THE UNIFICATION

(Anschluss)
Charles Coiro
Copyright Charles Coiro 2015
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1
It was an unusually pleasant afternoon in Austria. The date was March 12, 1938.
Motke his mothers diminutive in Yiddish for his given name Mordeca Fleisch, had that
feeling once again that something was in the air. He got these premonitions very few times in
his life but they always seemed to be followed by some calamitous event. He remembered
when his uncle Ben Steiner, his mothers brother went off to work that morning so many years
ago and Motke, still in bed was suddenly awakened with a flash that went through his mind
that something was wrong. That day, just before his mother served him his lunch, he
remembered that loud pounding of the front door only to hear his mother scream. His Uncle
was fatally hit by a trolley car as he tried to cross Kartnerstrasse, the wide boulevard in Wein,
(Vienna, Austria) that went by the Jewish center. The Jewish center was where his uncle Ben,
worked as a tailor making mens trousers and suits. He remembered his mothers face was
grief stricken and white as she told him to finish his lunch and to then remain in the house
until she returned. Grabbing only a heavy sweater, Lenore his mother was always warning
him to dress warmly or he would catch a cold. He wondered what had happened to have his
mother go out without her coat. Motke was only seven and sometimes he wondered at adults
behavior and orders but he nevertheless obeyed when he was told to do something. Mostly it
was to escape the harangue that usually took place when his mother reported his bad behavior
to his father and which sometimes (according to the severity of his miss behaving, he could be
punished by not allowing him to go out doors or to miss the weekly visit to the sweet shop
where he was usually allowed to have one of the desserts while his father and mother drank
their coffee. It seems that Motke was born with not only a stubborn streak but also a short
fused temper when things did not go his way. They both hoped he would not be like their
wealthy friend Irving Midman. After his outcry, his mother Lenore tried to appease him and
said, Motke, be calm. Motke turned around and said, thats the other thing, why cant you
call me by my real name, Mordeca. Its always like I was a 2 year-old baby. Even my friends
make fun of me and call me Motke, Motke.
On that occasion Motke recalled that his father had been acting strangely that whole
week. Then there was the constant shouting out of his father against something which his
mother always whispered for him to not shout so that Motke might hear. All that week, there
were late visits from two of his fathers best friends. The men would talk in whispers and their
faces were very serious and stern. They talked late into the night. This very night, Bruno,
Motkes father was more loquacious than ever. On this particular evening, Bruno seemed to
have an appetite that was unusual for him.
3

He talked a great deal and seemed too nervous to sit still. After their supper, Bruno,
who had eaten two servings of Schweinsbraten with Semmelk Nodel, (Bruno was a Reformed
Jew and did not adhere to the dietary rules), along with 2 glasses of Marzen, his favorite pale
lager, was not helped by the double serving of Dobos cake. He explained to Lenore that he
was feeling very uncomfortable and was going to walk to try to get himself relieved of his over
indulgence of the evening meal. He chose to walk on the Karnerstrassen in hopes of meeting
someone with whom he could unburden his troubled mind. There was no one he knew but
the boulevard was more crowded than usual given the splendid night air. Still feeling the
effects of his over-stuffing himself, he decided to sit on one of the benches and smoke a cigar.
About half way through his cigar, he suddenly threw the cigar butt into the street and went
home to try to seek relief from some antacid powders they kept. It was almost 7:45 PM when
he decide to turn on the radio to see if there was any news. At 7:50 PM, the radio started to
static and presently Carl Schusnigg, the Austrian Chancellor addressed the Austrian people.
He announced that Operation Otto was going into effect and that henceforth, Austria
would be annexed to Germany: an Anschluss whereby there was to be:
Ein Volk, Ein Reich, und Ein Fuhrer
One People, One Empire and one Leader
Bruno was speechless.

He knew that many Austrians were sympathetic towards

Germany and there were reasons why this was so. For one, Austria had been a world power
until the collapse of Habsburg-Austrian Empire in 1918. Until that time, Austria-Hungary
had been the 2nd largest country in Europe after Russia. It was the fourth largest machine
building industry after the United States, Germany and Great Britain. With one blow,
Austrias dignity and pride in world leadership was reduced from an all powerful Empire to
one of a small, powerless country. Even its name, now known as the Lesser Austria was a
reminder of how Austria had been reduced to a single, impotent state.
No sooner did Bruno hear the news, he hastened to have his two friends meet to
seriously discuss what they should do. He was not too early for at 5:00 AM the next morning,
the 13th of March, Heinrich Himmler was marching through the streets of Vienna. It was not
surprising to see that a great many of the Austrians waved, flags and arms; people threw
flowers and saluted Nazi style at the parading troops. It was nick-named the Flower War.
Austria had been in the throes of a terrible depression and there were countless
thousands out of work. They needed a reason as to why this was so, and so they blamed the
Jews who were mostly disliked if not hated by the Austrians. There were too many Jews and

they held the best paid positions. The total population of people living in Austria at the time
was 1,935,881, 175,000 were Jews. 62% of the lawyers were Jews; 47% of the physicians were
Jews, 29% of the professors were Jews; 25% of the businesses were operated by Jews and 60%
of big business and finance were owned or operated by Jews. Added to this was the fact that
600,000 Austrians were without jobs.
To the Austrians, this was intolerable. It was not without some satisfaction that the
Asset Transfer office was created called the Vermoegensverkehrstrasselle which was
responsible for the transfer of Jewish property to non-Jews. Many Austrians thought this was
only fair since the Jews had enjoyed their high style of living while the Austrians were
reduced to mere basics in foods and goods. This attitude would some 8 months later, lead to
the Kristillnacht in Germany where Jewish synagogues were torched and businesses
destroyed and broken glass was littered everywhere. There would be no bad feelings or pity
on the side of the Austrians.

2
Bruno Fleisch had hurried to the homes of his three friends. Previously, they had seen
the signs of impending dangers but had not imagined the horrors that were being committed.
Now they must make plans. Fleisch, along with Irving Midman, a very successful business
man involved in the buying and selling of real estate was one of the persons plus Albrecht
Rodman, a newspaper reporter for the Neue Freie Presse and the Judische Arbeiter, an organ
for Zionistisch Oder Socialistich ( Zionist and socialist) interests. In his position as a reporter,
Albrecht Rodman generally had reports of happenings in all parts of the world that were in
process before the local press.
When he arrived at Irving Midmans house, an overly large and splendid home of
gracious proportions bespoke an opulence of gracious living. Arriving, a maid received him,
took his hat and coat and asked that he wait until she could inform Mr. Midman since Mr.
Midman was very sparing of his time. In a short time Irving Midman welcomed Albrecht into
his office and the two immediately started to talk of the happenings of the past evening and
the morning.

Irving Midman was a man in his early to mid 70s. Spare of frame and short, his wavy
white hair topped a face that was usually red from impatience and anger. He was in fact, a
bully even though physically no one imagined he could best them if there was a real fight.
Irving never answered a question in his business dealings without shouting and a show of
anger which usually overwhelmed the person he was doing business with. But, because of
what he could offer, the person generally allowed him to go through the deal figuring that
even though unpleasant, business was business. His temper had lost him a son and a daughter
who were brought up under a never pleased father who found fault with everything they did.
They simply could not please him and despite the vast wealth he would leave, them, each left
their homes to make do with the world as everyone else did. Irving had always been an unruly
child and even his mother was petrified when he went into his rages. His parents had
consulted with physicians and with a psychologist as to why their son went into these fits of
anger. They always came away without answer or solution. They would watch Irving and see
that when something was not the way he felt it should be, that almost like clockwork, a fit of
anger overtook him and left the young child distorted in anger and with his red face gasping
for air. Irvings parents feared for his life and in order to not have him go into another rage,
gave him his way. Thus, he grew up bullying his way with his opponents usually too startled
to defy him. He married, a girl, named Hannah Hanel. Hannah was a German born Jewess,
raised to follow her man; to make no comments and raised to obey without questioning
whatever her husband wanted or said. With Hannah, Irving always dictated what they should
do; where they should go; where they would live and even to what they would eat. So with
Hannah, his life was relatively peaceful.
When the present events started to take place, she asked , Irving, what should we do
if the Nazis take over? You know they hate Jews and the letters I receive from my cousin talk
about the many abuses the Jews have to go through that remain unnoticed by other people.
These abuses strike at the heart of every Jew and one can never be sure what will result?
Irving had been sitting at his desk with his head down and really absorbed in thought.
Hanny, he said, using the affectionate term he used when they were together, we have been
together for more than 51 years. Have I ever made you feel in want of anything? You have
been good to me and I dont want to imagine what my life would be like if you were not part of
it. Perhaps I have not shown my feelings outwardly but I know you can feel my love and
concern for you. I have been thinking that since neither of us is young any longer, the
problem of having to divest our wealth and having to sell all my properties and protect our
money is going to take a long time in which we will surely lose out. That is why I think we
should remain in Austria. We would have to move to a smaller house because the Germans

