According to the Wall Street Journal Andrew and Mark Madoff are putting the feelers out and whipping their resumes into shape. Which must count as a lesson in optimism.

On the anniversary of the day the fraud as revealed, the Journal says Mark has talked to some Wall Street types about a position on a trading desk or in trading technology. He asked one person to keep him in mind if there were any openings. Unfortunately, it's not that simple.

He's untouchable in any firm that deals with the public," says someone who talked to Mr. Madoff. He was near tears while describing his feelings about his father, the person added, asking why anyone would bring his son to work at a crooked investment firm. Another person approached by the 45-year-old Mr. Madoff was told by his lawyer not to respond.

Andrew Madoff, meanwhile, is considering starting a disaster recovery firm. Disaster being his area of expertees, one supposes. Even former employees who haven't got the last name Madoff are struggling.

I'll never get a job in finance, and I'm one of the lucky ones," says Eleanor Squillari, Bernard Madoff's assistant for many years. She went to beauty school this summer and plans to look for work at a hair salon while selling her handmade jewelry.

Do not be surprised to see a couple of Madoff-looking guys sweeping up hair there.