| Box 1 Folder 1 |
21 July 1937 |
|
Suse [in Italy] |
Holiday postcard (recipient AND author are at different holiday places). Expressions of affection but much illegible. |
Suse is on holiday in Northern Italy |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
31 August 1937 |
M. Bruggmann, Zurich |
Suse |
Chiefly a report on her boyfriend Fips. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
18 October 1937 |
M. Bruggmann[?] |
Suse |
Complains that Suse has not written. Mentions new house, pleasant. Cannot travel to Vienna, wants to complete her diploma. Feels lonely, wants Suse to visit. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
2 February 1938 |
Peter |
Suse [in Radstadt, State of Salzburg] |
Reply to thank Suse for postcard from her ski-ing holiday. Next Saturday is Boy Scouts' ball. Pity Suse cannot be there. [Uses SIE not DU, so it seems they may not know each other well] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
3 February 1938 |
Sigmund |
Suse |
Apologises for slow reply and brevity of letter. He is surprised Suse thought of him. Mentions he has put Suse down for the ball committee. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
17 February 1938 |
Peter |
Suse [in Salzburg] |
Reply to thank Suse for postcard from her ski-ing holiday. Next Saturday is Boy Scouts' ball. Pity Suse cannot be there. [Still uses SIE not DU] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
2 August 1938 |
Peter |
Suse ("Mausi") Schwatzer |
Express letter. Suse is sick, Peter tells her to take care of herself. Looks forward to next meeting. He is very worried and this may cloud the expression of his love. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
6 August 1938 |
Peter and Suse |
Suse |
Not intended for mail [no stamp]. A kind of souvenir of excursion to outskirts of Paris. |
Robinson, where card was written is semi-suburb south of Paris. Suse is now an au pair living in Paris. |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
31 August 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Uneventful trip to Salzburg, Peter tells Suse he is thinking of her. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
2 September 1938 |
Peter |
Suse `mein Susses' |
Letter short because Peter is on the way to London whence he will write more fully (he is now in Paris) He is worried this letter might fall into the wrong hands. Has seen a lot, has slept little, but is OK. |
This letter was written after the Anschluss. This letter written on Paris hotel stationery. |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
7 September 1938 |
Steffi Hofmann |
Suse |
Complains of noise, stopping her writing. Suse has had a letter from Peter from Paris (where Suse is now). They [Peter and friends?] had no money but went around and AUFLERSCHEN [Austrian dialect? possibly something like "scrounging"] money. Hint of friends fleeing Austria: Steffi will be quite alone soon, reassures Suse that everything will be all right, she is not to be sad. |
Effectively Peter is already a refugee. Steffi is Peter's mother. She spells her name Hoffmann. |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
26 September 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Tension: The salutation is eloquent: my only, sweet stupid one! Suse wants to be together with Peter, but Peter alludes to reasons that this is not possible. He wants to get a qualification so that he can find employment (not just go to Canada without any prospects). Peter describes fitting of gas mask, asks what war preparations are under way in Vienna. Recommends moving to the country. He thinks he may need to wait 6-10 years till he gets a qualification. Affectionate sign-off, Alison Jane. |
Postmark Orpington, Kent. Peter must be staying with the family whose daughters are Alison and Jane. |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
27 September 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Enjoins Suse not to use telephone in order to save money so they will be reunited sooner. He will be moving, either "Ciu" [probably Kew] or a "concentration camp" [He corrects himself and says it is a detention camp]. It is safe from German bombs. Hitler's speech about the Czech president Benes was "the limit", in guarded terms. Peter recommends Suse go to Tyrol for safety. Reminisces about time in Vienna, asks which part was best for Suse. Wants opinion of "attacks" [on back of envelope I THINK EVER TO YOU - literal translation of German] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
27 September 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Reprimands Suse for sending telegram which upset host family. Digging bomb shelter in garden. Peter does not envy Suse's family life, which is no fun. Peter is worried about mother. Vienna is unsafe. Maybe war can be avoided. Peter's letters not arriving, but he writes all the same. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
29 September 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Clipping about mobilisation, also cartoon of "keeping home fires burning". Benes is counting on help from England and France. Bomb shelter nearly finished. All is calm in London. Peter would like a visit from Suse. Peter quotes Jan Masaryk :"I have the honour to be your faithful servant". Peter calls Suse credulous. The "concentration camp" is uncertain. Toy dog stands next to his bed; does Suse sleep with her bear? Peter hopes Suse will be better off in her new environment [still in France from envelope and "plage" indicates seaside resort] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
2 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
International situation beginning to be clear, but Peter's is getting bleak. Offer of theological studies - dreadful! Invited to the country, does small jobs, will meet rich lady. Ernst is coming to England. Peter is moving from one family of provincials to another. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
3 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Unhappy at prospect of becoming VIKAR [probably curate]. Poor pay. Cannot fathom Hebrew and would rather chop wood and dig shelters. Quotes Nietzsche [approximately] sensuality and chastity are not necessarily mutually exclusive in a close relationship. Muses that Suse is a good nanny. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
4 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Moved to vicarage. Everyone is very nice to him. Remarks that Russia and Germany [war? Treaty] is nonsense. Letter of apology arrived but already answered [rather obscure]. Includes cartoon about Czech situation. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
5 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
6 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Cynically, as he says himself, he says it is not yet time to turn the gas tap on, though war is looming. Has little money [5000 pounds, clearly an error. He may mean 5 pounds 00 shillings 00 pence] follows up contacts, incl vicar's son. Reference to Suse's mentioning their being "good" in Vienna - i.e. no sex, no risk of pregnancy. P. points out pregnancy is not inevitable."I long for you with every fibre of my body". Does not want to be vulgar. Suse is idealistic - in Vienna P. wanted to open her eyes a little to reality, but he is not the evil person she may have taken him for. He stands by what he did. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
7 October 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Failed to meet sister in London. Not going to country until later. He is saving money for their reunion. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
9 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Says he is overjoyed that he must call Suse "Sie" [i.e. formal address]. He is not allowed to work, but may be able to go to university next year. Rejects a suggestion [for work?] made by Suse. Complex and unpleasant reasons for moving from McLellans' house to vicarage. Vicar and son drink a lot of beer. Describes[rural] situation of rectory and transport available. Has received several letters from friends. |
possibly the "Sie" is what she is entitled to if she has a permanent job? |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
10 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Remarks no Jewish [anti-Jewish] law possible in England, [i.e. in contrast to Austria]. [Mentions Hore-Belisha] Begs Suse not to do anything stupid, like planning to leave Europe. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
11 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Suse has mentioned possible emigration with uncle to Brazil [perhaps via England]. She did not believe Peter when he said he did not want a VERHAELTNIS [which is most likely a sexual relationship, perhaps in contrast with engagement?] Makes joke about pure love, then rejects the whole topic. Describes a game of golf with vicar. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
12 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Upbraids Suse for extravagance. Unhappy at what Suse wrote about father. Not much to do, except read and write letters. Did not go to cinema. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
12 October 1938 |
Peter |
Tell |
Thanks Tell for congratulations, partly in Hebrew. Wants more letters. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
12 October 2024 |
Peter |
unclear, possibly Suse's mother |
Tries to write encouragingly - crest of wave will come after the low point they are at now. [Very formal tone] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 1 |
13 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Everything is the same, including his love for Suse. Letter received from Gerti who seems to want to break off with Erich. The first few bars of The Lambeth Walk [pop song] reproduced on musical stave. Peter asks if Suse knows it. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
14 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Dr Reissberg, dentist, is recommended to Suse. Peter going to London for the weekend. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
16 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Good food in London. Plans for studying engineering at polytechnic in Northhampton. OK but not marvellous. Peter will live in a "home" from 27.10. Reproaches Suse for [over-reserved?] behaviour towards Peter's cousin. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
17 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
P. earned [illegally] 1 1/2 shillings A friend earns 15 shillings for working all day. But he is now concentrating on studying [English?] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
18 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
New address. Peter laughed when Suse referred to father as the sweet lover of her mother. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