will surely confiscate this house for some officials. And, with all my connections and friends
in the Viennese government, I am sure we will be able to come out without too great a loss.
Almost for the first time in her life with Irving, Hannah spoke up. She was not going to
allow their possible extermination without some protest.
Your friends and connections, she said! When have they made friendly overtures to
us? Have we ever been invited to their homes or to some friendly gatherings? No, she stated
emphatically, these are not your friends. Their wives and I wave to each other at some social
affair just to make appearances seem friendly. If you have any real friends, ask them to look
out for your property (Of course you would have to pay them) until such time when maybe
this madness and this nightmare will be over.
I dont know about you but we still have two children that we havent corresponded
with or seen in the last 12 years. I dont even know if I have grandchildren or not. I dont
blame you but you never made allowances for their not being perfect. Irving, nobody is
perfectnot even you. I have followed you and did whatever it was you wanted but now, I
also have a life and things that are important to me. Why couldnt we go to Switzerland?
There is a part of Switzerland where they speak German. We have no need for money and so
we could retire like normal people and try to enjoy life. I want to connect myself with our
children and be a grandmother. Does that sound so strange? If we try to stay here, what will
you be protecting, things, properties; things that have no meaning in life except they provide
the means for obtaining what,? Things, only things. I will follow your decision in what we do
for I am your wife and my place will be with you but Irving, I will be a very unhappy woman.
Now that I have given you my view and expressed my feelings, the rest is up to you and I will
say no more about it. I only hope that we will not be shipped to some prison camp for that
would be the final blow.
Irving Midman with his chin almost on his chest sat profoundly shaken by the
exhortations of Hannah. But somehow Hannah did not understand. All that he had acquired,
all the efforts of his youth and manhood were invested in his accomplishments. How could he
suddenly admit defeat. Hannah said that things did not matter but what else is there in
ones life except things. All mankind worked to acquire success and with the success came
those things. As far as his children were concerned, they left him; he had not ordered them
out. If they felt better without him, then he too felt better without them. Let them make their
own lives and provide for their families the same as he did. He was not going to permit a
false sentimentalism to suddenly take over. They made their decisions now let them live with
them.
7

*
What are your plans, Irving asked Bruno?
I have been up all night trying to decide what to do. I have gone over everything with
my wife Lenore and she says we should hear other opinions before we finalize our plans, She
is concerned that my boy Motke will lose a whole year of school if we leave and if we go to a
new country, he will lose more time learning the language. Fortunately, we only rent our
apartment and so we would have little difficulty than if we owned a house. Also, since I work
for a bank, I could probably ask for a transfer to our main bank in Brussels. So, the Nazis
could not really hurt us by taking away our property and transferring it to the Austrians. I am
divided though by the idea that I have to flee my own country because of Mr. Hitler and his
henchman. That is the part I resent most. I suppose it is a loss of pride on my part and
probably I will ask for the transfer to Brussels but I am angered and frustrated that I am
powerless to do anything about it. Have you heard from Albrecht as to what he is deciding to
do? And yourself, Irving, what does Hannah say?
As you can imagine, Bruno, I have a very different situation from your own. The
thoughts came rushing back to Irvings brain as he imagined the terrible scene of being
shipped to a prison camp but he shook his head to make the frightful visions disappear.
I think Bruno, that Hannah and I are too old to run away. Our remaining here will not
be troublesome to the Nazis. We have too many possessions here and I dont think I would
have time to sell them not now when there is very little money to spend.
But Irving, isnt the possibility of saving your life worth considering? You are only in
your early 70s and there is still the probability of many more years to come. If you werent a
Jew, I might agree with you but you are not a gullible man, you have heard the same things
that I have heard. The Nazis need us to keep their Nationalism alive so that they can have
someone to blame for all the trouble. You know, the Germans would have had to invent us for
their purposes if we did not already exist. Please reconsider your decision and get away while
you can still do so.
Hannah had appeared when Bruno was giving these last words to offer him some coffee.
After a short greeting, Bruno noticed a tear eyed Hannah rushing away.
It seems Hannah is not in agreement with your decision. I urge you Irving, rethink
the situation over again. You have enough experience to bring you right up to the top again,
no matter where you are.

Thank you Bruno, but each man must make his own decisions. You may be right in
what you say but at the final point, every man must be responsible for what he does. Besides,
after all these years with public officials and people in high positions, (a lot of whom made
vast sums of money with my advice), I think I shall be able to avoid any unpleasant
situations.
Irving, I am not as old as you but I have seen the way men react. When there is a decision to
make regarding their safety or that of their families, they will always protect their own. Like
the old saying goes, Family comes First.
Irving Midman was not simply taking a chance that he would be able to keep a
substantial part of his assets. Midman had heard that in Germany in 1933, The Jewish Agency
had negotiated the transfer with Nazi Germany of some 50,000 German Jews to immigrate to
Palestine and retain some of their assets as German export goods. However, that was
Germany and this was Austria. What might have been policy in Germany would not
necessarily conform to German policy in Austria. It was thus, that he thought that his
connections would facilitate his remaining in Austria and at the same time retain most of his
assets. Irving Midman felt that he would be more advantageous for the Germans to leave him
in peace. Since he never discussed business with Hannah, she did not know of Irvings hopes.
Since there seemed to be no changing of Irvings position, Bruno, to change the subject,
said. I stopped by at Albrecht Rodmans house and his wife Beth said he had to get to his
newspaper office first. I can imagine how that must be in these times where every word or
action is headline news. Beth mentioned that Albrecht had mentioned that he would be
stopping off here to talk. Hopefully, he is on his way.
Just as said this, Albrecht Rodman, un lit pipe in mouth and looking harassed and as
though he did not have time to shave or comb his hair or tie his necktie, fiercely rang the
doorbell. Upon having the door opened, he rushed past the maid and went to Irvings office
while he told the maid to quickly tell Mr. Midman that Albrecht Rodman needed to see him
immediately. Before the confused maid could answer Bruno. Irving appeared and greeted
him with a severe and serious demeanor.
I can see that you already know the news. I hurried over to tell you and to arrange a
time when we can speak of our options. Right now, I have to rush back to my office. News
like this cannot be held back but I feel we should talk of this matter. I realize that we have
touched on this subject before, but now, we really have to talk.

Albrecht Rodman was an intelligent giant of a man. At 6-2, he towered over Irving
Midman when the two were together. Tall but thin of frame, his clothes sometimes appeared
too baggy for him and often times, his wife Beth had to alter his clothes by ripping seams open
and cutting away the excessive material. Albrecht, who had suffered a coronary event some 5
years ago had adhered to his doctors advice to stay thin and modify his diet. The only thing
he was unable to do was to stop smoking his pipe without which he was never seen. Even
though the pipe was unlit, he liked feeling it in his mouth as though it were some black
pacifier. Dark horn rim glass with thick lenses, probably the result of his constant and
obsessive reading gave him the appearance of a tweedy college professor and also made one
feel a kind of assurance on whatever he said. He had been born in Linz some 37 years ago
and his father still lived on a small farm. He was an excellent student who was always
encouraged to learn and be a professor some day. It was through his studies that he was
awarded a scholarship to attend Columbia University. Albrecht spoke English without a trace
of accent. He had studied at Columbia University in New York City where he majored in
journalism and obtained his masters degree.
It was at Columbia where he met Beth Crane his future wife. Beth was a no nonsense
woman, thin framed with no prominent female attributes. She was in her own way, attractive
and highly intelligent . Her Liberal , leftist leaning parents always urged her to study. Dont
ever become an incubator for some man, her mother cautioned. Learn and declare your
independence and stand on your own two feet, she was counceled. Brought up in atheistic
family, she had no leanings towards any particular religion and found herself unfettered in
formulating her thoughts and actions.
Beth and Albrecht met while both had both attended a Zionist meeting which called for
the creating of a Jewish state in Palestine. Beth was an adherent of Theodore Herzl, an
Austrian Jewish journalist who had clarified Zionism back in 1897 in Basle, Switzerland. It
was through Beths association with the Zionist-Socialist movement that Albrecht was able to
obtain his job as a reporter for Neue Freie Presse , a Labor Zionist organ and the Judicshe
Arbeiter newspapers.
The two had decided to hold off having a family since they were both working for a
cause that would often move them from place to place. They felt that the impermanence
would have a negative effect on any child. They limited their personal possessions to books,
classical music records and whatever clothing they needed. Almost everything else was rented.
Beth had always said, Live with few possessions and you have no needs when you move from
country to country.

