Ernst Toller

Pilat-Plage

(Gironde)

Villa Emeki

August 24th

Dear Hermon,

Do you know the names of the German authors Arthur Holitscher and Kurt Hiller, who were as I remember both members of the German PEN-Club? I come to you asking help for them. They are living both in a terrible misery. Arthur Holitscher an old man to-day, sick and nearly blind is living in Ascona, Switzerland. Some of his friends try to help him, but it is not enough. If the PEN-Club could send him monthly about two pounds (£2) it would be human and really a helpful work. I suppose you know Arthur Holitscher. He is a noble personality, a fine character, and an author of many merits, who has done a lot for the spirit of peace and reconciliation of Europe in his life.

Kurt Hiller, one of the most active and courageous German pacifists. He has published several philosophical books. He has been a long time in a German concentration camp and has suffered incredibly. He does not belong to any party, accept to the party of courageous men who are fighting for spirit and justice. When I read his reports of the concentration camp I was not only touched by his sufferings but also by his objectivity, even against his tormentors. Please do help!

How are you dear Hermon? I shall be back in England in September and I hope to see you soon after my return.

With kind regards

yours sincerely

Ernst Toller.

Address of Hiller: c/o Neue Weltbühne

Prag

Karlovo nám 15

Holitscher: Ascona (Tessin)

Switzerland