19 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Glancing mention of "typical Jewish campaign" - he hopes something will come of it, but does not specify. Clipping shows European leaders as they were and as they are now. Eden not to get into cabinet. Everything in order, S. and her people too nervous. P mentions EMIGRATION GOODS [could be limit of what emigrants could take with them]. Recounts weekend activities, muses on studying at polytechnic, dentist on birthday. May get work permit if he finds someone to give him a job. More on Erich and Gerti: she loves him. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
20 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Peter is learning Liebestraum by Liszt on the piano. Asks for photos |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
21 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Tomorrow inauguration of hostel. Trying to enrol at university. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
23 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Describes hostel, comfortable. Spoke to Bishop of London. A certificate has arrived [obscure] Tries to drive out doubts from Suse's mind. Vicar bought him necessary things, as Peter is to move away from hostel. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
24 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Mentions Dr R [dentist? Previously mentioned] a good person. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
25 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
English, piano perhaps and other things taught in a school. Still hoping for college place. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
26 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Mentions a newspaper [perhaps for exiles in France?] After 3 years he may get a job in the [British] colonies, but it is problematic. Dr. R. seems to have been too friendly[?] Suse needs only say no. Long exhortation on Peter's fidelity etc. Good food in hostel |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
27 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Exhortation on pessimism, says life is good, plays piano a lot, attends theology classes mainly to improve English. Lists presents he got for his birthday. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
28 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Has learnt a hymn, plays on the organ, some pop songs as well |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
30 October 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Peter cannot understand that Suse is jealous of all the girls in London. [page is missing] Mostly muses about the future, incl. possible studies at Northampton Polytechnic. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
1 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
I congratulate your father if he gets a permit to stay in Paris ['if ' is strange] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
1 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Party preparations. May get finance for his university studies. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
2 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Description of party at hostel, good wishes in advance for Suse's 17th birthday. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
3 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Mostly birthday wishes. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
4 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
"Everything is all right" |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
6 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Describes Guy Fawkes day - does not like fireworks. Short letter from [Franz Kaiser] relating news of his family. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
8 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Suse's father has written to Peter and wants Peter to persuade an official to allow business dealings [unclear]. Peter will try, with his limited means. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
9 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
"Write to Lichtenstein [unclear who this is. Spelling is not that of the princes of Liechtenstein] and tell him of your "dreadful" emergency. He has influence and may get you an au pair job. " |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
10 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
I have been dealing with the schools that I could enrol in. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
11 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Please accept my sincere condolences at this great loss [deceased not mentioned by name]. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
13 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
I cannot write more because absolutely nothing has happened. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
14 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
As far as money is concerned I can study at polytechnic. I am terribly worried about happenings in Vienna. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
15 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Yesterday was very funny, I will tell you tomorrow how I was supposed to learn English. I will not be able to enrol as a student till next year. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
16 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Things are fairly crazy in Vienna. I hope our district was calm. Monday first time at a real Jewish school. When we asked if we could watch lessons we were told "we are not a museum". That was enough for us. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
17 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Did you read that the German embassy in New York is guarded by Jewish policemen? |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 2 |
18 November 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Since yesterday we have an excellent radio. We listen the whole time. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
10 January 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
My friend and I wanted to buy a little car [around 4 pounds] but we have no time right now. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
11 January 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Arrival of copied letter to Ernst. I am quite outraged by what you wrote. Ernst really likes you and only failed to write because he is sloppy. And was far from being angry with you. He has already rung me about your letter, but I was not home. At home I will try to fix all this up. You have caused a dreadful upset with this letter. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
12 January 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Complains of tiredness |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
13 January 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
Invited to hospital ball |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
15 January 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Why does your father, showing his bank statement and his residency permit in Paris, not try to get an entry visa for one month [to England?] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
16 January 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Why don' t you want to go to Glasgow? You would have good chances there. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
17 January 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I can't say that I can help you find an au pair job here. At the hospital ball the entertainment was very ordinary so I rushed to the buffet . |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
17 January 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I had a good time at the theatre |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
20 January 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
23 January 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
24 January 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Plan for summer to go to a tiny village on the coast of France. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
25 January 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
[anger at Suse's failure to write] [maybe ironic?] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
27 January 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Sunday I will write about your coming to England. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
29 January 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
You write of an opportunity but when there really is one you do not grasp it. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
30 January 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
31 January 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Suggests for umpteenth time to write to friend Erich. Enjoyed the pantomime |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
2 February 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
5 February 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
A happy day. Dr L. gave a guarantee to enable me to continue studying. Almost impossible for you to come to England with your parents. They must change attitude. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
7 February 2939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
8 February 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
10 February 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
11 February 1939 |
Peter [in Orpington] |
Suse |
[Refutes the strange idea of criminals hiring Suse and harming her.] I cheated in the exams which English people do not do. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
13 February 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I am all alone in the country and there is heavenly peace |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
14 February 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Dr. L. will do something for you |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
15 February 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Went to the opera, not Covent Garden. Excursion to Coty Perfume. V. interesting |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 3 |
17 February 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Dr L. says there are no great prospects for you, and even in the hostel it would be unpleasant. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
19 February 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
A friend from Italy is distraught. He is being expelled and I have to help him. I have tried to get jobs for Erich and Gerti, without success. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
20 February 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
[Suse is sick again] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
4 March 1938 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
11 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Clipping is a cartoon satirising Goebbels' view that English press is dominated by Jews. Now this business with your Chinese uncle [probably the uncle in Shanghai who writes later]. [The uncle appears to want to help Suse live in London]. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
13 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
14 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
What do you say about Adolf? When you receive this card, he will certainly have the entire gold reserves of the CSR [Czechoslovakia] This is really the limit. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
