Mowat P.O. Ontario April 12, 1917
Dear Jim,
I’ve been here at the P.O. for almost two weeks now. It’s been a pretty cold spring and there’s still lots of snow in the bush. I’ve made an arrangement with the Frasers that I’ll be able to stay here on account until July at least. I’ll be doing odd jobs to keep the expenses as low as I can.
The sketching is going well. I’ve been out every day. I don’t venture too far out, which I hope to do when the ice is out most likely in May. There’s more snow than I bargained for, so I’ve been using quite a bit of White. I’ll add a list to the end of this letter of things I’m hoping you can send up.
Mowat is getting busier each day. Shannon seems to have done a good job of convincing the consumptives to come in springtime. He’s a good publicist – ‘Enjoy the Vista View While Recuperating In Comfort’ is his latest slogan for his brochure. As for us artists, we get to enjoy the ‘Rustic Charm’, meaning the rooms with the least heat.
Please give my regards to Mrs. MacDonald and Thoreau.
Affectionately,
Tom
P.S.
I need a few more paints and Lawren said I could put it on his account at the store. For shipping, ask Dr. MacCallum, as he may have some proceeds from some sales.
– White – I’ll need several tubes. I used a lot painting the snow
– Red, Orange, Vermilion, Yellow, Alazarin
– Green – emerald, veridian
– Blue, it’s expensive so just one tube
Also, I forgot to pack my flyhooks. You’ll find about a dozen in the side shed, top drawer in the cabinet. Can you send those along too?
Tom Thomson's Last Spring 