfast 24.10.90 - Dear Gordon, Alec & I were so very sorry to hear about
your mothers death. I'm sure it must have left a terrible void in your life
after all those years together. It is hard to watch someone you love going
slowly downhill - old age is such a depressing business that one cannot
really wish for it to be too long-drawn-out, but all the same the sense of
loss is great. With all our sympathy, yours sincerely, Diana Bla??ie
3) Buxton, Derbyshire 5th December 1990 - Dear Gordon, Many thanks for your
letter received this morning. It was very kind of you to write as I know you
are a very busy person. When you say that you have had to make a very
conscious effort to remember Pearl in her happier days, I had the very same
problem when Sadie passed away and I understand your feelings. We would not
have had those feelings if our loved ones had been taken suddenly from us.
Instead we had to watch them, over a period of some years, wasting away, and
it is this unfortunate time that is uppermost in our minds. In my case,
however, I have got over it by placing photographs of Sadie (in happier
times) in each room and at times looking at the photographs and saying
"Hello dear" etc., or, if I have made a decision on something which I knew
she would have been involved in had she been alive, by saying "I'm sure you
would have agreed dear". To me those actions keep up closer together and
help me to forget the awful image on her lying on her deathbed. There is no
doubt, Gordon, that time heals all wounds and life must go on. You will, I
am sure, have resumed all your social activities and the house at
Downpatrick will take up a lot of your time. I wish you well in the days and
year ahead. My regards & best wishes to Dorothy. Yours sincerely Haig
4) Kendal, Cumbria 23rd October 1990 - Dear Gordon, We were very sad to
hear of Aunt Pearl's death, although relieved to know she was at peace. When
people die at a good age and after much suffering one can only give thanks,
but even so we know it will be a great ? and sadness for you and we do send
our love and sympathy. Even though I only met Pearl on a few occasions, such
was the force of her personality and her wonderful elegance that she is
extremely vivid to me and I feel as if she was very much a part of my life.
It is nice to think that my children can just remember her too. That was
when she came over for my father's retirement. I must apologise for not
writing immediately, you have been much in my thoughts but last week I was
taking an OU exam, and coming right on top of our move, which was all very
traumatic, I was in a grave state! Rodney is down at ? University at this
minute sitting his exam - we had decided to
extend our horizons but did different courses, which I think is wise for
married bliss! Having not done a three hour exam for 34 years it was a great
shock to the system and I went into such a panic that I know I haven't done
myself justice, which is infuriating when I have had excellent marks for all
my assignments, but that's life I guess. Having sold our home in ? not long
? we are temporarily living in the little cottage we have and as a bolt hole
for the last nine years. I don't know whether you know but Rodney had a bad
breakdown two years ago due to stress and overwork, so we decided to rethink
our lives; such ? ? ? the good effect of making me realise what is really
important in life. He is now working just in a administrative basis for
Arnwood(?) & James(?) where he was a Senior Partner. Thanks to modern
technology he doesn't need to be in the office and can work from home. We
have always thought we would eventually come up here to live but it has
happened a little earlier than we expected, which is a bonus. We have
already found a house which will be ideal for us, it is being built at the
moment and should be ready in the New Year. We found the idea of a new place
very attractive after living in an old period house for so long, ? ? it ?, ?