15 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Have I written that my friend and I wrote lampoons about each hostel resident and all laughed? |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
16 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
17 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
19 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Reports various entertainments. Then: What do you say about Adolf? Allegedly Mr [Chamberlain] knew all this. He might go. But after his last speech his position is very firm. But let us not politicise. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
20 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
My congratulations on the possible affidavit and Permit. …I am sorry to say America would be significantly better than England. It is hard to get a work permit. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
21 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Everything is in order here. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
23 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
25 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I met Gerti Infeld. She has finally arrived after all. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
27 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
28 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Today the mother of one of our class arrived from Prague. |
[travel inside Europe still possible] |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
29 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
[responding to Suse's idea of going to America]. I am not really overjoyed, as I am forced to think you can travel in safety and do not want to. Now I cannot force you and I am pleased you are coming to me again, but I would have to decline all responsibility. I have given you a serious warning. I think there will be war in the near future. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
30 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Argument is over, we love each other as before. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
31 March 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
3 April 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
We have 2 weeks off. I will try to get a travelling-paper [sic] and a return visa. |
Wrongly dated; Peter writes March when it is April. |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
5 April 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I have to prepare for Easter. Tomorrow we are having a big SEDA [Seder?] evening. |
Does not quite work, as 'tomorrow' is a Thursday, i.e. not Passover Frida. Probably Peter has given up all links with Judaism. |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
17 April 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
18 April 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I am a little depressed but it will be all right. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
20 April 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
21 April 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Your caricatures were very apposite and I enjoyed them. |
Probably misdated 20 April. |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
24 April 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I went for a walk with Gerti….we spoke of former days and all at once she started to cry in the middle of the street. |
Undated but postmark is late on 24 April. |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
25 April 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
26 April 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
27 April 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
All the chaps at the school are quite outraged at the coming conscription. The English all hate compulsion. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
28 April 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 4 |
30 April 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
You do not know if this is really true… how can you write such gossip to me …You write that you have rented 2 rooms on the coast in case of war. …Here it is generally believed that a war is inevitable in the near future. In any case, nobody still believes that the matter will be solved. I think that Chamberlain (the old one) also has given up the idea of peace. I have heard the English will recruit very few refugees in the army. The reason is that even amongst the Jews there are some spies, and the English are deeply afraid of spies. ..You are developing into a party-girl. I am glad you are amusing yourself this way.... I am well-behaved as always and hardly ever go out... I hope we will get together before the war. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
1 May 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
[ink sketch portrait of Peter entitled L'Expediteur (sender) on the address side] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
2 May 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
[drawing without title, as day before] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
3 May 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
4 May 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
5 May 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
6 May 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I hope you will be coming here very soon. It would be very desirable. My mother is unfortunately not well in Vienna… My father is better in Shanghai and he is already earning money, if little so far. But in any case he is on the way up (God willing) |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
8 May 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
9 May 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
10 May 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
[some concrete details for Suse's visit in London] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
11 May 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Speakers at Hyde Park corner are the greatest idiots. One said that Adolf was a …. against British imperialism [unfortunately illegible] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
15 May 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Now it is getting serious with the Russian pact. The whole nation is trembling, in the hope it will not eventuate. |
No date on letter, but postmark on envelope is clear. |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
15 May 1939 (?) |
Peter |
Suse |
|
Probably this card or next letter misdated. |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
16 May 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
In the evening we are going to one of the best services in St. Paul's Cathedral. Have you ever heard of this church? |
Further evidence of his being more Christian than Jewish in religious observance |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
16 June 1939 |
Peter |
Dr Schwatzer, Paris |
[translation of text] I am sincerely sorry that my letter, which was meant kindly, has caused such misunderstanding which I absolutly did not intend. Some time ago I received from Suse a definite invitation to come to France, and my answer was admittedly negative, which I explained. I was prompted in this reply only by rational motives not any sentimental reasons. I have often heard from Suse what worries you had, not least financial ones, and I did not think I could add to your worries. In addition there are other circumstances which make matters worse. As you know, I have no capital of my own and I must rely on the hostel and its head for the tiniest expenses. I cannot go to you or anyone else for every trivial thing. In addition I have big expenses for the necessary travel paper and visa which I cannot cover myself. So you see that all this is a money matter and has nothing to do with my willingness to come to France or not. I am writing this to you completely frankly. You may be assured that if I knew that you did not need to carry any expenses, I would come to Paris immediately. As you reassure me on this point, I thank you for your kind invitation and will of course accept it. ..... |
Note gap in correspondence. This letter explains the tensions between Peter and his future father-in-law. |
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
20 June 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
21 June 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
23 June 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Unfortunately I have to tell you that the whole thing will be very expensive and I would ask you just to write that I should not come if it is too expensive. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
25 June 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
We have a couple from Vienna, as cook and general domestics. They are very nice and the huge advantage is that I have eaten my first Schnitzel since I have been away from Vienna. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
26 June 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Travel preparations |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
28 June 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Complains of Cockney speech in discussions with scouts |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
30 June 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
1 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Perhaps I wil be able to be with you for 2 weeks…I would like to ask you to send 3 pounds as soon as possible |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
3 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Yesterday I was in Brighton with friends, in their car. It was marvellous [he uses the English word] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
4 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
5 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I fear I will not be able to come to you after all. [lists bureaucratic requirements] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
7 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I can get the travelling papers only on July 20. …So if I am lucky I will come at the end of July. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
9 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Probably it will not be possible to join you until the beginning of August. I congratulate you on your 200th letter. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
11 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
12 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
My visa has been extended till the end of the year…so I will have no difficulties at the French consulate. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
13 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I asked about the thing you asked for but I don't think it will be much use. If you absolutely insist, then I will do it but it has very llittle sense and would cost 1 pound. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