10

In a way, both Beth and Albrecht viewed the troubles in Europe as a means for getting
Jews to stand up for statehood. After the Balfour declaration and the work of Chaim
Weizmann, they both felt at least Homeland was a word in the Jewish vocabulary.
** (The Balfour declaration was a letter from British Foreign Secretary to Baron Rothchild
stating His Majestys Government now viewed with favor the establishment in Palestine of a
national home for the Jewish people.)
Chaim Weizmann was one of the main proponents for a Jewish homeland in Palestine.
Weizmann,a chemist had developed a process by which one could synthesize acetone by
fermentation. At that time, Germany cornered the supply of calcium acetone which was used
in the manufacture of cordite, a chemical needed to make gunpowder. In return for
Weizmanns contribution, British foreign secretary, Lloyd George gave his support for the
need of a Jewish Homeland. Quid Pro Quo?
Albrecht Rodman was also a man that never flinched under Irvings rages. At first,
Beth resented Irving Midmans bullying ways but Albrecht could always calm her. In one
sense, he said, he was amused at Irvings incontrollable reactions to even the merest of
subjects. Sometimes he thought of Irving as some offshoot of a chameleon whose skin
changed color when exposed to danger. In Irvings case, it was words that changed his face
from white to red. But aside from his own musings, Albrecht also saw the potential of having
a wealthy, influential man who at some time could help their cause. He said to Beth, we have
to remember that Irving Midman could have a telling influence on the causes we are working
for. Lets not let ego get in the way. Use some of your womanly charm and warmth toward
him, I know he reacts very favorable to a womans charms. Besides, his wife Hannah is a
lovely, friendly person. I dont think that Irving Midman is any more of an ogre than any
other business man except he doesnt know how to hide his feelings.
I know that you are right but I just wasnt brought up to take anyones bullying and of
course you are right when you say that Hannah is a beautiful person; she wouldnt have
married Irving if he was so terrible. I suppose that I was remembering when we were at
Columbia how some of the stupidest persons would shout out and try to bully us because we
had beliefs in political systems that were different from theirs. I think that was the first time I
became so excited about our beliefs and what our life would be. I remember that I had just
then considered that I wanted to work for Herzls dream. And almost as if it was a miracle,
the offer to work with the Jewish Agency to promote the Jewish settlement in Palestine was
made available to me. It was so exciting to be working towards something that was so
important. I could never have been someone who worked in an office where you put in your
11

time so that you had a paycheck to feed and house yourself. I wanted so much for my life to
matter. Then, after I met you, I decided to convert from having no religion to adopting
Judaism. I didnt want to be born a Protestant or a Catholic and then have to continue being
that person without any decision on my part. I also decided that you were the man to be my
husband. Working side by side in a focused direction towards an idealistic end. In a way, it
was like what was happening with my parents. I hope you never regret my decision to not
have children. There are already too many people in the world. I always thought, if Albrecht
or I get a call to go to anywhere in the world, we just have to put our few belongings in a box
and take off with no responsibilities except to ourselves. It may sound selfish and I dont
condemn those who want to live in the traditional way; thats their choice, but for us, I
wanted our life to be as exciting as it is.
With all this problem taking place in Europe, what is your thinking about remaining in
Austria? Beth asked. For me, I hope we can stay in Europe. Living in Austria would tie my
hands as far as helping is concerned but I would like to remain someplace close enough do
something about the Jews in Europe. We both know and have heard of what is going to be a
cataclysmic happening in Europe. Hitler has been strong enough to convince his people that
the Germans have been mistreated by everyone and he has a scapegoat all ready for them to
blame. So for me, Ill opt for staying in Europe. Its probably too early to know but does the
Neue Frei Presse, the newspaper, have some definitive plans?
Albrecht replied, Its perhaps strange but just last week after the rumors began talking
about a putsch from Germany, I decided to re-read Mein Kampf, I dont know what put
that into my head I guess all the talk of Germany getting ready to fight but it was really scary.
As you know, Hitler proposed sending the Jews to Madagascar. (I suppose that was no more
terrible than Americas proposing to send all the Negroes to Liberia, in Africa after the Civil
War) But the sickening part of Mein Kampf was for destroying all the weak and the sick and
then writing that it was more humane to destroy them than provide for their protection made
me feel weak kneed and sick. The first time I read it, it was like a fairytale from some
deranged, sick person but now that very person is the leader of a country that can actually do
these things, I really feel frightened.
But to get back to your question, I agree, staying here in Europe would be best for both
our careers. As far as I know, I have not heard anyone mention where we go if this Hitler guy
starts in. But as far as a location Beth, I am with you that Europe would be the best place to
be. I know that we have our headquarters in Berne, Switzerland and that there is the greater
part of Switzerland that speaks German, but other than that, I dont know. Maybe I will have

12

some news today since they called a big meeting for all the correspondents in every branch.
I wouldnt be surprised if we do end up in Switzerland. The Swiss will probably remain
neutral if there is a war - its to the advantage to all the banks to have one place that is free so
that the financial world can still operate.
I promised Bruno that I would stop off for a moment at Irving Midmans. He wanted
to meet this evening, if possible to just go over the situation. Of course, I want you to be with
me.
Beth said, Please be sure to come back after the newspaper meeting so that I can learn
what you have learned from your colleagues.

3
It was almost prophetic, Hannahs last words to Irving : I only hope that we will not
be shipped to some prison camp, that would be the final blow.
It was on the fourth day after the Flower War march of Heinrich Himmler that
Hannah and Irving started to hear about Jews being shipped out to prison camps. As
expected, men from the Asset Transfer office knocked on the door to inform Irving and
Hannah that their home was to be expropriated for use of someone high in command and
that they should find other quarters. As had been planned by Irving, he had started workman
on renovating a small house for themselves since Irving knew they would take his home.
When the Asset Transfer officers came, Irving tried to explain that he was remodeling a small
house he owned but that it would probably take some 5 or 6 months to make it livable.
Our orders are for you to vacate the house within the next 48 hours. You are to take
youre your clothes and some personal hygiene articles. You will not take any furniture ,
pictures, radios or any other articles.
Can you give me some time, the Mayor of Vienna is a personal friend and perhaps he
can speak in my favor to at least give me time to remodel the small house I am moving to.
There are no exceptions so if you are not out in 48 hours, you will be put into the
street with your clothes and toilet articles. Stating that, they left.

13

Irving immediately rushed to see and speak to the mayor, a good friend or so he
thought, to see if there was any way of postponing the order to leave the premises within the
stipulated 48 hours. He asked whether the mayor could intervene before SS General SyesInquart (Syse-Inquart was made General of the SS Just 3 days after the Anschluss and in
charge of transferring Jewish properties to Austrians) to at least allow Midman time to
renovate his house. I have done you many favors in the past which have been lucrative to
you , will you do me this favor?
The mayor looked out of the window and could not look Irving In the eye and said,
Irving, we have always been good friends and I too have done you favors that permitted you
to do things without the need of the special requirements normally needed. In this case, I
have been informed that no special favors will be granted especially if the favors asked are
from Jews. I would help you if I could but my hands are tied.
you have a place to go to.

Irving , you are lucky, at least

A dejected and impotent Irving turned to go home. He knew Hannah was right when
she said, These people are not your friends, you are only convenient to them and a way to
make money for themselves. Irving had always trusted his wealth and position on having
things done for him was now confronted with the realization that he was only being used and
had no more power than anyone else.
Hannah, did not wait for Irving to return. Instead, she called on friends to tell them
of their situation and as to whether they had some extra pots and pans and some dishes they
could spare since the house being renovated was completely empty. Unfortunately, the people
Hannah went to ask all knew of the order for Jewish homes being confiscated and they too
were afraid of being collaborators and in most instances declared that they did not want to
become involved.
A subdued Irving called Hannah and told her that the mayor could do nothing for
them and so the orders they had just received to leave must be followed. They must take
whatever they could to the small house which was just starting to be worked on. They would
have to make the best they could of the situation. Without saying I told you so, Hannah
immediately
packed the clothes they would need and especially some heavier clothes when the next winter
came. Meanwhile, she would ask Irving to find a decent stove and a refrigerator while she
tried to locate some pots and dishes, plus a mattress and some blankets. With those
minimum items, they could at least survive. And thus they lived while the workman
remodeled the house amid masons, plumbers and carpenters until the house was livable.
14

It was now August and Irving and Hannah had now settled in the small house and were
managing as best they could. On a sunny Friday afternoon, Irving was still attempting to
extricate themselves from their situation. He was attempting to find the means for their
relocation to another country. They had hoped that it would be possible to emigrate to the
United States where there were large colonies of Jews living in the large cities. There were
great difficulties and even with the persuasion of large amounts of money, Irving found
himself frustrated.
A heavy pounding on the door startled them. It was reminiscent of the heavy pounding
when they were informed that their house was being confiscated. In great fear, Irving opened
the door to find himself confronted by 3 Nazi SS troops. One of the troops asked, Is this the
house of Frau Hannah Steiner Midman?
Yes, said Hannah, speaking from the entrance hall, I am Hannah Steiner Midman,
how can I help you?
You will come with us Frau Midman, the SS wishes to ask you some questions.
What questions do they want me to answer? I have been living here in this house for
the last 5 months after our other house was confiscated.
You will come with us: Now, was the Nazi response.
Irving intervened and asked, Can I accompany her, my wife is not well?
Irving, please relax, I will just get my coat.
We were asked to just bring your wife. You will not need any other clothing Frau
Midman since it is very hot.
The three SS troops, with Hannah Midman in the center were taken to SS headquarters.
After some 5 hours, Irving Midman was frantic with worry. There were already some gray
clouds forming in the late afternoon sky and he had heard nothing. Despite his attempts to
enter the SS headquarters, Irving in desperation, turned to the Mayors office once again to
plead with the Mayor to find out what was happening to Hannah. When the Mayor was told
that Irving Midman wished to talk to him, he told the guard to say that the Mayor was out of
town and no one knew when he would be returning,
Hannah was one of several older people waiting to be questioned. She and several
other people were seated on a wooden bench waiting. When it was time for Hannah to be

