Historical information

Indicates a friendship at the time

Significance

Quinn Collection

Physical description

Five page letter (0857.a1-5) written to Allan in black ink on pale brown paper headed Alfred Wolff, c/- Gilbert, 41 Kensington Road, Melbourne S.E.1. Port Adelaide 31/01/51. Airmail envelope (0857.b) has been re- addressed from C/- Australia House, The Strand, London, England to General Delivery G.P.O. Oslo, Norway. The post-mark, only partly legible, is South Australia and the value of the Australian stamp one shilling and sixpence. On the back of the envelope is a promotional stamp for 'British Industries Fair, 30 April - 11 May 1951, London & Birmingham'. Also a London postmark, an Oslo postmark and a return address as per the heading on the letter with 'South Yarra' substituted for 'Melbourne'.

Inscriptions & markings

Letter commences "Dear Al,...." and concludes "...your pal Fred". This letter is in reply to a letter from Allan and contains descriptions of life as a crew member on board a Swedish ship. The writer comments on how much prices have increased in Australia in the last twelve months and lists various items (clothing, hair cuts, cigarettes) and their prices. A 1950 Buick is being sold for 3,500 pounds, a 1950 Plymouth for 3,200 pounds and a 1950 Ford for 2,900 pounds. Holden cars sell for about 1,300 pounds.