Letter from Ellen Fairclough to John Diefenbaker

Hamilton, Ont.

April 9, 1964

Stamped: “Seen by John G. Diefenbaker”

Dear John,

We all worked like dogs down here but to no avail. I am so sorry I could not hold Hamilton West for you but I’m afraid it was a lost cause from the start. Peculiarly enough I thought we were winning but the people must have been kidding me. Even yesterday, on my rounds of the polls, I was sure I was winning.

I do want to thank you warmly for giving me the opportunity to serve in your Cabinet. It was an unforgettable experience and one I shall always cherish.

I am leaving tomorrow for a holiday in Barbados. I arranged this in January and the reservations cannot