14 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I absolutely wanted to offend you in my last letter [the word NOT most likely omitted in error] I just wrote that if I look at other girls I always think of you…I was at the Engels's and told them officially that you are going to Australia…We will decide about my moustache. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
17 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I was at Mrs Sellwood's yesterday and today. It is very nice to live in a rich English house. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
18 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
19 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
The only thing worth mentioning is that we had roast chicken today. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
20 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I include one of the best jokes from the newspaper [not found, however] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
21 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Has bad cold. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
23 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
[concerning travel papers] Perhaps if I go there every day and sit around, I will manage to hurry the matter up. ..The trouble is that you need special protection to achieve anything. ..I was in the cinema yesterday and saw the parade of French soldiers [presumably from 14. July] |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
25 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I am almost exploding with rage at the endless sloppiness of the government offices. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
26 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
28 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
The situation does not look bad and I will join you no matter what. |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
29 July 2939 |
Peter |
Suse |
At present I am waiting for the French visa which may come very soon |
|
German |
| Box 1 Folder 5 |
31 July 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
[detailed travel matters] I would like to ask you to go at once to the government office, I think it is the ministry for external affairs, and push my visa along. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
14 August 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Reflects on time together in Paris, responds to complaint that he is insufficiently attentive. He seems to be about to leave for Juan les Pins but without Suse [hard to follow without response from Suse] |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
21 August 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
[Peter writes from Nice, hotel stationery. Handwritten date on letter Friday, but post mark is Monday (possibly not posted immediately) [separate page probably from a different letter. Contains recipes and addresses in Australia ] |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
22 August 1939 |
Mother |
Suse |
I must write at once so that you get this reply before your departure [to Australia?] [hard to read, but it seems mother is going to London then possibly Australia] |
no envelope |
German |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
25 August 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
[writes from Dijon, in bed, letter redirected from ship to Bellevue Hill] Travel report, reflects on nice days in Paris with Suse. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
29 August 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
..in Calais there were hundreds of English cars and a long queue stood outside the office. Finally we arrived in Dover. The cannon were all surrounded by soldiers and at that time there were allegedly 100 000 English soldiers in France...] Please try to improve and don't be a naughty child and please your parents and give me your new address. |
[writes from London to Durban. This letter was delivered to ship, it seems.] |
German |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
16 September 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Travel report |
[No envelope.Writes on hotel stationery from Saulieu. Has he returned to France after the last letter written from London?] |
German |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
5 October 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
[very long letter explaining misunderstandings] I was completely unable to tell you to your face in Paris that we would take the trip [obviously the second time in France] with two girls. [postcard sent in jest by friend Ernst Froehlich] What upset me was that you believed it all... with a little thought you would have realised how untrue everything he wrote was. .. I take it that you are already in Australia...There is a certain satisfaction when one sits together with other people who have gas masks on their laps, waiting for death. ... Today Adolf made his great peace offer in the Reichstag. We all known exactly that it was rejected in advance. So the war will begin for us. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
31 October 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
I am pleased above all that you have completed this long and dangerous voyage so safely. [English word used] …It has been decided to close the hostel on December 31 1939. We then are faced with a void. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
1 November 1939 postmark |
Erich in Lisbon |
Suse |
Hints of Portuguese girlfriend, in place of Gerti, but little remains after censor cut. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
21 November 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
So, be good, my girl and please do not forget me as I won't do it. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
28 November 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
How is your business going on, little Lady? I hope it will give prosperity to every one. |
Registered mail |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
5 December 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
Envelope addressed to Miss Susanne Seymour [for privacy reasons? Or has she changed her name?] [Entirely in English]. Addressed to 195 Elizabeth St. |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
6 December 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
Love you still more. Wrote already several letters. Writing weekly. Everything alright, Peter |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
12 December 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
[job-hunting] Often it happens that I reply to 10 advertisements in one day. |
Written in German. No letters in English for several months. French Hat Salon in address. |
German |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
22 December 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
[Business card for Madame Esperance French Ladies Hairdresser attached] |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 1 |
29 December 1939 |
Peter |
Suse |
[Christmas described] I am glad that I am living with other young chaps as one gets a little jolly. Otherwise everything is : blackout [English] What will happen to me in connection with war I do not know, but I do not think that I will become a soldier in the near future, though I would have nothing against it. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 2 |
3 January 1940 |
Erich in Lisbon |
Susue (sic) |
…according to your descriptions the city must be really fantastic and how I would like to be there you cannot even imagine. But I must be glad that I am in Lisbon now and not in Vienna. I am happy that everything is OK with Peter, and everything will be all right again. It was surely only a misunderstanding, this whole matter, and surly he has realised that he was very stupid. I can imagine your parents being angry with him ... he will perhaps be able to come to you. .. Writes of his commercial success in food business. He is working illegally, his passport has expired. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 2 |
5 January 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
I have succeeded after huge efforts in finding a job. I am a junior draghtsman in an Automatic Sprinkler [factory?] I will be moving. My new place is ca. 10 minutes on foot. [but] yesterday I was called to the boss's office, and his boss thinks I am not qualified to work in this firm and gave me 8 days' notice. I am surprised at how smoothly your change of name went. [probably the change to Seymour] |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 2 |
13 January 1940 [misdated 1939] |
Peter |
Suse |
[news of job is repeated from 5 Jan]. Meanwhile he has been sacked for lack of qualification.] Reference to friends Gerti and Erich, repeated frequently in subsequent letters. Comments on Dr Schwatzer wanting to buy cake shop in Sydney. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 2 |
16 January 1940 |
Felix Hoffman |
Suse |
he is pleased Peter has good prospects, even if he was in a camp. Complains of no mail from Erika (possibly his daughter). Proposes trade relations Shanghai-Australia (as he does in later letter) [Partial translation letter] The local importers rake in the money and I wonder if with of through your dear father we could not set up a connection between China and Australia. This would be in good and correct hands. I think the topic has been discussed and I would like this matter to be thought through. Not a word from Walter for a year. He is behaving badly, all the more so as he is said to be in a good position and it is easier to write when one has one's close family around one. And with this, Suse, I have said the main things, as I have not much inclination to describe the situation in Shanghai. What for a young person would an eternal and valuable memory must for me be forgotten. I know the customs here and have excellent connections, but how should I make use of them at my age. I keep imagining Peter in some future collaboration, but these thoughts and wishes have no realistic basis and are fantasies (dreadful word). I therefore drift along and try to swim on the surface though the times are sometimes hard. So Suse, it is now your turn to write a full letter to me. I hope my friend Dr Wantoch can ring me soon. A letter has come from Australia from my daughter-in-law and I will take a taxi so as not to waste one minute. Farewell, Susi, stay kind and gentle as I remember you . Perhaps I will be able to prove to you how much I love you. Every kind wish to your parents. Give the boy a big kiss from me, and specify the origin. |
Addresses Suse as "Sie" (formal) cf later letter "Du" |
German |
| Box 2 Folder 2 |
22 January 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
I am back in the old hostel and am lucky they took me. I have found a job. I am waiting for the work permit, which I will probably get. This new job is close, about 15 minutes on foot. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 2 |
26 January 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
