B.H. Altson - Archive of Australian Judaica

Dr. Max Nordau
8 Rue Léonie Paris
B.H. Altson
TOBACCONIST
Importer of high Class Havana Cigars
& EGYPTIAN CIGARETTES
CORNER OF
Collins & Elizabeth St,
TEL.2076 Melbourne
June 17 1908
Dear Sir
I venture to approach you, and my only claim for doing so, being that
I know that you are an ardent Zionist and ever ready to champion the cause
of our oppressed and long suffering people. I am Vice President of the
Zionist Society in this City and soon will have the honor of occupying the
chair, it will be my earnest desire during my Presidency to try to revive
Zionism in Australia and also to arouse an interest in that noble cause
amongst our brethren. It is with regret that I have to inform you that
throughout the length and breadth of this glorious continent (a land truly
flowing with milk and honey) where we all enjoy every liberty, freedom,
and equality, without distinction (excepting the colored race question
which does not effect us). Our Co. religionists are deplorably indifferent to
the claim of Zionism. That I have considered a message from your address
to Australian Jews might do a great amount of good, at any rate, I would
have it read at our meetings, in the different cities throughout the
Commonwealth and published in several papers, as you are so honorably

and favorably known, it would attract numbers to hear and read your
message, and it would strengthen our societies coming from you direct if
you should favourably entertain my request I shall feel truly grateful.
Trusting you will be spared for many many years in good health to
continue in your noble work and that you may live to see some good results
achieved from your arduous labours. Thanking you in anticipation
With much personal esteem
I beg to remain
With Zion’s greetings
Yours respectfully
D.H. Altson
Copied from the Central Zionist Archives A119/197.
The original is handwritten.