RR #1, Dundalk, Ontario May 2, 1917
My Dear Jeanie,
Received yours yesterday and was very sorry to hear that Ronnie had made the Supreme Sacrifice. We will have just to be reconciled to God's will. Ronnie was a fine boy and he will be better off. He will be on the other shore with mother where there is no wars or rumours of wars. There is no doubt about that. He fully realized what he was up against. He wrote to me just before going into the fight and he asked me to do what I could for Lilly and the children if he did not get through it. It is hard on us all but it is worse for Lilly. Try to go up and see her now and again till she gets over it a little and I will come down in two or three weeks. I don't know anything that I could do as it will take some time to settle up. J. Smith could look after the printer's end of it. As for the city insurance she may get it as they are both citizens of Toronto. Archie could find out all about her pension from the Veterans' Association. If she does get the money advise her to put it in the bank. If she gets the city money the city would invest it for her in gilt edged securities. Hoping this gets you all well. Let me know if you hear anything further.
Your affectionate father Archibald MacKinnon