From Ruth L: I was so upset to hear the news, as although Paul had said in his Christmas letter that he was ill, he sounded very positive and enjoying his new friendship with Maria. It seems impossible that the end was so imminent, and you must all be devastated. He was such a kind man and had looked after your mum devotedly in her long and horrible illness. What a lot of interests he had! He wrote so lovingly about the grandchildren, of whom I know he was incredibly proud. It must have been great to be together at Christmas.