Letter from Leo Steiner to Mr and Mrs Mil

Dear Mr and Mrs Mil, I received your lovely letter from the 17th this month and would like to convey my warmest thanks for the dollars you sent me, which really were not necessary. Regarding potential work contracts in Australia, unfortunately I have to report that I was unable to find anything for you. I enquired with many people, but it’s hard since everyone is looking for jobs for their relatives because all the Jews here have someone to answer to in Europe. Many friends and relatives are writing to me at the moment, but despite my desire to help them it isn’t always possible. I sought advice on your particular situation, and learned that you should write yourselves to Australia House, the Strand, London W.2. Describe your objective of migrating to Australia with your family and give all the required details. The most important thing is to tell them how much capital you possess currently, and that you will soon transfer it to a bank in Sydney. People say here that it’s relatively easy for people to come to Australia if they have some capital. It also helps that you are Swiss nationals. With your current funds you can start a good life. Your currency is worth about 25% than our pounds. You can only imagine how glad I would be to have you here with your family. I have also opened a little account in the biggest bank here, since I must save for when, G-d willing, my parents join me. Concerning business, you could do very well in your sector here – I only wish you were already on your way to Australia. (At the same time, we’re having a bit of a crisis at the moment, which has also had an effect on the situation of Europeans coming here). My dear Mr Mil, I ask you please to not be upset with me. You can’t imagine how hard it is to find someone here who will take people on, since employers look for a guarantee of 5 years. (Although I will keep looking for you). Keep trying however to enquire about getting a permit, and if you want to secure your capital, deposit it into the “Commonwealth Savings Bank of Australia,” the largest national bank of Australia and also the only one that pays interest. Whilst I am always available to you if you are seeking further information, I wish you, your wife and the dear Rus (even if somewhat belatedly) the best of health and all the best for Pesach, Warmest regards, Yours, Leo Steiner