Page 1669 - Belgrave Diaries(N)_Neat

1666

1944

Wednesday 10th February

Fort. A rumour, quite wrong, that Levies had suddenly raised their pay
by 15/-. Very busy morning, innumerable people came in.

Drove to Budega in afternoon to see about arranging to sell dates there.
Heard rumours of a body being washed up down the coast but not verified.

Thursday 11th February

Didnt go to Fort as lights off for repairs & too dark in the mornings to
shave. Spent some time at the Agency discussing the customs affair &
D.C. Saw various people, went to the Customs & Police Station & had a
good look round. Various people came in. Howes called, here on his way
back to Bushire, has the manner of a smart school boy, rather the
master's pet - he may tone down.

Went to Jidda in afternoon, the building is progressing slowly owing to
lack of prisoners who cut stone. Had a big fire in the evening, it burns
very well far better than our drawing one.

Arranged sale of dates, at Suk al Khamis.

Albans cars arrived.

Friday 12th February

At Jidda, spent a lazy day writing letters, Annual Report & reading
Churchill's Marlborough, a most interesting book.

Sailed back to Budega after tea where M met me. Lovely day with enough
breeze to cross in just half an hour. Composed a letter to DC, rather
difficult.