Dear Aunt,
I
I’ve already written to you six times and have sent letters through messengers on three occasions. I got a short answer once through the man from the railway. It’s really important for me to have an idea of the prices in Chernivtsi. Why haven’t you contacted me, Aunty? Please send me needles and medication without fail. If possible, also send pepper and paprika. I’ll pay whoever brings them the full amount including expenses. I might be able to pay in gold so that it will be worth your while. Ask Schärf, he is supposed to be sending me a small bottle of healing water, 14 and 18 litres, as well as a grindstone and whetstone. If he asks for money, then please tell Moritz Tauber to pay him.
II
Why hasn’t he written? Please don’t send any more food. The last package had been lying around for a month before I got it. I paid 500 lei for it and it was all ruined. Aunt Schlime is in Smerinka. It takes ten days to travel to hers and back. When the soap works are up and running, I’ll go there by car. The ruble is being withdrawn and the farmers don’t want to sell anything. People are going hungry.
Did the man from the railway sell the diamond? If so, ask him to give you the promised amount. I can get to Chernivtsi by car for 70,000 lei. Shall I come? Will I be safe there? We’re in good health. Life is twice as expensive now. A small loaf of bread costs 500 lei. Best wishes and love, Mark