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letters of condolence



I am processing the collection of an alumnus for our university archives. He
was a well-loved sportswriter and included in the material sent by his widow
is a carton of  get well cards that he received when his cancer first began,
and another carton of the condolence letters she recieved after his death. In
each category there are a few cards from the famous, but the majority come
from his readers. Should they be kept in the collection [it focuses on his
professional writing life] or, should they be returned  tactfully, if that is
possible, to his widow? My first response was that they should be returned,
but then I started reading the get well cards and it was both touching and
fascinating to see what complete strangers write to a celebrity. Now I am
confused and would love advise from more experienced archivists.
Thank you
Elizabeth Happy