76. In September 1939, Poland was defeated and divided between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union. Vilna was returned to Lithuania (independent until May 1940, then occupied by the Soviets and, in June 1941, by the Germans). In the interim period, many refugees fled illegally to Vilna.

77. See note 6.

78. Gaon's Prayerhouse in the Vilna Synagogue Yard, established by Eliahu (1720-1797), famous Vilna Gaon (genius in Talmudic learning).

79. "Leym" means clay, as was much of the soil around Vilna.