Dear Rabbi Lamm, I am delighted to know how well your Melbourne lectures are going and I look forward to a similar success story in Sydney. I have, as requested, pruned the Sydney itinerary to the barest minimum to allow you time to see the sights and relax, and I enclose a copy of the programme as it stands at present. Accommodation and meals are being arranged at the moment and I should be able to send you details very shortly. Concerning the subjects for your various addresses I suggest that, if possible, we adhere to the titles listed on the draft programme as these have been either requested or approved by the respective organizers. On the Sunday evening in particular it is important to have a subject which links Israel and Judaism.At the communal welcome it might be an idea to speak very briefly about something provocative like "Jewish Responsibility" or "Difference and Indifference," as this particular gathering will certainly act as a shop-window for the rest of the Sydney programme.Looking forward to seeing both you and Mrs. Lamm, and with all good wishes,Yours sincerely,Raymond AppleRabbi Dr. Norman Lamm,c/o Mr. Hans Bachrach.

Dear Rabbi Apple: My wife and I have finally returned home, after a long flight from New Zealand. Thank heavens we are all well and, if somewhat fatigued, exhilarated by our unusual experiences in your part of the world. I must tell you that among the most memorable aspects in our visit to Sydney was the opportunity for us to make the acquaintance of you and your wife, for that was to us the high point – the beginning of a long friendship. I am impressed by the dedication and the sure touch that you bring to your work and I know that you will exploit all the opportunities open to you in a manner that will bring glory to Torah and a well-deserved reputation to yourself. We were truly touched by the gift you gave us upon our departure and we shall always treasure it as a memento of our visit. After leaving Sydney we spent about a week with the Jews of Auckland. Frankly, it was a terrific letdown after Melbourne and Sydney. This community is a competent and memory-devoted one, but its leadership is apparently unresponsive to the aspirations and uncooperative with them. I feel that the confidence that is lacking in the direction of this leadership means it can possibly afford not the trivial results that the Jewish family can simply not work for. I counseled him to come as soon as he can, both for his family’s sake and for his professional status and personal growth. Apparently, his wife has her heart set on Sydney and I wonder whether she is of any assistance to them. Naturally, it is of the utmost urgency that all this be kept in utter confidence. Do keep in touch, and please accept on behalf of my wife and myself to your wife and your children as well as your mother-in-law our warmest good wishes for a happy, healthful and creative New Year.