^Lot 228 Duke and Duchess of Windsor

Two letters: war-dated TLS signed “Yours, Edward,” one page, 8 x 10.5, The Homestead letterhead, October 9, 1943. Letter of thanks to Colonel Clyde Beck. In part: “I am writing to tell you how glad the Duchess and I were to be able to visit with you all at Ashford General Hospital…We wish to congratulate you on the magnificent set-up you have organized in less than a year, and can realize all the work and difficulties entailed in transforming a luxury hotel into an up-to-date, efficient war-time hospital. After my grim experiences of the last war, it is indeed mortifying to witness again the sufferings of the flower of the youth of our two countries…I am also glad to be able to report that the Kentucky corn cob pipe has not been too strenuously objected to, and I am getting great enjoyment out of smoking it.” Double matted and framed with two photos from the visit, including one of Edward enjoying his corn cob pipe, to an overall size of 23 x 20.5. Rusty staple hole to bottom edge, a bit of light foxing, and a red pencil mark next to signature, otherwise fine condition; and an ALS signed “Wallis Windsor,” one page both sides, 5 x 8, embossed letterhead, October 8. Letter of thanks to Mrs. Beck. In part: “I want to thank you for the Duke of Windsor and myself for the…’southern hospitality’ we enjoyed…We were so interested in everything at the hospital and made impressed by Colonel Beck’s organization.” Double matted and framed so both sides may be viewed to an overall size of 10 x 13. In fine condition, with a rusty staple mark to top edge. Oversized.