1940s Personal Letter Signed by Wallis, Duchess of Windsor

Wallis Simpson, Duchess of Windsor (1896-1986) was a controversial figure and suspected Nazi supporter. The romance that blossomed between the American socialite and King Edward VIII led to his abdication of the throne.

Edward felt much criticism for his decision to marry the twice-divorced woman and relations between Wallis and members of the Royal family became strained. The Queen Mother remarked that Wallis was "the lowest of the low". After Edward's death, Wallis went to live in Paris in voluntary exile.

This one page letter, measuring 10.25" x 6.5", is dated 18 November 1940. The letter was written to Elsie de Wolf, known as Lady Mendl, an American interior designer and author. The text reads, in full:

"Dearest Elsie,

I am having a little difficulty with Johnny about his Christmas present, so I appeal to you to give me an idea of what he really wants.

The weather is absolutely perfect now, and I can only hope that it will remain like this for your visit. If I can possibly get this house ready, you all must come and christen the guest rooms after you leave the Wenner-Grens.

I am having a painter come down from New York to do a few tricky things that I decided must be done to pull it all together, such as marblizing [sic] some columns in the entrance to the rooms, which are most awkward, because there are no doors to these rooms, and naturally, the corridor gets mixed up with the colour scheme of the rooms. It is quite a little problem as a house, and I am dying for you to see it.

We will not get to America until some time in the New Year. I only hope you will be back from California when this much talked of and thought of trip occurs.

All love, Wallis"

Inscribed on 'Government House, Nassau, Bahamas' headed paper, the page is in excellent condition with some minor fold marks. The autograph is written in bold black pen, "Dear Elsie" is handwritten, and the remainder of the text is typed.

A charming collectible item from one of the most memorably controversial public figures in the past century of Britain's history.