London in winter, and to make it worse in the blackout, is without charm. This is only accentuated by the extinguished lights and it is sometimes completely impossible to recognise people. There have been newspaper article about the danger of spies and refugees, which of course did not improve our mood. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 2 |
3 February 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
You write that your parents are against me. Thank goodness I am old enough to [ignore?] what other people think of me, even your parents. … Of course I have not a single penny to buy new things, but there is enough for food and accommodation. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 2 |
10 February 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
In the Drawing Office I am a kind of Chief and have a "lad" [English word] to assist. ..the work is simply marvellous [English] Designing and Drawing. Admittedly I am not permanent yet and have a very bad wage (two pounds five shillings). I have to pay one pound board here, and then tuition fees. So I am down to three shillings pocket money, which I had hoped would be better, but it does not matter. |
Last paragraph in English. |
German |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
16 January 1940 |
Felix Hoffmann Shanghai |
Suse |
…Peter has written directly to me. No matter how his affairs stand today, I am happy to know he is out of danger. I can well imagine that the life of an internee is not rosy, but believe me, I had to survive times which I would gladly have exchanged for the camp there. He is young and puts up with everything more easily, and I believe that he will be given work. He has fortunately chosen a very good profession where he can achieve something and capable people are sought everywhere. Please, Susi, take up his cause, whether he deserves it in your eyes or not - I have no idea how you get along. Basically he is a really good lad, but of course a little eccentric and has above all a completely honest character.....Business connections between Shanghai and Australia are very intense. Perhaps I could help your father in some way, perhaps to our mutual advantage. A lot can be done in all kinds of commerce, in import as well as export... |
Letter filed in correct chronological sequence, not here. |
German |
| Box 2 Folder 2 |
17 February 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
[Peter writes encouragingly about the two businesses - cake shop and millinery in Sydney] The authorities opened your letter for the first time, and you can imagine I was pleased they had to read such a long letter |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 2 |
2 March 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
It was stupid of me not to go to Australia with you, but you know what my reasons were and why I did not go….Yesterday I had some unpleasantness about my staying in the hostel. The people (the committee) would like to get rid of me. I would like to go, but if I should be unemployed I would have to come back and they would not want to permit this. ...My work is very good, if only I were being paid more. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 2 |
10 March 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
Since Friday I have been a member of an engineering insitution. You can imagine that it was very formal, when I got the certificate. Everybody applauded. My salary before tax is two pounds ten shillings, but one can live off this, if need be. ..By the way tomorrow it will be two years since Adolf took over Austria. Dreadful, isn't it? Please do not worry about me. Firstly, I take care, secodly I seldom go out during a blackout and thirdly it is not nearly as dangerous as you might be reading in the newspaper. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 2 |
17 March 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
Here in the hostel it is getting unbearable… It is clear that I will be moving out and either get a room for myself, or live with my sister. Apart from the fact that the lads make fun of you, some even search your room during my absence. ..I do not know how I could live in Australia, and what I could live on. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 2 |
15 April 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
Concerning your suggestion that I reconcile myself with your parents, I have to disappoint you. When I think about this matter, I begin to [illegible] so furious am I. |
A letter which Peter has not read seems to be the casus belli. |
German |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
20 April 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
27 April 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
[card shows kind goblins at work as tailors. Comment: we could use this, couldn't we? |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
1 May 1940? |
"Paul Bledi" [in Hay] |
Suse |
"Paul" is interned at Hay, writes in English to Suse in Sydney, addressing her as "beloved mouse" . Muses on freedom but no reference to camp, despite lettergram. |
No postmark. It could be that the dating is wrong. Peter's first authentic communication from Hay is the pro-forma postcard of 13. 09. 1940 |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
11 May 1940 |
Peter [in London] |
Suse |
You seem to be subject to changes in mood. But I don't mean to reproach you. I know exactly how difficult life is, and sometimes lonely. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
9 June 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
[reflects on the effects of war on nations and individuals] At present the governments are too afraid of fifth columnists, so that I assume I will possibly end up in a camp soon. …There is little sense in trying to do something or to pass judgment. The best thing is to drink tea and read the Bible, which can bring consolation. ..We are so much in love and this must give you strength and purpose. [At the end of the typewritten letter a strange handwritten note to the authorities asking if it is possible to visit a fiance in the internment camp [no specific camp]. Possibly it is a draft written by Peter to help Suse write a proper letter . It possibly implies they are anticipating Peter's internment in England, more likely in Australia, as Suse cannot afford to return to England. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
17 June 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
[Reflects on the effects of war on nations and individuals] At present the governments are too afraid of fifth columnists, so that I assume I will possibly end up in a camp soon. … [possible hint of Dunera?]: There is a plan under way. A few lads, I am one of them, want to charter a boat and go to somewhere in Asia or Polynesia. Unfortunately I fear this plan will fail for lack of money, but if it really works out, then we will see each other sooner than if there was no plan. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
22 June 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
Since a few days it appears that the police has taken some interest in us and we have frequent visits of cops. Of course they are very polite and nice but I prefer no ones. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
13 September 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
Official confirmation that Peter is alive |
cf. lettergram above, dated 01.05.1940 |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
23 September 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
Complains of cold and lack of clothing. Mention of Hans Stern. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
1 October 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
I am not sure whether somebody has a chance of reading these letters. If there is not, please tell me so. I might write then as I feel. I do feel much about you, my darling. There are some people who hope to go free soon but they have to my humble opinion hardly any chance...I am working with Camp School here and i am going to have a lot of pupils and still more trouble. [note at end from Hans Stern] |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
6 October 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
My dearest Mouse I'll send as soon as I can a list of money [perhaps statement from bank?] in order that you may purchase something for me. At present the most urgent need is a pair of shoes…My dearest, I hope you will understand me when I ask you to send me things which i am unable to pay at present but it is a real urgent need for it. ..It would make no difference to me whether I am going to live or not. |
Pet name Mauserl has been translated |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
27 October 1940 |
Peter |
Suse |
Yesterday I saw the bishop and he gave me greetings from you…he is a close friend of the Prime Minister as well as of the English high commissioner. I think the only possibility to get out of here is to approach him with the view of helping me directly and personally.. |
Second mention of bishop. |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
24 October 1940 |
signature illegible but sent from Hay camp |
Suse |
Specifies times and duration of visits to camp |
|
|
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
31 October 1940 |
Hans Stern |
Suse |
Conventional love letter but ends: Peter sends as usually his love. |
Letter cut by censor [hard to see why]. |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
16 November 1940 |
"Julius Weingeist" |
Suse |
Most likely pseudonymous. "I am pleased to learn that you liked the time you were here."[ i.e. Suse has visited.] |
This and the following pseudonymous letters are possibly a way for Peter to write more frequently. The pseudonyms may belong to men who have nobody to write to, so they allow Peter to use their names. The exception is Hans Stern, whom Suse knows. |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
21 November 1940 |
"Walter Balnemones" |
Suse |
Most likely pseudonymous. Begins like Julius: MY ONLY DARLING..I suppose by the time you'll get that [probably this] letter you'll be in possession of a number of letters which I written before. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
21 November 1940 |
"Julius Weingeist" |
Suse |
Most likely pseudonymous. Complains of heat. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
26 November 1940 |
"Wolfgang Lindemeier" |
Suse |
Most likely pseudonymous. Signed by Peter. |
Signed Peter Hofmann. |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 3 |
12 December 1940 |
Peter |
Dr Schwatzer |
Very formal thanks for Suse's father's approval of marriage. "I shall of course do everything in my power to make Suse's life as happy as possible…" |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
10 January 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
Love-letter. Interesting that the command of English idiom varies. Is it possible that he was given help by soldiers or officers? |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
31 January 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
News about sister's narrow escape from bomb, losing her possessions. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
7 February 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
|