bits would keep falling off! If you are over in this part of the world do
please come and stay with us, we should love to see you and will keep you
informed of our address when we move. No acknowledgement of this letter is
expected or needed, I know this is a very busy time with many things to be
sorted out and the last thing I want is to add to the burden. We just wanted
you to know that we all loved Aunt Pearl too and we share a small part of
your sadness. With our love, Margaret and Rodney
 
  
 
 
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1) The Mall, 22.10.90 - Dear Mr. Wheeler, I trust that you shall be
comforted at this time of bereavement, with the knowledge, that one day we
shall all meet again, somewhere beyond the horizon. Yours sincerely, Mary
Clint(?) - Gordon Wheeler, Esq., Downpatrick
2) Buxton Sunday 30th December 1990 - Dear Gordon, I shall treasure the
lovely pieces of jewellery which you have so kindly given to me in
remembrance of Auntie Pearl. Thank you so much, I shall certainly wear them
with pride and enjoy their beauty as I'm sure your Mother did. The Arab gold
is beautiful and what an interesting story behind it. I wonder where Ahmed
el-Kheryi(?) is now. I hope not in Kuwait! We had a quiet Christmas - just
the few of us. Very peaceful. I still miss home at Christmas time and would
dearly love to spend one with all the family together again. Maybe next
year. Remember "Brookfield" at Xmas? I smile to think of Aunt Anne & Aunt
Lilly etc. and the smell of Grandpa Wright's pipe. The pastoral scene hung
above the fireplace and the stuffed fox in the cabinet in the hall. Where
have all the years gone to? I would really like to have you come & stay in
Buxton with us. Will you think about it? We never had much time to talk over
the years and I would like to just spend a little time with you. You would
be most welcome. The "children" are very involved in their own lives these
days. They are happy, thank God, and I can ask for nothing more. Stewart
spends more & more time abroad so I find that I am less & less needed by all
of them. That's life I suppose. Still I too am happy. Buxton is my home now
and my job keeps me very busy. Who would have thought that newspapers would
have been my main Career in life? Well Gordon, I do hope 1991 will be all
you want it to be. Please don't lost touch with us and thank you again for
the jewellery. Take care & God bless. Pauline
3) Ilminster, Somerset 13.11.90 - Dear Gordon, It was only yesterday that I
heard about Pearl, I am so sorry. The long illness she suffered must have
been a great sorrow to you, but, as I know, the final loss is very hard to
bear. Dorothy rang me up yesterday to give me the news. She had been trying
to get hold of me or Paula for some time. I was away in Florida until the
23rd Oct. and then stayed with Mare? for a time. Paula is still away. She
was with me in Florida for a timer, and then went on to Fiji, she is now in
New Zealand and will not be home until just before Christmas, I have written
to her and told her about Pearl. I have never forgotten our stay with you in
1961 and the kindness you and Pearl showed to Hilda and me. My sympathy and
God bless you. Oswald
4) Knock, Belfast 25/10/90 - Dear Gordon, I have just had a letter from
Desmond and, from its contents, learnt of the death of your mother, I am so
sorry for all the grief you are suffering and hasten to send you my sincere
and heartfelt sympathy. Your Mother was one of the most elegant ladies I
have ever known, she looked so lovely at the Altina(?) party some years ago
and only a truly great and beautiful woman could pay a compliment to another
woman and pay it so sincerely. I know that no son could have done more for
his mother that you did, your love and patience knew no bounds.
Unfortunately, there comes a time when our dear one must leave us but as we
would prefer to have them much longer the shock of their passing is severe.
I will say to you what I said about Ronald when he died so suddenly. "We
will not see their like again" Your mother is in good company. Please do not
trouble to answer this [you will have more than enough to do] but do give me
a "ring" and tell me you will come for ?, any evening in early November. My
dear Gordon lift up your heart and be glad to have had as a mother a most
gracious and lovely lady. May God bless and keep you in this time of
loneliness and in the days and years that lie ahead. Yours very sincerely
Aephra (E. Guers(?) )
5)
Southsea, Portsmouth 17th October 1990 - My dear Gordon, I was so
saddened to hear from Dorothy of the death of your dear Mother. I remember
with great pleasure all the good times we had over the years when we were
both much younger, & how much I admired her style & sense of fun - I know
that you & she were very close & that there will be an enormous gap in your
life. I send you my love & deepest sympathy, Wanda
 
 
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1) London 18th October 1990 - Dear Gordon, I was so sorry when Adaline
telephones with the sad news about your mother. Please accept our deepest
sympathy. Adaline always kept me informed through out the long illness and
she was always in my prayers. Auntie Pearl was always a favourite with all
of us. I remember such lovely times at the bungalow in Newcastle and at
Balmoral. She was so elegant and kind and Mum and Dad were so fond of her.
