Memorandum for G.W. McPherson, re. Guiseppe Denise [sic], December 14, 1943, Ottawa, ON

This memorandum was written for G.W. McPherson, Counsel for the Custodian of Enemy Property, regarding Giuseppe Denise. The memo is signed by G.G. Beckett, assistant to the Custodian.

The Custodian of Enemy Property (CEP), a branch of the Canadian government, oversaw the administration of assets belonging to internees and other enemy aliens. This government office served a dual function. Acting as a trustee for the internee/enemy alien, the office and its agents also protected the interests of the creditors. The CEP would pay off an internee’s debts by selling his or her property or businesses. It also collected money owed to internees by others. Families of internees often did not have access to the husband's assets and bank accounts. As a result, families often had to negotiate with the CEP for stipends for daily subsistence or use of assets like an automobile. In some cases, where assets were lacking, the CEP divested itself of any interest and left the families to fend for themselves.

This document reviews the situation pertaining to the management of Denise's affairs by the CEP, while he was interned. In this case, three years after his release, CEP is still trying to recover their expenses, by charging him a fee of $21.28. However, it appears the Custodian was not actively involved and did not occur these expenses in this case. It seems the expenses would total almost 4% of his assets. Regardless, a handwritten note directs: I don't think you can back up now. You will have to justify the account and ask for payment.