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
12 February 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
No possibility of joining AMPC, but maybe new camp near Sydney. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
13 February 1941 |
H.L. Pollard |
Dr.H. Schatzer |
Acknowledgement of receipt of letter requesting application of permanent admission of Peter Hofmann. |
|
|
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
17 February 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
I am very anxious to know the reply of the Ministry of Interior about the application. [probably application to leave camp] |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
8 March 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
Cleaning and disinfecting all over the place. We have to be very careful as a lot of people got a very unpleasant infectious disease - carditis of the heart. [sic] |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
14 March 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
[slow mail from Europe; thanks for parcel.] |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
17 March 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
I often think of the past, but not of Schuschnigg or Hitler, but of Huleschgasse and Wegerl. That of course is, though not fruitful, a bit helpful to overcome the present difficultes and troubles which arise almost every day. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
19 April 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
It is very interesting indeed for me to learn all about your troubles as I can picture you and the life generally. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
2 May 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
[missing letter] For the future I should like to advise you in case similar important news have to be transmitted, get it to the censor personally and make sure that he will let it pass…Darling I am rather sad as Monday next one of my friends, from the hostel, will be leaving us together with a hundred other fellows. Slowly but surely disintegration. Such is life. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
5 May 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
[conflict with Suse's father] I will tell you honestly what upset me so much in your letter to Vati. First and mainly that you won't change your mind, but I gave up to grumble into that direction. You must know what you are doing. But then you said I must let you do with your own life what you want. Even if you don't consider me at all, you must know that your life means as much to me as to yourself. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
7 May 1941 |
Peter |
Dr Schwatzer |
It appears Peter has no choice but to be transferred to a camp in Victoria, but he writes "It appears that at least Suse does not appreciate my decision…. There is only one way to be chosen" |
Appears to be an attempt to justify his position, but there seems no decision open to Peter - he is simply a prisoner. |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
8 May 1991 |
Peter |
Suse |
I trust in you and put all my faith in you and expect the same of you without faltering. |
Love-letter. |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
10 May 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
[insight into camp activities] : there will be a debate about a silly motion, tomorrow an exhibition of water paintings and so on. Lately I am very busy working at the camp school and reading a lot. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
14 May 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
"You judge my affection and love by what I am doing just now and forget entirely that I am not a free man to do what I want to." |
There seems an element of self-torture on Peter's part. Love letter. |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
23 May 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
"we changed our camp but at present I cannot tell you where we are. " Conditions are better. Peter is responsible for the feeding of a hundred men. Makes him worry and work a lot. "Since I lost our leather photo frame on the Dunera I keep all your "maps" [maybe he means cases/albums] with me, and the first thing in the new hut was to put your picture - that one in the evening frock - beside my bed so I can see you all the time." I reconsidered everything about marriage though all my objections still stand. I would be prepared to do everything you like under the conditions that your father and he alone will bear all responsibility such a step would involve. "Marriage must be based on a sound realistic foundation and not on sentiment." |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
30 May 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Suse describes train trip to Tatura "I will do it darling, to see you. I can't wait any longer. Darling, how happy you made me about your marriage plans….I was never on any breaking point really. Very important question. "did you already have an interview with Major Layton? ...Have you been released by him? I pray that you have not been released, but you wouldn't understand me why, so please just ignore my prayers [ this certainly sounds peculliar!] ...We must consider ourselves with the lucky ones, and again there are such a lot of people here that don't realize what a monster Hitler is." |
[Peter is now in Tatura] |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
1 June 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Looks forward to visit in Tatura, reflects on Sydney city and suburbs, signs Susanne Schwatzer (Hofmann). [Is she just anticipating, or is there some development?] |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
7 June 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
"I had not an interview with L. He is expected here shortly. I am neither released but rather selected". Reflects on letters, parcels, looks forward to visit. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
14 June 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
Cold weather. Thinks of going to Brazil or Shanghai [on release, of course] Looks forward to visit by Suse. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
20 June 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
See you Wednesday love Susanne Schwatzer |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
21 June 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Business is falling away. Looks forward to visiting and eventually marriage. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 4 |
29 June 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
[looks forward to visiting, but dates must be wrong, as the visit was to happen earlier]. Cold weather. "as soon as I hear from you I'll be on my way across Australia to see you" |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
1 July 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
[written just after visit by Suse] "I'm glad you arrived at home safely. No news. General opinion is the internees will remain at Tatura." |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
5 July 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Account of doings in Tatura, incl. supplies for Peter and filling in forms to be passed on by Rev. Youes. Suse calls him "my dear husband". Other hints of marriage: special hat to be made by someone else and honeymoon ["wedding trip" is literal translation of German Hochzeitsreise] |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
6 July 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
All my spare time is occupied reading the New Testament. It gets me down but I want to have your religion. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
10 July 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
This letter is the most painful and disappointing letter I have ever written. Maj.S. told me that cannot be realized whilst I am interned". [he must mean marriage] Tries to keep up spirits thinking of future. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
11 July 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
"they might not let us get married". Has lessons from Bishop Pilcher to become an Anglican. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
15 July 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Very consistent in making best of things, including possible job for Peter. "I will be anglican soon. Darling, I think it is a very modern and sensible religion" Has hopes of intervention by Spender (minister?) |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
18 July 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Official refusal of permission to marry. But some hope of Peter's release, working for the war effort. Tone more optimistic than expected. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
22 July 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Keeps up morale, despite losing shop. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
25 July 1941 |
Suse |
Commandant (Tatura camp) |
Hoffmann still here well. Commandant |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
25 July 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
I have to write in German again for once so that everything is clear. Well, on Wednesday I was with Bishop Pilcher who told me Major Layton is in Sydney, but there is no point in speaking to him. I think he just does not want to. I grasped the matter at once and rang the solicitor. I tried six times but could not reach him. Now I got the idea to tell the man to whom the solicitor passes the matter on. He said at once that the name of the case is known to him and I should come and see him today. I was there and he is very nice and confident. He wrote down everything, but Layton was here only for 2 days and is now back in Melbourne. He wrote a letter in my presence to L. as he will be coming back in a few days and I will be introduced. He says too that L can recommend your release. Only in special cases will there be releases - people with technical abilities or similar good reasons. In any case they will make an exception of your case. Mr Grigsby says you should make 2 applciations, one to Mr Spender, minister for the Army, Canberra, and the second to Major Y Layton, Menzies Hoel Melbourne. You should say that you joined the Pioneer Corps to help Britain's war effort and and you have heard that War Work is taken into consideration in Australia. You ask to remain here because of me (give name and address). Your letters, he says, are only good for showing them that we are working in harmony. Send a copy to me too, for Mr Grigsby. |
|
German |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
28 July 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
