ITALY: Frustration

Any kind of merchandise at fair prices, especially clothing, is a rarity in rackety-rax Rome. So is Swiss-born George Bloch. Last week the combination produced a riot on the Corso Umberto I.

Two years ago Shopkeeper Bloch had put up a sign: "This firm has closed its doors because it cannot get goods at proper prices. Rather than go to the black market, we retire temporarily from business." Just before Christmas he put up a new sign: "We open Jan. 2. All goods at prewar prices until we are sold out. . ....

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!