Daily Digest of Public Opinion on Jewish Matters

[The purpose of the Digest is informative: Preference is given to papers not generally accessible to our readers. Quotation does not indicate approval.–Editor.]

The revelations made by the “Isvestia”, organ of the Soviet government, regarding Henry Ford’s connections with the anti-Semitic movement in Europe, as disclosed at the trial now taking place in Moscow of Druszelowsky, agent provocateur charged with fabricating anti-Soviet documents, are the subject of editorial comment in the “Day” of Aug. 13.

Referring to Druszelowsky’s assertions regarding his associate Boris Brasol, who imported the infamous Protocols of the Elders of Zion into the United States and was connected with the “Dearborn Independent’s” anti-Semitic propaganda, the paper observes:

“In order that the Russian monarchists might be able to create an approach to the half-liberal elements in Europe, it was necessary first of all to wash their hands of the Jewish blood that still dripped from them. It was this noble mission Brasol undertook with the assistance and the money of Henry Ford, if the statements of the “Isvestia” are true.

“Brasol’s mission failed. But the present trial in Moscow has accomplished one good thing: it has shown Henry Ford, if he previously failed to see, the type of creatures he is connected with. On one side, a blood hound of the late Czar, on the other side, an agent provocateur and document forger. It is almost becoming an honor for us to be attacked by such specimens, but it is surely no honor for a person of Henry Ford’s position to be allied with them, if he still desires to retain the respect of his fellow-citizens in his own country.”

HAIFA VS. JAFFA

The competition between Haifa and Jaffa for the role of Palestine’s future greatest harbor is described by a correspondent in the “Christian Science Monitor”, wherein the writer renders his impressions of Palestine.

“Haifa, according to the optimists, is to have a brilliant tomorrow,” we read. “Possessed of one of the finest harbors in the eastern Mediterranean, it is, they say, the natural outlet for Syria as well as Palestine. The extension of the Palestine railways to Ras-el-Na-kura, on the Syrian frontier, there to connect with the line which the French authorities intend to build from Beirut, will bring a great increase in traffic.

“Further in the future a pipe line and railway from the Mosul oil fields will make of the harbor a center of export and import not only for the Mediterranean littoral from Dan to Beersheba, but also for the whole northern part of the Arabian Peninsula, as far as the borders of Persia and distant Kurdistan.

“Jaffa protests, and receives strong support from Tel Aviv, that however bright may be the future of Haifa, Jaffa now handles approximately 60 per cent of the sea-borne trade of Palestine and serves the richest and most populous part of the country. It is stated that the Jaffa roadstead can be made to meet Palestine’s present needs at a fraction of the cost required to adopt Haifa to problematical future requirements.

“The big development plans for Haifa will not be carried out without considerable opposition from Jaffa and Tel Aviv. Nevertheless, nature seems to have destined Haifa to be the leading seaport of the Syro-Palestinian coast, while leaving Jaffa with only indifferent anchorage and the arguments of the Sharon folk are hardly likely to change the official decision.”

HOPES SENATOR STRAUS WILL CONTINUE

The announcement that State Senator Nathan Straus, Jr. will not accept a renomination is viewed with regret by the New York “World,” which expresses the hope that he may change his decision.

“It would be hard,” declares the paper, “to name an activity which would have afforded Mr. Straus the chance for such swift and flattering public recognition as the career which is now to be interrupted. It is true that he had the ability, the energy, the earnestness of purpose, to make good use of his opportunities. Senator Straus will be remembered in New York State and City. If he should relent and retain his seat it will be cause for satisfaction.”

THE EXTENT OF JEWISH PHILANTHROPIES

That the Jews are more generous than others in giving assistance to causes not related to their own people, is the opinion of “The Presbyterian” of August 5, wherein we read:

“There are denominations within the bounds of the Protestant faith that seldom give to Christian enterprises not under their own auspices. This cannot be said of Jewish givers. All worthy causes find sympathy and help from generous Jews. This must be recognized by any observer of the names of donors where the need is human and tender and heart-stirring. The motives may be more selfish or less selfish than other givers, but they are sufficiently forecful to produce the gift. It is not a sufficient explanation to say that much of their wealth is secured through their Gentile patrons. That does not lessen the fact that as a race, they rank as generous givers.”