My beloved one, There is one excitement after the other now, and I pray it will finish in the biggest excitement of all . Your release. Yesterday evening your future boss was here and brought the news that 3 [men] who had a job have been released. Darling do you know their names or address or something about them? Ing. Haas [engineer] is going to make his application immediately to Layton and Mr Grigsby will give it to him and I will be there too. This morning I had some lovely mail. Mr. Holloway's reply, which is perfectly sweet. "Dear Miss Schwatzer, I have your letter and I will do what I can to get something done about your friend. I am putting his case before Mr Spender, the Minister of Army with my recommandation. [Suse's spelling retained] If you could get an interview with Mr Spender in Sydney I think you would do some good, if you try to do so you could tell him I advised you to do so. Best wishes from E.Y. Holloway. I also got back our paper for soon use. I will try to get this interview with Mr. Spender. Darling, cross your fingers, sweet, I am working for you like a horse, and don't tell everyboy everything you know. I make the same mistake thinking they mean well, but we have to find that lots of people are only glad when things go wrong with us. It is very sad that a lot of people are bad, but this seems to be real life...I have to write to Mr Grigsby your life story. You must feel like a filmstar... |
Crucial letter so copied verbatim. |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
28 July 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Bureaucratic efforts by Suse. Saw Bishop Pilcher - he was very nice. Wedding hat being made by Kathleen as it is bad luck to make one yourself. |
Second letter written on this day. |
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
29 July 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
"The question of my job is heaven[?] and it is really marvellous. How quickly you got it. I only hope they will wait until I am released. [discussion of various steps Suse has taken] "Perhaps the lawyer is in favour of a direct application from the firm to Spender. If Holloway presses the matter he, in my opinion, might be very helpful. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
1 August 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
"I became an Anglican yesterday. " More pessimistic than in last letter. Praises Minister Spender, who shows support for Peter's case, but Suse got no interview. A second firm is interest in employing Peter: Australian Fittings Co. Pty.Ltd. Urges Peter to write and thank E.J. Holloway [MP?] |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
4 August 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
[very positive about release - various measures discussed] Suse has become Anglican. Sat behind governor-general and governor at St Andrew's cathedral. |
|
English |
| Box 2 Folder 5 |
7 August 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Job prospects: Australian Fittings [possible employer] will write an application to the Department of Labour and National Service and they sent [possibly will send] someone to Tatura to see if you are really what I tell them. Here is a copy of what I told you about. In short: 1933-38 Technologisches Gewerbemueum, graduated as mechanical engineer. Two term course at Woolwich Polytechic. Then up to internment working at factory making cigarette machines. Studies included draughtsmanship and automobile building, gears of every sort and boilers, steam engines, electricity producer gas [?] |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
2 August 1941 |
Erich in Lisbon |
|
|
|
German |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
11 August 1941 |
P.C. Spender Minister Army |
E.J.Holloway Minister Social services. |
Suggests Suse interview Spender's military Secretary, Captain Howe. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
11 August 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Expresses frustration at continued separation. Plans a beautiful life together. Mention of classical gramophone records. Grigsby sees Peter's boss-to-be and "you have a pretty good chance and it will take about one month" |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
15 August 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Progress with job: Mr Grigsby wrote out application to Australian Fittings. Sequence of actions documented in Box 3 Folder 4."I have done everything humanly possible" |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
19 August 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
Peter has moved to new internmnet camp in SA, via Melbourne. He is fed up. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
21 August 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
Asks for books to improve his professional skills. More delays envisaged. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
22 August 1941 |
Commandant |
Suse |
Seems to be merely confirmation that Peter is at Loveday camp [not explicit]. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
25 August 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Mr Grigsby is intervening on Peter's behalf. Peter's qualification as a draughtsman being checked. Various plans for seeing each other. Some concrete wedding plans - suit for Peter |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
27 August 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Suse only now found out that Peter has been moved to SA from Tatura Vic. Recounts efforts to get Peter out of camp. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
28 August 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
"We have such a lot of lovely things, carpets, cutlery, silver etc..When I see something nice I say to Mutti I must get it [for] when Peter comes" |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
1 September 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
"I posted the book today. …It said first year course but it looked so complicated…" |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
6 September 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
"Lawyer received a letter from the Dept. …they are working on the case." |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
12 September 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
"Letter from Mr Holloway ..your case is under consideration and should be decided pretty soon." Suse unwell, sore eye |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
16 September 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Suse has stye [she calls it pig stile] in eye. Very busy with millinery. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
19 September 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Mr Grigsby optimistic [again] about release, Friend Lily very nice. Cocnrete plans for flat when Peter comes. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
24 September 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Letter arrived with normal Adelaide postmark "My first thought was that you were free and already in Adelaide" [not the case!] dreams about wedding food. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 1 |
29 September 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
"I sent you 5 copies of the Australasian today" Otherwise just expressing impatience. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
7 October 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
"Definitely withdraw willlingness to travel just interviewed dept for labour release very hopeful love Susanne Schwatzer" |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
7 October 1941 [?] |
Suse |
Peter |
"Release application being considered. Favourable...." |
Torn so not easy to read |
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
8 October 1941 |
Suse and mother |
Peter |
"Talked to nice gentleman at Dept of Army… saw your drawing and it looked prettey good to him. He has sent it on..Dept Labour are only waiting for it…" "Main point: you must withdraw willingness to travel or they won't even consider release" "As the firm is in Sydney it would be best for you to stay in Liverpool for this short time." Suse's mother writes:"Dear Peter, above all my best wishes on your birthday. I hope the next one will be nicer and everything perfect. My words last Monday were not meant unkindly. Suse had such an attack of desperation that my husband and I got a shock. Best wishes from Else Schwatzer". |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
9 October 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Written from Hotel London, Melbourne."I went to see the very nice gentleman at Army Headquarters again, who told me that I worry too much. He saw your drawing one hour ago and your chances are pretty good." |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
10 October 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
"Please be patient darling best[?] chance love Susanne Schwatzer |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
12 October 1941 |
Suse in Sydney |
Peter |
"My journey to Melbourne ws fully successful. Your release is as good as settled….Well darling I fought for your right like a lion for its cub and we have won. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
undated |
Suse |
Peter at Anzac Rifle Range camp |
"Your release is only a matter of formalities… be patient." |
Suse was in Liverpool but did not see Peter. |
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
13 October 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
"Many happy returns love Susanne Schwatzer" |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
15 October 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
"I will tell you one day, but it was just the limit. Mutti got such a shock that she fainted in the street…" [more humorous incident with confusion of fiancee and girlfriend] |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
17 October 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Very strong emotions, recalls first kiss in Vienna. "I just had a letter from your father" [in Shanghai?] " [clearly some communication is possible] |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
29 October 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
A love-letter. "Fate always showed us that we were predestined for each other" |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
3 November 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
More signs of progress in getting release. Otherwise standard emotions. Suse's birthday. Mother adds some lines:" Dear Peter, we were very gloomy yesterday when Suse brought the news that you you will not be in our mids. Our patience must pass a hard test, but I hope that it will be rewarded with your presence in our home, to the opening march from Aida. I will do my best to make an apple strudel. I hope [something to do with quality of cooking, obscure] best wishes from my husband, Else Schwatzer. |
Peter is back in Tatura. |
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
6 November 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Love-letter |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
8 November 1941 |
Felix Hoffmann [sic]Shanghai |
Suse |
