Ontario Hospital
Orpington, Kent,
Aug. 1st, /17.
My dear Auntie:-
I can’t tell you how sorry I was to read of Alex's death, it seems too terrible that so many must go. I had such a nice letter from him after he went to France. I just can’t say what I feel, for I was very fond of him, and what can one say more than my sympathies are with you.
It was accidental my seeing his name. I was talking to my medical officer, and he mentioned coming from Huntingdon, so I said that you were relatives, and he picked up a paper and asked me which one of the Rowat boys this was. I was so shocked. The officer is a Capt. McLaren, from Calgary, but originally from your old town.
Well Auntie I am so sorry this trouble has come to you, but his splendid ideas of life and his attitude to those around him, make a fond remembrance of him for all who knew him, and all I can say is a very small expression of what I feel for you in your bereavement.
I hope you are all well again. I was sorry I did not have time to have seen you when I was going through Montreal, but I just had two hours, but when I go through I will try to arrange to see you.
Love and sympathy to you all.
Your affectionate niece,
Nan McKenzie