J. D. B. News Letter

of Menahem, which was known from Egypt to Abyssinia and in distant India for its great name and magnificent hospitality, the House which entertained the Prince of Wales when he passed through Aden, and many other distinguished visitors, was the chief target of the rioters. It was deserted in its hour of trial by everyone, even by the Government which had always courted its favor. It appealed to Government officials frantically for rescue, but no one came until the riots threatened to spread to non-Jewish quarters. The great Synagogue was forced open, and everything which was not made of iron was demolished. The fortresslike Jewish school presented the appearance of a quarry when it was re-opened after two days of mob rule. The rooms were full of rocks which had been thrown through the doors and windows. Added to these injuries were the ruined houses, the losses due to unrestrained looting, and the severe injuries of some sixty persons.

It is little wonder that Aden Jewry is ashamed to raise its head. No one will respect or fear them any more. They are outlawed. The mob has learned that they may do what they like with the Jews, at any rate for 48 hours or so, until the Jewish protest reaches London, and London sends its instructions to the Indian Government, which, in turn, will instruct the Aden authorities to stop further “fighting.” This usually takes about two days, during which the wealthier Jews tremble in their hiding places within their impenetrable dwellings, while the miserable shacks of the poor might be destroyed with all inside—furniture, goats, and people.

At present quiet reigns on the surface, but a rumbling can be heard below, threatening new eruptions.