Two letters related to an insurance claim related to the loss of the Ford family in the Titanic disaster, including a TLS by solicitor H. J. Allen Hardwicke to the White Star Line's law firm Hill Dickinson & Co., December 22, 1915, headed, "re Ford and the White Star Line," in part: "I understand that the White Star Line have now decided to pay compensation to persons who suffered less owing to the unfortunate disaster to the 'Titanic'…The circumstances in this case are exactly the same as previously, namely that the applicant has lost everything and is now living on charity, and I am instructed by those taking an interest in his case to renew his demand." Second is a carbon copy of Hill Dickinson's response, in full: "We have received your letter but regret that we are not in a position to admit liability in this case. We have referred to the papers and do not find that proceedings were issued." In overall very good to fine condition, with scattered creasing. It seems that this letter was sent on behalf of Edward Ford, the father of Edward Watson, Dollina Margaret, William Neal Thomas, and Robina Maggie Ford, all of whom were lost in the Titanic disaster along with their spouses, an aunt, and a family friend—their entire party of ten passengers perished, their bodies never identified. Ultimately, Edward Ford was awarded a meager compensation of five shillings per week for the loss of his family.