15

brought into the office to be questioned, it had already started to turn dark. The people to be
interrogated had no water or the use of bathroom facilities. Some of the older men had
already wet themselves and there was an odor of urine and perspiration of fear in the air.
When she was finally called into the interrogation room, Hannah noted that there was
only a wooden desk, two chairs and a strong lamp. The walls were an institutional shade of
grayish green and the single solitary window was barred. The air was stiflingly hot. Seated
at the desk was a beefy, red-faced man who was rapidly fanning himself with what looked like
a palmetto leaf. He started to question her. He asked, Do you know why you are here?
No, she whispered, I have done nothing wrong; I am not well and I am old. Why
am I here?
Tell me, he then asked, do you know an Austrian woman by the name of Norma
Kalwa?
Norma Kalwa, she replied. Oh yes, she recalled, she was a maid in the house I
lived in before; Is she ill?
Frau Kalwa has reported to us that you made many remarks against the German
nation and its people and that you wished that Germany never existed? Is that true? And did
you not also say that the German nation was a heathen nation for its treatment of the Jews.
Do you remember saying those things to Frau Kalwa? Answer me!, he screamed.
That is not true, I have never spoken against the German nation nor did I say that I
wished it never existed.
Do you mean that Frau Kalwa was lying ? Do you mean that she made her accusation
up?
Hannah then answered, Did Frau Kalwa also tell you that I fired her? And the reason
I fired her was because I caught her stealing. She is saying these things about me to get back
at me for firing her.
We have checked up on Frau Kalwa and all her neighbors say she is an honest, proud
Austrian and would never steal. Have you witnesses who can say Frau Kalwa stole?
No, I didnt want to make her feel bad so I never told anyone, not even my husband.

16

So, who am I to believe, a fine Austrian woman who was not rich, but was honest
according to her friends or a woman who had everything and wanted to show her position by
taking a poor womans job away from her. A pure case of Jewish arrogance.
Pushing a small button on his desk, an orderly entered and was told to place Hannah in
detention with the others since they would be questioning her further. Send in the next
prisoner.
Prisoner , thought Hannah, they are making me a prisoner on the pretext that I
spoke out against the Nazis!
Hannah did not return to their home that night nor on any other night. Despite
Irvings attempts to have her freed, Irving found himself unable to do anything. He again
went through the names of all that people that owed him favors and who were once in high
positions with the Austrian government. He found them to be mere puppets to the German
overlords. They pleaded that they could do nothing for him and that his seeking help was a
danger for them. Your wife has been accused of serious crimes and anyone connected to her
might be linked to those crimes as well.
It was after his frustrated attempts that Irving decided to go to the close by, newly
opened concentration camp called Mauthausen located outside the small village of
Mauthausen, some 12 miles east of Linz. Irving hoped that he could bribe one of the guards
to send a small note to the inmates asking whether Hannah Steiner Midman was a prisoner in
the camp if anyone knew of her whereabouts.
After bribing a guard, he waited and waited but there was no word and he could not
even be sure his note was passed around. At this time, Irving Midman was a very sick man.
He had lost a great deal of weight but primarily, he had lost heart and the disillusionment of
his powers was too much. After returning home from his disappointed attempt to obtain
information as to the whereabouts of Hannah, he suddenly clutched his head he had had a
stroke which left him paralyzed him completely. Irving died, alone and helpless, his wealth,
his influence and his fiery temper were of no help. He simply died. His son and his daughter
were not apprised of his death since his son Robert had legally changed his name from
Midman to Maidman; his association with his family ended with Irving Midmans death.

17

4
Beth and Albrechts plans for Switzerland were fulfilled when Albrecht was recalled to
the Bern office in Switzerland. From Switzerland, Beth could also work effectively as well.
Some few months after settling in, Beth asked if Albrecht had received any news from their
friends Bruno and Irving. Beth had mentioned that she was able to finally locate Lenore
through his bank but that surprisingly, she had never received answers to the letters she had
written Hannah. Some of the letters had been returned with the stamp that the recipient was
unknown or that the address was incorrect. I have written and asked Lenore whether she
was able to correspond or if she had received any communication with Hannah. Lenore wrote
back and said no, it was strange but Hannah had never answered any of her letters. Turning
to Albrecht she asked, Do you think that your newspaper could somehow find out if there is
any news about Irving or Hannah. After all, Irving was a very prominent man and his
whereabouts would be of interest to many people?
I will try to check it out, Albrecht answered. I know that the newspaper has a quite
extensive file on happenings and well known people which we fall back on whenever
something takes place concerning the event or the person.
After about a week or so, Albrecht returned home and said to Beth. I am afraid I have
some bad news to tell you. Irving Midman was found dead in his house after neighbors
complained of a terrible smell emanating from the house. After breaking in, they discovered
Irving Midmans remains in a putrefied state. There was no mention of Hannah and have
some fears concerning her not being there. She would have certainly written to say that Irving
was dead to either you or Lenore who was her very best friend. Ive asked the newspaper
librarian to see if anything could be found about Hannah Steiner or Hannah Midman, since
she might have been known as Steiner. It might take a little while since the librarian has a
great deal to do with the new events occurring every day. But, sadly, we at least know about
Irvings death. You can probably write Lenore since they would not have access to
information the same as we had. And at the same time, just as a further check, ask if Bruno
can find any information as to the current address of Hannah since we know that Irving had
some of his assets in the bank that Bruno works for.
One afternoon, Beth left a message to call her as soon s he received her message. When
Albrecht did call, he heard an elated Beth gleefully shouting that they had to celebrate. What
is it, he insisted but she would not relent and made him promise he would get away from the

18

office for just a couple of hours. They decided to meet at a little Swiss Inn that served
excellent, home cooked meals.
When Albrecht arrived, Beth was sitting at a small table and instructing the waiter as to
what wine they would be drinking. This was to be a very special night. Looking up, she
spotted her tall husband and waved him over. As Albrecht sat down, Beth reached across and
holding his hands said, If I dont get this out of my system, I will explode.
Settled down and with eyes flashing excitement she said, Albie, her pet name for him,
I have just been offered the most exciting job. Its a promotion but more than that, its a
chance to really work with the Jewish people who want to return to Palestine and create a
Jewish homeland. She then told Albrecht that the Jewish Agency wants me to go to Palestine;
meet the people who are living in some of the Kibbutzim and then go to America where I can
give talks about what it is like to live there; what they do; what dangers they face and what
they are starting to achieve. I will be trying to raise money so that we can buy more property
in Palestine for Jewish resettlement. The first properties will be to start additional Kibbutzim
in outlying areas where groups of young men and women will establish and maintain
themselves by relying on their own work without outside help.
Albrecht felt a sudden shock within him and although he was really happy for Beth he
also knew that this would mean a long separation from her.
I cant tell you how happy I am for you. Its the type of involvement you have always
wished for.
Yes Albie, she answered. For once, I can get away from typing up lists; of calculating
percentages and all the things which I have been doing so far. Im going to be able to put my
hands in the sands and say, here will rise a community which will be a starting point for the
Jewish people since the times of King David. Please be happy for me and understand. I
realize this job might keep me in Palestine or America for some time but I want it so. I feel so
fervent that I wish that I had been born a Jew.
Its beautiful to see your enthusiasm but there are many, many Jews who are proud of
being Jews but would also like it better if Jews were not the punching bag for society. You
know, in olden times certain villages had one person who took on all the sins and evil doings .
He was called the Just. For taking on the role of the Just, this person was paid, housed,
clothed and fed. He didnt have to do anything but take on their sins. I wonder who got the
better deal.

19

Suddenly, Albrecht in his excitement had the need to urinate, but he didnt want to
interrupt the flow of excitement coming from Beth. In his mind, there suddenly flashed the
scene that took place when he was a 12 year old boy and had been given the chance to spend a
week in the woods and mountains in the Adirondack Mountains. Each night, the boys sat
around a campfire and chatted like boys all over do. In this case it was Sam Schneiderman
who was telling spellbound boys about how he was with this goy girl sitting in the back of his
uncles Packard for five hours trying to score. One of the other boys piped in. I dont believe
you, you couldnt hold off peeing for five hours. Albrecht recalled a knowing Sam
Schneiderman looking down his nose and telling the non believer, You gotta learn to hold
your piss. Wow, was Sam Schneiderman a man.
Another boy piped up, Yeah, you were probably in some daydream with Mrs. Palmer
and her five daughters. Just as there might have been a fight, the camp councilor yelled that
it was time to put out your fires and go to your tents. Make sure you put out all the ashes, we
dont want to set the mountains on fire.
Ok, said Sam, Lets really ,make sure as he and the others formed a ring, opened
their flies and peed on the ashes.
Some details in your youth just never go away but he did say, Beth, please excuse me
for a short time, I have to use the mens room.
When Albrecht returned they resumed their conversation. Looking at Albrecht directly
she said, I realize that this move will be very hard for you and that you will be alone a great
deal; but I want to say something to you that I mean very seriously. Occasionally you will
need someone to take care of your needs. If that happens, find some clean prostitute and find
your relief. But someone who is not too pretty. Seriously though I say this to you because I do
not want you to be without relief.
Does that mean you will do the same? I dont need someone to replace you?
No Albie, what I give you permission to do will never be a justification for me. I know
that for a man, his relieving himself does not require an emotional need as it does with most
women. I think most women feel that without love, sex is just that sex and for a woman, the
closeness and the need to belong are the most important things. She has to feel that her man
is singing inside her.

