Lot 635: 2 Wallis Simpson Signed Letters

Autograph: Wallis Simpson (1896-1986), two (2) ALS written to cousin Lelia Sinclair (Gordon) Noyes (1899-1989), one a note on Moulin de La Tuilerie stationery, September 19, no year stated but 1964; the other one page, front and back, in pencil, dated July 21, 1964. The letter on lined paper opens by stating "forgive this paper and pencil but I am not well and am hoping my doctor from New York can come her[e] and help me.. I hate these French ones." She goes on to write about an upcoming trip to Washington for a relative's 100th birthday party ("I feel that as we do not fly it is really a journey…") and various party preparations. The content of the note card, written on all sides in pen, is a followup letter to the first and suggests that she and her husband did not attend the party, as it opens "Dearest Lelia, thank you so much for writing the delightful description of your wonderful party for Aunt Bessie. I am enclosing the cheque for the cake and wine." Wallis states that she is "feeling much better" but needs to have a "slight operation on my foot – don't tell Aunt B." The note is written on stationery of Moulin De La Tuilerie, the country retreat of the Duke and Duchess between 1952 and 1972, located 22 miles southwest of Paris. The accompanying envelope bears "the Duchess of Windsor" return address label for the Villa Windsor and is addressed to "Mrs. Newbold Noyes / Wakefield Manor/ Huntley, Virginia". Both letters are signed "Wallis". 12" x 8" and 6" x 8". Lelia Sinclair (Gordon) Dickey Noyes Lucas was the second cousin of Wallis Simpson, both descending from Henry Montague (1795-1855). She served as a bridesmaid at Wallis' first wedding to U.S. Navy officer Win Spencer. Lelia later married Newbold Noyes, associate editor of the Washington Star Newspaper. She owned and operated a dress shop in Washington DC for 30 years. These letters have descended in her family to the present consignor.

CONDITION: Both letters toned, with light fading and minor creasing. Some minor grime/staining to lined paper, fold crossing signature.