Page 1707 - Belgrave Diaries(N)_Neat

1704

1944

Sunday 23rd May

Early service 10 people - Hills & the parson breakfasted.

Sh A called, about tyres, & as he left Sh M with beard, hair & eyebrows
darkly dyed, preparatory to going to Egypt I suppose, also about tyres.
Very strong shamaal and very cool, not using a fan in the office and
sleep indoors with the north window closed.

Drove to Mhq after tea and gave the dogs a bath in the sea, found Thomas
playing the piano on my return - went round to the Gunns & then back to
dinner with them, played bridge with Harper & won heavily. A pleasant
evening - Snow was there too - very quiet.

Marcus rather fussed as Graham had a bad school report.

Monday 24th May

Fort. Had one of the Levies Arab Officers assisting us by teaching the
new drill which we are adopting, a smart fellow. Sh Khalifah rather sour
and jealous & arguing that the Arab officer was lower rank than a British
N.C.O. Court, whole morning on one case, about sale of dates at high
prices at Rafna. Committed the seller & fined 400/-. Didnt go out in
afternoon but later went to cocktail party at Phillips Wakefield took me.
A crowded noisy affair, type of entertainment I dont like. Dined with
the TTs & Snow called & took me home late. Rather a tiresome
entertainment altogether.

Talked to W re GP's Spitfire fund on the way out. BT has also refused to
try & get money from the people, it is not a thing one should do at
present.