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Ellum Deen seeking return to Australia – letter to Collector of Customs, Melbourne
[Address, reads: 'Saulpura Village Distt Gujrat, Punjab, India.']
[illegible note.]
To, The collector of customs, Melbourne.
Respected Sir,
I beg most humbly to state that I wish to return to Melbourne, but when I went to get my ticket at The Bombay Shipping office they would not give me the ticket as I had no certificate. I first arrived in Melbourne in the year 1891, and lived in 124 Young Street Fitzroy until 1905. I paid my share of rent for the house. I was a licenced hawker and received my Licence every year from the District Court in Melbourne. I know Mr Dubson, Saddler of Benalla, Mr and Mrs Higham of Webb Street Fitzroy, Mr. Jaboor, Mr H. Fawaz, Mr Callil, and Mr A.H. Pritchard, the Goul Indian Interpreter, all of them of Melbourne.
I send you my photos and I can be well identified, Sir. I used to travel in the Townships of Benalla, Wallstown, Shepperton, and Mansfield, and know Mr Dubson of Benalla.
I had every intention of returning to Melbourne when I left as I left only for a trip to see my brother who was in trouble and to settle my business affairs.
I humbly beg, sir, you will kindly send me authority to come back and for which I shall ever pray.
