I’m so lucky not to work alone. My good friends are always ready to listen, which was especially appreciated in this case when I read the poems out loud. So, heartfelt thanks to: Brenda Doyle, June Handera, Julia Keeler, Sharon McIsaac, Lorna Milne, and Martha Pagel.
Because the book is set in Toronto, my English chums—Jessie Bailey, Enid (Molly) Harley, and Pam Rowan—weren’t here to drive me around, find me material, and generally be helpful, but they were with me in spirit. My life would be considerably poorer without them.
Lynda Wilson and Lynette Dubois were enthusiastic about sharing past times with me.
The people who assured me I was on the right track by moving ahead to 1917 are too numerous to mention, but if I could shake hands with each of them I would. This applies especially to David and Ruth Onley, whom I am so fortunate to count as friends.
A special thanks to Marian Misters and J.D. Singh of Sleuth of Baker Street. Their contribution to the health and welfare of Canadian crime writers is impossible to measure.
Cheryl Freedman was her typical perspicacious self and read an early draft for me. I am most grateful.
Andrea de Shield at the City of Toronto Archives has always been a big help. Her cheerful encouragement is invaluable.
I owe an immense debt of gratitude to Christina Jennings of Shaftesbury Films. She has produced the Murdoch Mysteries television show, and because she had faith from the beginning and never gave up, she has opened so many doors for me.
And, of course, where would I be without my friends at McClelland & Stewart, especially my editor, Lara Hinchberger, whom I can only describe as long-suffering. And thanks also to Catherine Marjoribanks for being such a careful copyeditor. I’d be a mess without the two of you.