Partial translation of Felix's letter. You have been successful in getting him work. And that you are now united completely. I have not much to write to you, as you can read most of it in Peter's letters. No word from Steffi, neither from Erika, and you cannot imagine what that means. The situation here gets worse very day, as we are cut off from transport of goods and wild speculation linked to inflation which is rising to great heights. If it is just a matter of survival, we can just manage, but a suit is impossible when the yard of cloth costs 30 dollars. And similarly all imported goods. I can only repeat that the economic difficulties would not irritate me if I knew that everything was all right for Erika and Steffi. |
Seems v. unlikely that this is not Peter's father, mis-spelt. |
German |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
11 November 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Obscure: "promise me for my sake you won't sign any travel business". Mentions another internee in Tatura, probably Austrian. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
12 November 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
"Please be patient everything on best way no letter from you but writing love Susannne" |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
13 November 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Further progress in release. Much lighter tone, chasing cat, listening to gramophone. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 2 |
13 November 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
"Canberra calling us. I nearly fainted, you can imagine, how exciting it was. It was our protector telling me that he just talked to Major L who is getting in touch with the Engl. Government and expects news any day now. " |
Two letters dated 13.11.41 |
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
16 November 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
I packed a parcel for you, my darling but..it is too heavy for the post. Lists content,mostly food. Quotes grandmother: "I have had a lot of experience…and always found that you get much further when you are patient." |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
20 November 1941 |
Suse and her mother |
Peter |
"Kurt's fiancee rang up yesterday. She had a letter from the 14th to tell her about a young man who is in his hut, who has been to Liverpool already, went to the same school as he did…the name Peter Hofmann." Mother, Dear Peter, I feel terribly sorry for you, being tortured by food treats. I wish it were over now and you were with us. You have had many trials of patience but please persevere, it is for our good, I am certain. Suse wants to get me to send love and kisses but I would never do this to you, I assure you. Mutti. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
21 November 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
News from Australian Fittings - confirmation from England needed but otherwise all OK for job, even discussion of pay. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
25 November 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Sent another parcel. "a new newspaper from America. It is an anti-Nazi paper called the Aufbau and it is thrilling to read." Mentions Erich's letter, translated below. "It was really a good idea to give up the shop. I get as many hats as I can manage here..." Imagines flat they will have. Mention of Kurt Menzer in same hut as Peter - Mentions letter from Erich [translated separately in Folder 2] very concrete plans for furnishing a flat. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
26 November 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Suse wants to enlist Peter's sister Erika in London to expedite application. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
30 November 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Suse is called Mrs Hofmann by some friends. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
3 December 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Mentions Erich's letter which Peter has read. Translated below. "I did not know K. Guttmann was with you. I remember him very well. [possibly a Viennese acquaintance] |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
7 December 1941 |
Suse and her mother |
Peter |
Only confirmation from England required for Peter's release. Suse's mother adds some lines, mainly about cooking. Dear Peter, Suse is interrupting her writing to let me write - she is a jealous girl. The tensions of expectation grow from day to day, waiting for your final norification - a word l write with difficulty - After so many hard days, better ones must come, and they cannot be far off. Suse will have given you all the news. The season for apple strudel is past. I will have to make apricot dumplings. Will 20 be enough? Suse is supposed to be writing and I have got into gossiping with you! |
|
English/German |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
10 December 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
"We are all very worried about the news" "I did not have much happiness since Hitler came". Fairly well expressed philosophical musings about happiness etc. "Australia is a beautiful country. I feel for it as if I was born here and I am happy that you will work for it. "parcel came from Brazil. Grandmother sent a box of crystal sugar" |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
12 December 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Blackout in Sydney - [possibly Japanese threat.] Mentions periodical "Aufbau" (produced in New York for Jewish readers, and New York cultural figures). |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
14 December 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Suse will go to Shepparton or Tatura if she is evacuated from Sydney so she will be near P. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
17 December 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Mother packing glassware as a precaution: many are moving from E. Suburbs to safer parts of the city. Quotes P's parting comment on a recording "We shall be in conflict with many, to get to our beautiful goal" |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
22 December 1941 |
Suse and both parents |
Peter |
[only German written by parents translated here] Dear Peter! Many thanks for your card with the kind wishes for the holidays. We took a lot of trouble, as we imagined these days to be quite different, hoped to have you amongst us in these days, after all the promises. Peter, be patient a while longer, I think with [?] of the excitement we had in October. This worry weighs heavily on us. But everything turns out differently from what we expect, and I hope better days will come again. We are waiting with anticipation for your news. Best wishes for you and [?] from Mutti. |
|
English/German |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
24 December 1941 |
Suse and mother |
Peter |
Suse: Hot, does not feel like Christmas. Some discussion of presents. Suse's mother: Mother writes In yesterday's letter I forgot to mention that I am putting last year's present with this year's. Last year it was cufflinks and a tobacco pouch which I hope will please you. I wish I could put it all in your hands, so that there would be an end to Suse's frequent tears which cause me heartache. I feel close to you too, that you have to put up with all this, completely innocently. We who have gone through all this in Austria understand injustice. Heartfelt greeting from Mutti. |
|
English/German |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
26 December 1941 |
Peter |
Suse |
Complains of heat. Advises against moving to Shepparton or Tatura, they are boring. "I do not believe on any air-raid yet" |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
27 December 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Almost certain success with release. Cable from London all that is required. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
29 December 1941 |
Suse |
Peter |
Happy Xmas and New Year. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
1 January 1942 |
Peter |
Suse |
Pleasant Christmas an New Year's Eve. Koellner who knows Uncle Louis in Vienna is in camp. Quite funny New Year's Even show. Generally reassuring. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
2 January 1942 |
Suse |
Peter |
New Year celebration avoided. Bad start to New Year. Everything seems to go wrong and on top of the heat. Various mishaps. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
5 January 1942 |
Suse |
Peter |
Mostly about heat. Still some delay in application for release. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
6 January 1942 |
Suse |
Peter |
I am in bed for a change and I just want to chat with you. Mostly trivia. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
13 February 1942 |
Peter |
Suse |
It appears Peter is lodging with Mrs Hauff in Shepparton. Much complaint about fruit picking in the heat. Looks forward to visit by Suse. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
17 February 1942 |
E.J. Holloway Minister for Social Services |
Suse |
"I have asked the local officers to do their best to allow Peter to go to Sydney to take the position there" |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
25 February 1942 |
Peter |
Suse |
"Do not anticipate wedding" Muses on food. "I do not like fruit picking" but the fruit is marvellous. "please don't cable any more." |
Address indicates Peter is lodging privately in Shepparton, i.e. not in camp. |
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
1 March 1942 |
Peter |
Suse |
" I was furious that you phoned up as I explilcitly wrote to you not to do it. I don't think Mrs Hauff was very pleased" Discussion of wedding in Shepparton or (more properly) Sydney. Mention of engineering firm waiting for Peter Mention of wedding suit and other arrangements. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
2 March 1942 |
F.M. Forde Minister for Army |
Holloway, minister for social services. |
Notes Peter is fruit-picking, will write again when decision is made for him to work in Australian Fittings |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
4 March 1942 |
GHV Newman Intelligence section |
Suse |
Refuses permission to travel so wedding must be postponed. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 4 |
5 March 1942 |
G Holloway Minister for social services |
Suse |
Everything is being done to get Peter to the job with the Australian Fittings Lty Ltd |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
14 March 1942 |
Peter |
Suse |
Still no definite release. Peter may join the army. Technical discussion of fruit-picking. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
18 March 1942 |
Peter |
Suse |
Finally release and offer of employment as mechanical draughtsman at Australian Fittings. [reminiscent of London Anglican hostel] Peter goes to church and is invited by rector after evensong. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
21 March 1942 |
Peter |
Suse |
Mention of army for Suse's father (clerical duties) But conscription for Peter unlikely, as he has a reserved occupation (draughtsman). Wants to discuss life together orally- better not in letters. Wants to live in an area without too many aliens. |
|
English |
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
|
|
|
Mostly to do with arrivals |
|
|
| Box 3 Folder 3 |
|
probably Peter |
|
5 songs without attribution |
|
|
