The book 'The Mortier Story' contains many photos of original postcards and letters in Dutch. Unfortunately, there wasn't always enough space to include an English translation of these documents. Andrew Pilmer was kind enough to translate these texts in English; you can find these translations below:
Translation of text on postcard, pictured on p. 277
Co-operative Association “De Plicht”, Menen
Antwerp, 15 June, 1942.
Dear Sirs,
We thank you for the settlement of our invoice.
Please be so good as to let us know by return about travel between Kortrijk and Menin, as the railway timetable does not mention any connection.
After we have heard from you, we will let you know the day and date of our visit.
Thanking you in advance,
Sincere greetings,
Usines Theophile Mortier S.A.
Translation of text on letter, pictured on p. 278, above left
Co-operative Association “De Plicht”, Menen
Antwerp, 23 June, 1942
Dear Sirs,
As requested, we have inspected the 97-key organ, No. 943, in the “Plicht” hall.
Following inspection, to return the organ to its former good state, the following repairs are necessary:
Completely overhaul keyframe 1500,- Fr
Check all registers 650,-
Tune and check over 550,-
Travel costs (not including accommodation) 240,-
_________
2940,- Fr
These prices may change should wages have to be increased in the intervening time.
Sincere greetings,
Usines Th. Mortier S.A.
Translation of text on card, pictured on p. 278, above right
Mr. K. Vloebergh, Walem
Antwerp, 27 March, 1941
Sir,
Please be so good as to let us know if you can transport an organ from our factory to Putte, on the border.
Sincere greetings,
Usines Th. Mortier S.A.
Translation of text on letter, pictured on p. 279, below left
V. Cols & J. De Roek
Architects and Master Builders
Antwerp, 5 July, 1945.
Mr. Th. Mortier.
Sir,
Following the meeting which Mr De Roek had with you last Tuesday, the 3rd., we would be obliged if you will send us details of the tiles and windows which have been broken as a result of the war, listing separately, if possible, the damage to the glazing in each room.
Having prepared the report for war damages, we will immediately be able to send you the same, as soon as we are in possession of the necessary information.
Looking forward to hearing from you, Sir,
We offer our distinguished greetings,
Translation of text on letter, pictured on p. 279, below left
Manufacturers of all kinds of Organs and Orchestrions
Usines Th. Mortier S.A.
62, Bredastraat, Antwerp (Dam)
We consider ourselves fortunate to be able to announce that, as in the past, we have orchestrions in stock; can deliver organs within three months, and, on request, supply music books with the latest hits.
As in the past, our latest productions are of FIRST-CLASS QUALITY.
Come to see them in our factory and be convinced.
Translation of text on letter, pictured on p. 281, above left
27 May, 1949
Mr. Alfons Caluwé
Sir,
We confirm the conversation that you had with our deputy manager on the 25th of this month.
Considering the terrible crisis which our firm is going through, we find ourselves forced to terminate your position as private chauffeur.
The contract between us of 13 June 1947, as far as your position as private chauffeur is concerned, will have to be terminated on 31 August, 1949 at the latest. Everything else will remain unchanged, provided you are in agreement with this.
We still nurture the hope that we will be able to find you another job in our factory, which, in the meantime, you will be able to learn.
Given the uncertain prospects of our operation it would certainly be in your own best interest to look for and find another job. It should still be possible (...)
Translation of text on letter, pictured on p. 281, above right
January 25, 1950
Mr Peersman
Further to your letter of 13 December, 1949, I note that you will be leaving our firm on 1 February, 1950.
I bring to your attention the obligations imposed on you by the law concerning contracts of 7 August, 1922, and, in particular, article 28 of this law.
In the meantime, I remain,
Respectfully,