Brown leather book cover with gold-embossed design in the centre, beneath the words In Memoriam, also in gold leaf.Transcription follows: Book cover: In memoriam Page 1 In red text: Designed and engrossed by A.H. Howard ACA Page 2 Meeting of the council of the corporation of the city of Toronto held on the 22nd day of October AD 1903. On motion of Alderman Sheppard seconded by Alderman Loudon. It was resolved Page 3 That this council desires to record an expression of the deep regret with which it has learned of the death of the 20th instant of Alexander Manning ex-Mayor of this City. Although long failing health had in a measure prepared the public mind for the sad event, the news of the death of one of the oldest and most prominent citizens is received by this Council and the community generally with feelings of profound sorrow. Mr. Manning settled in Toronto in 1834, the year of its incorporation as a City, and was for a long Page 4 period actively engaged in the construction of large public and private works. He had unbounded faith in the future of his adopted city, and added much to its prosperity by the erection of many large and handsome structures within its boundaries, which will long remain as monuments to his enterprise and far-sightedness. Seeking Municipal honors he entered the Council as Alderman for the Ward of St. Lawrence in 1856, and served the city in that capacity during the years following, viz: 1857, 1867, 1868, 1869, 1870, 1871 and 1872. Upon his re-election as Alderman in 1873 he was appointed by the Council to the office of Mayor and in 1885 he was elected Chief Magistrate by the ratepayers. In filling these high offices Mr. Manning gave to his fellow-citizens the benefit of ripe experience and marked ability, and administered the trusts committed to him with honor and faithfulness. Page 5 Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the family of the deceased gentleman, with a respectful expression of sympathy and condolence. In witness where of the Corporate Seal is hereunto attached, duly verified by the proper officers of the Corporation this 11th day of November AD 1903. [Signed by the Mayor, the City Clerk, and the Treasurer and Keeper of Civic Seal.]