20

5
Beths trip , first to Palestine and then to the America was not something that would
happen overnight. During the time it took to get organized, many months passed by until the
idea of Beths traveling to Palestine was almost soothed over. Albrecht and Beth lived like
they had always lived but both knew that the day would come when they must separate for a
time; how long, neither knew? In the meantime, Beth was learning all she could. While she
was anxious to visit and see Palestine, she knew she would have to have learned the
background and how the Jewish National Fund collected money. Most Jews were willing to
contribute. For many, though, it was not possible to take part in this experiment. It was
hoped that the people in general would contribute to the Jewish National Fund by dropping
coins in what were known as blue boxes. By combining the contributions made from the
many blue boxes with the money from the wealthy and corporate institutions, they were
able to at least continue to obtain land.
Of course, the land mostly available was land in Galilee which was very swampy
and a source of Malaria and Typhus. Other lands that were available were located in the
Judean Hills which were rocky with poor soil or in the South Negev which was desert.
However, with foresight, blocks of areas for future settlement were purchased in the outlying
districts to ensure that the land would be incorporated in a future Jewish State.
With determination, those first members of the Kibbutzim drained the swamps
and created irrigation systems and fertilized the rocky soil until it was able to produce food.
Not only was the environment harsh but the first settlers had to ensure their safety from the
marauding Bedouin tribesmen who sabotaged the irrigation systems and burned crops when
they had matured and were ready to harvest. Most of the Kibbutzim were based on
agriculture and it was not until later did the settlers include protection from the Bedouins as a
necessity for continuing existence. There were few people at first. In 1933, there were less
than 56 Kibbutzim with a population of some 15,000 Jews.
So Beth had to oversee the continuing flow of money, even though it was not
great and then learn where they could be able to purchase land that could in some way serve
the purpose of the future Kibbutzim. When Beth was ready to depart from Switzerland, she
was given the name of a person in Palestine who would lead her to the Kibbutz where she
would first be staying. she was told to bring only essential things with her; no jewelry, (a
simple wedding ring but no diamond engagement rings), and no perfumes or other beauty
aids and to bring a few changes of underwear. She would be given the clothes they made at
21

the Kibbutz. Also, if she was going to write, bring enough pencils and blank notebooks, but no
pens since there was no ink available. The only exception was that she was told to bring a
sturdy pair of shoes that would enable her to work in the fields. Everything else would be
provided for.
While Switzerland was in general terms, anti-Semitic, Beth remarked how unfortunate
that Hannah and Irving Midman didnt settle here. They could have enjoyed whatever time
they had to at least live their lives in peace.
Thats not true, answered Albrecht, the Swiss have laws against any foreigners
staying and settling here because the Swiss are against what they call infiltration.
But your newspaper has its Headquarters here and so does The Jewish National Fund.
Why are we allowed to remain?
The Swiss call it transmigration. Any institution that provides help for the Jews to
go to other places rather than remaining in Switzerland is acceptable, and since both our
organizations urge Jews to leave, we become acceptable too.
What a pity, I always considered Switzerland the land of beautiful, snow covered alps
and mountain wildflowers and green pastures filled with cows. I guess I have been nave or at
least had wishful thinking that was one place where everybody loved peace and nature.
I dont believe there is any place on earth or in the universe where you can expect that
as long as there are men who inhabit it, he answered. But that does not mean one should
just give in to the nefarious ways of men. There must always be thinking and actions that are
opposed to what seems to be our natural inclinations.
But the Jews want only to live in peace and be allowed to follow their beliefs and their
customs!
Well Albrecht replied, We will have to see about that.

22

6
As with all things, the time comes when one must pay his taxes or see a loved one die.
The time finally arrived for Beth to leave Switzerland and make her trip to Palestine. She had
been given many books on the history of the area, its climate, the people inhabiting Palestine,
its religions and the long history of its conflicts and wars.
The trip by train to Venice was scenic and not overly long but she did have to sleep
overnight. The ended with the wonderful feeling, however for she could bathe and wash her
underwear and there was decent food. After a layover of three days, Beth bordered a
cargo/steamer to continue. Fortunately there were only 12 passengers and the steamer
travelled very slowly. The stopped at Kerkyra (Corfu) to refuel, take on and offload cargo
which took 36 hours and then a similar stopover at Crete, Greece where the steamer refueled
and took on additional cargo bound for Tel Aviv. These stopovers were not only welcome but
they gave Beth the chance to recuperate from her sea sickness. While the trip was long and
sometimes boring, the break for breakfast, lunch and supper broke up the time and the
weather was pleasant. The 11 passengers with whom she traveled agreed to explore the two
ports at Crete and Corfu and she visited sites which she probably never would have had the
opportunity to visit.
Corfu, was an old and prosperous trading post from the 8th Century BC that was
populated by the Dorian Greeks. It was a stronghold impregnable to attack and was a
protection for the islanders who inhabited the island. She was able to Visit the archeological
ruins of the Temple of Artemis and the temple of Nerastchincha and some remains of
Byzantine churches. The sites were rough and she was glad to have the sturdy boots instead of
the light shoes of the other women.
The island of Crete, was a marvel for her. She had studied some history of Crete and to
suddenly be able to visit the Palace at Knossos. She recalled the stories of King Minos who
took as tribute, young boys and girls from various Greek Islands whom he then trained to
perform tricks called Bull Dancing. Here too was the fabulous story of the Minotaur. There
was an elation to be walking on the very earth where some of these legends took place.
She passed her days reading on deck and speaking now and again with other passengers.
The scarce wardrobe, which had given her pangs of discomfort among some of the ladies
travelling with her lessoned considerably when they started to whine and complain of their
aching feet while she felt fresh and strong.

23

7
Tel Aviv was a marvel to see. She thought, Only 24 years ago, Tel Aviv was part of the
outskirts of Jaffa. The area also had such a phenomenal history as well when it was founded
in the 12 Century BC and now, buildings from some of the most progressive architects
introducing the International style. Influenced by the Bauhaus in Germany, architects such as
Walter Gropius, Mies van der Rohe, Lecorbusier, J.J. Oud, Marcel Breuer - all outstanding
creators were erecting buildings here in Tel Aviv. These men were developing Tel Aviv to be a
modern city. This attitude was so in keeping with the kind of of impression they wanted to
give the world of this Jewish city, that one could see how the Jews were outdistancing the
Arabs. She had only two days to spend in Tel Aviv while she waited for her contact to take
her to the Kibbutz where she would be staying for the next 2 months, but she did manage to
walk down Engels Street where a great many International Style buildings were located. She
also visited David Ben-Gurions house in Tel Aviv. She promised herself that before she
returned to Switzerland, she would make every effort to spend some time in Tel Aviv to visit
some of the places Herzl, talked about when Tel Aviv was known as Ahuyat Bryit. Beth
found herself falling in love with Tel Aviv and was very anxious to see the Kibbutz she would
be living at. She had no illusions that it would be a fairyland with flowers all over but she
knew it was a way to harden youth who came from easy living with their families to hard
working communities who worked toward an independent life.
Finally she was contacted and told she should bring a minimum of personal items and
clothes. Fortunately, she heeded the instructions first given to her and had only a small bag
with underwear, toothbrush, hairbrush plus a nail file to keep her nails trimmed.
The man who met her was named Herschel Evens. Herschel was an Ashkenazy Jew
whose parents made their way to Palestine during an uprising in Poland. He had no wish to
return and found himself as a coordinator for the Kibbutzim located in the Jordan valley. He
kept in touch with the various Kibbutzim driving an old WWI automobile that had seen better
days. Its upholstery was just about non-existent, and left dragon like tails of heavy exhaust as
it moved in a slow but sustained way over the many unpaved paths they called streets.
Herschel felt a personal responsibility for the Kibbutzim assigned to him and plied
Beth with many questions such as, Why does a non Jew want to devote such time and effort
for a people not her own? She tried to explain her enthusiastic feelings; the fact that she was
married to a Jew and that she herself had converted to Judaism. Shaking his head in disbelief
he said, How anyone would want to take on the abuse and hatred directed at us, is to me hard
24

to imagine. Herschels enthusiasm more than matched Beths and soon, feeling her pride
and emotions, he soon became friendly towards her. They drove along the hot, dusty roads
and passed many Arab camps. After seeing Tel Aviv she remarked, the Arabs seem not to
have changed their lifestyle since ancient times. It is amazing that they do not demand
moving into the 20th century.
That is just what makes things so difficult for the Jews. Our beginnings outdate theirs
but they are not only unwilling, but reluctant to move into the present. They are content to
scrounging the deserts to feed their flocks of sheep and goats; doing without the advances of
today and in fact, preserving their old, outmoded ways. It is like trying to induce a child to
wear shoes if they are going to walk on stony paths if they wish to avoid cutting their feet on
the sharp stones.

