Restitution by Kathy Kacer Page A

large amount of money. “Not only that, but he threatened to report us to the Gestapo.”
    Mr. Harwood nodded sympathetically. “It’s no easier to get in anywhere, as I’m sure you all know. It was possible a few years ago. But now, Canada and many other countries are reluctant to take in Jewish refugees. There’s a fear that we’ll be flooded with families escaping Europe. Besides, few countries want to alienate Hitler these days.”
    â€œNot even Palestine,” added Mr. Zelenka, shaking his head. “One would have thought that Jews could go there. But the British are worried that there might be another Arab uprising like the one in 1936. So those doors are closed as well.” The Arab revolt against mass Jewish immigration had lasted off and on for three years and had prompted a renunciation of Britain’s intent to create a Jewish national home in Palestine.
    There was a moment of silence at the table. Then Mr. Harwood said, “Thankfully, for you and others, I’m able to bend the rules to allow selected immigrants into my country – not an easy task, I assure you.” He stopped short of saying that it would cost these families dearly for the privilege of entering Canada. The details of that would come later.
    â€œWe are all so fearful of Hitler’s plans,” said Marie. “Here, there are more and more restrictions emerging on a daily basis. Now Jewish doctors and lawyers can’t practice; professors and instructors can’t teach.”
    â€œAnd what about those who are being arrested?” asked Mr. Zelenka. “They call it protective custody, whatever that means. Who’s being protected? And where are they going? No one seems to know.”
    â€œFirst Austria, then Czechoslovakia. What next?” Marie lowered her head and closed her eyes.
    â€œPoland!” declared Mr. Zelenka. “Hitler recognized a valuable prize when he took Czechoslovakia. Not only did he get this vast land, but also it paved the way for further conquests. He’s already denounced the non-aggression pact with Poland and he’s demanding the return of Danzig to Germany. Mark my words: Poland is next.”
    â€œWill no one come to Europe’s aid?” Mrs. Zelenka whispered these words.
    Mr. Harwood shook his head. “President Roosevelt has outlined a peace proposal for Europe, but it doesn’t look like Hitler is going to listen to it. I’m afraid we’re headed for all-out war.”
    There was silence at the table as each guest digested this pronouncement. Karl was angered by the discussion. How was it that they had become fugitives? They were being forced to leave their homes and were being treated like criminals for no reason. They weren’t wanted in their home country, and they weren’t wanted elsewhere. None of it made sense. Karl’s family had barely acknowledged its Jewish background, but now it seemed to glow above their heads like a spotlight.
    â€œEnough talk of war,” said Marie, shaking her head wearily. “Please enjoy the wine, the meal, and our hospitality, Mr. Harwood. Let’s talk of happier things. Let’s talk of a future in your country.” She raised her glass and said, “To Canada. And to peace!” The others joined her in the toast.
    Shortly after that, the Zelenkas said their good-byes and went upstairs to their flat. Marie walked over to Mr. Harwood and extended her hands to him. “I know that you and my husband have discussed the terms under which we might be able to get into your country,” she said, referring to the bribe that would buy them their precious entry visas. “We will complete our part of the agreement. Please fulfill yours. Do not let my family down.” She spoke these last words fervently, staring Mr. Harwood in the eyes and clutching his hands in a forceful grip.
    Mr. Harwood nodded. “I’ll meet with your husband as soon as I get