Mowat P.O., Canoe Lake
Winnie Trainor, Huntsville
Dear Winnie,
I had meant to stop in Huntsville when I came up but the train connections weren’t good so I had to go straight through. This is my very first letter from the Park. I haven’t written anyone else yet.
I’ve been here for over a week now. I’m still getting settled in with Shannon and Annie. Four other guests are at the lodge. There was two when I arrived but two more came in yesterday from Ottawa on doctor’s orders. Shannon’s taking in consumptives and is making good business of it.
I plan to stay at Mowat until the ice goes out. Then I’ll set up camp across the lake. Judging by the ice, that won’t be until May. I’ll be applying for a Guide’s license so I’ll need to stay close by when there’s occasions for guiding work.
A few days ago I did a sketch in front of your cottage. There’s a good view from there and I’d say it’s a better than what you have in the summertime. I checked around and no animals got in, so no surprises when you open up. You should try to make it in early May before the bugs get really bad.
Please give my regards to your parents and to your sister. Tell them I enjoyed your family’s hospitality last Thanksgiving.
Yours truly,
Tom
Tom Thomson's Last Spring 