8
The two months after living and working at the Kibbutz Emek Ha Yarden, Beth had an
understanding of living in a Kibbutz. The young men and women worked 6 days a week from
Sunday to Friday for 6 hours each day. The work, which was rotational involved working in
the fields, the orchards, work in the cow and chicken sheds and if there was enough produced
for sale, there was also work in the in the factories producing dried fruits and dates or milk
products.
There were very small salaries for personal needs such as cigarettes, tooth paste etc.
All ate in dining hall with benches so that it would induce the feeling of communal
dining. Children were placed in the Childrens House and cared for by members of the
Kibbutz. Each child spent time each day with his parents but he slept in the Childrens House.
There were times for singing and time for dancing, primarily of Jewish traditional songs and
dances. Many members of the Kibbutz told her that it was sometimes difficult especially at
the beginning when they had just left lives that were not as ordered but that in general, the
people that made up the Kibbutz were enthusiastic about their life and its hoped for
beginning of a homeland.

25

When Beth returned to Switzerland, she was enthusiastic and positive about her
experience. She would now spend several weeks in Berne, attending classes on the many ways
of soliciting funds and lecturing mainly Zionist groups so that they could encourage young
Jews to join in what was known as Their Magnificent Experiment.
Her major disappointment was that her free times rarely coincided with Albrechts.
With the now known plans of aggression by Hitler, the Neue Frei Presse reporters were
constantly writing about the repercussions Hitler would have on a complacent world. Before
she knew it, she and Albrecht would have to part again.
Just before she was to return to America, Albrecht and she had a farewell dinner
together and he said, Beth, although I will miss you very much, I am somewhat relieved that
your work will keep you in America. Any place here in Europe will have some Nazi fanatics
who will want to strike out at the Jews no matter where they are.
But what about you? Wont you be a target for these same fanatics?
No, its different for me. My newspaper just happens to support the Jewish Cause but
we are not the same as the Jewish Agency.

9
The return to the United States brought some unpleasant thoughts to Beths mind.
What will happen if I cannot return to Switzerland and Albrecht? If I decide to leave my job
and go back to Albrecht, we will hardly be together since he is travelling all over Europe for his
newspaper. I would not be allowed to travel with him and we dont have enough money or
political power to travel on our own? I guess we shall just have to wait and see where this
business goes with Germany and in the meantime keep flexible so that if we must make fast
decisions, we can do so without hurting the career of the other.
Both wrote to each other as often as they could and Beth returned to live with her
mother and father. She reread Theodore Herzls book, The Jewish State and became more
and more convinced that his vision of a Jewish State was the only way to go with Herzls plan
to collect money from Jews all over the world to create the new Jewish State. When the
Diaspora first began with the Assyrians exiling the Israelites from the Kingdom of Israel

26

(Samaria) to the present times, Jews have always felt the need for a Jewish homeland. These
Jews must also help in the formation of the Jewish State. It is not the duty of only Ashkenazi
and Sephardic Jews but all Jews around the world.
It had now been more than two years since her return to the United States. In that
time, David Ben-Gurion became the chairman of the executive committee of the Jewish
Agency, the body for whom Beth worked. The co-coordinator for whom she worked was a
strongly entrenched man who had spent much of his early years working in some category or
other for Zionist causes. His name was Paul Weiner. He came from a poor family and lived in
lower Manhattan where there was a large settlement of Orthodox Jews. His father was antieverything that was not part of his conservative Jewish thinking. Until 16 years of age, Paul
was a complete adherent of Orthodoxy Judaism. He was studying to be a Rabbi which pleased
both his mother and father.
Then one day, he watched while a group of callous hoodlums beat and kick a young,
Conservative boy because he wore his hair with a payot. He had not, up to that time, had any
encounters with other boys from different neighborhoods. Where he grew up, the Jewish,
conservative style was typical. He thought to himself, I am a Jew but I shall never expose
myself to hoodlums or give them reason to beat me. Young Paul Weiner was not a coward but
never saw reasons for anyone to take advantage of him because he was Jewish. Paul was an
extraordinarily intelligent young man. He could recite pages at a time of the Talmud and the
family friends always congratulated his parents on their intelligent son who would one day
become a famous Rabbi.
At the age of 16, he won a scholarship to attend Columbia University, with complete
tuition plus room and board. He and his family argued back and forth about whether he
should accept such a scholarship since it would interfere with his Talmudic studies. In the
end, he was able to convince his parents that he would be more useful as man working to
repatriate Jews to Israel since his interest was to do something to bring about a Homeland for
his people. His mother cried; his father tore at his beard but a headstrong Paul finally won
out. He studied Political Science; became the favorite of his professors who then guided him
to study for his Masters and his Doctorate which at that time focused on Modern Statehood.
At the time he was awarded his Doctorate, an opportunity came his way to become a member
of the Jewish Agency. Paul had written articles for Zionist publications and the Jewish
Agency, always on the lookout for new talent, invited him to join their organization. At the
time he met Beth, he had been given the post of Coordinator for Funds for New York and New
Jersey.

27

In essence, both were new at the job and required them to work long hours to come up
with clear objectives and a suitable plan. It was Paul Weiner who sought someone who had
spent some time on a Kibbutz and who could then lecture the various Zionist groups to both
raise funds and interest new members to join Kibbutzim that now starting to be formed. The
pending war in Europe was in one sense working on their side. With the possible
repercussions against Jews and the possible consequences, many who would not have braved
facing new lands, especially since they heard the lands were unsuitable for agricultural needs
were reluctant to go. Too, leaving established homes with family, businesses and friends
made for reluctance to leave knowns for unknowns.
The campaign, the enthusiasm made their plan so successful that one day, Paul was
informed that his work was very impressive and that the newly appointed Chairman of the
Executive committee of the Jewish agency expressed a desire to talk to this young man who
was so successful at raising money and also was sending more people to Palestine.
Paul Weiner met with David Ben-Gurion and was offered the job of Head Coordinator
for the entire East coast from Florida to New England. It would mean a great deal of extra
work but that he could expect an increase in salary. When Paul Weiner told Beth of the new
assignment, he told her Of course, I will need you as my assistant plus an increase in your
salary. It will also mean that we shall have to travel a great deal and have to train people in
each of the zones on our working methods. It will also mean however, that you would have to
extend your time here in America for at least 2 to 3 years. I realize that you had planned to
return to Switzerland in about 1 year since your husbands newspaper has its headquarters in
Berne. Will that be a problem for you? I want you to really think about that and let me know
as soon as you have made a decision. In any case, I want to take this occasion to invite you to
a very good restaurant for dinner as a celebration of our work together. Do you accept?
Yes, Paul, I accept gladly and with pleasure. I think I may have even forgotten how
nice it is to dine out once in a while. In the meantime, can we put the dinner date off until I
can get my hair fixed and maybe get a new dress?
Paul placed his hands over hers and said, NO, please, no new hairstyle or new dress. I
want to enjoy being with the person I know so well and with whom I feel so comfortable. Why
with your hair all fixed up, I would feel I was with a stranger. Beth noticed that Paul had not
removed his hands from hers. His hand felt warm over hers and she had been so long away
from Albrecht that she felt a blush come over her face. His hand on hers should not have felt
so good.

28

Paul had selected a small, exclusive that was quiet and romantic. Low lighting and
candles on the tables allowed for the intimacy needed at each table. When the waiter brought
them the menu, Beth saw items she had only read about but they both settled for baked trout,
baked potato w/sour cream dressing and asparagus done in the French manner. When Paul
was asked what wine he would like, he honestly didnt know what to choose since his work
never went into expensive dinners. He asked if there was someone who could advise him and
the waiter called the sommelier to advise. Paul was not ashamed to say he had no idea what
wine to choose and when asked what his food would be, the sommelier suggested a dry
Chablis and advising Paul that as a lower price wine, it would serve just as well. The
sommelier knew that the finer qualities that a gourmet would require would not be worth the
price for Paul to pay.
During dinner, Paul was glowing at his new promotion and to explain what he had in
mind for the continuation of their work. Beth also was excited to hear more of Pauls idea for
her. He had only hinted at it and said that it might require her to spend two more years and
probably three to see the results. As they spoke, in their excitement they had not noticed that
they consumed two bottles of wine.
Neither of the two had ever had any more than a sip
of Mogen David table wine when they were making presentations to the Zionist groups. And
since it was after 11:30 PM, they decided to call it a night. Beth put her arm through Pauls
and said, You were so excited that you didnt really tell me what your idea was or what plans
were and where I would fit in.
Oh Beth he blurted, I wanted to wait until I could go over the idea but I want your
input since the idea involves you. Look, we are a few hundred feet from my place, please
come up and let me go over the entire idea with you and see what you think and hear your
suggestions. You can phone your folks at my place and tell them you will be a little late.
Im afraid I cant do that, our phone has been out of order for three days. But besides
that, they realize that I can make decisions based on my own good sense. Lets go, Im really
curious to know what your plan is and how I fit in.
As the two walked to Paul put his arm around Beths waist and gave a little squeeze so
that Beth was aware of his arm. Beth turned towards Paul and smiled. When the two were
finally settled in Pauls living room, he asked her to sit next to him on the sofa. With only the
hall light illuminating the apartment, the muted light was soft as it revealed their features in a
most attractive way. Finally, he said, Beth, I just want you to know how much I appreciate
the time we have spent together. I dont think I would have had half the pleasure or
enthusiasm if it had been someone else. I am saying this because you have become very
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important in my life and my work and I hope we can continue.

