Page 1741 - Belgrave Diaries(N)_Neat

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1944

Went to Rafaa owing to some trouble with the "Special Police". Spent a
long time with Hewit talking to them, one or two were very obstinate,
then all seemed satisfied but when, finally, asked if they understood &
agreed the whole lot said they wished to be discharged. A difficult
position. Finally said they would be released at end of month.

Compensation meeting at Agency & stayed there most of the morning
discussing various matters.

Went out in airways launch after lunch & see about the V.R party landing
on sea road.

Wednesday 13th October

Rode all about the town in the morning looking at dust bins etc which are
under discussion in connection with new schemes for town rubbish. Very
rushed morning, went to meet General Pownall at Mhq & first time he was
not there, second time he arrived early & was at lunch so didnt explain
who I was. Saw various people, went to see Hills in hospital in
afternoon & then to the Agency for some time discussing arrangements for
VC visit - such a lot of unnecessary fuss, much more than was made for
Dke of G.

Rather hot weather.

Friday 15th October

JIDDA. Returned via Budega in evening. Wrote letters, painted & bathed.
Peaceful day. Steele looked in after we got back, he had fever & looking
ill. Got message that GP arriving tomorrow.

Sunday 17th October

The Viceregal party passed through, after incessant changes they came an
hour before time. I was not impressed, Wavell is a heavy one eyed person