Gordon, I am dreadful at letters but just wanted you to know that Jimmy and
I are thinking of you at this sad time. Adaline tells me you will be moving
house so keep busy and you will enjoy getting it all ready. I live near
Portobello Road and spend hours hunting around the stalls and antique
arcades. Please, if you are in London, call me. I am sure this house, which
was the home of James McBey, Scottish artist, would interest you. His widow,
Margarite (86 yrs. old) still lives here from time to time and it is all
kept as it was in 1930. His studio is full of beautiful paintings and he
spent his life collecting all sorts of things. I have a lovely time looking
after it all and reading all the books. I went to see Tom Carrs exhibition
last week, very good but out of my price range, still one can always look.
God bless, Yours Rosemary (Wheeler) now (Campion)
2) Killinchy, Newtownards 17th October 1990 - Dear Gordon, I have just heard
your sad news, though I know you must feel that it is a happy release for
your mother after such a long ordeal. Nevertheless, you will miss her
dreadfully and it will be hard to come to terms with it to begin with and I
just thought that maybe it would comfort you a bit to know that so many of
your friends are thinking about you & praying for you at this time. There is
nothing much an outsider can do to help but if you think of anything, other
than send you all my sympathy, please let me know. With love from Peggy P.S.
Please don't reply. I will run into you one day in the Common Room.
3) Belfast 18th October 1990 - Dear Gordon, I wish I could find the right
words to express my sympathy. You will be missing your mother terribly, but
it will be some consolation that it has been a happy release for her. I hope
that ? ? and your plans for the new abode will be of some help in filling
the enormous void. I was so sorry not to get to the funeral. At 10.45 a.m. I
had received a neighbour's 'phone call to the effect that 28 Waterloo
Gardens had been burgled during the early hours of Wednesday morning, and
that my Uncle was uninjured but shocked and shaken. Thinking of you, Liz
1991
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Kendal, Cumbria 18th January 1991 - Dear Gordon, Thank you so much for
your letter, and yesterday the silver necklace arrived. I really am very
touched by your gift. It is handsome in its own right, but it will always be
very special to me since it was part of your mother's life. She must have
been delighted with it when you brought it back from Mexico; I know how
gifts from a really loved son are treasured. It will go on being treasured
and will often bring happy memories of your mother to mind since I know I am
going to wear it often; it is just the kind of simple, wonderfully made
piece that I like and feel comfortable with, thank you so much. I do hope
that as you work through the grieving process the pain of the last few years
experience will gradually fade leaving only what was real and true instead,
but it is a long, slow business. I know you are in our thoughts. We are
going through something of the same experience with ? Aunt, we hope to move
her from Aylesbury to a nursing home in Kendal next week and it will be a
relief to share her ? with other members of the family who live up here.
Although the emotional relationship of an Aunt is very different to that of
a mother we still find it very draining, and it is very distressing to
witness the disintegration of an active and intelligent personality. So we
can understand something of what you have gone through. Your new home must
be giving you a great new project to concentrate on. It sounds absolutely
gorgeous. I hope all the building works are going according to plan and that
the weather hasn't caused any problems. Plastering came to a standstill last
week in our house due to severe frost, so trust you, like us, are up to your
eyes in ? ?, tiles, kitchen units, etc. It's great fun, but I am finding
decisions for a whole house somewhat overwhelming! It's a pity we won't be
safely moved in before our next OU courses begin in a fortnights time. We
only have one ? here in the cottage and the kitchen table is not ideal, but
we hope it will only be for a few weeks. We ? passed our exams very
comfortably, which was a great relief and encouragement. This year I am
studying eighteenth century ? and Rodney is doing two half-credit courses on
Greek and Roman history. It's very exciting, if somewhat stressful at times
- I can recommend it for losing weight without dieting! I do hope your move
goes smoothly. Please let us have your new address when the time comes. With
every good wish from Rodney and myself, and very special thanks from me.
Margaret
2003
Exeter 31.01.03 - Dear Gordon, Enclosed for Dorothy, please do with it as
you will. She was unique & I will always remember her, with great love. Hope
you are okay Love Brison or Benson(?) (& David)
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