When we started working

together, we based our approach by having you go to a Kibbutz in Palestine, and then,
explaining to the groups we were talking with, you were able to give a brief description of life
for the members of the Kibbutz. Now that our job entails speaking to groups from Florida to
New Jersey, it is obvious that you cannot do this by yourself. The important thing though is
that your approach, your enthusiasm, your personal involvement cannot be duplicated by
simply having a series of people go to Palestine and replicating what you did. So, I have been
thinking, I would send you to Palestine for maybe one year or longer if it was necessary along
with a camera crew to record on film and sound what life is like on a Kibbutz. My thought is
to send you to various Kibbutzim that are involved in different work. You could also interview
members so that they could say in their own words what the experience is like for them. And
too, some of the interviews could talk about how this particular Kibbutz was saving to buy a
milk sterilizer or a tractor to help in their work. An audience learning about the needs of a
group would then be more willing to contribute funds to buying a certain piece of equipment.
We could make a number of prints of the film and send them with a representative of our
office to the Zionist groups we are appearing before. In that way, we would still have your
input, your judgment and your control in what we photograph. Just think, hearing and
watching the members singing and dancing traditional songs and dances would be a realistic
and enjoyable part of being a member of a group of dedicated youth working to create
conditions for an eventual Jewish State.
Do you like the idea, he asked?
Beths answer was an excited, Paul, the idea is fantastic and that you are letting me
make it is reality is more than could imagine, I could kiss you for giving me this opportunity.
Would you, he asked with a voice that was low and sonorous. Saying that, Paul
leaned towards Beth and said, Beth, you must know how I feel about you and how I respect
you too much say this lightly. I am aware of your situation, but I just have to tell you my
feelings Gently pulling Beth towards him he lightly brushed his lips over hers. A silent,
magic moment of silence in which all the implications to come raced through Beths mind
broke forth and she said, Paul, Paul, there is a part of me that wants to so much but before
she could finish speaking, Paul kissed her lips softly and then we he felt her surrender, he
kissed her passionately with his lips strongly but softly over hers. Her response was to not
only succumb but to return his kisses with a fervency and need. Paul was one of the fortunate
men who could hold off his climax until the woman was ready. There were no word, only
sounds of an almost unendurable pleasure. When she felt his mouth and lips on her vagina,

30

she screamed in unimaginable release. This experience had never taken place before and she
was awed in her submission. Paul made love to her three times during the night. It was
almost as though he was trying to make up for all the times he desired her but was convinced
that it was a dream that would never take place.
After they made love, Paul brewed some tea and they both had a chance to be open with
each other. Beth explained, almost as though she was apologizing for her complete
submission that she was unprepared to have sex in ways that were so beautiful. She admitted
that Albrecht, who had been brought up and an overly protected child was at the most,
diffident about sexual relations. His timidity in relationships caused him to feel a little
ashamed and consequently, his love making was almost rapid and it seemed he almost
gratefully terminated their lovemaking by a kiss on the cheek and to then go to sleep. For
Beth, while she was worldly in one sense, she lacked the physicality in her prior relationships
with men and relied on an intellectual stimulus as an acceptable alternative.
After Paul had fallen asleep, there whirled through Beths mind the new feelings and
sensations she experienced with Paul and also, how she was going to solve the conflict of two
men in her life. She knew it could never be her way to having two relationships and she lay
awake imagining what her destiny would finally be. She loved Albrecht but not in a physical
way. Their physical needs were almost dutiful on both counts. But Albrecht was so
understandable, so wonderful to be with and his honesty and faithfulness were without
question in her mind. She thought that in their future life together there would always be his
career which was important to him and her career which was just as important to her. How
would this issue be resolved? Which would have to give in or would it mean that there would
be separations throughout their lives? She realized that even without Paul, there would
always be the probable separation of Albrechts and her careers.
In one sense, Beths
reasoning was tilting in favor of Paul. Perhaps if Paul was not there, she and Albecht would
have to resolve their problem in any case.
On the other hand, if she remained with Paul, she would be working together and
would be together , not separated,. Paul was ambitious and he would probably go far in his
job. The physical part of her life would be solved with Paul except that he had mentioned that
he wanted children. Would having Pauls children be an impediment to her own career? She
had never wanted children not for a dislike of having a family but primarily because it would
stultify her career plans.
Her thinking concluded that her wants and now her needs could better be reached by
staying with Paul. It had been so long since she saw Albrecht that the time and absence from
31

one another made their relationship almost formal. They exchanged letters with news mainly
related to work and there was missing the plans they had never really made. Yes, she finally
decided, she would write to Albrecht and be as open and honest with him as she knew he
wanted her to be. Beth decided against telling anyone about her writing to Albrecht to either
Paul or her parents. She did not want advice from anyone: this was to be her decision so that
if anything went wrong, she would have no one to blame but herself.
Beths Letter to Albrecht
Dear Albri,
Do you remember when we had our discussions about change. I recall that you were
adamant in listening to my understanding of the word. For you, there was only change and time
was a word to describe being in one state or the other. You argued that there only exists the now
which is in one sense the pivot point of being in the past or in the future. You had always said that if
you went one iota back from now you were in the past and could do nothing about it. But, if you
went that same iota beyond now, you were anticipating or guessing what the term future meant.
This, you could also do nothing about. Thus, an eternal now and eternal change were the only
possible answers to the term Time.
Leaving aside the philosophical implications, let me continue to tell of what is and may
happen in the future. I am in the state of now. Well, to continue, Paul Weiner, under whose
leadership I work has been spectacularly successful in Weiners program of soliciting funds and
volunteers for the Jews in Israel. It was so successful that the Chairman of the Executive Committee
of the Jewish Agency, David Ben-Gurion sent for him and gave him the job as Head Coordinator for
the solicitation of funds and the continuance of the program to send young Jews to Palestine to
inhabit the new Kibbutzim being formed.
Paul Weiner is developing a plan to bring information to induce young Jews to join the men
and Women living in Kibbutzim and also to raise funds to buy land. Without expecting it, Paul has
asked me to be his assistant and to be in charge of his new plan. It will require me to be in Palestine
for at least 18 months photographing the Kibbutzim, interviewing members and the people working
there plus their communal singing and dancing of traditional Jewish songs and dance.
It would mean that I would have to be in the United States for at least 2 to 3 years to
teach the program to others who are representing the Jewish Agency. I cannot tell you how excited I

32

am at the prospect of spending the next 18 months in Palestine. I fell in love with Tel Aviv and
promised myself that one day, I would live there.
In light of all that I have been saying, I feel the amount of time we would be each
living alone would have a great impact on our marriage. While I am adamant about mentioning it,
I have missed having a proper home. As you know, I am living with my parents and since my fathers
stroke, my mother can do little else than take care of him. Fortunately, with my promotion, I have
been earning a decent salary and I help my parents as much as I can. It is too easy to forget that
they raised me, fed me, housed me and educated me without regard to expense.
It is lonely living alone and I have found that working with Paul has given me a lift
spiritually. My time is taken completely with my work and I am thankful that I have someone
working with me that feels the same enthusiasm about the hoped for State of Israel.
I have found that I look forward to going to work and the companionship with Paul. It has
become more than just mere friendship. I suppose the propinquity of being with someone all the
time has led us to discuss a permanence in our relationship. I will not try to minimize what I feel
towards Paul nor his feelings for me. Paul wants to have a family and one day, settle in Tel Aviv.
That is my one desire.
Oh Albri, please feel glad for me because I just feel so terrible that I have to ask you to
divorce me. I have thought hard and deeply about this matter and I cannot be anything more than
honest and I hope you will understand. I hope that I have not presumed too much but I have spoken
with an attorney so as not to burden you with details. I was told that all you had to do was sign that
you were agreeable to the divorce and that would be that. There would be no complications in that I
am not seeking alimony or rights to whatever we own together. Anything that belongs to me you
can give to some Agency that distributes clothes, etc. or simply throw away.
Even though my life has been changed, I hope, fervently that we can still remain in contact
with each other. There are not too many people I would say that to but you are different and will
always be.
Your everlasting friend,
Beth

33

10
Albrecht had been on assignment and away from Berne. When he returned some 5 days
later, he collected his mail and sat down at his desk. Spotting Beths handwriting he hastened to
open the letter. It was always good hearing from Beth although as he recalled, her letters were
fewer and shorter these days She must be very busy, he thought. He placed his unlighted pipe in
his mouth and sat back to read his letter.
Putting aside his other mail, his first impression was that the letter was much longer than
usual. Usually, it was one page telling of her work and really very little else, He knew that her
father was ill and it entered his mind that perhaps the news was bad and that her father had
either worsened or died. Rapidly tearing at the letter, he was struck by the first words he read
recalling their discussion so many years about change/time/now.
As he speed read the letter, the name of Paul Weiner appeared quite a few times and
finally appeared as Paul. He returned to the beginning of the letter sensing in his heart that there
was something foreboding in the contents. As he read on. His eyes read the word divorce as he
speed read. Now he returned to the beginning trying to detect the curve of the meaning by words
she seldomly used. At first his dizzying reading of the letter brought a look of confusion and
disbelief. He and Beth rarely quarreled, if at all. There was a moment of disbelief and the affect
was like being suddenly hit by a hammer which came out of nowhere. He read the letter four
times while eliminating the effused enthusiasm about Israel. The parts of the letter that stuck in
his mind were about being and about how much she looked forward to going to work so that she
could be with Paul. Paul, the name stuck in his throat. Who was this Paul, someone who took
advantage of females that were alone? His first reaction was to refuse to give Beth a divorce. Let
her live as his mistress and then raise children that were bastards. Everything is Kaput.
That night he went home, angry, disillusioned, and vindictive. As he lay on his bed in the
dark, the wall of hatred that he had built in his heart crumbled. He thought, What could I expect
of her remaining alone while I developed my career and she, having to give up her ideals so that
mine succeed. Her start of the letter with the discussion of change; she knew it would hit home
and it has. Are the things I speak about mere blather or are they concerns of my thinking and
believing?
Then what is the answer? Beth admits that she feels fulfilled working with Paul Weiner and that
obviously they have more in common with their work and their goals. Can I offer the same
fulfillment for her? If I truly love Beth, what should be my position? Accept that which will make

34

her happy or to try to heal my hurt feelings and admit to myself that I could not offer her the
same as Paul Weiner. I was the one who spoke of the constancy of change. How could we be
living and working apart for some years without expecting a change? In actuality, Beth gave me
herself when we were together but now our paths have become divergent and we are seeking
new highways to fulfill our lives. I must put aside those aspects of ego that say I cannot be wrong
or that I am the same. I have changed too. Perhaps somewhat different than Beth but I have
changed just as well. So in thinking and evaluating events, he could not in all honesty be negative
towards her. He loved her once and still did but love cannot answer all questions or be the
solution to all problems.
Albrecht then thought, I will live with this change that has taken place for a week or so to
absorb it and then I shall agree to Beths request that I sign her request for divorce. No anger or
disillusionment only that which was perhaps inevitable.
Eventually, Albrecht met Paul and in truth, found him to be a very nice, intelligent human
being whose life had an unselfish devotion to his people. Beths and Pauls work would eventually
be part of the State of Israel which was declared in 1948. Beth and Paul finally did settle in Tel
Aviv where they lived with their 3 children. Albrecht eventually became the Sandak (Godfather)
for their first-born son. They named their son Albrecht.

11
From time to time, Albrecht heard from Bruno Fleisch. Together with his wife Lenore and
their son Motke, they lived a quiet life on the outskirts of Brussels. The small town was on the
Zenne river and was picturesque and pleasant to be near. Young Motke was enrolled in school
and for the first time had to spend 2 hours each week studying religion. Since French was the
language used by many Belgians, his mother and father approved since French would be useful
wherever they finally settled. In one sense, this was a new time for Belgium. King Leopold
became King in 1934 and was a proponent of neutrality and even though King Leopold had
expressed anti Semitic remarks, the Fleisch family was not overly concerned. After all, most
European countries had some anti Semitic bias. The year was 1940 and there were rumors that
a plan was being formulated by Alexandre Galopin, who headed a group that controlled some

35

40 % of Belgiums industrial production. The doctrine declared that Belgium would continue
producing goods for the Belgian people but would not produce war material.
Lenore was happy at the prospect that perhaps Motke would be able to escape being put
into the armed services. Motke was at this time 14 years of age and the armed forces were
recruiting men that were younger each time.
As Motke grew older, an almost frantic Lenore implored Bruno to find a way to move to
another country. I dont want to lose my son to satisfy some maniacs idea of rule and conquest.
For Motke, however, he and his friends talked about being in the army and killing those
Nazi pigs. He was incensed not only because his family had been driven away from Austria but
doubly because he was cast as a Jew, something less than a human being. Motke always said, as
soon as he could reach the lawful age, he would join up and fight. The braggadocio infected all
the young boys who wanted to kill the enemy and at the same time show their fearlessness to the
world. Of course, Motke never mentioned any of this to his mother and father. His mother had
become in the years that they had been in Belgium, more and more unbearable in her trying to
protect her son. Bruno, Motkes father, stayed clear of her nightly harangues and always gave the
excuse that he had to do work that he didnt have time for during the normal 8 hours that he
worked.
As the years wore on, Lenore became more and more affected by the uncertainty she felt
in Brussels. The German army was swiping through Europe and it was said that Hitler would
follow the same plan as the German armies during WW I which was to swing thru the low
countries to overtake France. In order to quell these uncertainties, Lenore started to eat in order
to rid herself of her anxieties. Consequently, Lenore became enormously obese, much to the
shame of Motke who refused to invite his friends to his home. Lenore could not bend down or be
on the floor for she could not get up if she did. Everything Motke did brought negative
comments and Lenore was constantly sighing out Oh vey ez mir, (how I am suffering) over and
over to Motke complained to his father that his mother was obsessed, she is tsutcheppenisa, he
complained. Instead of feeling concern or pity, he became course when she complained that he
was messy or late for dinner or that he never picked up his clothes after he used them. She
shouted, You always leave your things on the floor instead of putting them in the closet. I cant
do that anymore.
Motke coarsely yelled back, If you werent so fat, you would not have any trouble.

36

When Bruno, who had just returned from his office heard his son, he brashly shouted at
Motke, that if he ever heard another word of disrespect from Motke, he would throw him out of
the house and let him shift for himself. Your mother is only unwell because she worries about
you, and you, what do you do? You abuse her with your lack of respect. DO I MAKE MYSELF
CLEAR? he trembled in anger.
Neither Lenore nor Motke had ever heard his father in such a rage. Usually, when
something was unpleasant, he would go off to his office and pretend to work. Later, when
Lenore went to try to calm him, she found Bruno holding his head in his hands. He was sitting in
the dark and the moon, which was just coming into view outlined a very dejected man. As Lenore
approached him, she put her hand affectionately on his shoulder and told him not to be too angry
with Motke. She said, he is going through difficult times as well. Go make up with him; it will
make me feel better.
Bruno did not move but he beckoned Lorena to sit down. Finally, he blurted out, I have
been let go. In two weeks, I will have no job. How will we manage?
Maybe you could write to Albrecht. Maybe his newspaper might have something for
you.
Thats a good idea, maybe his newspaper or a friend will have something. I will write him
right now. With the mails the way they are, I shouldnt lose time.
When Albrecht received Brunos letter, he thought, I feel sorry for Bruno but I dont think
there will be anything for him. Bruno is not a newspaper man and if there is anything to be had,
the job would have to go to a Swiss man. Bruno s being a Jew will not help either since the
government is interested in promoting transmigration and not infiltration. I will speak to my
editor anyway, just to make sure that a job could be found. After Albrecht talked to his editor
and other friends he had only bad news for Bruno.
When Bruno received the answer that gave no hope, Lorena trembled and Bruno found
himself helpless in calming her down. As usual, he tried to escape the unpleasantness and said he
had to take a walk and maybe some friends might know of something. Lorena, he said, I am
trying to do everything I possibly can. Try to relax. I will fill the tub with some warm water and
maybe you can try to relax your nerves. Come, I will help you into the tub.

37

Bruno left Lorena and gave her a cold compress to put on her head. Try to think of how
beautiful Vienna is in the Spring with everyhing aching to grow and develop. I will try to think of
something. We must try, at least for Motkes sake.
Lorena placed a small radio on the chair and dialed their favorite program of music. As
she reached over to turn up the volume, she slipped and did not have the strength to sit upright
in the tub. The more she struggled to right herself until her enormous weight overtired her and
she drowned. The radio played Tales of the Vienna Woods.
On his return to their apartment, a dejected Bruno noticed a letter in his mail box. A
sudden instance of hope overcame him but no, it was a letter left by Motke saying that he was
sorry to leave in this way but he could not bear to tell his mother that he had enlisted after having
forged his fathers signature on his enlistment papers. During that time, when troops were
needed, recruiting sergeants did not question whether the lad was 16 or 18; they needed troops.
There was nowhere for Bruno to go and so he decided to hide the letter until he could
think of something.
Lorena, Im home he called, Did you have a nice relaxing bath? Hearing nothing, he
heard the radio playing music and thought perhaps that Lorena had really found relaxation at last
with the soothing music.
When Bruno found her, her face looked calm and relaxed. At least you wont have to read
Motkes letter. I think it is time for me to relax too. Saying that, Bruno removed his necktie and
hung himself from the showerhead over his wife.
For three men, the tearing away from their lives by the unification or the Anschluss came
in different ways , all so unnecessary and all unforgivable.
Kaput

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